The Lumix DMC-FZ30

The Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ30 is the fourth generation of the "FZ" line of digital cameras and represents our all-in-one 12x super-zoom point-and-shoot camera of choice. From a usability standpoint, the Lumix is a great camera. In addition to good ergonomics, it has a brisk startup time of just 1 second, burst rates of 2 to 3 frames per second, and a non-extending 12x zoom that covers 35mm to 420mm at f/2.8 to 3.7 with image stabilization. The fit and finish of the camera is also robust with enough heft so that the camera feels like a precision instrument yet still retains its portability. What makes the FZ30 special is that it strikes a superb design balance between the lens, the on-board computer, and the imaging sensor.

DMC-FZ30

Top view

Rear view

A Real Leica Lens

One of the key selling points for the Lumix DMC-FZ30 is that it has a real Leica DC lens and not simply a "Leica-branded" lens that's a result of collaborative marketing. This statement may cause a lot of consternation among photographers and Leicaphiles. Clearly, anyone who thinks that the Leica DC 7.4-88.8 mm f/2.8-3.7 VARIO-ELMARIT lens on the Lumix DMC-FZ30 comes close to the Leica 400mm f/4.0 APO-TELYT-R lens which goes for $8500 used is deluding themselves. Nevertheless, the Leica lenses in the Lumix line-up are unequivocally using real Leica technology.



35mm lenses from Leica and Carl Zeiss are famed for their superior edge-to-edge resolution, uncanny microcontrast, and legendary build quality. The interesting point is that while both Leica and Carl Zeiss produce lenses with exceptional sharpness and build-quality, each manufacturer still has a distinctive "look." You often hear of the "Leica sparkle" or "Carl Zeiss glow", a certain look to the highlights and bright spots of an image, or Leica hue in which colors seem to have a warm tone to them with deep slightly aqua skies. In the mass market SLR range, you may hear about Sigma lenses having a warmer tone than their equivalent Canon lenses. Most of these fine differences in appearance are due to the "secret sauce" of lens manufacturing: the multi-coating.