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Panasonic's Lumix DMC-FS15 digital camera. Photo provided by Panasonic Consumer Electronics Co. Panasonic: Two new FS-series Lumix digicams
By Michael R. Tomkins, The Imaging Resource
(Friday, January 16, 2009 - 03:00 EST)

Two closely-related digital cameras have been added to Panasonic's Lumix FS-series lineup today - the Panasonic Lumix DMC-FS7 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-FS15.

Of the two, the Panasonic FS7 is the more affordable model with 10.1 megapixel resolution and an image stabilized 4x optical zoom lens that offers a 33mm-equivalent wide angle. Images are framed and reviewed on the Panasonic DMC-FS7's 2.7" LCD display. The Panasonic Lumix FS7 features 9-point autofocusing with face detection, ISO sensitivity from 100 to 6400 equivalents, a generous 25 scene modes, and a four mode flash. The Panasonic FS7 stores images and movies on Secure Digital or MultiMediaCards, or in its 50MB of built-in memory. Connectivity options include USB and standard definition NTSC / PAL video output, while the Panasonic FS7 draws power from a proprietary Lithium Ion rechargeable rated as good for 360 shots on a charge.

For an extra $40, the Panasonic FS15 provides 12.1 megapixel resolution and an image stabilized 5x optical zoom lens with a useful 29mm-equivalent wide angle. The Panasonic DMC-FS15 likewise features a 2.7" LCD display, but the FS15 has a slightly uprated AF system with 11-point autofocusing and face detection. The Panasonic Lumix FS15's ISO sensitivity is identical to that of the FS7 at 100 to 6400 equivalents, as is its four mode flash, while it adds just one more scene mode for a total of 26. The Panasonic FS15 stores images and movies on Secure Digital or MultiMediaCards, or in 50MB of built-in memory. Connectivity options include USB 2.0 High Speed - significantly faster than the "Full Speed" connection listed on the FS7's spec sheet - and the FS15 also offers standard definition NTSC / PAL video output. As with the FS7, the Panasonic FS15 draws power from a proprietary Lithium Ion rechargeable rated - but its battery life is just a little lower, rated as 330 shots on a charge.

The Panasonic Lumix DMC-FS7 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-FS15 will ship from March 2009, with expected pricing of $160 for the 10.1 megapixel FS7, and $200 for the 12.1 megapixel FS15.

Panasonic Lumix DMC-FS7
Panasonic's Lumix DMC-FS7 digital camera. Photo provided by Panasonic Consumer Electronics Co. Click for a bigger picture!
General
Camera TypeCompact
ManufacturerPanasonic
Model NumberDMC-FS7
Dimensions3.8 x 2.1 x 0.9"
97.0 x 54.4 x 21.7mm
Weight139.0 g
4.9 oz
Planned Price$159.95
Planned Availability 2009
Image Capture
Sensor Type1/2.5" CCD
10.35 megapixels (total)
10.10 megapixels (effective)
Filter TypeRGBG
Aspect Ratio4:3, 16:9
Image Dimensions3648 x 2736 (10.0 megapixels)
3648 x 2432 (8.9 megapixels)
3648 x 2056 (7.5 megapixels)
3072 x 2304 (7.1 megapixels)
3072 x 2048 (6.3 megapixels)
3072 x 1728 (5.3 megapixels)
2560 x 1920 (4.9 megapixels)
2560 x 1712 (4.4 megapixels)
2560 x 1440 (3.7 megapixels)
2048 x 1536 (3.1 megapixels)
2048 x 1360 (2.8 megapixels)
1920 x 1080 (2.1 megapixels)
1600 x 1200 (1.9 megapixels)
640 x 480 (0.3 megapixels)
Capture SpeedStandard: 0.5 frames per second
Continuous: 2.5 frames per second for 3 frames
Image Quality2 levels
Image Preview / Review
ViewfinderNo
LCD2.7", 230,000 pixels
100% field of view
Playback Zoom16.0x max
Lens
Lens TypeLeica DC Vario-Elmar
4x optical zoom
Image StabilizationYes
Focal Length5.5 - 22.0mm (actual)
33 - 132mm (35mm equivalent)
Aperture Rangef/2.8 (wide) / f/5.9 (tele) - f/8 (wide) / f/16 (tele)
Focusing System9-point or 1-point with face detection with AF assist lamp
Focusing RangeNormal: 20" - infinity (50 cm - infinity)
Macro: 2.0" - infinity (5.0 cm - infinit y)
Exposure
ISO SensitivityAuto, 80, 100, 200, 400, 800, 1600, High Sensitivity (1600 - 6400)
Shutter Speed60 - 1/2000 second
Exposure ModesProgram
Metering ModesIntelligent Multiple
Exposure Compensation+/- 2.0EV in 1/3EV increments
White BalanceImage Sensor - Auto, Daylight, Cloudy, Shade, Halogen, White Set, Manual
Internal FlashModes: Auto, Auto with Red-eye Reduction, Forced On, Forced Off
Range: Wide: 0.3 - 6.3m; Tele: 0.5 - 3.0m at ISO Auto
Creative
Scene ModesIntelligent Scene, Portrait, Soft Skin, Transform, Self-Portrait, Scenery, Sports, Night Portrait, Night Scenery, Food, Party, Candle Light, Baby1, Baby2, Pet, Sunset, High sensitivity, Hi-Speed Burst, Flash Burst, Starry Sky, Fireworks, Beach, Snow, Aerial photo, Film Grain, Photo Frame
Digital Zoom4x
Self TimerYes, 2 or 10 seconds
Time LapseNo
Movie FormatQuickTime MotionJPEG with audio
Storage
Recording MediumSD/MMC, Built-in
File SystemComplies with Design Rule for Camera File System (DCF)
File FormatJPEG (EXIF 2.21)
Connectivity
VideoYes, NTSC / PAL switchable
ComputerUSB 2.0 Full (LOW) Speed
OtherDC Input
Power
Battery TypeLithium Ion rechargeable
Battery Form FactorProprietary
Product Bundle
SoftwarePHOTOfunSTUDIO v3.0, ArcSoft MediaImpressio n, ArcSoft Panorama Maker
Battery / Charger1 x Lithium Ion rechargeable battery and charger
Flash Memory50.0MB built-in memory
Other
Digital Print Order Format (DPOF) compliantYes
PictBridge CompliantYes
Internal MicrophoneYes
Internal SpeakerYes
Tripod MountYes
Remote ControlNo
More Photos
Panasonic's Lumix DMC-FS7 digital camera. Photo provided by Panasonic Consumer Electronics Co. Click for a bigger picture!
Panasonic's Lumix DMC-FS7 digital camera. Photo provided by Panasonic Consumer Electronics Co. Click for a bigger picture!
Panasonic's Lumix DMC-FS7 digital camera. Photo provided by Panasonic Consumer Electronics Co. Click for a bigger picture!
Panasonic's Lumix DMC-FS7 digital camera. Photo provided by Panasonic Consumer Electronics Co. Click for a bigger picture!
Panasonic's Lumix DMC-FS7 digital camera. Photo provided by Panasonic Consumer Electronics Co. Click for a bigger picture!
Panasonic's Lumix DMC-FS7 digital camera. Photo provided by Panasonic Consumer Electronics Co. Click for a bigger picture!
Panasonic's Lumix DMC-FS7 digital camera. Photo provided by Panasonic Consumer Electronics Co. Click for a bigger picture!
 

Panasonic Lumix DMC-FS15
Panasonic's Lumix DMC-FS15 digital camera. Photo provided by Panasonic Consumer Electronics Co. Click for a bigger picture!
General
Camera TypeCompact
ManufacturerPanasonic
Model NumberDMC-FS15
Dimensions3.8 x 2.1 x 0.9"
97.0 x 54.4 x 21.7mm
Weight138.0 g
4.8 oz
Planned Price$199.95
Planned Availability 2009
Image Capture
Sensor Type1/2.33" CCD
12.70 megapixels (total)
12.10 megapixels (effective)
Filter TypeRGBG
Aspect Ratio4:3, 16:9
Image Dimensions4000 x 3000 (12.0 megapixels)
4000 x 2672 (10.7 megapixels)
4000 x 2248 (9.0 megapixels)
3264 x 2448 (8.0 megapixels)
3264 x 2176 (7.1 megapixels)
3264 x 1840 (6.0 megapixels)
2560 x 1920 (4.9 megapixels)
2560 x 1712 (4.4 megapixels)
2560 x 1440 (3.7 megapixels)
2048 x 1536 (3.1 megapixels)
2048 x 1360 (2.8 megapixels)
1920 x 1080 (2.1 megapixels)
1600 x 1200 (1.9 megapixels)
640 x 480 (0.3 megapixels)
Capture SpeedStandard: 0.6 frames per second
Continuous: 1.8 frames per second for 3 frames
Image Quality2 levels
Image Preview / Review
ViewfinderNo
LCD2.7", 230,000 pixels
100% field of view
Playback Zoom16.0x max
Lens
Lens TypeLeica DC Vario-Elmar
5x optical zoom
Image StabilizationYes
Focal Length5.2 - 26.0mm (actual)
29 - 145mm (35mm equivalent)
Aperture Rangef/3.3 (wide) / f/5.9 (tele) - f/8
Focusing System11-point or 1-point with tracking and face detection with AF assist lamp
Focusing RangeNormal: 20" - infinity (50 cm - infinity)
Macro: 2.0" - infinity (5.0 cm - infinity)
Exposure
ISO SensitivityAuto, 80, 100, 200, 400, 800, 1600, High Sensitivity (1600 - 6400)
Shutter Speed60 - 1/2000 second
Exposure ModesProgram
Metering ModesIntelligent Multiple
Exposure Compensation+/- 2.0EV in 1/3EV increments
White BalanceImage Sensor - Auto, Daylight, Cloudy, Shade, Halogen, White Set, Manual
Internal FlashModes: Auto, Auto with Red-eye Reduction, Forced On, Forced Off
Range: Wide: 0.3 - 5.3m; Tele: 1.0 - 3.0m at ISO Auto
Creative
Scene ModesIntelligent Scene, Portrait, Soft Skin, Transform, Self-Portrait, Scenery, Sports, Night Portrait, Night Scenery, Food, Party, Candle Light, Baby1, Baby2, Pet, Sunset, High sensitivity, Hi-Speed Burst, Flash Burst, Starry Sky, Fireworks, Beach, Snow, Aerial photo, Pinhole, Film Grain, Photo Frame
Digital Zoom4x
Self TimerYes, 2 or 10 seconds
Time LapseNo
Movie FormatQuickTime MotionJPEG with audio
Storage
Recording MediumSD/MMC, Built-in
File SystemComplies with Design Rule for Camera File System (DCF)
File FormatJPEG (EXIF 2.21)
Connectivity
VideoYes, NTSC / PAL switchable
ComputerUSB 2.0 High Speed
OtherDC Input
Power
Battery TypeLithium Ion rechargeable
Battery Form FactorProprietary
Product Bundle
SoftwarePHOTOfunSTUDIO v3.0, ArcSoft MediaImpression, Arc Soft Panorama Maker
Battery / Charger1 x Lithium Ion rechargeable battery and charger
Flash Memory50.0MB built-in memory
Other
Digital Print Order Format (DPOF) compliantYes
PictBridge CompliantYes
Internal MicrophoneYes
Internal SpeakerYes
Tripod MountYes
Remote ControlNo
More Photos
Panasonic's Lumix DMC-FS15 digital camera. Photo provided by Panasonic Consumer Electronics Co. Click for a bigger picture!
Panasonic's Lumix DMC-FS15 digital camera. Photo provided by Panasonic Consumer Electronics Co. Click for a bigger picture!
Panasonic's Lumix DMC-FS15 digital camera. Photo provided by Panasonic Consumer Electronics Co. Click for a bigger picture!
Panasonic's Lumix DMC-FS15 digital camera. Photo provided by Panasonic Consumer Electronics Co. Click for a bigger picture!
 

Original Source Press Release:

PANASONIC INTRODUCES TWO NEW FS-SERIES CAMERAS TO POPULAR LUMIX DIGITAL STILL CAMERA LINE

LUMIX DMC-FS7 and DMC-FS15 Feature Enhanced Intelligent Auto Technologies to Combine Simple Operation with Slim, Stylish Design

SECAUCUS, NJ (January 16, 2009) – Panasonic today announced two new additions to its LUMIX FS-Series of digital cameras, the DMC-FS7 and the DMC-FS15. The FS models, a stylish sister line of the highly-acclaimed LUMIX FX-Series, combine easy operation with a slim and sleek look, enabling both beginner and advanced users to take beautiful digital photos with a model they can slip in their pockets.

The 12.1 megapixel DMC-FS15 features a 29mm wide-angle Leica DC VARIO-ELMAR lens with a 5x optical zoom.  Panasonic has enhanced the Intelligent Auto Mode (iA) on the DMC-FS15 from the previous FS models to now include AF tracking and Intelligent Exposure functions in addition to Mega O.I.S., Intelligent ISO Control, Intelligent Scene Selector and Face Detection.  AF Tracking enables the user to “lock” the focus onto a moving subject. The camera then automatically tracks the subject as it moves, keeping it in focus without the need to hold the shutter button halfway down.  Additionally, Intelligent Exposure helps capture natural-looking images by suppressing blocked shadows and blown highlights. It continually monitors the light source in the shooting environment and automatically activates the backlight compensation function if it detects the light source is behind the subject.

The 10.1 megapixel DMC-FS7 features a bright F2.8 Leica DC VARIO-ELMARIT lens with 4x optical zoom and iA mode, comprised of four functions including Mega O.I.S., Intelligent ISO Control, Intelligent Scene Selector and Face Detection. Like the DMC-FS15, the DMC-FS7 also include a newly-added independent iA button on top of the camera that lets the user enter directly into the mode without going into the menu.

“These new additions to the LUMIX FS-Series incorporate a number of enhanced quality and convenience features that provide consumers with simple-to-use, intuitive cameras at an affordable price,” said David Briganti, National Marketing Manager, Imaging, Panasonic Consumer Electronics Company.  “By combining Leica lenses, Intelligent Auto Mode and powerful image processing with a sleek and compact design, the FS Series cameras are ideal for consumers looking to take easy, high-quality photos on the go.”

Other features of both FS models include a Venus Engine IV processor, which enables an advanced processing system and quick response times.  An intelligent LCD screen detects light conditions and automatically adjusts the brightness levels for viewing in sunlight and helps to preserve battery life.  The new Photo Frame mode lets the user put attractive borders around photos, so when printed, they look like postcards in picture frames.  Also, the new My Scene setting lets the user assign their most frequently used Scene modes to the setting, and with a simple switch, access that scene instantly.  The FS-Series is also capable of recording WVGA (848 x 480) motion pictures at 30 frames per second in 16:9 wide-screen format, as well as standard VGA (640 x 480) format.

The DMC-FS15 will be available in silver, black and blue at a suggested retail price (SRP) of $199.95.  The DMC-FS7 will be available in silver, black, blue, pink and green at an SRP of $159.95. Both models will be available in late March 2009.  For more information, please visit www.panasonic.com/lumix.

About Panasonic Consumer Electronics Company
Based in Secaucus, N.J., Panasonic Consumer Electronics Company is a Division of Panasonic Corporation of North America, the principal North American subsidiary of Panasonic Corporation. (NYSE: PC) and the hub of Panasonic's U.S. marketing, sales, service and R&D operations. In its commitment to provide consumers with extensive imaging resources, Panasonic LUMIX established the Digital Photo Academy, a series of nationwide workshops designed to instruct consumers how to optimize the features on their digital cameras and produce high-quality photos. Panasonic is honored to support OUR PLACE – The World’s Heritage, a project that will create the world’s largest photographic collection of UNESCO World Heritage sites, with acclaimed photographers exclusively using LUMIX digital cameras to capture all images.

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