Panasonic gears up to launch latest models of LUMIX digital cameras during GITEX Dubai 2006

The new cameras that will be launched during GITEX include DMC-FZ50, DMC-LX2, DMC-FX50, DMC-FX07 and DMC-FX3, each with a host of unique and innovative features to meet varied requirements of professional and amateur photographers in the region.

Yasuo Kimoto, Product Manager, Panasonic Marketing Middle East said,

"Panasonic's digital cameras have witnessed a steady demand in the recent years given its excellent design, innovative features, technical superiority and competitive pricing. We are certain that the new model range will be hot-sellers in the market, following its launch during Gitex".

Panasonic's DMC-FZ50 is a 10.1 megapixel camera with a powerful 12x optical zoom and a LEICA DC lens. Like other cameras in the LUMIX range, the DMC-FZ50 is equipped with MEGA Optical Image Stabiliser and is also fitted with the Venus Engine III for the image processing LSI, making it possible to record an image at maximum ISO 1600 high sensitivity setting at full resolution.

DMC-FZ50 is equipped with a new Function Button which serves as a shortcut to quickly set frequently-used settings such as recording image size, light metering, AF area, white balance, and ISO sensitivity. The 2-inch LCD of the camera flips out to 180 degrees, making it easier to view even when shooting from high or low angles.

GITEX 2006 will also see the launch of Panasonic's LUMIX DMC-LX2 camera that comes with a 28mm wide angle LEICA DC lens, 4x optical zoom and MEGA Optical Image Stabilizer system in addition to an enhanced CCD capable of 10.2-megapixels and larger 2.8" 16:9 wide LCD. The DMC-LX2 is unique in that it incorporates triple-"wide" features of 28 mm wide angle LEICA DC lens, 16:9 wide CCD and 16:9 wide LCD. Further, the LX2 is further distinguished from other cameras by its full manual controllability with a joystick allowing users to easily enjoy creative shooting.

The DMC-FX50 and DMC-FX07 cameras both feature an Intelligent Image Stabilizer by MEGA OIS and the world's first Intelligent ISO control. The DMC-FX50 also newly incorporates a 3-inch large LCD whereas the DMC-FX07 pursues further compactness with a 2.5-inch LCD. Both the cameras offer a 7.2 megapixel resolution and come with a 28mm wide angle LEICA DC lens with 3.6x optical zoom.

Taking advantage of the 3-inch large LCD, the DMC-FX50 allows dual image playback to see and compare any two images at a time. It is also possible to select 9 sequential frames from a captured motion image file and display them as thumbnails which can then even be saved as still images. Furthermore, a print mode has been added to the mode dial to allow users to connect the camera to a Pictbridge-corresponding printer via an included USB cable to get the printouts.

The DMC-FX3 is a 6-megapixel camera featuring MEGA OIS (Optical Image Stabiliser) and a high sensitivity mode which allows shooting at a maximum sensitivity setting of ISO 1600. For the image processor, the Venus Engine Plus LSI is incorporated for high performance image processing, both in terms of speed and image quality, while still preserving low energy consumption. Another feature that elevates the DMC-FX3 is the incorporation of 13.5 MB of built-in memory, while the battery life is long enough to shoot up to 320 pictures on one charging.