The DMC-FS7 features a 10.1-megapixel sensor and a fully automatic mode called iA - for Intelligent Auto mode - that adjusts every last setting without requiring any user input. Wrapped in a sturdy metal body, the DMC-FS7 will be available in a variety of colors starting in April, priced at $159.95.
The FS7 is an attractive camera that, despite its relatively small size, doesn't seem cramped or seem too busy. The brushed silver version we handled made for a subdued look that doesn't scream anything in particular, and though we can't judge well enough from the pictures of the other colors that will be available, it looks like the more brightly-colored versions still won't stand out too much to be annoying.
Size & Handling
The FS7 is 3.82 inches wide, 2.14 inches tall, and 0.85 inch thick and weighs all of 4.13 ounces. It feels solid in the hand and the controls don't feel cramped at all.
Menu
We found the menus on the pre-production unit we tinkered with fairly easy to navigate. Our single gripe is that backing out of sub-menus is not always clear - sometimes a cue at the bottom indicated that the Delete button would allow you to exit the menu, and other times it wasn't. However, we expect that users will quickly get used to this after owning the FS7 for a short time.
The shooting mode menu
Pleasantly enough, the full-auto setting, Intelligent Auto mode, has a shortcut button on the top of the camera to the right of the shutter button to get you there quickly without needing to navigate through the menu system to find it.
Ease of Use
Other than the inconsistency in exiting sub-menus previously mentioned, we found the FS7 to be easy to use. All buttons are labeled with common icons and they do exactly what you expect. We didn't have any particular need to find a manual to get more information about any of the settings or features.
