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New Lumix FS45 & FS40 Cameras



Introducing the Newest Members of Panasonic’s FS range of Cameras – The DMC-FS45 and DMC-FS40 

The multiple award winning LUMIX range of digital still cameras is pleased to welcome two new additions in the form of the 16.1-megapixel DMC-FS45 and 14.1-megapixel DMC-FS40. For the first time, Panasonic’s FS range of cameras now feature the remarkably bright F2.5 high quality LEICA DC VARIO-SUMMARIT lens – previously only available on Panasonic’s higher specification models - for stunningly clear, sharp, blur-free images even in lower lighting situation. If this wasn’t enough, the lens is also a 24mm ultra-wide angle lens – perfect for shooting dynamic landscapes or group photos with its wide angle of view.
 
With these specifications you could be forgiven for thinking the new FS45 and FS40 are aimed only at serious photographers. Don’t be mistaken, although they are packed full of features and functions, the FS45 and FS40 are designed for any user to enjoy shooting beautiful images anytime. With a slim, compact and stylish profile to be proud of the FS45 and FS40 are the prefect accompaniments to capture your special moments.


Super Bright F2.5 LEICA DC VARIO-SUMMARIT Lens

Of noticeable interest is the inclusion of a high quality LEICA DC VARIO-SUMMARIT lens that boasts excellent brightness of F2.5. The F2.5 lens is even brighter by approx. 25% than the F2.8 lens which is generally considered a bright lens in this sector. It allows the use of higher shutter speed but captures stunningly clear, sharp, blur-free images even in lower lighting situation. Together with the MEGA O.I.S. in the iA mode, the DMC-FS45 and FS40 powerfully suppress blur caused by the movement of subjects.

Add to this the 24mm (35mm camera equivalent: 24-120mm ) ultra-wide-angle lens - a feature rare on a compact camera - and photographers have a wider range of composition possibilities with approx. 213% larger viewing space compared to that of a 35mm camera. The super-high-quality LEICA DC VARIO-SUMMARIT lens minimizes distortion at the wide end.

Comprising of 6 elements in 5 groups with 3 aspherical lenses with 5 aspherical surfaces, the lens unit in the DMC-FS45 and FS40 realized downsizing of both total length and diameter to fit in the slim, compact body of the camera. This advanced lens unit passes Leica's stringent standards and delivers an exceptional optical performance with its minimal distortion and chromatic aberrations while suppressing ghosting and flaring.

The iA Zoom (Intelligent Zoom) uses digital zoom to draw the subject 2x closer than the original optical zoom, with minimum deterioration of image quality thanks to the Intelligent Resolution technology. This means the 5x optical can virtually extend to 10x equivalent.


Never Miss That Photographic Shot

The multi-task image-processing engine Venus Engine supports a super-fast response time which makes it easier to capture sudden, spur-of-the-moment photo opportunities, together with the Sonic Speed AF (Auto Focus) that lets you lock on the subject. The LEICA DC VARIO-SUMMARIT lens, high resolution CCD and the high performance Venus Engine assure high quality image rendering.


HD Video Recording Taking Advantage of the Bright Lens

Catering for every photographic need, the new DMC-FS45 and FS40 even record dynamic HD video in 1280 x 720p at a smooth 30p(NTSC) 25p(PAL) in MP4(FS45 ) or Motion JPEG(FS40 ). The recorded videos can be directly uploaded to YouTube using the Lumix Image Uploader. You can enjoy high quality image playback that perfectly fits a wide-screen HDTV for full-screen viewing together with HD (High Definition) photos taken in 16:9 aspects. The DMC-FS45 features a new dedicated video button to switch photo/video recording quickly. Zooming in video recording is also available with DMC-FS45.


iA (Intelligent Auto) Mode and Various Special Effects for More Fun and Ease in Photography

Panasonic incorporated the iA (Intelligent Auto) mode in pursuit of the ultimate ease of operation and the reduction of misshots. All of these useful, convenient shooting-assist functions - MEGA O.I.S., AF Tracking, Intelligent ISO Control, Face Detection, Intelligent Scene Selector and Intelligent Exposure - are automatically activated by turning on the iA mode.

The DMC-FS45 and DMC-FS40 are equipped not only with strong basic performance but also with a variety of shooting options to enhance ease and fun. The FS45 features a Miniature Effect mode in which the peripherals are defocused while saturation and contrast is emphasized to make the picture look like a diorama illusion. Simple to use, this mode allows a photograph of a life-size location or object to look like a photograph of a miniature scale model. Now everyone can be a creative photographer! The video recorded in this mode is played back in 10x fast-forwarding making it more comical to watch .

Panorama Shot and Beauty Retouch are also available in both the FS45 and FS40. It is possible to shoot a horizontal/vertical panoramic image with consequent shots taken by overlaying the previous picture. Beauty Retouch, which is popular on FX series, offers a variety of cosmetic effects on the portrait photos.


Designed With Users in Mind

Testament to Panasonic’s heritage in technology, the FS45 and FS40 have been designed with users in mind. With LCD screens to be proud of (3.0 inch for the FS45 and 2.7 inch for the FS40), images are easy to view back. For greater convenience, the FS45 offers AC/USB power charging so users can connect to an AC outlet or PC for battery recharging.

The FS45 and FS40 both include the LUMIX Image Uploader, allowing users to effortlessly share their photos and movies by simply checkmarking the photos and movies they want to share and connecting the camera or SD/SDHC/SDXC Memory Card to a computer.