Preliminary test of Panasonic Lumix FZ100. Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ1000 - premium ultrasonic Lumix fz 1000 will there be a new model
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10.12.2014
Panasonic LUMIX DMC-FZ1000 review – super zoom digital camera test, specifications, functions and modes, design and controls, reviews and impressions, test shots with Panasonic FZ1000 compact ultrazoom camera.
The Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ1000 is a super zoom camera with a bridge or "pseudo-mirror" design. While reviewing superzooms, we have repeatedly noted the obvious strengths of cameras in this class - a wide zoom range, which gives great freedom, and rich, rich functionality. In the recent past, I had to add a passage that these pluses, they say, have to pay for the relatively low quality of images, because in order to achieve a high zoom ratio, developers have to use a tiny matrix.
BRIEF FEATURES
However, progress has been made, at first models with a 2/3" format matrix began to appear, and recently superzoom cameras with a 1" format matrix have been released. So far, there are very few of them, but the Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ1000 is just one of them.
In passing, we note (we have done this more than once, but errors on this topic continue to occur on the network) that the matrix format, denoted as 1 ", does not mean that the matrix has a diagonal of one inch. Historically accepted format designations do not directly correspond to the geometric dimensions of the matrix . In fact, a 1 "format matrix has sides of approximately 13.2x8.8 mm. At the same time, the diagonal is about 15.9 mm, which is significantly less than one inch (1 "= 25.4 mm), although this is still a very decent size - for example, Nikon has built a line of its mirrorless cameras on 1" format matrices. So with regard to the FZ1000, there is no need to talk about any “inevitable compromise” in terms of image quality.
The Panasonic FZ1000 uses a fast readout sensor and a powerful quad-core processor to capture high resolution and bit rate movies. The Panasonic FZ1000 was one of the first consumer devices capable of shooting 4K video at an impressive 100 Mbps.
Note that high resolution and bitrate are not the only features of the FZ1000 that testify to the advancement of this camera in the field of video shooting. This also includes focus peaking (the function of highlighting the contours of objects that are in focus) and “zebra” (a tool for controlling exposure, highlighting bright areas on the screen with thin animated stripes), the presence of color schemes two "cinematic" presets, as well as some other functions and features.
Panasonic FZ1000 borrowed quite a lot characteristic features from the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4 mirrorless model. These are the already mentioned serious video capabilities, and the location of the controls, and the construction of the interface (both in a graphical sense and in a functional one). You can rightfully consider the FZ1000 the "little brother" of the GH4. Of course, the FZ1000 is simpler in some ways, for example, its screen is not touch-sensitive, but that’s why it is a “younger” brother.
The Panasonic FZ1000 also uses DFD (Depth From Defocus) autofocus technology, which we talked about in detail in the Panasonic GH4 review. Its essence is that the camera can instantly make a rough estimate of which direction and how much to refocus, based on previously known features of the lens and the picture in the “out of focus” areas. A fast and strong movement is made, after which fine adjustment is performed using contrast detection methods. In this way, the overall AF time can be reduced.
Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ1000 Key Specifications:
- Matrix 20 MP CMOS format 1 "(13.2x8.8 mm).
- Non-replaceable Leica lens with 16x zoom ratio (focal length range 25-400 eq.mm).
- Five-axis optical image stabilization.
- Rotatable in two planes 3-inch monitor with a resolution of 921,000 dots.
- Built-in electronic viewfinder XGA OLED resolution 2.36 MP.
- Built-in flash.
- ISO range 125-12800 (expandable to 80-25600).
- In-camera RAW to JPEG conversion.
- A large number of scene programs and digital filters (processing effects).
- Video shooting in resolution up to 4K at 30/25/24 fps (100 Mb/s stream), as well as Full HD up to 60/50p fps with up to 28 Mb/s (IPB).
- 120 fps slow motion video (at 1080p).
- Focus peaking and (outline enhancement function to facilitate manual focusing).
- "Zebra" (selection of bright areas on the screen, two adjustable presets).
- Built-in Wi-Fi with NFC support.
- Micro HDMI connector.
- 3.5 mm jack for external microphone.
- Up to 360 shots per battery charge (CIPA measurement).
Perhaps the only direct competitor of the Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ1000 on the market today is the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX10. For comparison, we put brief characteristics of these two models in a comparison table.
| Panasonic FZ1000 | Sony RX10 | |
| Matrix | 20MP CMOS | 20 MP BSI-CMOS |
| Matrix Format | 1" (13.2x8.8 mm) | 1" (13.2x8.8 mm) |
| Zoom ratio | 16x | 8x |
| Zoom range | 25-400 eq.mm | 25-200 eq.mm |
| Diaphragm | f/2.8-4.0 | F/2.8 |
| Video formats | AVCHD,MP4 | AVCHD,MP4 |
| Max. video resolution | 4K (3840x2160) Stream 100 Mbps | Full HD (1920x1080) Stream 28 Mbps |
| Max. stream for Full HD | 28 Mbps | 28 Mbps |
| Number of shots (CIPA) | 360 | 420 |
| Built-in ND filter | Not | There is |
| Dimensions | 137 x 99 x 131 mm | 129 x 89 x 120 mm |
| The weight | 831 | 813 |
Conventional compacts have already lost significant market share to mobile phone cameras, but superzooms still offer quality optical zoom not yet found in phone and tablet cameras. Photographers love megazooms, and we've already noted some notable ones like the Canon PowerShot SX50 HS and the Panasonic Lumix FZ200. The problem with most of these products is that the developers provide them with a relatively small sensor and a lens with a small aperture.
The Panasonic FZ1000 and Sony RX10 1-inch superzooms are not compact. digital cameras, for many photographers they will serve as an alternative to a DSLR. They will be of interest to users who do not like to change lenses and prefer to wield an all-in-one camera that offers better image quality compared to compacts and many manual control for creative experiments.
In general, a large sensor is a new trend in the superzoom market. Both the FZ1000 and the Sony RX10 are among those cameras that use a large zoom, large sensor and fast lens. The RX10 has a 24-200mm F/2.8 fixed aperture lens; the FZ200 has a 25-400mm zoom lens (almost twice the optical zoom of the RX10) and an F/2.8-4.0 variable aperture. Further more about each camera separately.
Panasonic Lumix FZ1000
The FZ1000 is Panasonic's newest superzoom at the time of writing and is a direct competitor to the Sony RX10. It has been given a large 1-inch 20.1-megapixel MOS sensor, a new Venus processor and more advanced features to offer an alternative to the DSLR. The FZ1000 is also aimed at video enthusiasts.
The first thing that catches your eye is the size. Panasonic is noticeably larger than the RX10 and larger than Canon's most compact SLR, the EOS 100D (see image below).
Sony RX10, Panasonic FZ1000 and Canon EOS 100D - size comparison via camerasize.com
When buying an FZ1000, you will hardly worry about the size difference. Any of these models will have to be carried in a small bag. The peculiarity of such a camera is that it allows you to enjoy the best photography, which is worthy of a compromise. If you're looking for a very compact and portable camera, just look elsewhere. For example, take a look at the Sony RX100 III with the same 1-inch sensor.
A newly developed sensor with an improved S/N (signal to noise) ratio allows you to shoot at high ISOs while maintaining a relatively clean image with less noticeable noise. Low-noise images are also facilitated by Multi Process NR noise reduction technology.
One of the most interesting features of this camera, aside from the sensor, is its lens. The optics for the Panasonic Lumix FZ1000 have been taken seriously, equipping it with a Leica DC Vario-Elmarit 25-400mm F2.8-4.0 with 16x optical zoom and 5-axis optical image stabilization Hybrid O.I.S.
The minimum focusing distance is 3 cm with the widest angle in macro mode. The lens, like the sensor, was developed specifically for this camera. It combines 5 aspherical lenses, 8 aspherical surfaces and 4 ED lenses for sharp and clear image reproduction with minimal distortion, as you would expect from Leica optics.
Aperture value from F/2.8 at widest angle to F/4.0 at the tele-end. The lens has a ring that can be used to focus manually or to zoom in/out. There is a lens hood included, attaching it to the lens will reduce glare.
A feature of the Panasonic FZ1000 is the abundance of buttons and dials that give fast access to popular camera settings. The 3-inch, 921k-dot rotating LCD display has an anti-reflective (AR) coating, useful when shooting on outdoors in bright daylight.
The FZ1000 features a high-resolution 2359k-dot OLED electronic viewfinder (0.7 x 35mm equiv.).
One of the notable features of the FZ1000 is the ability to shoot 4K video (a first in the world, according to Panasonic). If you're not familiar with 4K (or QFHD, 2160p or UHD/Ultra HD) is a term that defines a spatial resolution of at least 3840 x 2160 pixels for both stills and video. This feature is becoming more and more popular, and we have already written about it: Recording video in 4K resolution is a new trend in the photography market
The concept of "Ultra High HD" has been successfully implemented in the field of video recording and the TV industry. The market has been replenished with a new line of 4K Ultra HD TVs that are replacing 1080p. For example, LG is releasing a flexible 77-inch UHD OLED TV. Just imagine how good 4K video shot from the FZ1000 would look on such a TV... Please note that you will need a UHS Speed Class 3 (U3) memory card to shoot in 4K. You can also extract 8MP images and use 5-axis stabilization for 4K video.
The FZ1000 records 4K (100Mbps/MP4) video at 30fps. To improve sound quality, an external microphone can be connected via a 3.5 mm jack. The FZ1000 can record 1080/60p, 60i, 30p, 24p, 720p30 as well as 100fps slow motion video (playback in 30p).
Other specs: 12 fps continuous shooting, 1/4000 sec shutter speed, 0.66 sec ready to shoot, 0.09 sec DFD (Depth From Defocus) autofocus speed, built-in Wi-Fi and NFC (for remote control and file sharing) ), in-camera RAW processing, a level sensor, Auto Plus intelligent mode, and a hot shoe interface for connecting an external flash.
Some will find the Panasonic Lumix FZ1000 too bulky and heavy, but it depends on taste and goals. The starting price of the camera was about $900. The RX10 sells for around $1,300.
Sony Cyber-shot RX10
The Sony Cyber-shot RX10 is a unique camera that initiated a new superzoom category and was unrivaled until the introduction of the FZ1000. It has been praised by top reviewers, including a gold award from DPReview. In our superzoom comparison, the RX10 also came out on top.
It's a great choice for travelers and people who don't want to mess around with a fleet of optics and prefer to shoot with an all-in-one camera. The main obstacle to its acquisition for many users was not the specifications, but high price. The rather average autofocus performance, relatively slow zoom and JPEG processing were also criticized. But, in general, this is one of the most attractive superzooms.
The RX10 uses a 1-inch BSI CMOS Exmor R sensor with 20.2MP. This sensor is significantly smaller than the APS-C and Micro Four Thirds sensors found on most mid-range DSLRs and compact system cameras.
The camera was equipped with a high-quality zoom lens Carl Zeiss Vario-Sonnar T * 24-200mm F2.8 with 8.3x optical zoom. The aperture in it is constant, unlike the FZ1000. The lens has two rings, one can be used for manual focus or for zooming (depending on the camera mode) and an aperture ring.
The body is made using magnesium alloy, the front and top are protected from dust and moisture, which will be appreciated by outdoor photographers and travelers.
The 3-inch 1229k-dot White Magic LCD with tilt mechanism (84 degrees up/45 degrees down) is optimized for better outdoor visibility in bright sunlight.
Among other features: WiFi modules and NFC, 1080p60/24 video recording, multi-interface hot shoe, 1440k-dot OLED viewfinder, sweep panorama, auto HDR, Active Mode, built-in 3EV ND filter and 10fps burst shooting ( with focus fixed on the first frame in shutter priority mode).
Comparison table with the characteristics of Panasonic Lumix FZ1000 and Sony Cyber-shot RX10 cameras
Panasonic FZ1000 |
Sony RX10 |
|
| Announcement date | June 12, 2014 | October 16, 2013 |
| Camera type |
super zoom with large sensor |
super zoom with large sensor |
| Build quality | metal, composite | magnesium alloy front and top panel |
| weather seal | No | dust and moisture resistant |
| Both cameras are well built, but the RX10 has a weather seal to keep moisture and dust out, while the FZ lacks this feature. Panasonic has only provided the GH3 with such protection from its cameras. | ||
| Buttons |
|
|
| FZ has been endowed with a large number of physical controls for quick access to popular settings. The design of the RX10 is simplified in this sense. | ||
| Sensor |
|
|
|
The sensors of both cameras are the same size and the resolution is the same (5472x3548 pixels). The difference is that Sony uses a back-illuminated sensor, but it's worth talking about the benefits after the high ISO test. |
||
| ISO range |
with extension: 80, 100, 25600 |
Extended: 80, 100, 25600 (Multi Frame NR) |
| See ISO performance analysis below the table. | ||
| Image proportions | 1:1, 4:3, 3:2, 16:9 | 1:1, 4:3, 3:2, 16:9 |
| Stabilization |
optical 5-axis (for video) |
optical SteadyShot active mode compensates for shaky video recording |
|
The RX10 in active mode compensates for shaking with a slight reduction in resolution, but in normal mode permission is saved. You can expect good stabilization for stills and videos from both cameras. |
||
| Lenses |
ring for zoom or manual focus (lens switch) |
2 rings: zoom + focus and aperture 3 stop ND filter |
|
The lens is one of the most important elements in a camera and both superzooms are equipped with excellent optics. The RX10 offers a slightly wider-angle capture, but is significantly inferior to the FZ1000 in the focal length range. 200mm won't be enough for many scenes, but 400mm is a very useful and versatile distance you get with Panasonic. The RX10 uses a constant bright aperture of F/2.8 compared to the variable F/2.8-4.0 of the FZ1000. But with the Panasonic at 200mm you get close f/3.5, and the high ISO test shows the FZ1000 has a 1-1.5EV lead. As for bokeh. At 400mm the FZ1000 (2.7 crop) will give you a shallower depth of field than the RX10 at 200mm at the same distance from the subject. The aperture ring on the RX10 is very handy, but the extra 200mm of focal length on the FZ1000 lens is more appealing. Please note that with the FZ1000, the f / 2.8 aperture is only kept at 24-25mm, then with each step it decreases until you reach 175mm, where it is set at f / 4 and remains until the maximum focal length. |
||
| RAW | Panasonic RAW2 format | Sony ARW2.3 format |
| Minimum focus distance |
you need to switch to the appropriate mode |
no need to switch |
| Autofocus system |
detection by contrast DFD technology |
detection by contrast |
|
FZ has more autofocus points and more focus modes: single, tracking, low light AF, focus peaking. Theoretically, FZ is able to track objects better. |
||
| Viewfinder |
|
|
|
Both cameras have an eye sensor that triggers the autofocus system when you get close to the viewfinder. The viewfinder in the FZ1000 has a much higher resolution. |
||
| LCD screen |
fully articulated (180 degrees horizontally to each side and 270 degrees vertically) |
real time adjustment rotary (84 degrees up, 43 degrees down) |
| The FZ screen has the advantage of offering more flexibility in framing. | ||
| Shutter speed |
60-1/16000 sec 1/16,000 sec - electronic shutter 1/4000 sec - mechanical shutter |
30-1/3 200 sec |
| Another benefit of the FZ1000 is the wider shutter speed range. High speed shutter speed is great for freezing fast moving objects. | ||
| Video recording |
4K / 2160p30 (Ultra HD, 100Mbps)
1080p30 high speed video with 120fps output MPEG-4, AVCHD (4K to MP4) stereo sound |
stereo sound |
| microphone jack | 35mm | 35mm |
| Headphone jack | No | 3.5mm |
| Pure HDMI | Yes | No |
|
Panasonic leads the way in video recording capabilities by a wide margin, offering 4K Ultra HD and multiple frame rates, including 60p (progressive), slow motion video, and pure HDMI output. Media headlines are full of the topic of 4K video recording. The FZ1000 is the world's first compact camera with this feature. On Ultra HD TVs (preferably 55-inch and above), these videos will look amazing. Especially when you consider that the FZ comes with a relatively large sensor, excellent lens and 5-axis stabilization. This feature makes the FZ1000 unique in its category.
In the picture above, you can appreciate the difference in 4K resolution compared to other formats. |
||
| Built-in flash | yes (13.5m) | yes (10.2m) |
| Connecting an external flash | through the hot shoe | via multi-interface hotshoe |
| Scene modes | 27 | 9 |
| Burst shooting | 12 fps | 10 fps |
| Exposure compensation | ±5 frames (in 1/3EV increments) | ±3 frames (in 1/3EV increments) |
| Exposure bracketing | ±3 (3, 5, 7 frames in steps of 1/3EV, 1/2EV, 1EV) | ±3 (3 frames in steps of 1/3EV, 2/3EV) |
| HDMI port | micro HDMI | micro HDMI |
| Wireless connection | WiFi/NFC | WiFi/NFC |
| Remote control port | yes, 2.5mm | No |
| Battery Endurance (CIPA) | 360 shots | 420 shots |
| Dimensions | 137 x 99 x 131mm | 129 x 88 x 102mm |
| The weight | 831g | 813g |
| time-lapse recording | Yes | No |
ISO performance comparison
Left - Panasonic FZ1000, right - Sony RX10.
Panasonic Lumix FZ1000 and Sony RX10 - ISO 200
Panasonic Lumix FZ1000 and Sony RX10 - ISO 1600
Panasonic Lumix FZ1000 and Sony RX10 - ISO 3200
Using a resource for image analysis, we observe the following:
At low ISOs, both cameras performed admirably. Images from the RX10 are sharper, but this is due to the higher contrast, bumps are noticeable in the FZ1000 samples. Colors are more saturated with RX10, more natural with FZ1000.
At ISO 800 and ISO 1600, Panasonic's samples look cleaner due to the strong noise reduction that actually eliminates some of the finer details. The FZ1000 seems to have a slightly wider dynamic range.
At ISO 6400, you can see that the RX10 suffers significantly from noise. The FZ1000 also looks noisy, but much better than the RX10 and suitable for smaller prints.
To recap: Both cameras perform very well up to ISO 1600, quite a steep decline from here on out, but the FZ1000 does better than the RX10.
Macro: left - Panasonic FZ1000, right - Sony RX10
And another example: Panasonic FZ1000 and Sony RX10, respectively. In program mode, ISO200.
conclusions
The Panasonic Lumix FZ1000 will delight any enthusiast photographer who loves shooting with a mega zoom. The camera offers a lot of features at a much lower cost than the RX10, so its appearance has pleased many.
But there are aspects in which the RX10 remains a leader:
- better build quality
- the presence of a weather seal,
- constant f / 2.8 aperture over the entire range of focal lengths,
- wide angle 24mm,
- built-in neutral density filter,
- headphone jack,
- very good time offline work.
Many photographers will find the features offered by the FZ1000 compelling:
- there are more controls on the camera body for manual settings,
- higher ISO performance and better image quality (personal opinion),
- 5-axis image stabilization,
- greater zoom range
- more advanced autofocus system,
- best viewfinder,
- fully articulated LCD display,
- high shutter speed,
- 4K video recording and variety in frame rate,
- pure HDMI output,
- higher burst shooting speed,
- port for remote control.
Against the backdrop of all of the above, the appeal of the RX10 pales, especially when you compare the price tag.
Other superzooms offer a wider range of fixed f/2.8 focal lengths, such as the FZ200, but at the cost of sensor size. It should be understood here that the 1-inch sensor is extremely important in terms of high ISO performance and depth of field. The f/4 aperture is just one stop short of f/2.8 and is more than adequate for most shooting situations in low light (tele-end).
Those who like to shoot video should not have any hesitation! Despite the excellent quality of the videos shot with the RX10, this camera is certainly less interesting than the FZ1000, which offers 4K video recording and a wide variety in frame rates that will make you a keen videographer.
The RX10 has a very serious competitor.
The camera takes not only photos, but also Full HD videos with AVCHD compression.
In addition to automatic shooting modes, Creative Zone modes are available for both still photography and movie recording, as well as 3D shooting and POWER O.I.S. with a new, active stabilization mechanism.
1/2.33″ CCD sensor, 12 MP;
Venus Engine FHD processor;
24x Leica DC VARIO-ELMARIT 4.5-108mm zoom lens (25-600mm 35mm equivalent), f/2.8-5.2;
4x digital zoom;
optical stabilization POWER O.I.S.;
video with sound: 1920x1080 30i, 1280x720 30p;
23-Area Intelligent AF, 1-Area AF (Center Fixed);
3-inch rotatable TFT-LCD, 460,000 pixels;
focusing distance: 1 cm (macro mode) - infinity;
Exposure Compensation: -2 to +2 EV, 1/3 EV steps;
ISO sensitivity: 100-1600, AUTO, iISO (up to ISO 6400 at 3 MP);
electronic-mechanical shutter;
exposure range: from 1/2000 to 60 s;
0.2-inch digital viewfinder, 201,000 pixels;
built-in flash: auto, forced/flash off, red-eye reduction, slow sync;
flash range: 6 m;
shooting methods: single-frame, continuous, self-timer;
support for memory cards: SD, SDHC, SDXC;
file format: JPEG;
power supply: Li-ion-battery with a capacity of 895 mAh;
plastic case;
dimensions: 80x120x92 mm;
weight with battery and memory card: 498 g.
As you can see, the camera has a good 3-inch display, has an electronic viewfinder and a utilitarian zoom that covers a range of focal lengths from 25 to 600 mm. Not a record figure in the class, but there is no doubt that it will solve most shooting tasks. It is in this main feature cameras - a lot of possibilities in a relatively compact package.
Appearance
The assembly of the FZ48 does not cause any complaints, matte plastic is used, there is a hard rubber gasket on the handle. The camera does not have a swivel display, like the older model FZ150. The camera cannot be called small (you definitely won’t put one in your pocket), but it is one and a half times smaller than the smallest DSLRs.
The camera has the most successful handle, with a standard grip it is difficult to reach the shutter button. Also, comfortable work with the camera is complicated by heavy optics, which significantly outweighs. For comfortable shooting, the device must be held with two hands, holding it by the left side of the body or under the lens.
The front of the FZ48 is very simple: a metal-rimmed lens, an AF assist lamp, and a golden "L" badge. The package comes with a plastic cover and a rope for attaching it to the case.
By the way, Panasonic attached the cover not to the body, but to the fixed part of the camera, so that when turned on, the cover does not fly off, as on other cameras. It is very easy to forget or lose the cap if you do not return it to the lens in time, so it is better to hang it on the supplied string.
A very important innovation in optics is the nanocrystalline coating on the outer lens, which absorbs all mis-polarized light. Thanks to this, glare and bunnies are effectively cut off. The camera copes well with side and back lighting. But just in case, there is also a hood in the kit, which will save you from very hard side lighting.
In all other respects, the lens is identical to the FZ100, perhaps only it does not have an additional zoom lever on the side. There are no effective focal length marks on the lens barrel, as, for example, on the Canon SX30 IS Ultrazoom.
The loudspeaker is located on the top left of the camera body. Two high-quality stereo microphones are placed directly on the rising flash. There is no hot shoe in the chamber.
The drum of shooting modes is packed to capacity - only 14 positions. This includes iA full auto mode, PASM creative zone modes, film color simulation mode, sample scene programs. However, if this is not enough, there is the SCN mode, in which there are much more story programs. There is one fully customizable mode, as well as a video recording mode that offers manual exposure settings.
Like most Panasonic cameras, the camera is turned on by a mechanical lever on the handle. In addition to it, there is a Focus button, a quick video recording key and a shutter button with a zoom lever.
The Focus key changes the focus area and its position in automatic modes, switches between single-frame and tracking focus. A button that switches between auto, macro and manual focus is located on the back.
Manual focusing is controlled by a wheel on the handle: an enlarged area of the frame is displayed on the screen, and the scale below shows the approximate depth of the field of focus when focusing at a given distance. The camera is able to remember the zoom and focus and return to its original position after being turned off.
The rest of the controls are located on the back of the camera.
The flash is raised only manually, with a special button to the left of the viewfinder. If the device's automation considers its use necessary, a warning will be displayed on the screen. The FZ48 features a 0.2″ electronic viewfinder with a resolution of 201,000 pixels. By the standards of modern viewfinders (for example, the Sony NEX-7 has 12 times more resolution, 2,400,000 pixels), the figure is very modest, but this is the standard for ultrasonics.
For a comfortable grip in the right corner of the case there is a plastic island for the thumb, it has a quick control wheel. The wheel makes it much easier to work with the camera in creative zone modes - you can quickly set the shutter speed and aperture.
As befits a serious ultrazoom, there are autofocus and autoexposure lock buttons, a shortcut key for the Q.MENU function menu. The joystick of the camera has settings for exposure, timer, ISO, one button is programmed by the user independently.
The keys (again in the Panasonic tradition) are small, but with a clear click and tight travel. The manufacturer uses exactly the same tactile controls in all of its mirrorless cameras. To avoid accidental clicks, the view mode button is slightly recessed into the case.
The joystick is located parallel to the plane of the body, while in the older model and mirrorless cameras it is at a slight angle to the body, for convenient one-handed control. Exposure can be easily adjusted by pressing and turning the quick scroll wheel - the same solution used in Lumix mirrorless cameras of the Micro Four Thirds system.
In general, the FZ48 will be easy to learn for novice photographers, while experienced photographers will enjoy a significant degree of freedom in settings and quick control of the device's functions.
A three-inch display with a resolution of 460,000 pixels is installed on all advanced Lumix models without exception. The screen has good viewing angles, fades slightly in bright light. Individual pixels can be easily distinguished.
On the left side there is a connector for an HDMI cable, there is also a connector for connecting a USB cable.
The memory card and battery are housed in a common compartment on the bottom of the camera. Due to the massive lens, the tripod mount is not in the center of the camera.
Unlike most analogues, the FZ48 model runs on a lithium-ion battery, and not on four AA batteries. If this can be considered a minus when traveling, then in everyday life this is an absolute plus - you don’t need to spend extra money on batteries, and the camera itself is lighter because of this.
Camera in action
The device turns on in 2-2.5 seconds. Zooming during photography is fast, during video recording it is slow.
Zooming is very fast, but if there is a sharp transition between the light and dark parts of the frame, the picture on the screen will start to slow down until the automation reorients itself to new conditions again.
You need to try to protect the camera lens from dust: at certain indicators, the device tries to focus on dust particles.
The camera is very responsive and fast in operation, the menu does not slow down at all. If it weren't for the slow focusing in low artificial light, the FZ48's performance would be closer to Lumix mirrorless cameras.
The camera menu is traditional for Panasonic: large fonts, many sub-items and various settings.
Creative Video Mode lets you set the shutter speed and aperture manually even while recording. Fast shutter speeds are useful when shooting dynamic scenes, while the effect of changing the aperture is especially noticeable at large zooms and with objects at different distances. The only drawback is the recording of sound from pressing buttons and rotating the disk, and there is no way to connect an external stereo microphone.
The intelligent auto mode works both when taking photos and when shooting movies. While recording videos, you can even take pictures in parallel, but in a reduced resolution of 3.5 megapixels. Video files can be trimmed and split without connecting to a computer.
3D shooting is common - the camera asks you to move it from left to right, simultaneously shooting bursts. Even and odd frames of the series are combined into separate pictures, which are then displayed as a stereo pair for the left and right eyes.
The plot programs are very well thought out, they are closely connected with the function of identifying faces. Multiple people's faces can be registered to the unit's memory, and if the registered face belongs to a child under 3 years old, the child mode is automatically activated.
It is impossible not to note the convenience of the quick menu Q.MENU. Thanks to him, all the key shooting settings are set in 10 seconds.
Test materials
As for test shots, if the 14-megapixel CMOS sensor in the FX100 is more focused on video recording, then the 12-megapixel CCD is more focused on photography. At the same time, photos from the camera are easy to recognize - watercolor streaks at 100% magnification, even at low ISOs, have become a hallmark of the Lumix noise reduction system.
Wide (25mm 35mm film equivalent)
Maximum zoom 24x (600mm 35mm film equivalent)
original photo size
Maximum zoom 24x (600mm 35mm film equivalent)
original photo size
Noise is clearly visible at ISO 400, increases at ISO 800, and shooting at ISO 1600 is no longer desirable. The camera does not carry anything new in terms of photo quality.
There were so many wars in the compact segment - this is the war of permissions, and sensitivities, and additional modules, and, of course, the war of zooms, which now seems to have resumed with renewed vigor. But it could not be otherwise, because, on the one hand, a small sensor cannot provide the same picture as full-frame or APS-C matrices, and on the other hand, smartphones are running out, which, due to overall limitations, cannot provide a decent optical zoom. Panasonic and, more recently, Samsung have come to the fore in the superzoom race, with cameras equipped with 60x zoom lenses, and the maximum focal length both have 1200 mm (in 35 mm equivalent - but still crazy numbers). For comparison, the Nikkor 1200-1700 mm lens weighs 16 kg and is 888 mm long. And this is without taking into account the “carcass”, while these compacts weigh 606 and 708 grams, respectively, and in terms of dimensions, when the lens is installed in the transport position, they are commensurate with other compacts of a similar class.
This time we will consider only the Panasonic camera, because the Samsung WB2200F camera has not yet reached us after the January presentation at CES 2014. So, the Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ72 is based on a 1/2.3-inch CMOS sensor, which is quite expected, because even when using the sensor from the DMC-LX7 camera (1/1.7 inch), the dimensions of the already rather big lens were would be even more. The maximum focal length, as in the case of most competitors with a 50x zoom, is 1200mm. However, the minimum FR is 20 mm - against 24 mm for the same competitors, which makes it easier to shoot, for example, architectural structures in narrow streets. For a tourist, this is already a big plus. The camera has both a display and a viewfinder, and in addition to a built-in flash, there is a hot shoe that Panasonic's more affordable LZ series of hyperzooms does not have.
It is also noteworthy that the manufacturer does not try to impress the user with a huge resolution, although 16 megapixels is too much for an ultrazoom. But less is impossible, because many compacts have higher image resolution, and in the minds of inexperienced users, the war of megapixels has not yet ended. Also worth noting is the maximum level of sensitivity, which is 3200 units in ISO equivalent. Well, at least the senseless war of sensitivity levels - at least in the compact segment - has come to naught. Another important feature is the microphone zoom, the operation of which will be discussed in more detail below.
⇡ Specifications declared by the manufacturer
| Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ72 | |
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| Matrix | 1/2.3" CMOS |
| Pixels (total) | 17 million |
| Number of effective pixels | 16 million |
| Photo Format | JPEG (Exif 2.3), RAW, DCF 2.0, DPOF, |
| Video Format | AVCHD,MP4 |
| Audio Format | Stereo, zoom function |
| Image resolution | 4608x3456 |
| Video Resolution | 1920x1080, 1280x720, 640x480 |
| Focal length range, mm | 3.58-215.0 (20-1200 in 35mm camera equivalent) |
| Diaphragm opening | ƒ/2.8- ƒ/ 5.9 |
| Minimum focusing distance, cm | SHU: 30 Tele: 150 Super macro: 1 |
| Focus modes | Frame-by-frame, continuous, adaptive |
| metering | Spot, center-weighted, multizone |
| Exposure compensation | -3 EV to +3 EV in 1/3 EV increments |
| Exposure range, s | 8-1/2000 |
| white balance | Manual, Auto, Daylight, Cloudy, Incandescent, Flash, Color temperature setting, Manual shift |
| Sensitivity, units in ISO equivalent | Automatic, 100, 200, 400, 800, 1600, 3200 |
| Descent timer, s | 2, 10 |
| Flash range, m | Up to 13.5 |
| Microphone | Stereo |
| Speaker | Mono |
| Display | 3 inches, 460k dots |
| Viewfinder | 202k points |
| Built-in flash memory, MB | 200 |
| Data carriers | SD |
| Source of power | Li-ion battery DMW-BMB9E, 6.5 Wh |
| Dimensions, mm | 130.2x97.0x118.2 |
| Weight, grams | 606 (including battery and SD memory card) 562 (without accessories) |
⇡ Scope of delivery and options
We were given a full-fledged commercial sample, however, there was no user manual in the package, and the disk with the software and the electronic version of the manual turned out to be from the FZ70 (twin camera for the American market). In addition, the package includes a battery, charger, power cable, USB cable, lens cap with lanyard, and shoulder strap. In general, pretty standard and modest.
But the list of options is impressive - a teleconverter and a macro lens, an adapter for installing lens accessories, an adapter for connecting a mains power supply, a constant LED illuminator for a hot shoe, four branded flashes with a guide number from 22 to 50, as well as a lot of various filters ( protective, polarizing, two options for neutral gray filters). However, there is no shortage of filters from third-party manufacturers, because the landing mount is quite common - 55 mm.
⇡ Appearance and usability
Outwardly, the Panasonic DMC-FZ72 differs little from most hyperzooms, into which the so-called “pseudo-mirrors” (SLR-Like) gradually transformed. The weight and dimensions of the device are also typical for its class. What is different and eye-catching is the massive array of microphones mounted on the back of the pop-up flash. Looking ahead, it is worth noting that when the flash is raised, which, of course, is completely unnecessary when shooting video, the sound quality deteriorates somewhat, and a very interesting feature of the microphone zoom works worse. Also, one cannot fail to notice the absence of a side zoom control, which is found on many Fujifilm and Nikon hyperzooms. But it greatly facilitates zooming when shooting video. But let's get back to the camera under test.
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The case handle is extremely comfortable in a medium-sized hand, while all controls clearly fall under the fingers. In fact, when controlling the camera, the second hand is only needed to press the key of the mechanical lock of the pop-up flash, because all the controls are concentrated on the right side of the body. The handle is covered with a leather-like rubber sheet. On the back, the thumb rest is also textured and also vaguely resembles leather, but it's not even rubber, but plastic, which is part of a single back panel. Of course, a rubber pad would be preferable here, but even without it, the camera does not strive to jump out of your hands.
In front are only the lens and the autofocus illuminator. From the rear, most of the surface is occupied by the display, above which are the viewfinder and the flash lock key, as well as the key for switching between the display and the viewfinder. Most of the controls are located on the right side of the rear surface: the autofocus and autoexposure lock key, the multi-function switch, the focus mode selection and playback mode keys, and the control dial. In the lower right corner are the keys for changing the display mode and deleting.
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At the top is a pop-up flash with a group of microphones on the back and a hot shoe at the base. To the left of it is only the system speaker, and to the right is the mode dial, supplemented by the power lever, as well as the video recording, drive mode selection, focus and shutter keys, the latter being combined with the zoom control lever. There is nothing unusual on the bottom - a tripod mount connector and a plastic door that hides the battery and memory card compartments.
The left side surface is empty, and on the right there is only a rubber plug with the HDMI inscription - but it hides not only an HDMI cable connector, but also a port for USB / AV cables.
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Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ2000: with 330 photos and 138 minutes of UHD video, battery life is only average.
Test results
Advantages
Fast lens with 20x zoom
Lots of handy control buttons
Integrated ND filter
Fast burst shooting
Fast and accurate autofocus
Support for UHD video and 4K Photo mode
Swivel touch screen
Flaws
Loss of sharpness at edges and at long focal lengths
Average battery life
Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ2000 test results
- Price-quality ratio
Good - Place in the overall ranking
8 out of 58
- Value for money: 66
- Image quality (50%): 92
- Equipment and management (40%): 94
- Speed (10%): 93
Editorial rating
User rating
You have already rated
Designation Panasonic Lumix FZ2000 as a "compact camera" is a bit misleading. With a weight of about a kilogram and dimensions system camera together with the lens, it looks like anything but compact camera. Therefore, we decided to classify it as a bridge camera because Panasonic Lumix FZ2000 really builds a "bridge" - from all the best that is on the market.
Panasonic Lumix FZ2000: glass flaws
With f/2.8-4.5 aperture and 24-480mm focal length, zoom-friendly optics Panasonic Lumix FZ2000 demonstrates its shortcomings, manifested primarily at the edges of the image. There, the level of sharpness is instantly reduced by almost a third.
While in the center of the image we can count 1640 line pairs per frame height, the edges with 1192 line pairs are more blurry. At hard contrasts, a pink border appears up to three pixels wide, and at a wide angle, slight vignetting appears. In addition, sharpness is reduced by 25 percent at long focal lengths.
Despite all this, it seemed very convincing to us good quality images in sufficiently detailed and noise-free shots up to ISO 1600. For photographing with higher light sensitivity, a folding flash that beats at 13 meters offers its services.
Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ2000: Frequently used options can also be changed using the touch display. Panasonic Lumix FZ2000: fast, faster FZ2000
Also Panasonic Lumix FZ2000 stands out for its speed. With over 11 frames per second and 100 JPEGs per burst, burst shooting is perfect for unsupervised sports photography. This highlights the lightning-fast autofocus, which even at the maximum focal length of less than 0.2 seconds is faster than some competitors in the "wide" state.
If someone needs even faster continuous shooting, then you can switch to 4K Photo mode and continue to take pictures at 30 frames per second. True, the resolution in this case will be only 8 megapixels. But, on the one hand, this resolution will be quite enough to print photos of at least DIN A4 size. Additional features such as post-focus sharpness correction in Post-Focus mode or the prudent Pre-Burst mode can also lead to delight.
The regular video mode is also convincing: Ultra-HD at 30 fps, 4:2:2/10-bit color depth, and the absence of a 30-minute limit on video duration - all this is at the level of the special model of the GH4 line under called GH4R. Panasonic Lumix FZ2000 has only minimal rolling shutter effect when panning quickly during panoramic shooting.
Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ2000: next to the hot shoe, a folding flash was lurking, hitting about 13 meters. Panasonic Lumix FZ2000: Integrated ND filter
The camera is especially useful when shooting moving subjects: focus points can be easily set with the touch of a finger on the clear, swivel 3-inch display. An alternative is the OLED electronic viewfinder, which has a high resolution and pleasantly fast operation.
In general, the comfortable plastic case and excellent equipment seem to us excellent: even specialists in the field of photography can be pleased with the wide control options - there are eight hardware buttons and six programmable function keys.
The highlight is the three-stage ND filter, which allows you to increase the exposure time up to six times. An optical 5-axis Image Stabilizer will allow you to increase the exposure time when shooting handheld by at least three times.
So, to summarize all of the above: Panasonic Lumix FZ2000 combines high image quality with long focal lengths, professional video modes and a wide range of equipment. Is he worth his money? Undoubtedly!
Panasonic Lumix FZ2000: alternative
Although Panasonic Lumix FZ2000 and offers excellent facilities, the value for money is not the best. There are devices that are cheaper, but not worse: below you will find the name of the bridge camera with the best value for money.
1.
Overall score: 88.5
Value for money: 100
| TEST RESULTS | |
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Image quality (50%) |
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Equipment and management (40%) |
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Performance (10%) |
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| CONCLUSION Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ2000 achieved very good results during the tests. We were particularly impressed with the excellent image quality combined with the fast 20x zoom lens, as well as the many additional features such as the high-resolution electronic viewfinder, UHD movie recording and fast autofocus. We can only find fault with the decrease in image sharpness at the edges of the frame, especially at long focal lengths, as well as the rather short battery life. |
92.9% OVERALL RESULT |
Specifications and test results Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ2000
| Price-quality ratio | 66 |
| Camera type | bridge camera |
| Maximum Resolution | 20.0 MP |
| Max. photo resolution | 5.472 x 3.648 pixels |
| Max. video resolution | 3.840 x 2.160 pixels |
| Display: diagonal | 3.0 inch touch screen |
| Display: resolution | 1.040.000 subpixels |
| Display: rotary | biaxial |
| Display: brightness adjustment | Yes |
| Matrix: type | MOS |
| Matrix: size | 1 inch |
| optical zoom | 20.0x |
| Minimum focal length | 8.8mm; |
| Maximum focal length | 176.0 mm; |
| Optical Image Stabilizer | with movable die |
| Lens Aperture (Wide - Tele) | 1:2.8 — 1:4.5 |
| Shooting modes | auto, program, aperture priority, shutter speed, manual |
| Panorama shooting mode | panoramic shooting with Auto Stitching |
| Minimum shutter speed (auto) | 1/16.000 c |
| Maximum shutter speed (auto) | 60.00 s |
| Minimum light sensitivity (ISO min) | ISO 80 |
| Maximum light sensitivity (ISO max) | ISO 25.600 |
| white balance | preset, manual setting |
| Center resolution at ISO min | 1,640 line pairs |
| Edge resolution at ISO min | 1.192 line pairs |
| Center resolution at ISO 400 | 1.698 line pairs |
| Edge resolution at ISO 400 | 1.268 line pairs |
| Center resolution at ISO 800 | 1.615 line pairs |
| Edge resolution at ISO 800 | 1.227 line pairs |
| Center resolution at ISO 1600 | 1,560 line pairs |
| Edge resolution at ISO 1600 | 1.181 line pairs |
| Texture Accuracy (Kurtosis) / Details (Dead Leaves) @ ISO Min | 70 % |
| Texture (Kurtosis) / Detail (Dead Leaves) accuracy at ISO 400 | 78 % |
| Texture (Kurtosis) / Detail (Dead Leaves) accuracy at ISO 800 | 81 % |
| Texture (Kurtosis) / Detail (Dead Leaves) accuracy at ISO 1600 | 77 % |
| Expert Judgment: Detail at ISO Min | good (2,3) |
| Expert Judgment: Detail at ISO 400 | good (1.5) |
| Expert Judgment: Detail at ISO 800 | good (2,3) |
| Expert judgement: ISO 1600 detail | good (3.0) |
| Noise at ISO min | 1.07 VN (1.1 VN1, 0.8 VN3) |
| Noise at ISO 400 | 1.46 VN (1.50 VN1, 1.10 VN3) |
| Noise at ISO 800 | 1.84 VN (1.90 VN1, 1.30 VN3) |
| Noise at ISO 1600 | 2.22 VN (2.30 VN1, 1.50 VN3) |
| Max. Chromatic Aberration (Wide/Tele) | 3.10 / 2.68 pixels |
| Vignetting (Wide/Tele) | 0.6 / 0.4 steps |
| Distortion (Wide/Tele) | -0,3 / -0,1 % |
| Image formats | JPEG, RAW+JPEG |
| Turn-on time (before taking the first photo) | 1.3 s |
| Shutter-release delay at wide angle (with autofocus) | 0.14 s |
| Shutter delay at telephoto (with autofocus) | 0.19 s |
| Pause between two consecutive frames | 0.4 s |
| JPEG Burst Speed | 11.4 fps |
| Maximum burst length in JPEG | 100 frames |
| Battery name | DMW-BLC12E |
| Battery cost | 50 euro |
| Photos on a single battery charge | 330 photos |
| Video: max. recording time per battery charge | 138 min |
| Video: container | MP4 |
| Video: codecs | H.264 |
| Video: maximum video length | 138 min |
| Supported memory cards | SDXC |
| Built-in storage | - |
| hot shoe | Yes |
| GPS receiver | - |
| Orientation sensor | biaxial |
| Waterproof housing | - |
| Dimensions | 138 x 102 x 135 mm; |
| The weight | 966 g |
