Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ28 (Black)

Pros: Great lens and improved processing
Well built. Lightwieght and well balanced
Simple to use,

Cons: Smaller EVf and fixed LCD monitor

Summary: I've use Panasonic "bridge" cameras for a few years and this time they've really got it right. The larger sensor isn't a big deal but the new Venus IV engine makes the big difference. It manages to bring out all the quality the Leica designed lens is capable of producing.

I first got a Panasonic FZ8 for the over 400mm lens capability. Seemed cheaper to get the camera at about $300 then a dSLR lens for over twice that. Didn't use long lenses much so it seemed the way to go.

Fell in love with the FZ8. Gave that one to my daughter for photographing birds and moved up to an FZ18. The FZ18 is magnificent. Took it to Europe and printed a show of big prints for a gallery. Great color, great tonality.

Debated getting the FZ28 but after much thought and conversation with other photographers decided to give it a try. I am very happy I did.

I am a pro and I have and shoot Nikon dSLRS. The new FZ28 produces images that are comparable to the images from my D80. And i'm talking about comparing 11x17s side by side.

This is a great camera. Its perfect for the photo enthusiast looking to move up to a better camera then a point and shoot and the perfect carry camera for a pro who doesn't need to take their dSLRs with them all the time.

Needless to say I will use the FZ28 on jobs where I need an extra long telephoto lens.

I like it that you can use the FZ28 as a totally Automatic camera or use it in total manual control mode. It does take a little practice to get the hang of the zoom and using the camera in macro mode etc but the learning curve will be quick for most people.

Panasonic has happily dealt with the "noise" issues that diminished the ratings of their otherwise astonishing cameras. At 100 and 200 ISO I can't find any noise and at 400 and 800 there is some noise but nothing that will show up on 8x10 prints.

The EVF screen is smaller than on the FZ18 or FZ8 and is a bit harder to use. Not a big problem but it is smaller. THe LCD monitor is bigger and it might have been nice if it was rotatable but these are minor issues.

The FZ28 is a great bridge camera that for most people will be more than enough for all their photography.