Dubai, 18 December, 2009: Panasonic's LUMIX digital still camera range has received two gold awards from the prestigious Digital Imaging Websites Association (DIWA), placing the cameras at the top end of consumer photography.

The esteemed DIWA awards are issued on the basis of scientific test results from the DIWA Labs and evaluations covering more than 200 different criteria, as carried out by DIWA members from nine European countries.  

"Our design and development team at Panasonic has put in a lot of hard work over the years to create innovative and stylish cameras, which are capable of taking fabulous images with easy operation. We are very proud of the fact that DIWA has recognised our efforts and achievements in developing the G1 and LX3," says Hitesh Ojha, Product Manager at Panasonic Marketing Middle East.

The revolutionary and ultra-compact 12.1 Megapixel Panasonic LUMIX G1 is the first camera to feature the Micro Four Thirds System standard, and the first mirrorless system camera of its kind. The camera is equipped with a large, high resolution electronic viewfinder and a 3-inch vari-angle LCD monitor to provide permanent Live View. While the G1 challenges today's most compact digital SLR cameras in terms of size and weight, DIWA experts also appreciated the camera's outstanding image quality, smart design and innovative possibilities. 

"The announcement of the Panasonic LUMIX DMC-G1 created quite a stir of deserved attention and curiosity. It's a pleasure to confirm that the G1 surpasses even the most optimistic expectations. Our unbiased, computer generated lab measurements reveal that the G1 delivers premium overall image quality, and the LUMIX G VARIO 14-45mm / F3.5-5.6 ASPH. / MEGA O.I.S. Standard zoom lens outperforms any of its rivals," says Kai Thon, test manager of DIWA Labs.

The LUMIX DMC-LX3 camera is a super-compact digital still camera, which was designed with the philosophy of "returning to the essence of photography". The stylish retro-looking 10 Megapixel LX3 comes with both Panasonic's widely acclaimed "intelligent Auto" mode and fill manual operation. It is targeted at budding photographers who want to get serious with photography without the operational challenges of conventional SLR cameras. For action and sports, the LX3 can shoot 2.5 frames per second continuously, also with an option of capturing High Definition movies. 

According to Thon, "the LX3 is by far the most powerful compact camera available, even when compared to much larger cameras. Despite its record-breaking 24mm wide angle zoom and f/2.0-2.8 lens speed, lens performance is outstanding." He concludes that "although the LX3 is primarily targeted at experienced users, no photographer should be surprised to find themselves beaten by the camera's amazing "iA" shooting mode. It's breathtaking, and you won't believe it till you've seen it".  

The Digital Imaging Websites Association (DIWA) is a fast growing group of independent Web-based specialist publications dedicated to digital imaging. DIWA harnesses the collective talent and expertise of its members, resulting in industry awards that command unparalleled confidence and value, both for consumers and the industry alike. DIWA awards come in the form of bronze, silver and gold medals for various product categories.

-Ends- 

The Panasonic Corporation Inc 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 9.07 trillion yen (US$90.52 billion) for the year ended March 31, 2008. The company's shares are listed on the Tokyo, Osaka, Nagoya and New York (NYSE:PC) 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  8862142
Fax: +971 4 8862347
Web site: www.panasonic.ae

Amy Wang
Account Manager
Cicero & Bernay Public Relations
Phone: +971 4 334 2966
Fax: +971 4 334 2977
Email: amy@cbpr.ae   

© Press Release 2008