Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ3

-Incredible 35-420mm (equivalent)12x optical zoom lens
-image stabilization eliminates camera shake
-attractive SLR-shaped camera body
-Extensive white balance options
-easy to use
-versatile shooting modes

-Poor handling of noise
-Incredibly slow start-up
-plastic body feels cheap
-bulky and awkward
-movie mode lacks audio
-no manual focus
-small viewfinder
-terrible noise scores

Conclusion
The body of the Panasonic Lumix FZ3 has a simple design that belies its advanced features. There is an exposure mode for everyone: a "simple" mode for point-and-shooters and a manual mode for more advanced users. The large 12x optical zoom lens with image stabilization is likely to attract both point-and-shooters who want to invest in their camera and the journeyman audience looking for a large lens without paying the price for a digital SLR. The 3.1-megapixel FZ3 is shaped like an SLR, but is not as bulky. That said, it is not as compact as most digital cameras; it cannot fit into a pocket. The FZ3 retails for $399, which is a good deal for the extensive manual functions. This model has more expensive siblings in the Lumix line, each with more megapixels and better cosmetic features (such as larger LCD screens) but the essential manual and automatic functions remain the same.