Panasonic Lumix DMC-TZ30 review

A luxury 14MP travel compact with a 20x Leica lens and GPS

Panasonic Lumix DMC-TZ30
The 14MP snapper features 3D, GPS and a touchscreen. The future is here

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Panasonic Lumix DMC-TZ30 review

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The Panasonic Lumix TZ30 is a fun camera to use. The GPS map feature is entertaining and works reasonably quickly. Pressing the DISP button while on the map screen enables you to view a stream of thumbnails that have been tagged with a certain location's data.

Panasonic Lumix DMC-TZ30 review

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The Panasonic Lumix TZ30's Creative Control exposure mode features 10 preset effects, including High Key, Retro and Miniature, as shown here. Creative Retouch can be used to apply six similar treatments to previously captured images.

Panasonic Lumix DMC-TZ30 review

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The success of any superzoom rests in the strength of the lens. The versatility of the 24-480mm equivalent on offer here is impressive. In macro mode, it can even get you within 3cm of a subject at the wide setting.

Panasonic Lumix DMC-TZ30 review

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The Quick Menu button enables you to change key camera settings quickly on the LCD using the four-way pad, without having to dive into the main menu. This can help you react faster to picture opportunities.

Panasonic Lumix DMC-TZ30 review

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The autofocus worked exceptionally well outdoors in good light during our test. When the camera was held at arm's length above the crowds at this spot, the AF system reacted quickly and enabled us to capture action that we couldn't see. There are four main AF modes on offer: Spot, 1-Area, 23-Area and Face Detection.

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The Panasonic Lumix TZ30 features a dedicated 3D mode. This is more suited to static subjects such as this scene, where the camera takes a series of frames once you press the shutter release, and combines the images that will produce the most pronounced effect.

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The Panasonic Lumix TZ30 at 4.3mm (24mm equivalent)

Panasonic Lumix DMC-TZ30 review

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The Panasonic Lumix TZ30 at 86mm (480mm equivalent)