Panasonic Unveils 4K Ultra-Zoom

2014.06.12

Today Panasonic revealed their first large-sensor ultra-zoom. This is the second on the market and the only one capable of capturing 4K Ultra-HD video. The all-new Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ1000 sports a 20 megapixels 1" CMOS sensor with 2.7X crop-factor and 3:2 aspect-ratio and can record 3840x2160 video at 30 FPS or full 1080p HD at 60 FPS. This high-performance sensor is paired with a unique 25-400mm F/2.8-4 Leica lens including aspherical elements and built-in 5-axis image-stabilization.

This ultra-zoom offers a highly-versatile zoom range and relatively bright aperture plus high image-quality. This represents a huge leap over other Panasonic fixed-lens cameras, making the FZ1000 one of the most attractive travel cameras on the market. Its DSLR-style body provides an all-in-one camera suitable for diverse photographic subjects without the hassle of changing lenses or the risk of sensor-dust.

The Panasonic FZ100 is big on video features with full manual-controls, including smooth electronic zooming and focusing, plus stereo sound from either the built-in microphone or an external audio source. This digital camera provides plenty of external controls, including a fly-by-wire ring to zoom and focus, a single control-dial and 5 customizable buttons.

Usability of the FZ100 is assured in a variety of conditions thanks to a huge 0.7X magnification EVF with 2.4 megapixels, plus a rotating 3" LCD with 920K pixels. An Eye-Start sensor automatically toggles between EVF and LCD too. WiFi and NFC are also included.

The Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ1000 is scheduled to ship next month for a suggested price of $899 USD. Amazon is already accepting pre-orders, as are Adorama and B&H Photo. Order quickly if you need it this summer!

• Digital Camera