- Average user rating: 3.5 stars out of 17 reviews Back to product review
- My rating: 0 stars
Full user review
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9 out of 9 people found this review helpful
4.5 stars
"Great camera for the enthusiast - amatures cautioned"
Pros: Lens, wide-angle, image stabilization, ergonomics
Cons: High ISO speed photos require post-processing, but not much
Summary: In short, this camera takes fantastic high-contrast pictures in a variety of light levels, even mixed light. I almost cried tears of joy at the wide-angle/wide aspect ratio capabilities after being chronically frustrated with a lack of wide anglein most digital cameras. I don't think you can beat this lens/wide-angle combination anywhere else for under $1000.
The reviews which mention noise at high ISO speeds are true, but let me say:
1. The image stabilization is so good you'll rarely need those speeds (I have taken clear handheld shots at 1/6th second shutter speed!) and
2. The noise is so low at low ISO speeds that the issue is clearly that Panasonic did not include much internal noise reduction in the camera. This is actually good because it increases the shooting speed, and the post-production software way is better than anything they can cram into a camera. All you need to do is use something like 'noise ninja' to deal with it and you'll get spectacular results.
In fact, I'm actually getting better post-processed results with this camera at 400 ISO than I am with my Canon Rebel SLR w/ the standard lens. Most of the noise is simple chroma which is easy to correct. Like I said, you won't need those speeds often unless you shoot moving targets.
So, it's a little extra work but worth definitely worth it. If you're a serious enthusiast who wants an extremly versatile point-and-shoot for light duty, this is a best buy.
Hope that helps,
Gene
Where to buy
Panasonic Lumix DMC-LX1 (silver):
$499.95
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