Panasonic Lumix DMC-TZ1

Likes

- Quiet 10x optical zoom lens - Effective image stabilization system - Zoom active in movie mode - Function guide in scene mode menu

Dislikes

- Gimmicky High Angle LCD mode - Inadequate flash range - ALL CAPS IN THE MENUS - High sensitivity mode only available at reduced resolution

Conclusion
The Panasonic Lumix TZ1 is an inch and a half thick and has a Leica-approved 10x optical zoom lens that folds into the camera body when powered down. The folded optics is just one solution that manufacturers have tried in order to tack more zoom onto smaller digital cameras. The Nikon S4 is thin and gets 10x optical zoom by a strange flipping lens mechanism. The Kodak V570 uses dual lenses to achieve 5x optical zoom in a body almost half the thickness of the TZ1. Panasonic’s zoom lens works quickly and quietly and even works in both still and movie recording modes. This versatility will be a plus for point-and-shooters who are just looking for some decent zoom on an easy to use interface. The 5 megapixel TZ1 has a 2.5-inch LCD screen with a hyped High Angle mode. Panasonic claims that this is the first digital camera with a High Angle LCD mode. This may be true, but most manufacturers include wide viewing angles on LCD screens all the time instead of designating it as a function only available when activated. The other gimmick on the TZ1 is its highly marketed high sensitivity mode that uses optical image stabilization with high ISOs to reduce blur in images captured in low light. Sounds great – except for the fact that the resolution is greatly reduced in this mode and image noise is abundant. Overall, the Panasonic Lumix DMC-TZ1 has great features for point-and-shooters who want the combo of a fairly flat and compact camera body with a fully functional 10x optically stabilized zoom lens.