Panasonic unveils DMC-LS5 compact camera
14.1 megapixel snapper with 5x optical zoom
Panasonic has introduced a new compact camera to its entry-level LUMIX line-up with the 14.1 megapixel DMC -LS5 boasting a 5x optical zoom.
The 14.1 megapixel DMC-LS5 is equipped with a 26mm actual focal length wide angle LUMIX DC VARIO lens complete with the zoom, which is equivalent to 26-130mm in 35mm terms.
Boasting a wide maximum aperture of f/2.8, the camera has been designed to capture clear images in dark situations.
To back that up, the lens also features Panasonic's Optical Image Stabliser (OIS) which helps compensate for the camera shake that can result in blurry pictures.
Assist mode
For users not wanting to worry about changing modes and settings, the iA (Intelligent Auto) assist mode can be used. Intelligent Scene Selector automatically detects from 5 scene modes the most appropriate, including macro, portrait and night mode. Human faces are captured using the face detection mode, while redeye can also be corrected in-camera.
HD video recording at 720p, 30fps is also available on the LS5.
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Other functions on the camera, according to Panasonic, are 'simplified', designed specifically for entry-level users. Operation of the camera is generally automated, with exposure compensation restricted to +/- 2EV.
Photo editing and sharing software, PHOTOfunSTUDIO is bundled with the camera, allowing users to quickly share images and videos on Facebook and YouTube.
A Panasonic LS5 UK release date and price is yet to be announced.
Amy has been writing about cameras, photography and associated tech since 2009. Amy was once part of the photography testing team for Future Publishing working across TechRadar, Digital Camera, PhotoPlus, N Photo and Photography Week. For her photography, she has won awards and has been exhibited. She often partakes in unusual projects - including one intense year where she used a different camera every single day. Amy is currently the Features Editor at Amateur Photographer magazine, and in her increasingly little spare time works across a number of high-profile publications including Wired, Stuff, Digital Camera World, Expert Reviews, and just a little off-tangent, PetsRadar.