Panasonic Lumix DMC-LC50

- Simple layout and intuitive controls make it
ideal for snapshots or the beginning user
- Quality lens leads to crisp images and high
image quality
- Great port covers
- Inexpensive, but still aesthetically pleasing
- Interesting mode dial placement (back of
camera) Dislikes

- No audio recording feature in movie mode (meant for silent films?)
- Oddly placed and small sized viewfinder
- Display on feature overwhelms the already small
LCD screen
- Squared design makes it hard to carry in a
pocket
- Minimal manual control

Conclusion
The Panasonic Lumix DMC-LC50 is a reasonably inexpensive camera, listed at US $249.99. It shows elegant design and simple controls to accommodate digital snapshooters. Why there is no audio recording ability included with the video capture escapes me. The Leica DC VARIO-ELMARIT all-glass, 3x optical lens is by far the strongest element included on the camera and does ensure sharp images and advanced quality from a camera in this price range. The LCD screen is relatively small in comparison to rival models and does not have high resolution. This is a major hindrance for this camera because of the type of user it is targeting. Most point-and-shoot users rely on the LCD screen for composition of live images, so greater consideration should have been paid to this feature. All in all, the Lumix DMC-LC50 is as stripped down as it comes. Like a car with no AC or power options, this camera will appeal to a specific type of user and should be seen as such. Whether this was the intent of Panasonic or not, they had to be aware of the camera's strengths and weaknesses, and affordability and simplicity are by far the strengths. There is a strong lens included, so if this camera does appeal to you, do not fear poor image quality. View this model as a basic imager for those who desire a stylish automatic camera and generally perceive advanced control and features as a bother rather then a luxury.