Panasonic launches new Lumix range with unique high-definition image recording

The Lumix DMC-TZ7, and the DMC-FT1, comes complete with High Definition motion-image AVCHD Lite technology providing spectacular HD visual and audio quality, making these models truly hybrid.

These cameras take stunning pictures and videos, while achieving smooth, easy operation in both models. The beautifully designed operational command layout includes an independent movie recording button.

The AVCHD feature is available in both the Lumix DMC-TZ7 - the world's smallest digital camera with 12x optical zoom, and the DMC-FT1 - the first waterproof, shockproof, and dustproof digital camera from Panasonic, allowing users to choice of virtually all shooting situations.

"Targeting the concerns of Movie Visual Quality & Movie Recording Time, the new models will feature the next generation movie recording on DSC's, by using the AVCHD standard - a superior and higher quality compression format, which allows long duration recording; twice that of Motion JPEG. Combined with the Intelligent Auto technology, the new Lumix range pushes the boundaries of digital cameras, and ensures Panasonic remains the No. 1 preferred brand in the Middle East."

said Hitesh Ojha, Product Manager, Panasonic Marketing, Middle East.

The adoption of AVCHD Lite lets users enjoy watching not only still images but also HD movies by just inserting the SDHC/SD memory card from the camera in the VIERA Image Viewer (Built-in SDHC/SD Memory Card slot) on a VIERA HDTV to start playback. Alternatively, simply connect the camera via an optional mini-HDMI cable to a VIERA TV and use the TV's remote control to run slideshows including both still and motion images in the timeline. The TZ7 features a 3-inch, high-resolution 460,000-dot Intelligent LCD with a wide viewing angle, improving visibility during recording and playback.

The Lumix TZ7 is a powerhouse performer with enormous versatility. It also features the new LEICA DC Vario-Elmar lens with 10.1-megapixel resolution. Compared with previous models, it extends the power of the optical zoom from 10x to 12x and expands the wide-angle lens from 28mm to an ultra-wide 25mm while reducing both size and weight of the body, giving it the range for virtually all shooting situations.

The Lumix DMC-FT1 is one of the most versatile and toughest digital cameras on the market. Waterproof to a depth of 3.0m, shockproof from falls up to 1.5m, and dust-proof - you can take this camera to places never thought possible.

The FT1 also features a new 28mm wide-angle 4.6x optical zoom LEICA DC Vario-Elmar lens with 12.1-megapixel resolution. Starting at the 28mm wide angle, and zooming to a useful 128mm in telephoto, this camera gives you the flexibility for virtually all shooting scenes - especially underwater, where movement is often restricted and the angle of view becomes important for composing your shots.

Panasonic's Intelligent Auto Mode - a hallmark of Lumix cameras and standard in both models - now includes an amazing new feature - Face Recognition. This function that "remembers" faces from previous shots. When a familiar face appears in the frame, the camera will prioritize focus and exposure to capture it beautifully.

This clever function makes it easy to get sharp and clear photos of loved ones in a group of people. iA Mode is also available in Movie Mode. It automatically selects the most suitable Scene Mode and helps to correct handshake, focus and brightness problems — making iA Mode your one-stop solution to capture beautiful still and motion images.