By Patrick Avenell

Panasonic has announced the release of two new fixed lens superzoom Lumix cameras in its FZ Range. Both the new FZ150 and FZ47 feature 24x optical zoom, creative controls, a 25mm Leica lens and Full HD AVCHD recording.

Both cameras have 12.1-megapixel sensors: the FZ150 is MOS while the FZ47 is CCD. The FZ150 also includes Panasonic’s Light Speed Auto Focus, which is listed as being “around 0.1 seconds”.

Both cameras include Creative Controls, which allow users to experiment with different imaging themes on the camera. This is a particularly popular feature at the moment, with Canon and Olympus both also heavily promoting creative filters.

The new Panasonic models include the following controls: Expressive, Retro, High Key, Sepia, High Dynamic, Film Grain, Pin Hole and Miniature Effect.

In addition to Full HD recording, these cameras also enable users to take still images, at 3.5-megapixels, while recording movies.

“These models are a step up from the successful FZ100 and FZ40,” said Panasonic Lumix group marketing manager, Alistair Robins. “They offer popular features such as Full HD AVCHD recording and a Leica lens as well as excellent creative control modes in both still and movie recording, and with a faster response time you will never miss that photo opportunity.”

The FZ150 will be available in October, with pricing not yet announced. The FZ47 will be available in September for RRP $649.

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Panasonic has announced what it calls the world’s first digital interchangeable power zoom lenses. These two new lenses comply with the Micro Four Thirds standard, which is used in Panasonic G Series compact system camera range.

The two new models, both available in black and silver, are the Lumix G X Vario PZ 14-42mm and the Lumix G X Vario PZ 45-175mm. Both will be available in late October. Pricing hasn’t been announced.

“This revolutionary development allows users to have a zoom lens in an incredibly small package,” Robins said.
“For those new to interchangeable lens cameras, using the zoom at the push of a button will be familiar to them from their compact camera, while more advanced users will appreciate the smooth zooming when shooting video.

“When using the 45-175mm zoom, activities such as shooting when using an underwater housing are easier as there is no external movement of the zoom.”

The new Lumiz FZ150.


 One of two new G Series lenses from Panasonic.