Panasonic DMC-FZ47 12.1 Megapixel Extended Zoom Reviews Roundup
On July 21 2011, Panasonic announced the LUMIX DMC-FZ47 (aka DMC-FZ48) digital camera, the newest addition to the company's super-zoom FZ-Series. The FZ47 features a 24x optical zoom in a 25mm ultra-wide angle LEICA DC VARIO-ELMARIT lens, a 12.1 Megapixels Hi-Speed CCD sensor, Sonic Speed AF, full HD 1080i 1920 x 1080 video recording, 3D Photo mode and new Creative Controls with Miniature Effect mode while shooting both still and video. Differentiating itself from most digital cameras that record video, the FZ47 features a Creative Video mode, which lets the user set the shutter speed and aperture manually. Changing the shutter speed brings special effects to videos, which is especially suitable for shooting a fast-moving subject.
The high-quality Leica lens features Panasonic's Nano Surface Coating technology to help minimize light reflection that causes ghosting and flare. It can take high-resolution consecutive shots at 3.7 fps in full-resolution and maximum 10 fps at reduced resolution at 3 Megapixel. The Panasonic LUMIX FZ47 is available in black for a suggested retail price of $399.99.
Panasonic DMC-FZ47 Camera Reviews Roundup
| Imaging Resource: "Image quality in our lab shots was impressive. There was little distortion or chromatic aberration (likely corrected in the image processor) and high resolution for a 12 megapixel sensor. The Resolution Target shows low chromatic aberration in the corners while resolving a full 1,700 lines of resolution. I suspect some software correction of the chromatic aberration, considering the range of the lens. The ISO 100 St..." - Mar 23 2012 More » | |
| Pocket-lint: "What may come as a surprise are the final results at full resolution - we were expecting big improvements but the results aren't too different from the previous FZ45 model. Look for the finer details and the amount of processing causes edge distortion and a dwindling of detail. Softness increases as the ISO setting goes up, but from ISO 400 and above there's a notable drop off in sharpness that becomes very sof..." - Dec 21 2011 More » | |
| CNET US: "Photo quality has improved from this camera's predecessor, the FZ40. If you're a pixel peeper you probably won't be thrilled with the noise and artifacts you can see when photos are viewed onscreen at 100 percent. But unless you're planning to do a lot of enlarging and cropping and regularly make prints above 8x10, you'll likely be very happy with the results. Like most point-and-shoots the FZ47 does well up to ISO..." - Dec 20 2011 More » | |
| CNET AU: "Unlike the FZ150, the FZ47 cannot shoot in RAW. It's JPEG only, but most of the other picture settings remain intact. Naturally, with such a wide lens, there are distortions, but these can be corrected in post-processing, and for most users it won't present too much of an issue. Colours from the FZ47 are good, though not as punchy and well rendered as those on similar JPEG images from the FZ150. Also, the downgrade..." - Dec 13 2011 More » | |
| NeoCamera: "To pack a whopping 24X optical zoom lens in a camera this size, the Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ47 uses a tiny sensor so that its 4.5-108mm lens equates to 25-600mm in 35mm terms. This is the case for all current ultra-zooms and perfectly represents the compromise offered by this type of camera. This huge zoom range means flexibility while the small sensor sets expectations of limited image quality, particularly at the de..." - Nov 29 2011 More » | |
| ePhotoZine: "Lens test images show good detail at both wide angle and when using full optical zoom. Macro performance is excellent allowing you to focus on subjects right in front of the lens. Purple fringing is low considering the amount of zoom on offer, but can be noticed in areas of extreme contrast. ISO test images show some noise at ISO100, this increases at ISO200, ISO400 sees an increase in chroma noise (coloured splotch..." - Oct 29 2011 More » | |
| CNET UK: "We tested it by shooting various flora, including a teasel and rose hips, and in each case we were bowled over by the results. The macro performance of the FZ48 was exemplary, with a short, sharp sweet spot where the focus was perfectly fixed, and a rapid fall off to the front and rear. We can put this down to the FZ48's maximum aperture of f/2.8 at wide angle, and f/5.2 at full telephoto. This would be impressive i..." - Oct 28 2011 More » | |
| Trusted Reviews: "We found overall image quality to be good but not outstanding, and while the 24x optical zoom is certainly useful there is a price to pay for this flexibility in terms of sharpness of images. The FZ48 produces its best results in bright but evenly lit conditions. Its dynamic range is rather limited though, and this leads to exactly the same kind of metering dilemmas so common among compacts. We found that when..." - Sep 27 2011 More » | |
| Camera Labs: "Panasonic's Lumix FZ47 / FZ48 represents a small upgrade over its predecessor: the all-important lens range remains the same, as does the body, so the only major changes are a higher resolution screen, a boost in video resolution from 720p to 1080i, support for 3D image capture, a selection of special effects filters, an increase in continuous shooting speed and a small drop in sensor resolution. Of these, the..." - Sep 19 2011 More » | |
| Digital Camera Resource Page: "The FZ47 is so loaded with features that they ran out of room on the mode dial. Beginners will find plenty to like, including an Intelligent Auto mode that literally does everything for you (scene selection, face detection, shadow brightness, sharpening, and more), tons of scene modes, fun Creative Controls (read: Art Filters), and easy movie recording courtesy of a dedicated "red button". Manual control l..." - Sep 05 2011 More » | |
| TechRadar: "The FZ48 isn't one of the best performers with noise levels at high sensitivities. Even at low sensitivities, images seem to contain artefacts and smudging around fine details, which is a little disappointing - but it is a bridge camera not an SLR. These artefacts are only visible on very close inspection, and images at taken at sensitivities up to ISO 400 should be suitable for producing respectable 10 x 8-inc..." - Aug 23 2011 More » | |
| Digital Camera Info: "The FZ47's color accuracy is straight up amazing. We ran the test three times to be sure. In that test, where lower scores are better, the FZ47 produced a color error average of only 1.96. This is the best score of any fixed lens camera since as far back as any of us can remember. Looking over the raw data, we find the camera's weaknesses, small as they are, tend to be centered around the brightest yellows and..." - Aug 11 2011 More » | |
| Photography BLOG: "At first glance the Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ48 looks like a carbon copy of last year's FZ45 model, but underneath the hood there are some significant changes, most notably full 1080p movies, much faster burst shooting, higher-resolution screen and even snappier auto-focusing. The even more expensive FZ100 model still looks the better option, with its 11fps burst mode and free-angle screen, but the FZ48 has certainly n..." - Aug 04 2011 More » |
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User Review of the camera - Panasonic DMC-FZ47
Panasonic FZ47, Henry T. Williams
I tried a couple of smaller cameras and they fail to compare to the Panasonic FZ47. The zoom, size, speed and picture quality are terrific. There are alot of features and settings that I haven't tried yet but so far I'm very happy. I got a great deal thru Amazon from a company in Nevada, was sent PDQ and in excellent shape. WHAT EVER YOU DO, DON'T BUY FROM AJRICHIES, THEY WILL FIND SOME WAY TO ROB YOU ! Even if there's a price difference, doing business with Amazon is so reassuring, from sales, service, and a customer support that wants to take care of you. I'll be back when I move up to a larger camera and for anything else that I need, Take care.
Bought this camera AGAIN, Trek Alpha
This is the second camera we have purchased. Simply put, it has GREAT ZOOM for the price and you dont have to swap out lenses. We took this with us to Scotland, and it was compact enough, but could take EXCELLENT picutures.
Bought the same camera for a family member and we hope it will outlast (as it should) all the $100 cameras she has purchased in the past. For those of you that think its expensive - you put your money towards something that is reliable and little more, but it should last you many more years. Also, this has been rated in Consumer Reports to have outstanding battery life. Another big thorn in the side on all the cheap cameras....why do you think they are so cheap. Again, buy something ONCE, put a little more money towards it, and you won't regret it. It will take SD cards, so you have unlimited space as long as you bring along a few SD cards. We were able to recharge the batteries and keep shooting - but that was after a full day of taking pictures. Great camera!
Great Camera for the price, Scott Copeland
This camera is easy to use right out of the box. I took this up to some remote parts of British Columbia and took a variety of close up to far away magnified pictures and they all came out beautifully.
Easy to use, great photos, Steph in California
I like the size of this camera because it's much easier for me to hold steady than smaller ones. It has lots of features and it's easy to upload photos to my computer.
Good camera, Albs
We are so glad we bought this camera. I didn't want to have to sit down and read a long manual to figure out a nice camera, and this has been fairly intuitive. It is great to have an option for video. I wanted a camera that was fast and could capture active kids, and this fits the bill. I have been amazed to see the difference in picture quality when compared to our old camera.
Should strap comes with it, Customer
On the reviews I didn't see anywhere that stated the features such as a shoulder strap. This was a gift for my daughter so I wanted it to be just right. I searched amazon and bought a nice strap. The camera arrived and there was a very nice strap inside. Great, not wanting to pay shipping to return it as it was more than the item we kept it. AMAZON you could have saved us the purchase by writing a proper review of the item...disappointed, but it's the first time with you all. Bought a Sumac Life case, look at the measurements first before ordering to make sure it will fit. I guess now I'll double check amazon's information.
Nice camera, FLYERS FAN
I bought this camera for my son as a gift. He loved it and its so easy to operate and takes fabulous pictures. Wish I would have waited and bought this for myself. Would definitely recommend this camera. Now my son researched this camera and told me what to buy, but he was happy with the results.
Hard to Not Like this Camera, Scooter74
We wanted a camera simple to use but high zoom and the option for more sophisticated controls if needed or desired. This fits the bill.
Last camera was an Olympus 700 10x Optical Zoom was purchased in 2001 and it's clear that this is a great replacement for that camera.
Nice to be able to reach out and snag that close up without approaching the subject too much.
And nice to be able to take a video as long as I want and still zoom while taking the video.
Yeah I know that these last features aren't new but when you hang on to things long enough you really enjoy the changes that take place over 10-12 years time.
Meets all expectations., Busy Mom
Bought this to replace an older model. Very happy with all the features. Works just like the old one, just wished the battery pack was the same size.
Worth the money... nice camera if you don't want to spend 750, N. Fernandez
I've had this camera about a year. The zoom works fantastic and the shots are clear and rich. I don't use the more advanced settings much but the intelligent auto is quite sufficient. The sports setting takes action shots without blur. Highly recommend for the $.
Loved it so much we bought a second one !, Scifi Fan
My dad used his last LUMIX constantly, and when it finally died he wanted another one. He takes it on vacation, cross country bike rides, hikes, etc and it performs beautifully!
Love this camer, Pccheflynn
This was a gift for my husband. It is easy to use and takes awesome pictures. He especially enjoys the great zoom!
Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ47K 12.1 MP Digital Camera with 24xOptical Zoom - Quite good for the price, rhythm7a
I've been a lifelong photographer (I've been paid and published but I don't consider myself a professional) and I'm quite happy with this camera. It's much more versatile than a point and shoot and the color quality has been very good. If anything, it has a lot of options which can be a bit daunting (188 page PDF manual), but you can also use basic settings for easier, faster use. I wanted a versatile higher quality camera with a decent zoom range that also shoots HD video but is not too bulky, fairly easy to carry around and doesn't require extra lenses. This fits my needs very well. I highly recommend getting a high quality circular polarizing filter (I got a cheap one and was disappointed) and an extra battery.
Disappointed. I returned the camera, Chip Osborn
I do not purchase anything without careful thought and I rarely return any item. This camera deserved to be returned. Maybe not from your perspective, but for my reasons in selecting this camera in the first place.
I wanted a camera beyond a point and shoot, yet not a professional camera. I wanted controls, a viewfinder and a quality picture. I wanted a camera with no delay between pressing the shutter release and the instant the picture was recorded.
Caution is always the word here. The results could be user error and all my fault. The right tool in the wrong hands is often the problem. Yet, I know a lot about photography. After taking dozens of test shots, here's why I returned it,
Professionally processed pictures are grainy, even with control of the ISO settings and lighting. Focus is not consistent. Taking the exact same shot with the exact same settings within seconds of each other produces different results. The delay of the shutter speed means losing the moment in taking any picture. Skin tones are pasty. Automatic white balance doesn't seem to be automatic. There is more to say, but you get the "picture".
This camera may be perfect for the person that is used to point and shoot quality, but then I would recommend a point and shoot. My wife has a Panasonic Lumix DMC ZS1. It's a point and shoot that was purchased several years ago when it first came on the market. The new Panasonic Lumix DMC FZ47K takes a lessor quality and inconsistent picture then her point and shoot.
Well worth it, CR
This is one mighty impressive camera. I bought it for my wife for Christmas. She loves it and I have used it a bit and am quite pleased with it. Powerful zoom, quick auto-focus, brilliant pictures - what more could you ask for?
Love this camera, dana holden
Takes clear and beautiful photos
absolutely fits my needs
Great camera for the price! I'm an amateur photographer and my photos look amazing
Great quality for the price., C. Griffin "Dougcrys"
Love the features with this camera (have not learned them all yet). The only feature I don't like is that the lens cap is so chealy made and is awkard to use so I end up just leaving off.
Camera not for an amateur, Mo
I purchased this camera after looking at Consumer Reports. I have always been a Canon user because of it's ease and simplicity and producing great shots. Took a chance on the Lumix DMC-FZ47. Big mistake. The instructions are complicated and the pictures are not that great. I don't want to have to take a class to learn how to use my camera. Since I love to take photos and am amateur, I am going back to what I know....Canon. Never had a problem with Canon. Point and shoot even with the high end models. Also, I can't seem to download to my PC movies I took with the Lumix. Maybe it's my computer but no problem downloading Canon photos and movies. I will be placing an ad to sell the Lumix asap and go back to the reliable Canon. An expensive lesson!
Very pleased!, Elkat
I almost love this camera. It is a great camera and takes beautiful pictures and videos! I love being able to take just one camera to places and get pictures and video at the same time. It's pretty quick to start up and snaps photos fast. However, it does not do good in low light, even with the flash on. Sometimes in my house, it takes several seconds to take a picture and the picture is grainy looking. Sometimes it does better, but I never get a great picture in my house. I know nothing about camera settings and leave it in auto, which I know doesn't help. Outdoor or well light pictures are beautiful! The only other thing I don't like if the software it comes with. It won't even keep up with what pictures you've already transferred, so every time you load you have to go through clicking each picture you want. I'm still pleased with this purchase, though, its much better and faster than my previous camera.
Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ47K 12.1 MP Digital Camera with 24xOptical Zoom.., LLM "Missouri Lars"
Very satisfied with the ability of camera to function as needed. Bought this to replace older Lumix camera which had become outdated and I wanted to increase zoom and megapixels. Picture lag time was eliminated and this camera also has greater ability to capture low light situations where older camera could not. The battery life has also been improved over previous camera.I researched cameras for several weeks to compare the different models and makes and just felt most comfortable staying with the panasonic lumix line .