Konica Minolta DiMAGE Z3 Review



Click on the DiMAGE Z3 to take a QuickTime VR tour
Previously a function found only on the high-end Konica Minolta DiMAGE "A" series digital cameras, the Konica Minolta CCD-shift Anti-Shake System is now available for the first time in the "Z" series cameras. This system compensates to minimize the effect of camera shake at 2-3 shutter speeds slower than on cameras without an Anti-Shake function (equivalent to 2-3 exposure increments.) For hand-held dim light photography and telephoto shots, both of which are susceptible to the effects of camera shake because of their slow shutter speeds, photographers can now get steady, blur-free images without the use of a flash or tripod. Unlike an optical system, Konica Minolta's proprietary Anti-Shake System uses a unique CCD-shift mechanism. This keeps the lens compact and the camera lightweight. With Konica Minolta's unique CCD-shift Anti-Shake System accompanying the camera's built-in 12x optical zoom lens, the Z3 provides photographers of all levels with very steady and sharp hand-held telephoto shots. Its speed also enables photographers to get those action shots right away with Rapid Autofocus (AF) - the fastest auto focus in its class. The camera's AF also has a Predictive Focus Control for unmatched high-speed focusing that brings out the very best in the Z3's superior ability to capture fast moving subjects. The DiMAGE Z3 incorporates an AF-dedicated ASIC to video AF system for focusing, enabling its Rapid AF to focus faster than previous models. Focusing time is approximately 0.15 second in wide-angle position and approximately 0.2 second in telephoto position. The Z3 also boasts a fast startup speed, a real motion monitor with 50 frames per second capability for smooth video viewing, minimal shutter-release time lag, and continuous shooting at 2.2 frames per second. And in Continuous AF, the DiMAGE Z3 includes Predictive Focus Control, which allows photographers to capture sharper images of moving subjects. Its movie recording function allows users to take high-resolution movies that are as beautiful as TV programs or footage taken with a video camera. In addition to the VGA-size (640 x 480 Standard) mode that captures movies at 30 frames per second, Konica Minolta has added a new, high-quality-image Fine mode (640 x 480 Fine). The Silent Zoom feature employs a newly developed Silent Zoom mechanism that greatly reduces how much noise from the optical zoom is picked up while shooting movies with sound. The optional Wide Converter Kit allows users to fit more of a scene into each shot. The lens has a 26mm wide angle that is ideal for capturing indoor or outdoor architecture and panoramic landscape shots. The Z3 is also equipped with a powerful built-in flash. But if even more flash power is needed, the camera accepts the Konica Minolta Program/Maxxum Flash 3600HS(D) 5600HS(D) or 2500(D) accessory flash units. DiMAGE Z3 Features:
Physical Views![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() The DiMAGE Z3 compared in size to a standard CD. ![]() The "top of the line" DiMAGE Z3 and the entry-level DiMAGE Z10 for comparison. |
Continue on to
Features & Controls
DiMAGE Z3 Specifications
|
Continue on to
Features & Controls
Return To Our
Reviews Menu
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.