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The Panasonic Lumix DMC-TZ1 is being billed by Panasonic as the world's smallest 10x Optical Zoom lens. It features a Leica DC lens with folded optics technology that folds down into a 112.0 x 58.1 x 40.2mm body.
In addition to it's large lens (complete with image stabilization) the TZ1 has a large 2.5inch LCD screen, 5 megapixel CCD sensor and 12.4 megabytes of internal memory. It shoots at up to 800 ISO in normal mode or 1600 in high sensitivity mode.
This is a camera that is sure to be popular for it's zoom and relative compact size. Expect to see it in stores in March for a retail price of $349.95 (USD).
Compare prices on the Panasonic Lumix DMC-TZ1 and get the latest price on it at Amazon
The DMC-TZ1, With MEGA Optical Image Stabilization And High Sensitivity Mode, Helps Prevent Blurry Photos
Panasonic introduces the new DMC-TZ1, the world’s smallest 10x optical zoom camera. A powerful 10x optical zoom Leica DC lens is incorporated into a compact, easy-to-carry body, made possible by the integration of a retractable lens system with folded optics technology. Like all cameras in Panasonic's line of digital still cameras, the TZ1 features MEGA Optical Image Stabilization to reduce blurry photos caused by an unsteady hand.
The TZ1 is a high-performance camera, and features the newly developed Venus Engine III LSI, which reduces chromatic aberrations that often occur in high-sensitivity modes of shooting. The result is a winning combination of MEGA Optical Image Stabilization and high sensitivity recording that helps defeat the causes of blurry, dissatisfying images: an unsteady photographer’s hand and a moving subject.
“The multi-purpose DMC-TZ1 fills an unmet consumer need for a compact camera with long optical zoom,” explains Monica Helmer, national marketing manager for Panasonic’s Digital Imaging Group. “With 10x optical zoom, and its combined optical image stabilization and high sensitivity system, this camera is a top performer. Plus, the TZ1 can fit into a jacket or pants pocket, so it’s is ready to travel – and to perform.”
The lens part of the TZ1 features the world’s first integration of a retractable lens system with folded optics technology, realized by the inclusion of a prism. It also incorporates three aspherical lenses, the crystallization of Panasonic optics technology, all resulting in an amazingly powerful 10x optical zoom LEICA DC VARIO-ELMARIT lens contained within a compact body.
The TZ1 has a bright 2.5 inch, high-resolution LCD that offers clear and easy viewing, even in low-light situations, by automatically increasing the brightness levels when needed. The TZ1 also has a recording capacity of 250 pictures on a single charge, thanks again to the Venus Engine III LSI’s advanced processor. The Venus Engine III consumes only 80 percent of the power used by the Venus Engine II in previous Panasonic cameras, even though the camera has significantly improved performance levels. Shutter release time lag is as little as 0.006 seconds, and shutter interval is approximately 0.5 seconds. Start up time is a rapid 0.95 seconds.
The MEGA Optical Image Stabilizer is an indispensable feature for all digital cameras. It compensates for hand-movement by shifting the lens unit to keep the optical axis aligned straight against the CCD. The result is beautiful pictures, free from blur and with no deterioration of image quality, at slower shutter speeds of more than 3 steps compared to other conventional models that do not have Optical Image Stabilization. This improves shooting long distance with the powerful zoom, as well as in low-light conditions when shutter speeds tend to slow, without worrying about image blur. It is now surprisingly easy to take clear, beautiful telephoto pictures, indoor portraits or illuminated night-time scenes.
Also, the TZ1 allows shooting at a manually adjustable sensitivity setting of up to ISO 800 in full resolution, thanks to the greatly improved noise reduction levels which are achieved by the separate detection of both chromatic and luminance noise by the newly developed high performance image processor, the Venus Engine III. Photographers can take advantage of high shutter speeds that suppress image blur caused by subject movement, such as children and pets, especially indoors.
The FX01 has a high resolution (207K pixels), 2.5“ large LCD. The new High Angle mode makes the display easy to view from low angles, for example when holding the camera up high to take pictures over a crowd.* This high-resolution LCD also allows both a full display of images in up to 25 thumbnails on a multi-split screen and also the ability to date search an image with the Calendar Display mode.
The TZ1 is the first Panasonic digital still camera to adopt a Linear AF system and, combined with the high speed AF function, achieves among high zoom digital cameras an industry-leading high speed AF response time. In addition to the increased focusing times, the noise of the motor is also reduced and it is now possible to zoom while recording motion images.
In addition to standard VGA (640x480) at 30 fps motion image recording, the TZ1 also records stunning full-size movies in wide-aspect VGA (848x480) at 30 fps, so they can be viewed on a wide screen TV.
The TZ1 features a total of 18 scene modes2. ”High Sensitivity3“ mode is ideal for shooting moving subjects clearly without blurring at a maximum sensitivity setting of ISO1600. The newly incorporated ”Beach“ mode is perfect for shooting in strong sunlight and the ”Aerial“ mode assists with shooting through the windows of an airplane. Additionally, there is the ”Under Water“ mode which, when shooting with the separately available marine case, helps produce spectacular underwater shots. The marine case boasts a water-resistance of up to 40m deep and the ”Under Water“ mode helps create images with superb natural color, even at depths where there is little sunlight. Other features that are great for use while traveling are the ”Travel Date Setting“ which, presetting the date of departure, records and displays the images in chronological order of a trip. The ”World Time Setting“ can be set to show time and date for 74 locations across the world.
The TZ1 incorporates 13.4MB of built-in-memory, enabling picture taking even without an SD Memory Card.
The DMC-TZ1 will be available in March for an MSRP of $349.95.
1 For a digital still camera recordable of 1-megapixel or higher. As of February 14, 2006.
2 Not including Macro Mode.
3 Resolution significantly decreases in High Sensitivity mode.
Compare prices on the Panasonic Lumix DMC-TZ1 and get the latest price on it at Amazon
Digital Camera Info has posted a review of the Panasonic Lumix TZ1 where they write - 'The Panasonic Lumix DMC-TZ1 houses 5 megapixels on its 1/2.5-inch CCD and couples it with a lengthy Leica DC Vario Elmarit 10x optical zoom lens. This amount of zoom is fairly generous considering that the TZ1 is only an inch and a half thick. The lens does extend from the body and is balanced by a slightly thicker right-hand grip. On the back of this Lumix is a 2.5-inch LCD screen that has the world�s first High Angle mode. While many compact models now offer a wide viewing angle on the LCD screen, the TZ1 is the first to have a designated mode for it.'
CNET reviews the Panasonic Lumix DMC-TZ1 and writes - 'If the Panasonic Lumix DMC-TZ1 sounds unfamiliar to you--it probably is. First in the series, the TZ1 is marketed as a "perfect travel companion" targeted at users who want to have a compact camera with megazoom (10x optical) capabilities. But before you dismiss it as another shooter that adds weight to your luggage, this unit is, in fact, small enough to be packed into your hand carry bag. Find out if the TZ1 performed in our tests.'
Megapixel has posted their review of the Panasonic DMC-TZ1 where they write - 'The zoom, on the other hand, is excellent for close ups and portraits, making it possible to get artistically blurred backgrounds behind the subject, as it the case with the "lady" at left. Moreover this is a long focal length that is perfectly useable since it has a reasonably bright aperture at its maximum telephoto and its stabilizer is able to add 3 f-stops of latitude when shooting hand-held. The advantage of the stabilizer is obvious when it is set to Mode 1 as it stabilizes the image on the monitor, as well as when the photo is captured. But the most effective mode is Mode 2, which stabilizes the image only when the shutter is released, and it should be used as it allows even lower shutter speeds to yield sharp and clear images.'
ePhotozine reviews the Panasonic Lumix DMC-TZ1 and writes - 'The Lumix TZ1 does offer a lot of features. The 10x zoom, compact body and large clear LCD screen are the kind of features that will get you to part with your hard-earned cash when looking at the camera in a shop. Unfortunately it also has its less obvious weak points. I was surprised by the levels of noise at all ISO sensitivities, and the image quality at the long end of the zoom is less than I expected from a 'Leica' lens. The drop in contrast and soft ethereal look the images have is less than satisfactory for me.'
DigiCam Review and writes - Panasonic Lumix DMC-TZ1 and writes - 'Image quality is very good, the images have good colour (rich colours, highly saturated), with good contrast and generally good detail, although noise is high and detail is lost when ISO settings are increased. Images were slightly softer than I would have liked, however isn't a major problem. Best results were achieved outside on sunny days, but inside noise was noticably high. Purple fringing was quite low unless the full zoom was used, and red-eye was not a problem. Exposure seemed very good inside and outside. The camera was generally very competent at focusing thanks to the focus assist lamp. I did not notice vignetting, or barrel or pincushion distortion. There is a good range of image sizes, aspect ratios, and compression options. Auto white balance seemed to be good. The camera doesn't give you very many options to customise images - there are no sharpness or contrast controls for example. The camera's built in optical image stabilisation is effective and helps get blur free photos in low light or when using the zoom.'
DCRP reviews the Panasonic Lumix DMC-TZ1and gives it the thumbs up as a camera to get. They write - 'If you want a compact ultra zoom camera then you really only have two choices: the dual lens Kodak EasyShare V610 and the Panasonic Lumix DMC-TZ1 that I reviewed here. Having used both cameras quite a bit, I know which one I prefer -- the TZ1. While it has a few annoyances, it's a good choice for those who value portability over manual controls and expandability. If you want to know what I really think about the TZ1, this statement should sum it up for you: I bought one as a birthday gift for my dad.'
PC Mag reviews the Panasonic Lumix DMC-TZ1 and writes - 'I wasn't impressed with Panasonic's claims to have increased the zoom's optical range in lower-resolution modes with a feature called Extended Optical Zoom. Just as we've seen with the Lumix DMC-FZ30, this is just a silly implementation of digital zooming. Though it's true that 10X optical superzooms like the Kodak EasyShare V610 or the Nikon Coolpix S4 don't measure up to the Panasonic Lumix TZ1 in image quality, the TZ1's underperforming features contribute to its falling short of earning an Editors' Choice.'
Cameras.co.uk has a review of the Panasonic DMC-TZ1 and writes, "the photos have a bright, vivid feel to them. This is true of both indoor and outdoor shots and helps to inject a bit of extra life into them compared to many other digital cameras. ... Although the camera has performed very well in my standard indoor tests I must warn you not to expect too much in some lowlight situations. Even with image stabilisation switched on it becomes difficult to get crisp pictures when the camera is handheld, the zoom is used to its maximum extension and the light is low. ... There is a lot to like about the Panasonic DMC TZ1. With its ten times optical zoom in a compact body it offers something different. It provides plenty of zoom power whilst allowing you to carry the camera around easily. Picture quality is very good and the camera is also easy to use."
DP Review has reviewed the Panasonic Lumix DMC-TZ1 where they write - 'The TZ1 is one of those cameras that positively encourages you to take pictures, to experiment, to try different framing and viewpoints, and the lightning-quick focus and simple operation make it a surprisingly nimble operator too. It is all the more disappointing then, that the overall package is let down by it's sensor. By only using the middle bit of the 6.3MP CCD in the TZ1, the lens is kept small, and the camera more compact, but you end up with a very small 5MP sensor indeed, and that has some serious ramifications. Heavy noise and even heavier noise reduction mean I personally wouldn't risk using it at anything over ISO 100, and even then you're losing some low contrast detail to NR. You can see noise it you look closely at even ISO 80, though this is usually masked by the fairly high contrast and is unlikely to mar standard sized prints.'
Digital Camera Review has reviewed the Panasonic Lumix DMC-TZ1 where they write - 'Bottom line, the Panasonic Lumix DMC-TZ1 is a joy to use, but with a few downsides. It's an easy to use camera and has a nice 10x optical zoom with image stabilization, especially given its size. A nice set of scene modes provides plenty of options for the casual shooter. The camera's focus speed, cycle time, and quick click to capture speed are among the best around. On the downside, Panasonic continues to fight with noise in their images with some pretty heavy in-camera noise reduction that is evident in higher ISO images. If you're looking for a more compact ultra zoom digital camera (more compact that the Canon Powershot S3 IS or Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ7), then the TZ1 is a good option. Its direct competitor, the Kodak Easyshare V610, does take the cake in the size department, but doesn't have image stabilization. You will be pleased with its speed of operation and image stabilization. Also, you will be pleased with your prints, especially if you stick to 4x6 inch print.'
Camera Labs has posted their review of the Panasonic Lumix DMC-TZ1 and writes - 'During our time with the TZ1 we found ourselves grabbing opportunist shots which those with average cameras simply missed out on. While super-zooms could match its reach, none could be slipped into a relatively small pocket - and that's the TZ1's unique selling point. While a better sensor could have made the TZ1 truly remarkable, it still delivers a highly compelling proposition for those who want the flexibility and power of a long zoom with the carry-everywhere convenience of a compact.'
Lets Go Digital Reviews the Panasonic Lumix DMC TZ1 where they write - 'Personally, I think that the Panasonic Lumix TZ1 is a very good digital Mega zoom camera to take along as a second camera. The compact format, the optical image stabilizer and the well organized user interface are a nice combination to work with. I have already written about and experienced that once you've worked with a digital camera equipped with an optical image stabilizer like the MEGA O.I.S. you won't ever want to go without. The Panasonic Lumix TZ1 is not totally free of faults, but the scales definitely come down on the positive side. As a camera for starters or a second camera, the combination of a 10x optical Leica zoom and MEGA O.I.S. make the Panasonic Lumix TZ1 an attractive package.' They give it a rating of 78%.
Think Camera reviews the Panasonic Lumix TZ1 where they give it a rating of 7 out of 10 and write - 'When Panasonic called the TZ1 a “Travel Zoom�? it described it perfectly. The camera can perform well at both the Wide and Tele end of the scale, allowing you to capture both portrait and landscape shots of the places you visit, and the sturdiness of the camera means you can use the camera without a big fear of it breaking in a bag or if you drop it - although I wouldn't try it. Picture quality is reasonable but not outstanding, with the lens being let down somewhat by the sensor, but it is good enough for any situation.'
Digital Camera Info has a review of the Panasonic Lumix DMC-TZ1, and concludes, "The Panasonic Lumix DMC-TZ1 was released last year at a time when the ultra-zoom market was beginning to expand and consumers were looking for compact options. The 5-megapixel TZ1 filled that niche, but since its release better cameras have stepped into the market. Snapshooters should be very happy to have a long zoom lens that can fit in a coat pocket. We like the lens quality, but we think Panasonic's excellent image stabilization takes much of the credit for making the long zoom useful for casual shooters. Though it's not the camera for enthusiasts who want to experiment and take control of the process, at a budget price, it doesn't need to be. This easy to use digital camera doesn't provide stellar image quality, but has a good interface and concept."
Posted by Darren in our Panasonic category on February 14, 2006