Panasonic Lumix DMC-FX01 First Impressions Review

Likes

- Simple external and internal control structure will appeal to the beginning/casual user - Exposure bracketing and white balance fine tune - 28mm wide angle component to zoom lens - MEGA Optical Image Stabilization system - 16:9 format option for video clips (848 x 480) at 30 fps

Dislikes

- Limited manual controls won’t enable full photographic growth - Poor flash/microphone placement

Conclusion
The Panasonic Lumix DMC-FX01 provides beginning and casual photographers the opportunity to shoot still images and video clips in not only the standard 4:3 aspect but also the 16:9 format without confronting a complicated menu system or overwhelming external layout. The design of the camera emphasizes simplicity with minimal external controls and a logical navigation and labeling of menu options.

The only real problem with a limited palette of controls is that if user confidence increases, a new digital camera must be purchased to expand the range of options available. Other manufacturers like Canon provide users with point-and-shoot cameras that also have extensive manual control settings. Aside from this, the DMC-FX01 offers optical image stabilization and wide angle shooting potential with a 28-102mm zoom lens for $349.95. It will be interesting to see how this digital camera stands up to our battery of tests that will be conducted for our full review. Come back in the near future to see how this 6 MP digital camera with 16:9 format handles our low light, resolution, dynamic range, speed and color accuracy tests.