Panasonic Lumix DMC-FX33 and Lumix DMC-FX55 Announced

In addition to the new ultra-zoom Lumix DMC-FZ18, Panasonic is also rolling out two new models for their FX line. The Panasonic Lumix DMC-FX33 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-FX55 will be available in September at MSRPs of $300 and $350 respectively. Both cameras take 8.1 megapixel images, have a 28mm equivalent lens with a 3.6x optical zoom, and the same shooting modes. They really just differ in LCD size and color availability.

Panasonic Lumix DMC-FX33 (view large image)

Panasonic Lumix DMC-FX55 (view large image)

The Lumix DMC-FX33 gets a 2.5 inch LCD and will be available in silver, black, blue and brown. The Lumix DMC-FX55 gets a 3 inch LCD and will be available in silver, black, and pink. There will also be an optional underwater housing available for the FX33.

FX33 (view large image)

FX55 (view large image)

I got to spend a little time, in person, with both the FX33 and FX55 cameras at a recent press event. They're noticeably slimmer than the previous FX models and the selection of colors is actually pretty attractive. The cameras feel solid, and as is typical of Panasonic cmaeras, they operate quickly and they're well equipped. The FX55 also uses a joystick instead of a typical 5-way control pad, which is kind of a neat feature.

FX33 (view large image)

FX55 (view large image)

The new Intelligent Auto mode is another step in the same direction that Intelligent ISO Control was in the last round of Panasonic cameras. This direction is to make it easier for your typical camera user to get the shots that they want. Intelligent Auto mode is made up by adding three new features to the optical image stabilization and Intelligent ISO control technologies. A continuous AF helps minimize focus time, the face detection lets you focus on and expose up to 15 faces correctly, and the Intelligent Scene Selector will choose between settings for Portrait, Scenery, Macro, Night Scenery, and Night Portrait.

Panasonic Lumix DMC-FX33 Specs

• 8.1 megapixels
• 3.6x optical zoom lens with optical image stabilization
• 2.5 inch, 207K pixel LCD
• Six auto focus methods: face detection, mutliple area, 3 point high speed, 1 point high speed, 1 point normal speed, spot
• 27MB internal memory, accepts SD and SDHC media
• Available in silver, black, blue, brown
• Battery life: approximately 280 shots per charge of the lithium-ion battery
• Dimensions: 3.74 x 2.04x 0.87 inch
• Weight: 5.5 ounces with battery and memory card

Panasonic Lumix DMC-FX55 Specs

• 8.1 megapixels
• 3.6x optical zoom lens with optical image stabilization
• 3 inch, 230K pixel LCD
• Six auto focus methods: face detection, mutliple area, 3 point high speed, 1 point high speed, 1 point normal speed, spot
• 27MB internal memory, accepts SD and SDHC media
• Available in silver, black, blue, brown
• Battery life: approximately 280 shots per charge of the lithium-ion battery
• Dimensions: 3.74 x 2.25 x 0.90 inch
• Weight: 5.8 ounces with battery and memory card