GN22 Compact Flashmounts to the hot shoe newly added to the LX3

Tag : snow shoe

Panasonic has today announced the Lumix DMC-LX3. The camera isaimed at DSLR users who are looking for a compact camera tocomplement their existing SLR gear. Consequently the LX3 comes withcomprehensive manual controls and a fast F2.0-F2.8 24-60mm (35mmequivalent) Leica DC Vario-Summicron lens. Images are captured on a1/1.63-inch CCD sensor sporting 10.1 million effective pixels. TheLumix DMC-LX3 will be available in the UK from August at£399.99.
Jump to: Press Release Specifications Additional Images
Press release: Breaking New Boundaries - Panasonic’s Lumix DMC-LX3 With F2.024mm Ultra Wide Angle* LEICA DC VARIO-SUMMICRON Lens
* 35mm film camera equivalent: 24-60mm

Panasonic is pleased to introduce the DMC-LX3, the long-awaitedaddition to the popular Lumix LX series of high-end, compactdigital still cameras.
Designed for easy, creative shooting, the new LX3 comes two yearsafter its predecessor, the LX2, which earned an enthusiasticfollowing among both professional photographers and seriousamateurs for its exquisite image rendering, superior operatingease, and unique triple-wide system comprising wide-angle lens,16:9 CCD and LCD. Panasonic has gone a big step further in the newLX3, upgrading every component to achieve a camera whoseperformance surpasses that of any compact camera that has comebefore. Simply put, the LX3 smashes all previous perceptions aboutthe limitations of a digital compact camera, setting a lofty newstandard in performance, quality and creative capabilities.
At the core of the LX3 is a large, ultra-sensitive 1/1.63-inch CCDdeveloped specially for the new model. The old formula equatingpixel count with image quality does not always hold true. Ingeneral, if two CCDs have exactly the same physical size butdifferent pixel counts, the one with more pixels is not necessarilybetter – in fact, it's likely to generate more picture noise,especially in low-light parts of the image. This poor low-lightimage quality has been a source of great dissatisfaction forcompact camera users. In the LX3, Panasonic responds to thisproblem by boldly reversing the industry trend of pushing towardever-higher pixel counts. Rather than cramming in the maximumnumber of pixels possible, it has limited the LX3's 1/1.63-inch CCDto 10.1 megapixels. The result is a CCD that provides a generousamount of space for each pixel while offering superb sensitivityand a wide dynamic range made possible by maximizing the size ofthe photodiode. Panasonic also redesigned the peripheral circuitsand other components to further minimize noise generation. Theseenhancements greatly improve imaging performance, boosting bothsensitivity and saturation by around 40% compared with ordinary10-mexapixel compact cameras.* The CCD in DMC-LX3 can reproduceimages shot with the lens set from 24mm to 60mm in any of threeaspect ratios; 4:3, 3:2 or 16:9, so you can always capture dynamic,richly expressive shots with a wide perspective. The newly addedMulti-aspect bracketing mode allows the camera to take a image inall 3 aspect ratios simultaneously, allowing the photographer tochoose the one that best takes the advantage of the scene aftershooting.
The LX3's F2.0 24mm ultra-wide-angle* LEICA DC VARIO-SUMMICRON lensalso represents a major step up from the LX2. The F2.0 lens isabout twice as bright as the previous F2.8 lens, itself generallyconsidered a bright lens. With the new F2.0 lens, the LX3 can shootat higher shutter speeds and capture stunningly clear, sharp,blur-free images even in lower lighting conditions. This advancedlens also makes it easy to produce beautiful photos with a pleasingsoft-focused background. Also, the 24mm ultra-wide-angle lens– rare on a compact camera – gives photographers awider range of composition possibilities. The super-high-qualityLEICA DC VARIO-SUMMICRON lens minimises distortion even at the wideend, so users can get stunning, true-to-life images withoutstanding resolution and detail.
The LX3 is equipped with Panasonic's advanced image processing LSI,the Venus Engine IV. This high-speed high-performance imagingengine makes it possible to capture clean, beautiful, low-noisephotos even when shooting at high sensitivity settings. Separatingchromatic noise from luminance noise and low-frequency noise fromhigh-frequency noise, and applying the optimal noise-reductionprocessing to each, the Venus Engine IV provides superior noisecontrol and minimization of colour bleeding.
The LX3 is packed with features that enhance photo-shooting fun,ease of use and creativity. An easy-to-use Manual mode gives theuser greater shot-making flexibility and control – ideal forthose who want to explore the creative side of photography. Theauto focus function lets the user select the number of auto focuspoints in the frame by pressing a button on the camera top.Pressing the same button after taking the shot enlarges the areasurrounding the point of focus, giving the user a convenient way tocheck the focusing accuracy. The LX3's customized setting functionlets the user assign functions to an independent button on thecamera back. In addition, up to 4 settings can be stored in memoryand instantly retrieved using the Mode dial. The colour temperaturecan be set when adjusting the white balance, which works with theconventional 2-axis compensation to allow even finer adjustment.
The LX3 offers a Film mode with 6 colour types and 3 types ofmonochrome to choose from. Much like selecting different film typeswith a film camera, this function gives the user the flexibility toproduce more interesting and expressive images. A newly addedmultiple-exposure function also lets the user create artistic photoproductions, overlaying up to three consecutive images whileviewing the most recent image in the monitor.
The LX3 boasts a large 3.0-inch LCD with a 3:2 aspect ratio andhigh 460,000-dot resolution. Performance is outstanding for bothshooting and viewing. A new LCD panel provides bright, easy-to-seeimages over a wider viewing angle. The Intelligent LCD function,standard on all Lumix models, assures comfortable viewing invirtually all conditions by automatically adjusting thebacklighting of LCD as the ambient light level changes.
One key advancement over previous models is the LX3's superbexpandability. Mounting the optional Wide Conversion Lens** bringsthe maximum wide angle all the way to an incredible 18mm. Otheroptional equipment such as the ND Filter** and new PL Filter** alsobroaden image-creating possibilities. The high-end aluminumExternal Optical Viewfinder provides bright, clear viewing withoutwearing down the battery. And the optional GN22 Compact Flashmounts to the hot shoe newly added to the LX3. These and otheraccessories let users build around the LX3 to create a powerful,versatile camera system that can take them as far into photographyas they want to go.
This full set of functions draws a distinct line between the LX3and ordinary compact cameras. The LX3 stands alone as a compactcamera whose image-creating capabilities rival even digital SLRs.It's a camera that gives users the ability to capture beautiful,richly expressive images every time they shoot.
Available in black or silver*** the DMC-LX3 is an excellent choiceas a compact partner camera for users who own an SLR. It is also anoutstanding long-term camera solution for high-level users who wantthe best in image quality, operating ease, flexibility and creativefreedom.

*Compared with Panasonic Lumix DMC-FX35 with 1/2.33” CCD.
**Requires an lens adapter DMW-LA4.
***Availability of models and colours may vary depending on thesales area.

1. Large 1/1.63-inch 10.1-megapixel CCD for Dramatically HigherPicture Quality
At the heart of the LX3 is a key component that distinguishes itfrom all other compact cameras: a 1/1.63-inch 10.1-megapixel CCD.Boldly defying the trend to cram in the most pixels possible,Panasonic limited the LX3's large 1/1.63-inch CCD to 10.1megapixels. This made it possible to make each pixel around 45%larger than those in ordinary 10-megapixel cameras. As a result,both sensitivity and saturation is around 40% higher than inordinary models, giving the LX3 exquisite image quality with bothexcellent sensitivity and a wide dynamic range.*
While the LX2 also featured a large CCD – its 1/1.65"CCD was just slightly smaller than the LX3's 1/1.63" unit– in the LX3 Panasonic maximised the size of the photodiodesize to boost sensitivity by around 19% and saturation performanceby around 15%. Panasonic also minimized noise generation in the LX3by using newly designed circuits around the CCD that improve thepower supply process and provide a layered structure. The CCD wasalso given a large output buffer to further stabilise the signaland cut noise generation to a minimum. These enhancements combineto improve the S/N ratio by 3 dB. The LX3 also providesdramatically improved colour reproduction in low lighting, wherenoise is typically a problem.
Normally, to produce an image of 3:2 or 16:9 aspect ratio, a4:3picture will be cropped, so the picture does not retain the bestresolution . However, the CCD in DMC-LX3 can reproduce images shotwith the lens set from 24mm to 60mm in any of three aspect ratios;4:3, 3:2 or 16:9, so you can always capture dynamic, richlyexpressive shots with a wide perspective. The newly added MultiAspect mode allows the camera to take an image in all three aspectratios simultaneously for the photographer to choose the one thatbest takes the advantage of the scene after shooting.
*Compared with Panasonic Lumix DMC-FX35 with 1/2.33” CCD. 2. F2.0 Extraordinary Bright 24mm Ultra-Wide-Angle* High QualityLEICA DC
VARIO-SUMMICRON Lens with Minimum Distortion
A fantastic step up is represented by the newly developed F2.0 24mmequivalent ultra-wide-angle LEICA DC VARIO-SUMMICRON lens in theLX3. The F2.0 lens is about twice as bright as the F2.8 lens,itself generally considered a bright lens. With the new F2.0 lens,the LX3 can shoot at higher shutter speeds and capture stunninglyclear, sharp, blur-free images in lower lighting situation. Thisadvanced lens also makes it easy to produce beautiful photos withpleasing soft background focusing thanks to the shallow depth offield provided by the extra light.
Also, the 24mm ultra-wide-angle lens – rare on a compactcamera – gives photographers a wider range of compositionpossibilities. The super-high-quality LEICA DC VARIO-SUMMICRON lensminimizes distortion at the wide end, so users can get stunning,true-to-life images with outstanding resolution and detail. The LX3captures approx.213% larger viewing space compared to that of anormal 35mm camera, and even approx.136% larger compared to what a28mm wide-angle lens can do.
The lens unit consists of 8 elements in 6 groups with 4 asphericallenses with 4 aspherical surfaces. Minimal distortion, highresolution, minimum artifacts such as chromatic aberrations,ghosting and flaring are the proof of uncompromising imaging madepossible by F2.0 24mm ultra wide angle LEICA DC VARIO-SUMMICRONlens.
In addition, newly adopted iris diaphragm allows the users toadjust aperture at fine steps manually.

*35mm film camera equivalent: 24-60mm 3. High-Speed, High-Quality Image-Processing LSI Further Evolvesinto the Venus Engine IV A new image-processing LSI, Venus Engine IV, features more advancedsignal processing technology for rendering even higher-qualityimages. Notably, parallel noise reduction in both luminance signaland chromatic signal processing systems, a technology establishedby the preceding Venus Engine III, gains a more sophisticatedprocess. First, the luminance noise is two-dimensionally separatedinto high-frequency and low-frequency noises and only thelow-frequency noise, which tends to be conspicuous, is eliminatedwithout affecting the high-frequency noise that greatly influencesresolution. Second, the information of the change point betweencolours is minutely stored for precise determination of edges, thuscolour bleeding is dramatically suppressed. This not only producesa clearer image in high ISO sensitivity recording, but alsofaithfully reproduces details in low-lit areas of pictures taken atlow ISO sensitivity.
The Venus Engine IV also supports a superior high sensitivityrecording that lets the DMC-LX3 record at a setting of up to ISO3200 at full resolution and even up to ISO 6400 when using the highsensitivity mode, sensitive enough to capture subjects innear-total darkness without using a flash.*
The Venus Engine IV also makes it possible to capturenatural-looking, true-to-life images by suppressing blocked shadowsand blown highlights with the Intelligent Exposure function. It nowhas high, standard and low settings of effect to match the shootingconditions and desired result.
With its multi-task image-processing capability, the Venus EngineIV also boasts outstanding response time. Shutter release time lagis as short as approx. 0.005 second. This fast response makes iteasy to capture sudden, spur-of-the-moment shots. In burst shootingmode, the DMC- LX3 can snap approx. 2.5 shots per second at10.1-megapixel large full resolution.** And in High-Speed Burstshooting mode,* it fires off an incredible approx. 6 shots persecond. You also get unlimited consecutive shooting, which lets youkeep shooting until the memory card is full. *** Newly added FlashBurst mode makes it possible to take continuous shooting withcontinuous emission of flash****.
Furthermore, the engine elevates the detection accuracy andcorrective effect in both Mega O.I.S., which prevents hand-shake,and Intelligent ISO Control, which suppresses motion blur. Theengine allows the LX3 to shoot up to approx. 380 photos (CIPA) on asingle battery charge thanks to improvements in power efficiency.

* In 3-megapixel (4:3), 2.5-megapixel (3:2), 2-megapixel (16:9)recording.
**Max. 8 images in standard mode/ 4 images in fine mode.
***The consecutive shooting speed varies with the memory card,image size, and image compression mode. The number of shots dependson the memory card size, battery life, image size and imagecompression mode.
****Max. 5 images. In 3-megapixel (4:3), 2.5-megapixel (3:2),2-megapixel (16:9) recording. 4. Intuitive Full Manual Operation by Multi-functional Joystick andEnhanced Creative Options
The easy-to-use joystick operation and good design, which were partof the highly acclaimed trademarks of its predecessor, areinherited by the DMC-LX3. The joystick was incorporated tofacilitate operational ease and thereby get the best technicaladvantage of the multitude of functions offered by the camera. Withthe joystick it is possible to set focus, aperture and shutterspeed, it also allows exposure compensation. And also a quickshortcut to frequently used variables by just pressing and holdingthe Quick Menu button even while monitoring a subject on the LCD. Aswitch on the side of the lens barrel lets you quickly change thefocus mode between MF, AF or Macro AF. When you focus in the ManualFocus mode, not only the focus distance but also the DOF (depth offield) according to the zoom range and aperture is displayed. Thefocus button on the top lets you directly choose auto-focusingpoint freely from the entire field of view with the 1-point AF orspot AF method. The same button works for a direct enlargement onthe focused point when playing back the images.
In both AF/MF, a subject just 1cm away can be finely capturedsparing no detail of it. You can experience the dynamic close-up ofmacro shots. Notably in the AF mode, the newly added AF Trackingfunction automatically tracks the subject once the AF has been seteven if the subject moves around, making it easier to capturesharp, well-focused photos of decisive moments.For setting thewhite balance, the LX3 provides a new colour temperature displayfunction in addition to the Two-Axis White Balance Adjustmentoffered in previous models. There is also a custom setting functionthat lets users store up to four sets of settings you often use inmemory and instantly recall them later using the mode dial.
Furthermore, the LX3 offers a Film mode with six colour types andthree types of monochrome to choose from. Much like selectingdifferent film types with a film camera, this function gives theuser the flexibility to produce more interesting and expressiveimages. When you use the Multi-film mode is, the camera producesmax. three images from a RAW file for you to enjoy differenttextures of a film on one same picture. Another new feature is themultiple-exposure function which lets the user create artisticphoto productions, overlaying up to three consecutive images whileviewing the most recent image in the monitor. 5. Outstanding Clarity and Vision on 3-inch Large 3:2 LCD with460,000-dot High Resolution
Clear, easy-to-see LCD is upgraded both in size and resolution tobe 3.0-inch with 460,000-dot high resolution to offer even morecomfortable view for both monitoring when shooting and for playingback the results. The new 3:2 aspect of the LCD on LX3 is familiarto those who are used to analog film cameras. The Intelligent LCDfunction detects the light condition and automatically boosts theLCD backlighting by max. 40% when shooting outdoors in brightsunshine, and adjusts the frame rate when shooting in low-litsituations in addition to using the pixel mixed readout method tosecure clarity in such situations. Detecting the lighting conditionprecisely and automatically controlling the brightness with a totalof 11 fine steps, this function gives the display the mostappropriate clarity in any situation without using extra energy.Together with the newly adopted panel which boasts a wide viewingangle, it secures comfortable viewing while both monitoring shotsand playing back the results in any circumstances. 6. Exciting Options to Expand the Fun of Photography in theHigh-Definition Era
All Lumix cameras can take 1920x1080 pixel HD (high-definition)quality photos that perfectly fit a wide-screen (16:9) HDTV forfull-screen viewing. The new DMC-LX3 even records dynamic HD motionpictures in 1280 x 720p at a smooth 24 fps, in addition to WVGA(848 x 480) and normal VGA (640 x 480)* **.
With newly added HD component output capability, you can enjoywatching still and motion pictures in stunning HD quality taken byyour DMC-LX3 by simply connecting the camera to a TV via anoptional component cable (DMW-HDC2).
For your enjoyement, the DMC-LX3 newly provides slideshows completewith music. Just select the pictures you want to show and choosethe mood that best matches your selection from natural, slow, urbanor swing, and you'll get an emotion-filled slideshow with a varietyof slide change effects and matching music without any annoyingadjustments. If you make the slideshow with HD photos in 1920 x1080 pixels, you can also enjoy watching an impressive HD slideshowwith music on a large-screen HDTV by using the optional componentcable.

*In Motion Picture mode, the length of recording time depends onthe capacity of the SDHC/SD Memory Card. (Up to the equivalent of 2GB per motion-image recording.) When you set the motion picturequality to HD, WVGA, VGA, we recommend using a high-speed memorycard with "10MB/s" or greater on the package. Some lensmovement sounds may be recorded.
**For Europe, motion images can be recorded continuously for up to15 minutes. 7. Expandability as a System Camera
Last but not least, superb expandability is the key for LX3 to beliterally a “system camera”. Mounting the optional WideConversion Lens (DMW-LW46)* brings the maximum wide angle all theway to an incredible 18mm. Optional equipment such as the ND Filter(DMW-LND46)* and new PL Filter (DMW-LPL46)* also broadenimage-creating possibilities. The high-end aluminium ExternalOptical Viewfinder (DMW-VF1) provides bright, clear viewing withoutwearing down the battery. And the optional GN22 Compact Flashmounts to the hot shoe which is newly added to the camera unit.**These and other accessories let users build around the LX3 tocreate a powerful, versatile camera system that can take them asfar into photography as they want to go.

DMW-LW46 Wide Conversion Lens*
DMW-LND46 ND Filter*
DMW-LPL46 PL Filter*
DMW-LMC46 MC Protector*
DMW-LA4 Conversion Lens Adaptor
DMW-VF1 External Optical Viewfinder (24mm* *35mm Equiv.)
DMW-CLX3 Leather Casing
DMW-CZ18 Camera Bag
DMW-HDC2 HD Component Cable
CGA-S005 Battery

*Requires an lens adaptor DMW-LA4.
**Flash unit (GN22) will be introduced soon. 8. Other Features
While the DMC-LX3 allows full manual control for more advancedphotography, the camera also allows user to take perfect shots withoutstanding ease. This is made possible by Panasonic Lumix’siA (Intelligent Auto) mode. In iA mode the camera does all thework, activating Mega O.I.S. (Optical Image Stabilizer),Intelligent ISO Control, Intelligent Scene Selector, FaceDetection, and Intelligent Exposure. This leaves the user free tosimply compose the shot and press the shutter button, with theassurance that the image will be clear, beautiful and properlyexposed.
The LX3 offers a total of 23 scene modes, including the new PinHole and Film Grain modes that adds unique, film-camera-likeeffects and ambiences to images. This wide range of modes lets theLX3 respond easily to any shooting situation. The actual effects ofthe scene modes can be viewed on the LCD before taking the shot.Now the flash has 1st curtain and 2nd curtain synchro settings toadd effective nuance according to the scene.
Image Leveling is another function that improves post-shootingconvenience. When a recorded image “leans” to the rightor left because the camera was held at a slight angle, the ImageLeveling function rotates the image to straighten it and crops theunnecessary edges*. The USB port supports the 2.0 HS standard andthe internal memory has been increased to approx. 50 MB – twofurther enhancements that add to the convenience and fun of usingthe LX3.
Drawing on its vast expertise in consumer electronics, Panasonic iscommitted to creating a new photographic culture by introducinginnovative, high-performance cameras and other advanced digitalimaging products.
Panasonic Lumix DMC-LX3 Specifications