Panasonic today unveiled the new LUMIX DMC-FZ70 (FZ70) equipped with an outstanding zoom range with a 20mm ultra wide-angle lens and the industry’s highest 60x optical zoom. The FZ72 boasts the industry’s highest 60x optical zoom (35mm camera equivalent: 20-1200mm) making it possible to capture your subject from a distance (Comprising 14 elements in 12 groups, including 6 aspherical lenses with 9 aspherical surfaces and 3 ED (Extra-Low Dispersion) lenses). Exceptionally versatile, the FZ72 also features a stunning LUMIX DC VARIO 20mm ultra wide-angle lens, which captures approx. 140% wider angle of view compared with a 24mm lens.
The zoom ratio can be further extended up to 120x equivalent, maintaining the picture quality even when combining a digital zoom thanks to the Intelligent Zoom and the Intelligent Resolution technology. If this wasn’t enough, the optical zoom ratio can further be extended with a 1.7x Tele Conversion Lens DMW-LT55 (sold separately). The 1.7x zoom of the DMW-LT55 telephoto lens transforms the 60x optical zoom of the FZ72 to an incredible 102x optical zoom, which is so powerful it can even capture the cratered surface of the moon clearly.
The FZ72 also boasts the highly realistic Dolby Digital Stereo Creator for superior video sound. The newly developed Wind Shield Zoom Microphone minimizes wind noise by approx.70% compared with the predecessor DMC-FZ62, resulting in clear sound, even if it was recorded on a windy day. With a substantial increase in volume by approx.50%, the microphone boasts better S/N ratio to suppress noise in quiet circumstances to catch the target sound.
You can record high-resolution full-HD 1,920 x 1,080 60i (NTSC, sensor output 30p) / 50i (PAL, sensor output 25p) videos in AVCHD (MPEG-4 / H.264) format. The AVCHD format excels in the compatibility with AV equipment like HDTVs or Blu-ray Disc players and the video can be played back by simply inserting an SDXC/SDHC/SD Memory Card or by connecting with a mini HDMI cable. The industry leading 60x optical zoom with POWER O.I.S. is also available in video recording, allowing recording of events in the distance.
The new 16.1-megapixel High Sensitivity MOS sensor and high performance image processing LSI Venus Engine elevate the response, sensitivity and image quality of the DMC-FZ72. The FZ72 provides Light Speed AF, allowing users to quickly focus on moving subjects, such as when shooting sports scenes or animals. Incredibly responsive, the DMC-FZ72 shoots 9 fps in 16.1-megapixel full resolution with mechanical shutter, and 5 fps with continuous AF.
Full manual control is available with DMC-FZ72 for advanced users to enjoy more creative photography. With its P/A/S/M mode, users can enjoy creative shooting, offering users unlimited ways of expression in both photo and video. Adopting Hot Shoe and high compatibility with a host of optional accessories, the DMC-FZ72 pushes the boundaries of what a palm sizes digital compact camera can do. The DMC-FZ72 will be available from August.
