Panasonic LX5

amazon Panasonic LX5 reviews

The Panasonic LX5 is quite handy thanks to its metallic shell. Although the handle has been improved but due to the design towards neat pocket is not enough yet sure. The entire front is a fixed lens ring with manual or manual focus, 4: 3, 3: 2, 16: 9, and 1: 1 image ratios (new to Panasonic LX3). Contrary to the cleanly designed front, the top and back are packed with a lot of buttons. The top-of-the-range rotation gives you instant access to PASM or scene modes and customizable users. Beside the power switch and the shutter button / zoom ring is the direct video button, which instantly switches to the recording mode regardless of the mode. The flash form is hidden on the right side and can be manually activated via the mechanical switch instead of automatically. The external flash is used in conjunction with the digital viewfinder slot of the GF, but is covered by a cover by default.

The back side of the large LCD panel is the Menu access buttons and quick access keys for ISO, flash, timer or Fn buttons can be assigned more customizations. There are two new improvements to the LX5 compared to the LX3. The first is that the joystick has been replaced by the adjustable ring as shown on the DSLR and can be clicked similarly to the GF line, quite useful when used to adjust the aperture and shutter speed in manual or aperture mode. And compensation in other modes. However, the rotation is designed slightly deep that the rotation or rotation and click is not favorable. The second is that the switch between shooting and viewing mode has been replaced by an electronic view. This design allows users to view still images, and can quickly switch to capture mode just by pressing the shutter button rather than changing the switch rather confusing switch on the LX3.

The ports on the right side are also minimalized with only two HDMI ports and a USB port. Underneath the bottom is the card slot with a slot for the battery. The layout of the tripod socket is sideways a bit inconvenient when it is mounted on small tripods, but it is also useful when users want to replace batteries or cards even when they are mounted on their feet withouht affect anything.

The LX5’s menu system allows users to intervene in a variety of different customizations, but the on-screen layout is confusing and complex enough to dazzle newcomers to the camera for the first time.

The lens of the LX5 continues to impress with the Leica lens class (Vario-Summicron) and aperture up to f / 2. Maintaining a 24mm wide angle, the LX5 has a zoom range slightly above its predecessor, up to 90mm, ideal for portraits. Although the zoom range is not large, the LX5 is still equipped with the new MEGA O.I.S image stabilization system to ensure the best possible image or video. Along with the ISO enhancement from the 3200 on the LX3, the LX5 supports ISO up to 6,400 and 12,800 without the need for an extended mode. Combined with a large aperture, the LX5 is ensure to capture images in any dimly lit environment.

However, the noise level of the LX5 does not exceed the limits of conventional digital travel cameras. Up to 3,200 photos are still acceptable. But when it continues to push up to 6,400 or 12,800, the image breaks completely, the color is stained and the details are lost. But for those who only need document images, having a high ISO is an advantage when the LX5 is able to capture motion pictures even when the weather is still dark.

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Panasonic Lumix DMC-LX5 10.1 MP Digital Camera with 3.8x Optical Image Stabilized Zoom and 3.0-Inch LCD – Black (OLD MODEL): Buy it now

The images are smooth, noise-free, even with the finest noise and distortion when placed at ISO 80, an ideal low level compared to the default ISO 100 and 200 for most current travel cameras. Due to the large aperture of f / 2, taking portraits or live images in daylight conditions for large-scale shooting is not a problem for this version.

The new ultra-quiet zoom system of the LX5, which the company calls Intelligent Zoom, is very useful, with silent, near-digital zoom, so users can take advantage of this optical zoom. We both filmed without fear of noise. In addition to the usual Motion JPEG format, 720p HD movies are also stored in the compact AVCHD Lite format. Only thing to read this format, users have to connect the camera to the computer and read by the software of the company, not copy and read from the card reader is normal. In return, with built-in software, users can save pictures from video clips or simply edit video clips on the camera without a computer.

With compact design, advanced features with various customizations, the LX5 contributes to the segment of advanced travel cameras replacing the DSLRs alongside the Canon Powershot G12 or the new NEX and NX of Sony and Samsung.

Lens and Zoom Capabilities

Leica DC Vario-Summicron Lens

One of the standout features of the Panasonic LX5 is its fast Leica DC Vario-Summicron lens, which offers a focal length range of 24-90mm (35mm equivalent). This range covers a wide array of photographic scenarios, from wide-angle landscapes to medium telephoto portraits. The lens has a maximum aperture of f/2.0 at the wide end and f/3.3 at the telephoto end, allowing for excellent low-light performance and shallow depth of field effects.

Optical Image Stabilization

The lens is equipped with Panasonic’s Power O.I.S. (Optical Image Stabilizer) technology, which effectively reduces camera shake, allowing for sharper images in low-light conditions and at longer focal lengths. This feature is particularly useful for handheld shooting, as it provides additional stability and flexibility.

Image Quality

Sensor and Processing

The LX5 features a 1/1.63-inch 10.1-megapixel CCD sensor, which is larger than the sensors typically found in compact cameras of its era. This larger sensor size, combined with Panasonic’s Venus Engine FHD image processor, ensures high-quality images with excellent color reproduction, dynamic range, and low noise levels.

Low-Light Performance

The camera’s fast lens and larger sensor contribute to its impressive low-light performance. The LX5 can capture detailed and noise-free images at lower ISO settings, while higher ISO settings (up to ISO 3200) are usable with some noise reduction. The ability to shoot in RAW format provides further flexibility in post-processing, allowing photographers to fine-tune their images for optimal results.

Color and Detail

The LX5 produces images with vibrant and accurate colors, maintaining a natural look across various lighting conditions. The camera’s processing engine effectively balances sharpness and detail, resulting in crisp and clear images. The lens’s quality ensures minimal distortion and chromatic aberrations, contributing to the overall image quality.

Autofocus and Speed

Autofocus System

The Panasonic LX5 features a reliable and fast contrast-detection autofocus system. The camera offers multiple AF modes, including face detection, AF tracking, and multi-area AF, catering to different shooting scenarios. The autofocus system performs well in most lighting conditions, quickly locking onto subjects with precision.

Burst Mode

For action and fast-moving subjects, the LX5 offers a burst mode that can capture up to 2.5 frames per second (fps) at full resolution. While this is not the fastest burst rate available, it is sufficient for capturing fleeting moments in everyday photography. Additionally, the camera’s high-speed burst mode allows for even faster shooting at reduced resolution, providing versatility for different situations.

Video Recording

HD Video

The Panasonic LX5 is capable of recording HD video at 720p resolution. The video quality is impressive, with good color reproduction and smooth motion. The camera’s fast lens and optical image stabilization enhance video recording capabilities, allowing for clear and stable footage even in challenging conditions.

Stereo Sound

The built-in stereo microphones provide decent audio quality for casual video recording. However, the lack of an external microphone input is a limitation for more professional applications. The internal microphones may pick up some operational noise from the camera, especially when using the zoom function during recording.

User Interface and Controls

Shooting Modes

The LX5 offers a variety of shooting modes, including full manual control, aperture priority, shutter priority, and program mode, catering to both novice and experienced photographers. The mode dial on the top of the camera provides quick access to these modes, allowing for seamless transitions between different shooting settings.

Scene Modes

For beginners, the camera includes a range of scene modes that optimize settings for specific shooting scenarios, such as portrait, landscape, sports, night portrait, and more. These modes are accessible via the mode dial and provide a convenient way to achieve good results without having to manually adjust settings.

Custom Settings

The LX5 allows users to save custom settings, which can be quickly recalled for specific shooting situations. This feature is particularly useful for photographers who frequently shoot in similar conditions and want to avoid the hassle of adjusting settings each time.

Battery Life and Storage

Battery Performance

The camera is powered by a rechargeable lithium-ion battery, which provides a decent battery life for a compact camera. On a full charge, the LX5 can capture approximately 400 shots, depending on usage and settings. This should be sufficient for a day of casual shooting or a short trip. However, for extended use, carrying a spare battery is advisable.

Storage Options

The LX5 supports SD, SDHC, and SDXC memory cards, offering ample storage options for both photos and videos. The camera’s ability to shoot in both JPEG and RAW formats provides flexibility in terms of image quality and post-processing capabilities.

Connectivity and Additional Features

Connectivity

The camera includes a USB port for transferring images and videos to a computer, as well as an HDMI output for viewing content on an HDTV. These connectivity options provide convenience for users who want to quickly share their photos and videos or display them on larger screens.

Built-in Flash

The LX5 features a built-in flash, which is useful for low-light situations and fill flash applications. The flash has multiple modes, including auto, red-eye reduction, slow sync, and manual, providing versatility in different lighting conditions.

Accessories

Panasonic offers a range of accessories for the LX5, including cases, straps, and additional batteries. The availability of these accessories enhances the camera’s usability and allows photographers to customize their setup to suit their needs.

Practical Use Cases

Travel Photography

The Panasonic LX5 is an excellent choice for travel photography, thanks to its compact size, versatile zoom range, and robust build quality. The camera’s ability to capture high-quality images in various lighting conditions makes it ideal for documenting travel experiences. The wide-angle capability is perfect for capturing landscapes and architectural shots, while the fast lens ensures good performance in low-light situations.

Street Photography

For street photography, the LX5 offers a discreet and unobtrusive design, allowing photographers to capture candid moments without drawing attention. The camera’s fast autofocus and quick response times ensure they don’t miss decisive moments. The combination of a wide-angle lens and a compact body makes the LX5 a great tool for capturing dynamic street scenes and everyday life.