Panasonic DMC-FZ7K Digital Camera

[billz]

Does anyone have this camera or have any feedback on it? Circuit City has it for $360US. Good camera?? Good price??

DPReview says lots of good things about it, but also reports significant noise. Looking for other opinions.

Thanks folks.

Bill

[Montego]

Bill,
I have the FZ5, the early version of the FZ7.It is a very light,durable camera.
Noise can be a problem if you use a sensitivity setting (ISO) above 100.
The FZ5 has no built in noise reduction so taking picture in low light requires using Neat Image or other noise reducing software.
I bought it for the 12X lens which gives really good results with Panasonic's anti-shake system.
The camera is small, so if you have large hands, I suggest that you handle one to see if you like the feel.
Dave

[billz]

Dave - Thanks for the info. It was very helpful.

Bill

[Robyn]

My 'other' camera is an FZ5 and I love it...........but I agree, no good for big hands.

[billz]

Thanks Robyn ... one of the things I like about it is the feel in my hand. Sounds like if I can get by at a low ISO I'll be happy.

Bill

[billz]

I had talked myself out of the camera, but the local Fry's had it on sale today for $299US. I'm now the proud owner!

Here's the first picture ... straight out of the camera.:D

http://www.pixentral.com/hosted/16vLgmXUMW8K3twbhRfUybW7cwKu0_thumb.jpg (http://www.pixentral.com/show.php?picture=16vLgmXUMW8K3twbhRfUybW7cwKu0)

Hope they all turn out this well.

Bill

[Robyn]

Hi Bill..........

I'm pleased that you got it, you won't be sorry. My little FZ5 does a damn good job for the price and I've produced some reasonable pics from it.

Very nice pic that you have posted here.