adamator's Full Review: Panasonic Lumix® DMC-FZ30 Digital Camera
After having taken a few thousand images with this camera so far, I think I can easily recommend this camera to anyone who either is unsatisfied with their point and shoot camera, or is looking to move up to a DSLR but does not yet have either the cash or the knowledge to use one.
I use a DSLR at work (Canon Digital Rebel) and can attest to the fact that this camera has almost identical functionality to a DSLR, and is also easier to use in most respects. It's a terrific camera to learn with as it has all the same manual controls, and is also just as responsive in focusing and shooting.
You also get a lot of advantages, particularly with the accurate and bright live preview and live histogram, which make it a breeze to get perfect exposures. You rarely even need to think about white balance as the auto setting is extremely accurate.
The built in stabilization is another boon. This allows you to lower the shutter speed to get brighter images in some low light situations. I've successfully taken many photos hand held with 1/2 second exposures, something inconceivable with almost any other camera.
There are some disadvantages however. One is that you have to use an electronic viewfinder instead of a through the lens view. While the EVF is better for previewing your photos, a through the lens view is much better for shooting action.
The bigger problem however is the noise, or more to the root of it, an imprecise sensor. Basically, at the least sensitive setting (ISO 80) the sensor does not pick up very accurate detail at the per pixel level. While this doesn't really effect the quality of the image at smaller print sizes, this does result in noise that is visible on closer examination. This also means that turning up the sensitivity results in very severe noise that can ruin even a 4x6 print.
While the noise level would be considered extreme relative to a DSLR, for the vast majority of users it will not be noticeable. As long as you have adequate light when you shoot (ie use a flash in dark rooms), your photos will look nearly as good as what a DSLR can produce. If you want to make large prints however, you may want to invest in Noise Ninja to clean up the images. I find it to be quite effective.
Recommended:
Yes
Amount Paid (US$): 600 This Camera is a Good Choice if You Want Something... Flexible Enough for Enthusiasts
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