Panasonic’s new Lumix compact digital cameras hit the Middle East

Panasonic has launched the DMC-TZ3 and DMC-TZ2 digital cameras from the Lumix TZ family in the Middle East market with a remarkable 10x optical zoom lens in a compact, stylish body.

Both the DMC-TZ3 and DMC-TZ2 feature a 28mm wide-angle Leica DC lens. The TZ3 boasts 7.2 megapixels and a large, 3.0-inch LCD, while the TZ2 has 6.0 megapixels and a 2.5-inch LCD.

Yasuo Kimoto, Product Manager, Panasonic Marketing Middle East, said, “We believe that the TZ3 and TZ2 will be extremely popular in the Middle East, given their user-friendly features and superior technology adaptations that significantly enhance the digital photography experience.”

The two new models also incorporate the Intelligent Image Stabilization system which comprises two features – Mega O.I.S. (Optical Image Stabilizer) and Intelligent ISO Control which compensates for the effects of hand-shake, making it possible to capture clear, crisp photos indoors, at night, or when taking macro close-ups or using high powered zooming – situations in which hand-shake is most likely to be a problem.

Even Mega O.I.S., however, cannot suppress the motion blur caused by a subject moving as the photo is being snapped. That’s where Intelligent ISO Control comes in. In this system, the camera’s Venus Engine III image-processing engine detects whether the subject is moving and, as necessary, automatically raises the ISO setting and shutter speed according to how fast the subject is moving and the light conditions.

Other features that improve usability and convenience of the TZ3 and TZ2 include a Clipboard function that holds information, several new scene modes, and a Direct Print feature that allows quick, easy printouts.

Also, the lens cap is now built into the camera itself and serves as an automatic protective barrier. Around 12.7 MB of built-in memory is provided, and the cameras are compatible with large-capacity SDHC memory cards.