The Panasonic Lumix DMC-LZ2 is part of a brand new series of cameras designed to bring the benefits of long zoom and image stabilization to the masses. The newly released LZ2 has a total of 5.36 megapixels on its 1/2.5-inch CCD that works with an updated Panasonic Venus Plus imaging processor. This compact zoom camera contains an efficient processor, which consumes about 50 percent less energy than its predecessor. Stocking a 5 megapixel imager, 2-inch LCD display, 6x optical zoom Lumix DC Variolens and 3 frame-per-second burst mode, the LZ2 offers a unique combination of features to budget-conscious point-and-shooters. The new LZ2 lacks manual functions and the Leica lens which dresses other Lumix models, but extends its appeal to the more automatically inclined consumer at a retail price of $299.95.