It seems that every major camera manufacturer stretches their camera lines from the lowest end of the point and shoot to the highest end of the prosumer camera. Panasonic is one such manufacturer, and their most revered line of cameras is the Lumix.
One of their higher end Lumix cameras is the FZ8K 7.2-megapixel prosumer digital camera. This camera has an average price of $585, which is high for many, but considered low for a professional camera. When it comes to spending such a large amount on a digital camera, it only makes sense that one would want a camera that can satisfy in as many ways as possible – zoom, low-light shots, burst shots, long exposures, etc.
Does the Lumix FZ8K live up to it’s price and claims, or is it a camera that is better avoided? Read the review below to find out.
Body
The body of the Lumix FZ8K very much says ‘I want to be a professional’, and it does it in a fairly compact size. The camera isn’t too much bigger than a point and shoot, and average size for a super zoom. It comes in silver and black, and the black by far looks more professional.
The lens is large and nearly centered in the camera, with a pop-up flash installed above it. The mode dial is located next to the shutter button, and strap clips are available on both sides of the camera.
The back of the camera is intuitive and easy to use, with a nice digital viewfinder mounted above the LCD. There’s basic controls on the right side of the camera.
Features
The FZ8K features a 2.5″ LCD display, 12x optical zoom, 4x digital zoom, and 7.2-megapixels, which is moderate for modern cameras (though more than enough for most people).
Other, better features include tele macro, which allows you to get macros shots at zoomed distances. It also have the mega OIS image stabilization, which allows for very steady shots. The zoom has to different speeds, depending on your needs.
There is a blur indicator for questionable shots, exposure compensation for those times when there’s too much light or shadow, long battery life, intelligent ISO, full manual operation (allows you to control everything), exposure metering, manual focus (a big plus, and saves battery life), continuous auto focus (ideal for burst shots), and many, many more features.
Image Quality
Image quality is a mixed bag. Some feel it is disproportionately bad when compared to over cameras. Others say that it is excellent. I reviewed a few dozen photos, and they all suffered from artifacts, which were very noticeable and made the photo appear to have been taken with a far cheaper camera. Shots are very dependent on the user, and an individual who shoots manual will need to understand how to get a good shot. With that said, no matter how good the photographer, artifacts can’t be removed.
Cons
Aside from the questionable image quality, there are little complaints about the camera.
Conclusion
As with any camera that has mixed reviews, it is best to try the camera out for yourself. The images may be perfectly fine for your needs, or they may not. Sample shots always depend on the shooter, so it’s best to use yourself for the shots.
By: Blair Mathis