|
|
Panasonic LUMIX DMC-ZS15 Preview
Panasonic's popular ZS-series just added two new models, the ZS15 and ZS20. The more affordable LUMIX DMC-ZS15 is nearly as loaded as its more expensive sibling, but has a slightly less resolution with a 12.1 megapixel High Sensitivity MOS sensor, a shorter 16x optical zoom range, no built-in GPS, and when recording full HD video (1920x1080 at 60i in AVCHD, or 30p in MP4), it only records mono sound.
Other than those key difference, you're essentially getting the same feature-laden camera, while saving an estimated $70. Highlights include a 3.0-inch Smart Touch LCD screen with AutoFocus, Zoom, and Shutter settings that can be adjusted on screen. The camera is built around Panasonic's powerful Venus Engine processor, which allows the camera to capture full resolution high speed bursts at up to 10 frames per second.
There are also a number of fantastic Creative Control modes that include stylized filters, a 3D Photo Mode, and a Panorama Mode. Novices will appreciate the various Intelligent Auto applications, while more seasoned photographers will enjoy the ability to use the camera's manual controls.
If deciding between the ZS15 and ZS20, it's important to decide whether or not you need GPS and a slightly longer zoom lens. For $70 more, the ZS20 gives you 14.1 megapixels (not that much difference), a 20x optical zoom lens, and 1080/60p video recording.
Panasonic LUMIX DMC-ZS20 Features:
- 16x optical zoom / 24mm wide angle lens
- 12.1 megapixels High Sensitivity MOS sensor
- Venus Engine
- 3.0-inch Smart Touch LCD screen
- Touch AF
- Touch Zoom
- Touch Shutter
- 10 fps high speed burst shooting in full resolution
- Full 1080p HD video recording
- Mono Sound recording
- Light Speed AF
- iA (Intelligent Auto) Mode
- High Dynamic Range (HDR)
- POWER O.I.S. (Optical Image Stabilization)
- Face Recognition
- Intelligent Scene Selector
- Intelligent Hand Held Nightshot
- Motion Deblur Mode
- Intelligent Burst Mode
- Intelligent Exposure
- Manual Control Options
- 3D Photo Mode
- Creative Control Mode
- Expressive Retro
- High Dynamic
- Sepia
- Dynamic Monochrome
- High Key
- Low Key
- Miniature Effect
- Toy Effect
- Soft Focus
- Panorama Mode
- Creative Retouch Mode
- Auto Retouch
- USB or AC recharging
- LUMIX Image Uploader included
Available in black or silver with an MSRP of $279.99, the Panasonic LUMIX DMC-ZS15 will be available March of 2012.
Additional Product Views:
Visitors of Steves can visit the stores below for real-time pricing and availability. You can also find hot, soon to expire online offers on a variety of cameras and accessories at our very own Camera Deals page.
| Panasonic DMC-ZS15K Digital Camera- Black -12MP, 16X, 1080, 3", 24mm Wide | |||
| Seller | Price | In Stock | Seller Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
 | $224.00 | Yes |  274 reviews |
 | $209.51 | Yes | 274 reviews |
 | $251.99 | Yes |  383 reviews |
 | $259.00 | Yes | 3137 reviews |
 | $251.00 | Yes |  66 reviews |
 | $244.00 | Yes | 26 reviews |
