The DMC-TZ3 and DMC-FZ8 with Optical Image Stabilizer and industry-leading image processing technology lead the pack
Panasonic, the leading global manufacturer of consumer electronics and home appliances, announced today (Tuesday, April 24, 2007), at a press conference, the launch of 11 new models from its LUMIX range of digital cameras, for the Middle East market.
The 11 new digital cameras launched by Panasonic include the DMC-TZ3, DMC-TZ2, DMC-FZ8, DMC-LZ7, DMC-LZ6, DMC-FX30, DMC-FX12, DMC-FX10, DMC-LS75, DMC-LS70 and DMC-LS60, each with a host of unique and innovative features to meet varied requirements of professional and amateur photographers in the region.
Speaking at the press conference, Yasuo Kimoto, Product Manager, Panasonic Marketing Middle East, said, "These 11 new models will complement our existing models in the market and present consumers with more choices when they are looking for digital cameras that offer a complete package in terms of performance, styling, ease-of-use, affordability and technological advancements."
"We expect models like the DMC-FZ8, the DMC-TZ3 and TZ2 in particular to create major excitement in the regional markets given their user-friendly features and superior technology adaptations that significantly enhance the digital photography experience," he added.
Panasonic's DMC-TZ3 and DMC-TZ2 each feature a 28mm wide-angle Leica DC lens. The DMC-TZ3 boasts 7.2 megapixels and a large, 3.0-inch LCD, while the DMC-TZ2 has 6.0 megapixels and a 2.5-inch LCD. The TZ3 and TZ2 are the latest members of the Lumix TZ family of digital cameras, which is renowned for packaging a remarkable 10x optical zoom lens in a compact, stylish body.
The two new models also incorporate the Intelligent Image Stabilization system which comprises two features - Mega O.I.S. (Optical Image Stabilizer) and Intelligent ISO Control. Now recognised as a must-have feature for digital cameras, Mega O.I.S. compensates for the effects of hand-shake, making it possible to capture clear, crisp photos indoors, at night, or when taking macro close-ups or using high powered zooming - situations in which hand-shake is most likely to be a problem. Even Mega O.I.S., however, cannot suppress the motion blur caused by a subject moving as the photo is being snapped. That's where Intelligent ISO Control comes in. In this system, the camera's Venus Engine III image-processing engine detects whether the subject is moving and, as necessary, automatically raises the ISO setting and shutter speed according to how fast the subject is moving and the light conditions.
Other features that improve usability and convenience of the TZ3 and TZ2 include a Clipboard function that holds information, several new scene modes, and a Direct Print feature that allows quick, easy printouts. Also, the lens cap is now built into the camera itself and serves as an automatic protective barrier. Around 12.7 MB of built-in memory is provided, and the cameras are compatible with large-capacity SDHC memory cards.
Panasonic's DMC-FZ8, the other important model launched at the press conference, is a 7.2-megapixel camera featuring a powerful 12x optical zoom lens. The FZ8 also comes with the Venus Engine III image processing engine and the Intelligent Image Stabilization system to guarantee high quality pictures in all kinds of shooting conditions.
The FZ8 has a 207,000 pixel LCD and a 0.44-inch EVF (electronic viewfinder) with a resolution of 188,000 pixels, making it easy to see both when monitoring and playing back images.
Other features of the FZ8 that improve usability and convenience include enhanced operation with a multi-purpose joystick, which further simplifies exposure compensation. Frequently used functions, such as light metering, AF (auto focus) mode, ISO setting, and white balance adjustment, are quickly and easily handled with the Quick Setting function. Moreover, the position of the AF area can be selected among the 11 positions in the single point mode, the multi-point mode and the spot mode.
"As Panasonic continues to introduce cameras in line with changing consumer requirements, we are realizing our goal of efficiently capitalising on the growing demand for digital cameras in the Middle East. We have created a niche for ourselves in the market by offering high performance, technologically advanced, value-for-money digital cameras," concluded Kimoto.
-Ends-
Editor's Note:
Best known by its Panasonic brand name, Matsushita Electric Industrial Co., Ltd. is a worldwide leader in the development and manufacture of electronic products for a wide range of consumer, business, and industrial needs. Based in Osaka, Japan, the company recorded consolidated net sales of US$76.02 billion for the year ended March 31, 2006. The company's shares are listed on the Tokyo, Osaka, Nagoya and New York (NYSE:MC) stock exchanges. For more information on the company and the Panasonic brand, visit the company's website at http://panasonic.net. Panasonic Gulf FZE (PGF) is MEI's first subsidiary company in the Middle East, followed by Panasonic Marketing Middle East FZE (PMM), which is the regional marketing headquarters of MEI for operations in the Middle East and African countries.
For further information, please contact:
Ajit Nair
Corporate Communications Department
Panasonic Marketing Middle East FZE
P.O.Box 17985, Jebel Ali, Dubai, UAE
Tel: +971 4 8819880
Fax: +971 4 8814311
Web site: www.panasonic.co.ae
Orient Planet PR & Marketing Communications
P.O. Box 23345, Dubai,
UAE
Tel: +971 4 3988901; F
ax: +971 4 3988941
Email: info@orientplanet.com
© Press Release 2007
