Panasonic has launched many new Lumix cameras, leading off with two new models friendly to low-light shooting.
LX5
The LX5 updates one of Panasonic’s favorites with better image quality, starting with a new sensor: it still shoots at 10 megapixels but can reach a sensitivity of ISO 12,800, or enough to shoot in as little light as three lux. An upgraded lens shoots further, at an equivalent 24-90mm, and still has a wide f2.0 maximum aperture that lets in more light and produces a shallow depth of field.
Video recording now moves up to AVCHD in 720p and Intelligent Resolution (sharpened digital zoom) and improved speed also come along.
On the back, the three-inch LCD now uses an LED backlight with a high color rendering index that is both more visible in all conditions and more accurate. Hot-shoe support allows for an electronic viewfinder, external flash or other extras.
Panasonic plans to ship black and white versions of the LX5 in late August for $500.
FX700
The FX700 goes to extra lengths to improve performance in the dark. It uses a 14.1-megapixel MOS sensor and still has an f2.2 aperture lens with a 24-120mm equivalent range. Motion sensitivity can automatically adjust the ISO, exposure, and burst shooting to reduce blurring. A touchscreen interface also plays a role: tapping to focus on a subject adjusts the image quality and invokes autofocus tracking, with more advanced controls still an option.
It captures more advanced video than the LX5, supporting full AVCHD and 1080p.
The FX700 ships at roughly the same time as the LX5 but will cost $400.
