The Panasonic Lumix DMC-L1 is a Four-Thirds format, 7.5-megapixel DSLR with live preview. It comes with an optically stabilized Leica D Vario-Elmarit 14-50mm, f/ 2.8-3.5 lens; the camera body and lens package is priced online at about $1,750, although the retail is $1,999. Panasonic and Leica have a close relationship – many lenses on compact Panasonic cameras are branded Leica, even though Panasonic builds them. The L1's seemingly-familiar styling furthers that parallel and assumes a form that will be immediately recognizable to Leica fans. Add a kit lens that is at least a full f-stop faster than competitors' standard lenses and Panasonic enters the DSLR market with a distinct and competitive package.
