Panasonic launches a new model for its Lumix slim and stylish FX series

The lens in the DMC-FX580 and DMC-FX48 captures almost double the viewing space at the same shooting distance compared to ordinary 35mm cameras, resulting in remarkable images with unprecedented width and depth.

The FX580 also includes a touch-screen interface on a large 3.0-inch LCD, which brings greater enjoyment to digital photography and enables easy manual operation.

"The ultra-wide-angle lens opens up a new world of opportunities for Panasonic customers. The easy to use features available on the three-inch touch screen make the FX580 a quick, stylish, and fun camera for all situations,"

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

Panasonic's iA (Intelligent Auto) mode - a hallmark of Lumix cameras - has been further advanced in the DMC-FX580, and DMC-FX48. It now offers an advanced Face Recognition function that recognizes individual faces, making it a kind of personal verification system in a camera.

The user can give auto focus and auto exposure priority to a single person in a group of people, ensuring that a loved one's face will be captured beautifully. Also, the AF tracking lets the camera keep the subject in focus and well-exposed even if it moves around.

Once you set the camera to the Intelligent Auto mode, these functions happen automatically together with other powerful shooting-assist functions so that you can shoot without the bother of adjusting settings every time conditions change. You can enjoy easy, trouble-free shooting in any situation and get the satisfaction that comes from capturing clear, beautiful images.

The newly developed Venus Engine V integrates these advanced functions and controls camera operation with high speed, high performance, and low power consumption.

The enhanced hybrid control system in the DMC-FX580 combines cursor key control with touch-screen operation allowing the photographer to enjoy a more smooth and intuitive operation. Users can make basic settings directly with the cursor key while they can make extensive adjustments intuitively by touching or moving the slider on the screen.

Both models feature an ultra-wide 25mm Leica DC Vario-Elmarit high-quality lens with 5x optical zoom (equivalent to 25-125mm on a 35mm film camera), offering F2.8 brightness. Comprising 7 elements in 6 groups, including 4 aspherical lenses with 6 aspherical surfaces, this advanced lens unit passes Leica's stringent standards and delivers an exceptional optical performance.

The advanced DMC-FX580 combines a futuristic control system with a host of basic specifications and even manual control to please a wide range of users while a variety of advanced functions enrich the camera's potential and user experience.

Both cameras can shoot high-definition 1280 x 720p motion images at 30 fps with outstanding detail. Using the DMW-HDC2 HD Component Cable (available separately), these motion images can be output directly to a TV for large-screen viewing.