Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ50 Digital Camera Announced

Panasonic has announced the successor to their very popular FZ30 ultra-zoom camera.  The Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ50 features a 10.1 megapixel sensor and Panasonic's new Intelligent ISO Control system.  This 12x zoom, MEGA OIS stabilized camera will be available in September for an MSRP of $649.

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The FZ50 outfitted with the new Intelligent ISO Control from Panasonic.  This technology allows the camera to automatically adjust the ISO (sensitivity) of the camera in order to adjust the shutter speed, as needed, depending on subject movement.  For example, if the camera sees a quickly moving subject, it will increase the ISO (and therefore, the shutter speed) to better capture a quickly moving subject.  With a stationary subject, no ISO boost is needed.

A 2 inch LCD with 207k pixels can flip out 180 degrees to make it easier to take low and high angle shots.  A 0.44 inch, 235k pixel electronic viewfinder, provides an alternate way to frame your shots.

The FX50 is also compatible with TTL external flashes, allowing for additional lighting capabilities.  The CIPA standards for battery life give this FZ50 and estimated 360 images per charge.

Images can be recorded on SD, SDHC and MMC memory media.

Plenty of manual modes (shutter priority, aperture priority, full manual), in addition to the Auto and Scene modes gives this camera the flexibility needed by more advanced shooters and still keeping it within the realm of the beginner photographer looking for a stabilized ultra zoom camera.

Full Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ50 press release and specifications (Word doc)

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