Panasonic Lumix DMC-LX2

Connectivity
Software (7.0)
The Panasonic Lumix DMC-LX2 comes with two pieces of software for post-capture editing as well as the SilkyPix 2 RAW utility conversion application. The PhotoImpression 5 editing suite found with the LX1 reappears with the LX2. Also found with the LX2 is the third piece of software: the entertaining and rather functional PanoramaMaker application. Missing from this year's software is the rudimentary Lumix Simple Viewer and ArcSoft PhotoBase 4 editing suite. The purpose of the Simple Viewer was merely to view and organize, and won't be missed much.

PanoramaMaker employs a simple ArcSoft-designed interface that allows users to easily select between horizontal, vertical, 360 degrees or tile composition formats of multiple images. This software allows the user to first select composition format followed by which images are to be included within a specific collage. Once these processes are complete the software automatically compiles these images into a panoramic view. The ArcSoft panorama software is certainly one of the easiest interfaces for this type of work and the results were surprisingly consistent. This is certainly a great idea for users looking to easily push the boundaries of their photo-taking and display methodologies.

The PhotoImpression 5 software allows for importation of images from PC, scanner, camera, video, removable media or ArcSoft Album. This is a basic editing program that primarily works with a series of preset effects that can include 3D Grid, Crayon, Stained Glass, Pastel, frames for images, additional clip-art, paint and text. The effects are a bit cheesy and, while sort of amusing for a moment or two, they do remain firmly planted in the "effects" rather than editing realm of post-production image work. More serious image control can be achieved either in the SilkyPix 2 software or with a third party editing suite like PhotoShop.

Jacks, ports, plugs (6.0)
The Lumix LX2 has minimal port, plug and jack options available. The two jacks are located under a sturdily designed port cover found on the right side of the camera body. This cover flips open via a tab on its back edge and reveals both the Digital AV out and DC IN jacks. The Digital AV can either connect to included RCA cables or USB depending on if viewing on a television or transferring to computer or printer. On the bottom of the camera body, on the right side, is another cover that slides out from the center to reveal the lithium-ion battery slot and SD/MMC memory cards.

Direct Print Options (6.0)
Direct printing is available when the camera is entered into playback mode. The user is able to select between printing single or multiple images by entering the playback menu and selecting the DPOF Print sub-menu. Even faster direct printing is possible by turning the mode dial to the Direct Print icon and connecting the camera to a PictBridge compliant printer. This is certainly a simple process and should enable even the most techno-phobic user to be able to print competently from home or office. The multiple image option will display a thumbnail view that allows the user to select not only which images are printed but also how many prints of each image are wanted.

Battery (6.0)
The Panasonic Lumix DMC-LX2 comes with a rechargeable lithium-ion battery that is inserted into a slot beneath a cover on the bottom of the camera body. This battery has an advertised 300-shot capacity per charge, but if the camera is left on between shots the user should expect the 2.8-inch LCD to drain life even faster. The camera comes with a wall mount charger for the rechargeable battery.

Memory (4.0) 
Underneath the same cover used to protect the battery, the user will find a small memory card slot for SD/MMC memory cards. The camera does come with internal memory but at a mere 13 MB of included storage space it was only possible to capture a couple of images at full resolution before its capacity was reached. Users who want to record movies frequently will want to purchase a memory card; without it, only the smallest 320 x 240-pixel video size is available.

Other Features (4.0)
Auto Bracket – The auto bracket feature is accessed by pressing the up arrow when shooting in program AE, aperture, shutter, manual AE or scene modes. The auto bracket display will allow users to bracket images at +/- 1/3 EV, +/- 2/3 EV or +/- 1 EV.

Backlight Compensation – The Backlight Compensation setting can be initiated when shooting in auto mode in order to compensate for the uneven exposure that often occurs when photographic subjects are lit strongly from the back. This shooting situation will cast the subject into dark shadow while exposing for the strong source light. Backlight compensation can be turned on by pressing the up arrow on the four-way control and holding down momentarily.