Panasonic Lumix DMC-LZ7

Review summary: Similar in shape, size, and style to preceding Panasonic Lumix models, most notably the DMC-LZ5, the DMC-LZ7 is a little boxy, yet still fairly compact. The DMC-LZ7 offers many of the same features as the LZ5, but updates the line with a 7.2-megapixel ...

Pros: Compact size ; Wide array of preset shooting modes ; Mega O.I.S. (Optical Image Stabilization) ; Large 2.5-inch LCD monitor ; 6x optical zoom ; Generally good overall exposure and performance ; Good prefocused shutter lag ; Good macro performance ; ...

Cons: High image noise and noise suppression ; Slow startup, cycle times, and shutter lag ; Moderate blurring in the corners from the lens ; Strong contrast under harsh lighting ; High barrel distortion at wide-angle ; Flat, clay-like skin tones ; Poor ...

Verdict: In addition to its almost dummy-proof exposure modes, the DMC-LZ7 offers a generous 6x optical zoom lens, equivalent to a 37-222mm lens on a 35mm camera. As much as 4x digital zoom is available, and there's also a 9x "Extended Optical Zoom" option, ...

Review summary: With a 6x zoom, optical image stabilization, 2.5-inch LCD, 7.2-megapixel sensor, and a stack of shooting modes, the Panasonic Lumix LZ7 has all the makings of a winning digital camera design, for under $200. Its High Sensitivity mode promises a lot ...

Pros: Compact size, Wide array of preset shooting modes, Mega O.I.S. (Optical Image Stabilization), Large 2.5-inch LCD monitor, 6x optical zoom, Generally good overall exposure and performance, Good prefocused shutter lag, Good macro performance, Good ...

Cons: High image noise and noise suppression, Slow startup, cycle times, and shutter lag, Moderate blurring in the corners from the lens, Strong contrast under harsh lighting, High barrel distortion at wide-angle, Flat, clay-like skin tones, Poor flash ...