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DIWA Gold Award to revolutionary Panasonic LUMIX DMC-G1 : DIWA (Digital Imaging Websites Association) honours the Panasonic LUMIX DMC-G1 with a DIWA Gold Award. The prestigious DIWA Awards are issued on the basis of scientific test results from the DIWA Labs and evaluations on more than 200 different criteria carried out by DIWA members. The revolutionary and ultra-compact 12.1 Megapixel Panasonic LUMIX G1 is the first camera featuring the Micro Four Thirds System standard, and the first mirrorless system camera of its kind. Instead, a large, high resolution electronic viewfinder and a 3-inch vari-angle LCD monitor provide permanent Live View.
Panasonic LUMIX DMC-G1
Yet, the Panasonic DMC-G1 challenges today’s most compact digital SLR cameras in terms of size and weight. DIWA experts also appreciated the camera’s outstanding image quality, smart design and innovative possibilities. A new segment of digital cameras was created with the introduction of the 12.1 Megapixel Panasonic LUMIX DMC-G1, a revolution in the fast growing digital imaging market. The Micro Four Thirds System standard makes the mirror obsolete, thus keeping the camera ultra compact, yet offering the advantage of interchangeable lenses. The traditional mirror reflex optical viewfinder has been replaced by two Live View options; a 1,440,000-dot equivalent high resolution electronic viewfinder, and a 3-inch vari-angle high resolution LCD monitor.

Panasonic Micro Four Thirds System camera
Apart from its unique construction features, DIWA experts also praise the small and light-weight body of only 385 grams. Extensive analysis from the DIWA Labs show that the Panasonic LUMIX G1′s image quality matches comparable D-SLR cameras in most respects. Thanks to its remarkable Intelligent Auto mode, the camera automatically optimizes any setting according to the situation and the lens integrated MEGA Optical Image Stabilizer automatically compensates for every shake or bump. Dust that may have entered the camera during lens change is effectively removed by the built-in Dust Reduction System to secure spotless images.

DIWA Labs camera test conclusion Kai Thon
Kai Thon, test manager of DIWA Labs, concludes: “The announcement of the Panasonic LUMIX DMC-G1 created deserved attention and curiosity, and it’s a pleasure to confirm that the Panasonic DMC-G1 surpasses even the most optimistic expectations. Our unbiased, computer generated lab measurements reveal that the G1 delivers premium overall image quality, and the LUMIX G VARIO 14-45mm / F3.5-5.6 ASPH. / MEGA O.I.S. Standard zoom lens outperforms any of its rivals. The Panasonic DMC-G1 may look simple, but it acts and performs on par with most comparable D-SLR’s. Novices may enjoy excellent images thanks to Panasonic’s amazing “iA” fully automatic program mode, a setting that challenges even the most experienced users.”

About DIWA
The Digital Imaging Websites Association (DIWA) is a fast growing group of independent Web-based specialist publications dedicated to digital imaging. DIWA harnesses the collective talent and expertise of its members, resulting in industry awards that command unparalleled confidence and value, both for consumers and the industry alike. DIWA awards come in the form of bronze, silver and gold medals for various product categories.

DIWA Test scoring procedure
DIWA product test awards are exclusively decided through the analysis of multiple test scores from different DIWA testers, testing different samples of the same product. A very detailed and comprehensive standardized scoring procedure is employed, tailored carefully for each category of product. Multiple testing eliminates the chance of an isolated, unrepresentative product sample or test error or a hidden bias from affecting the trustworthiness of the overall result.

Awards throughout the year
DIWA is also unique in its policy in issuing awards for deserving products throughout the year, culminating in annual best of the year Platinum medal awards in all product categories.

DIWA Awards members
• Czech Republic: www.fotoaparat.cz
• Germany: www.digitalkamera.de
• Hungary: www.fotovilag.hu
• Netherlands: www.letsgodigital.org
• Norway: www.digit.no
• Poland: www.fotopolis.pl
• Slovenia: www.e-fotografija.com
• Spain: www.nuevafotografia.com
• United Kingdom: www.photographyblog.com

DIWA Awards multi-lingual Web site
At the heart of the DIWA organisation is its multi-lingual Web site, www.diwa-awards.com, with links to the latest reviews published by DIWA member publications. The site also archives DIWA awards and is designed to aid consumers in their choice of imaging products. Unbiased test results by DxO Analyzer of the image quality are available at: www.diwa-labs.com. For more information about DIWA, please visit our website: www.diwa-awards.com.

Panasonic Gallery : The Panasonic LUMIX FZ28 Megazoom camera was introduced in the summer of 2008. The introduction took place in Monaco, where Panasonic not only introduced the LUMIX FZ28, but also a threesome compact cameras. The Panasonic FZ28 is a 10.1 Megapixel camera based on Panasonic’s reliable Megazoom concept. Including a large optical zoom range of 18x starting with a 27mm wide angle, ideal for landscape shooting up to and including 486mm for distant telephoto pictures. The VENUS Engine IV enables fast image processing and provides optimum image quality. ISO sensitivity ranges up to 6400, although this range will hardly be used in practice. In particular while the quality drops drastically at an ISO sensitivity this high.
Panasonic Lumix FZ28 gallery
Besides the optical zoom range, the Panasonic FZ28 digital camera features a so-called IA mode; an intelligent mode at which the camera goes extremely far in overtaking the user’s actions. In addition, the Panasonic LUMIX FZ28 features an improved face detection mode, making portrait photography child’s play. It enables continuous AF / AE adjustment even when a face moves or approaches the camera sideways. The Intelligent Exposure function ensures natural, realistic pictures by blocking shades and adjusting white-washed spots.

Panasonic LUMIX DMC-FZ28 features
The Panasonic DMC-FZ28 digital camera combines a 27mm wide angle LEICA DC VARIO-ELMARIT lens with a bright F2.8-4.4 and powerful 18x optical zoom (equivalent of 27-486mm at a 35mm camera) with a 10.1 Megapixel CCD in a compact housing. The large zoom range of 27mm to 486mm, equivalent of 18x, also thanks to the attractive wide angle, makes the Panasonic FZ28 the perfect digital camera to shoot wide landscapes as well as close-ups of a distant subject.

Panasonic DMC-FZ28 photo gallery
The Panasonic FZ28 test photos were taken with a full production camera, which means that this Panasonic FZ28 is equal to the model the consumer will find on the shop shelves. Additionally, the Panasonic LUMIX DMC-FZ28 digital camera will be fully technically tested in our DIWA test lab in a laboratory environment. We will concentrate and focus on the test in practice with the Panasonic LUMIX FZ28. The Panasonic LUMIX pictures of this article have been taken in and around Purmerend, a small town near Amsterdam in the Netherlands. Please use the link below the pictures to download the original Panasonic LUMIX FZ28 pictures in order to check the quality of these pictures for yourself.

Download original : Panasonic Lumix FZ28 test photo (Warning: approx. 2.1MB file size!)

Download original : Panasonic FZ28 test photo (Warning: approx. 2.2MB file size!)

Download original : Panasonic DMC-FZ28 test photo (Warning: approx. 2.0MB file size!)

Download original : Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ28 test photo (Warning: approx. 2.3MB file size!)

Download original : Panasonic Lumix FZ28 sample photo (Warning: approx. 1.6MB file size!)

Olympus has updated firmware for three of its Zuiko Digital lenses. The changes made are to improve the accuracy of contrast-detection autofocus when used on the Panasonic Lumix DMC-L10. Updated: firmware changes to Olympus or Panasonic lenses can only be conducted using the lens manufacturer’s cameras.

Panasonic Europe has said that an Olympus camera is required in order to update the firmware on the lenses, and advises that owners may wish to contact Olympus’s customer support center. In order for an upgraded lens to work, L10 users will need to update their camera’s firmware. An updated version of the firmware (V1.3), will be available from Panasonic on 22 April from 0400 GMT. This download page should, at that time, also provide a link to the Olympus customer support center.

The lenses with improved imager (contrast-detect), autofocus on the Panasonic L10 are:

Zuiko Digital 25mm f/2.8

Zuiko Digital ED 14-42mm f/3.5-5.6

Zuiko Digital ED 40-150mm f/4.0-5.6

More details of the lens firmware can be found here

Conversely, we are told that Olympus E-420 users wishing to use the Panasonic L-X025 lens (Leica D Summilux 25mm / F1.4 ASPH), with contrast-detect autofocus will need to update the lens firmware to V2. Unfortunately, the lens firmware can only be upgraded using a Panasonic DMC-L10. Olympus camera owners wishing to use the Panasonic lens will need to contact Panasonic customer support center. Again, the contact details should appear on the download site.

Editorial:
This rather peculiar state of affairs does make us question just how standardized the ‘Four Thirds Standard,’ actually is, if you need access to another manufacturer’s cameras to get the most out their lenses on your chosen camera.

Panasonic Lumix LS80 : Panasonic is pleased to introduce a new Lumix digital camera DMC-LS80 that combines easy-to-use advanced functions and AA-battery operation convenience. Newly developed Lumix DC VARIO lens system with 3x optical zoom (equivalent to 33-100mm on a 35mm film camera) fits in its compact body and renders clear image to edges. The CCD has been upgraded to 8.1-megapixel high resolution to correspond to trimming or prints in larger size. Both external and internal design is re-examined throughout to enhance the ease of operation. The Panasonic Lumix DMC-LS80 surely offers entry-level users an ultimate ease and convenience to let them enjoy shooting beautiful pictures and will be available in silver, black & pink.

Panasonic Optical Image Stabilizer
At the heart of the Panasonic DMC-LS80′s super-easy operation is a comprehensive Intelligent mode that combines four distinct features aimed at making it easy to capture perfect images. First is Mega O.I.S. (Optical Image Stabilizer), a system that helps eliminate blurring due to hand-shake. Second is Intelligent ISO Control, a system that fights motion blur by detecting if the subject moves and adjusting the ISO sensitivity and shutter speed setting according to the degree of motion and light conditions. Last but not least is the Auto Macro mode, the camera automatically switches to the Macro mode according to its shooting distance with the subject. The Quick AF system allows the camera to start focusing on the subject even without pressing a shutter button halfway, to get best result out of a shutter chance by minimizing the AF time. All these functions act automatically, so you don’t have to think about them each time conditions change. You enjoy effortless, trouble-free shooting in any situation, as well as the satisfaction that comes with capturing beautiful photos.

Intelligent LCD function
The Panasonic Lumix DMC-LS80 digital camera further offers a range of features that enhance usability and add convenience. The Intelligent LCD function which comes with the 230,000-dot high resolution monitor, detects lighting condition and controls brightness level of the LCD in 12 fine steps, to offer the display with best appropriate clarity in any situations. The Easy Zoom feature shifts the lens instantly to full zoom at the touch of a dedicated button. The High Sensitivity mode offers recording at max. ISO 6400 thanks to the Venus Engine III. It also carries an internal memory of 24 MB (approx.) and is compatible with large-capacity SDHC memory cards, giving users more flexibility in recording.

Panasonic Lumix DC VARIO lens
The 8.1-megapixel Panasonic DMC-LS80 packages a superb LUMIX DC VARIO lens with 3x optical zoom (35mm film camera equivalent: 33-100mm) into a compact body. A crystallization of Panasonic’s advanced lens technologies, the LUMIX DC VARIO lens comprises 6 elements in 5 groups, including 3 aspherical lenses with 4 aspherical surfaces, delivering outstanding optical performance. Further, in 3-megapixel resolution mode, the Extra Optical Zoom function provides additional magnification, extending the zoom power to 4.8x by using the centre part of the CCD. The Easy Zoom feature shifts the lens instantly to full 3x optical zoom power at a touch of a dedicated button, and with a second touch, the zoom ratio is further extended to 4.8x by activating the Extra Optical Zoom function.

Panasonic Lumix DMC-LS80 Suppress motion blur
Panasonic incorporates both MEGA O.I.S. (Optical Image Stabilizer) to compensate for hand-shake and Intelligent ISO Control system to detect and suppress motion blur into all Lumix digital cameras, which are the industry’s most advanced countermeasures against blurring. While hand-shake is the single biggest cause of blurry images, it is not the only one. Another problem is the motion blur that can occur when a subject moves as the shot is being snapped. Incorporating Panasonic’s Intelligent ISO Control, Lumix cameras are the first in the world to fight motion blur by themselves. This system detects whether or not the subject is moving. If it is, the system automatically raises the ISO setting accordingly, allowing the camera to shoot at a higher shutter speed. If the subject is not moving, the camera shoots at a low ISO setting and captures beautiful, natural-looking photos.

Panasonic Intelligent ISO Control
Intelligent ISO Control is included as one of the corrections in certain scene modes used to shoot subjects that are often moving, such as Sports, Baby and the Pet mode. Simply select the mode that best suits the subject, and Intelligent ISO Control provides the optimal corrections, making it easy to capture crisp, clear photos. One more convenient function is the Auto Macro mode which automatically switches the camera in and out of macro mode by measuring the focusing distance. The Quick AF system allows the camera to keep focus on the subject even without pressing a shutter button halfway, to get best result out of a shutter chance by minimizing the AF time. All these intelligent functions act automatically, requiring no additional setting so the photographer can concentrate on taking the spur-of-the-moment.

Panasonic Venus Engine 3
With its multi-task image processing capability, the Venus Engine III boasts outstanding response time. Shutter release time lag is as short as 0.005 second. In the consecutive shooting mode, it is possible to shoot at 2.5 frames per second in full resolution. And in High-Speed Burst shooting mode, it fires off an incredible 5.5 shots per second. You also get unlimited consecutive shooting which lets you keep snapping until the memory card is full. The Venus Engine III also supports a new High Sensitivity mode that lets the Panasonic DMC-LS80 record at a setting of up to ISO 6400, sensitive enough to capture subjects in near-total darkness without using a flash.

Panasonic LS80 Large 2.5-inch high-resolution LCD
The Panasonic DMC-LS80 incorporates an easy-to-see 2.5-inch large Intelligent LCD for comfortable viewing during both shooting and playback. The resolution has been doubled compared to the predecessor Panasonic Lumix DMC-LS75, to boast 230,000-dot high resolution. The Intelligent LCD function detects the light condition and automatically boosts the LCD backlighting by max. 40% when shooting outdoors under bright sunlight, and boosts signals by the pixel-mixed readout method when shooting under low-lit conditions. Detecting the lighting condition precisely and automatically controls the brightness at a total of 12 fine steps, this function offers the display with best appropriate clarity in any situations without using extra energy. The High Angle mode, which can be accessed quickly and easily in Quick Menu, makes the LCD screen extremely easy to view when the camera is held high, such as to shoot over a crowd.

Panasonic HD photo and wide-aspect motion pictures
With TV screens getting bigger and picture definition getting higher, consumers want to be able to view higher-quality still images and motion pictures. Panasonic has long focused on making photography more enjoyable, such as by letting people view their images easily on Panasonic’s Viera TV, with its internal SD card slot. With the Panasonic DMC-LS80, you can shoot high-definition 1920 x 1080 pixel photos that are ideal for full-screen viewing on a wide-screen (16:9) TV. Panasonic also offers the DMW-SDP1 HDTV Photo Player, which makes it easy to view a slideshow of Lumix photos in 1080i high-definition quality. In addition to recording standard VGA (640 x 480), the Panasonic DMC-LS80 can record WVGA (848 x 480) motion pictures at 30 frames per second. Fitting a wide-screen TV perfectly, these wide –aspect motion images make for extremely impressive viewing. A microphone has been added to allow recording motion picture with voice.

Panasonic Lumix DMC-LS80 Other features
The Panasonic DMC-LS80 digital camera runs on two AA batteries, which are easily available anywhere so that you don’t have to worry about battery life wherever you go. The Panasonic DMC-LS80 shoots 180 images with included Alkaline batteries and 470 images with optional Ni-MH rechargeable batteries (Typical capacity : 2600mAh / Minimum capacity : 2450mAh). All new Lumix cameras incorporate a REC/PLAYBACK mode switch. This helps photographer to instantly switch between recording mode and playback mode, knowing which mode the camera is now in. The GUI (Graphic User Interface) has been upgraded to look more futuristic in terms of design and color. The view screen also looks wider and clearer because all icons have been relocated to the sides. A total of 20 scene modes assist you to take more beautiful picture in wide range of situations. Around 24 MB of internal memory is built-in to back up the SDHC/SD Memory Card recording and copying.

As more and more consumers graduate to digital SLR cameras, it’s not surprising that some manufacturers are looking to ease the transition for the first-timers. Features normally found on compact cameras — scene modes, face detection autofocus, and live LCD preview – are now commonly found on DSLRs.

Such is the case with Panasonic’s newest DSLR, the 10.1-megapixel Lumix DMC-L10, which brings with it several features and functions normally found on EVF-style cameras.

The L10 is a good-looking, solidly built camera featuring a Live MOS sensor and a Leica D Vario-Elmarit 14-50mm f/3.8-5.6 Mega Optical Image Stabilized kit lens. The complete kit will cost you $1,300, estimated street, a price that may frighten off some consumers, particularly existing Four Thirds System photographers who may already have a similar lens in their arsenal, whether it’s an older Four Thirds Leica or an Olympus Zuiko lens in the Four Thirds mount.

But for the first-time DSLR buyer, or for the photographer who has decided to switch to the Four Thirds system, the L10′s combination of features and functions, particularly EVF-style Live View mode, may be a real selling point of this package.

We’ve spent the past couple of weeks with the Panasonic Lumix DMC-L10, traveling from New York City to Vermont and back, taking photos all along the way, and there’s a whole heck of a lot to like about this camera.

Panasonic Lumix DMC L1 DSLR review : Panasonic have been making digital compact cameras for years. Remarkable features include MEGA O.I.S. (Optical Image Stabilisation) and lenses that sport the Leica name. However, it seems that Panasonic are eager for more. The Japanese brand wants to be regarded as a full-fledged camera manufacturer. To achieve this, they need a DSLR, which is still considered the showpiece in the world of photography. Panasonic decided to join forces with Olympus. Olympus possess many years of SLR experience, whilst Panasonic know more than a thing or two about electronics. The result of this cooperation is the Panasonic Lumix DMC-L1. An interesting camera, which clearly shows Panasonic intend to take things seriously.

Panasonic Lumix L1 – FourThrids system
With the announcement of the Panasonic L1 early this year, the FourThirds System finally has a fellow manufacturer that works according to this system. At the Photokina, Leica introduced a virtually identical camera, so now there are even three brands. One of the advantages of the FourThirds System is the standardisation. Lenses can be interchanged regardless of the actual brand. This makes it significantly easier for the user to decide on a system. Moreover, the FourThirds System enables you to choose exceptionally compact housings and equally compact lenses.

Panasonic L1 – Leica D Vario-Elmarit 14-50mm lens
Besides Olympus, Panasonic have also cooperated with Leica. Therefore, it does not come as a surprise that the lens sports the Leica name. However, this does not necessarily mean Leica have actually designed or built the lens. In this case, it means the lens meets the design requirements set by Leica, which are very high indeed. The lens, a Leica D Vario-Elmarit 14-50mm f/2.8-3.5, is thus quite large and solid as a rock. All in all, this gives the Panasonic Lumix L1 plenty of allure. You are clearly not dealing with a plain or simple camera, the photographer knows exactly what he’s doing. That is the impression given by both the camera and the lens. Simply wonderful!

Panasonic Lumix DMC-L1 SLR – Live View
One of the remarkable features of the Panasonic L1 is of course Live View, which we have already seen on the Olympus E-330 digital SLR. Both cameras use the LiveMOS designed by Panasonic. Live View enables you to capture your images via the LCD screen instead of through the viewfinder. This certainly has its advantages, especially if you are a keen macro photographer. The Live View can be used both with and without auto focus. Contrary to the Olympus camera, however, the Panasonic Lumix DMC-L1 features only one Live View mode, and lacks the adjustable screen. The LiveMOS sensor offers a total of 7.5 million pixels. A very decent number, although it may seem somewhat outdated from a psychological point of view, especially considering the ongoing “pixel war”. Don’t let this distract you, however, because pixel quality far outweighs the actual number. The sensor is based on CMOS technology, which is becoming an increasingly common feature in cameras. A major advantage of this is, among other things, the lower power consumption.

Panasonic L1 LiveMOS – Venus Engine III
The signals from the LiveMOS are converted to visible images by a new Venus Engine III. The processor plays a main role when it comes to deciding the actual colour rendition and the signal/noise ratio of the photos, and should thus be seen as an important part of the photographic chain. In fact, you can compare it to the film developer. In addition to this, the Venus Engine III is responsible for rapidly transporting the photos to the memory card. The new processor is a significantly improved version of the Venus Engine II. Panasonic have succeeded in lowering the processor’s power consumption to 80%, compared to the previous version. All in all, you will thus get more for less.

Panasonic L1 DSLR – SuperSonic Wave Filter
One of the main obstacles that users of DSLR cameras encounter is the presence of dust on the sensor, which causes annoying black spots in the photo. More and more manufacturers are developing systems to deal with this irksome issue. Panasonic apply a vibrating filter in front of the sensor. This SuperSonic Wave Filter literally shakes the dust from the sensor. The dust is then caught by a form of adhesive strip located below, which ensures it will no longer be roaming free inside the camera. This system is in fact identical to that of Olympus, which doesn’t come as a surprise, considering their close cooperation. And why break your brain over something that has already been invented?

Panasonic DMC L1 SLR camera review
The Panasonic Lumix L1 is a very interesting camera indeed, especially as it clearly indicates the path Panasonic intend to take. Moreover, it is only the first DSLR by the brand, and we will undoubtedly see more in the future. We received a so-called full-production model to test extensively over a considerable period of time. Our findings of this remarkable camera can be read in the following Panasonic Lumix DMC-L1 review.   Read More..>>