Panasonic Lumix DMCLX5 Black
10.1 Megapixel, 24mm Wide-Angle Lens Digital Still Camera
The new LUMIX DMC-LX5 is the ultimate compact, high-performing digital camera that offers photo enthusiasts the ability to capture professional-quality photos and high definition (HD) video. With an ultra-bright F2.0, ultra-wide-angle 24mm LEICA DC VARIO-SUMMICRON lens, the LUMIX LX5 minimizes image distortion, which results in stunning, true-to-life images with outstanding resolution and detail.
LEICA DC VARIO-SUMMICRON lens
The DMC-LX5 is equipped with a newly developed f/2.0 24mm ultra wide-angle* LEICA DC VARIO-SUMMICRON lens with even higher resolution. The super bright, high quality lens is redesigned for extension of the optical zoom from the DMC-LX3’s 2.5x (35mm camera equivalent: 60mm) to 3.8x (35mm camera equivalent: 90mm) to be even more versatile for snapshots including portraits. The f/2.0 lens is about twice as bright as the f/2.8 lens, itself generally considered a bright lens. The result is higher shutter speed that can be used to capture stunningly clear, sharp, blur-free images in lower lighting situations.
The lens unit consists of 10 elements in 9 groups with 3 aspherical lenses with 5 aspherical surfaces. Minimal distortion, high resolution, minimum artifacts such as chromatic aberrations, ghosting and flaring are the proof of uncompromising imaging made possible by a F2.0, 24mm ultra wide-angle LEICA DC VARIO-SUMMICRON lens.
* Converted to standard 35mm camera equivalent, at the wide end.
Bright F2.0 lens
The high brightness of the fully open F2.0 aperture lends a beautiful soft focus to shots with a shallow depth of field. It is especially effective for macro shots of flowers, insects, or intricate objects. This setting is also ideal for dimly lit scenes that require greater exposure, such as deep, natural forests, dimly lit historic buildings and artwork displays.
24mm wide-angle
The 24mm wide-angle setting produces a viewing space that is approximately 213% that of a 35mm film camera. This is ideal for capturing sweeping natural landscapes and huge buildings and for portraying an expansive spatial effect with dynamic depth. The excellent image quality of the LEICA DC VARIO-SUMMICRON lens allows you to create stunning photos with minimal distortion, contrast and beautiful gradation throughout.
1/1.63-inch 10.1 megapixel high sensitivity CCD
The CCD in the DMC-LX5, which was highly acclaimed from the specialists worldwide, is redesigned to achieve the further expansion of dynamic range by increasing the sensitivity by approx. 31% and the saturation by approx. 38%*1. By redesigning the internal structure to boost light-collecting efficiency and improve the photo receptivity of the photodiode, this high-sensitivity 1/1.63" CCD has achieved a wide dynamic range and low noise. Backed by the elaborate image processing of the Venus Engine FHD, which is a high-performance LSI featuring Intelligent resolution technology, excellent sharpness and gradation render delicate details and finely nuanced hues that were previously impossible, to produce images with remarkable depth and no graininess. Also, the maximum setting is ISO 12800*2 enabling shooting in extremely dark places.
*1 Panasonic in house comparison with the DMC-LX3.
*2 Up to ISO 3200 in full resolution. Over ISO 6400 in 3 megapixel recording mode.
Larger CCD photodiodes
On the newly developed high sensitivity CCD, each photodiode per cell is larger than the ones found on the DMC-LX3.
Venus Engine FHD with Intelligent Resolution Technology
Venus Engine FHD
The new Venus Engine FHD incorporated in the LX5 features exceptionally advanced signal processing capabilities. By separating chromatic noise from luminance noise and applying the optimal noise reduction to each, you can capture clear and beautiful images even when shooting at high ISO sensitivity levels. The Venus Engine FHD also provides precise selective noise reduction to the chromatic noise without affecting the border of colours which is judged from the brightness level of a pixel. Linking smoothly with the MOS sensor, the Venus Engine FHD processes a large amount of signals at high speed, making it possible to record high resolution consecutive shots and full-HD movie recording.
Intelligent Resolution Technology
Tiny nuances that used to be invisible are now crisp and clear, and every part of the image is breathtakingly beautiful. LUMIX's new Intelligent Resolution Technology automatically identifies areas with outlines, detailed texture areas and soft gradation areas, and optimizes the edge emphasis on the outlines and detailed texture areas while using the Venus Engine noise reduction process to make the soft gradation areas smoother. This lets the iA mode do much more than just take great shots automatically. It adds delicate detail that exceeds even optical image quality in both photo and movie recording.
Outlines
Clearly emphasizes the outlines between subject and background.
Detailed texture areas
Heightens the intricacy of detailed areas.
Soft gradation areas
The superior noise reduction system of the Venus Engine FHD is applied to make it smoother.
Superior noise reduction without losing image details
This advanced noise reduction system detects chromatic noise and luminance noise separately. In addition, the Venus Engine™ FHD enhances this detection by effectively reducing highly noticeable low-frequency chromatic noise in advance, while delicately applying noise reduction (NR) processing to detailed areas to prevent colour bleeding that often happens when NR is used. As a result, beautiful images with minimal noise can be reproduced up to ISO 1600 high sensitivity at full resolution, while colour noise is less noticeable in shadows and other dark areas even when shooting with low sensitivity.
High-speed response for truly intuitive shooting
Enjoy high-speed 1-second start-ups, AF speeds of approximately 0.3 second*, and up to 5 consecutive shots at 2.5 frames per second with full resolution.
* At wide end; Start-up time and AF speed vary depending on shooting conditions.
Low energy consumption
The energy-saving Venus Engine FHD image processing engine and the efficient, rechargeable lithium-ion battery work together to extend the shooting time of the DMC-LX5, making it possible to take approximately 400 shots on a single battery charge*.
* Based on the CIPA standard.
Intuitive Manual Operation
A/S/M mode
Aperture priority AE
Set the aperture value to a higher number when you want a sharp focus background. Set the aperture value to a lower number when you want a soft focus background.
Shutter priority AE
When you want to take a sharp picture of a fast moving subject, set with a faster shutter speed. When you want to create a trail effect, set to a slower shutter speed.
Manual exposure
Determine the exposure by manually setting the aperture value and the shutter speed.
Film mode
Every type of film for film cameras has its own colour tone and contrast characteristics. In film mode, you can select the colour tone of the pictures from 9 types in the same way as you would select different films for film cameras. Select different settings in film mode to match the recording situation and your picture of the recording.
Jog dial operation
The jog dial on the back of the camera lets you manually adjust the exposure and focus. You can set the aperture, shutter speed and focus with your thumb while viewing the LCD monitor to compose the photo. In Manual focus mode, you can use the Manual focus assist function, which enlarges the centre of the LCD image while showing the bar graph of a focal distance and depth of field to determine precise focus.
Multiple exposure
Using this function, you can achieve the kind of effect that is obtained when an image is exposed two or three times. After you‘ve taken the first shot, it appears with a translucent effect, so you can use it to setup your second shot and the same for the third shot. The camera also automatically adjusts the gain to optimize the exposure.
MF Assist
When MF assist is activated the screen is enlarged. This allows you to focus on the subject more easily. The focusing area can be enlarged up to 4x and is movable, which also contributes to easy and comfortable manual focusing
Multiple aspect ratios
The CCD is capable of reproducing images in 4 aspect ratios – 4:3, 3:2, 1:1 or 16:9. The new multi aspect mode enables the camera to take an image in all 4 aspect ratios simultaneously, allowing users to choose the version that best suits their needs.
Macro mode (1 cm)
The DMC-LX5 lets you get as close as 1 cm to your subject. When the AF mode switch located on the side of the lens is set to AF Macro, or when the iA (Intelligent auto) mode is selected, Macro mode is activated automatically. This is ideal for taking dynamic, intricate close-ups of flowers and insects, or for rendering artwork and handicrafts in spectacular detail and rich expression.
Variable AF area
You can select the AF setting from Face AF, AF Tracking, Multi-AF (23-area) or 1-area AF. With the 1-area AF, the position of the AF area can be freely moved. This is convenient when you want to frame a shot for a special effect, like focusing on a subject at the very edge of the frame. The AF frame size can also be selected from among Spot, Normal, L, and XL.
iA (Intelligent Auto) Mode
iA – Intelligent auto technology
The camera will set the most appropriate settings to match the subject and the recording conditions, which is perfect for beginners or those who want to leave the settings to the camera and take pictures easily.
Continuous AF
The LX5 features the continuous AF function which automatically and continuously focuses* on your subject, providing a clear, sharp focus even for moving subjects. This is ideal for capturing images of animals in nature and sports or other events, and is equally handy for taking photos of children and pets. It helps to ensure that pictures of sudden shooting opportunities will not be out of focus or blurry.
* The focus speed may be slower in dark surroundings.
Note: Continuous AF is automatically turned on in iA Mode and can be turned on or off in Normal Picture Mode.
Digital red-eye reduction
iA mode also helps avoid the red-eye problem you get when taking flash shots at night. Red-eye reduction for the built-in flash works by emitting a small preliminary flash before the main flash. Furthermore, thanks to the digital red-eye correction function, red-eye problems are automatically detected and corrected digitally.
Face detection
The face detection function detects faces anywhere in the frame and automatically chooses the optimal focus and exposure. You can take clear, beautiful portrait shots easily. It detects up to 15 faces in a photo, and automatically readjusts the settings if their positions change. In iA mode, the quick AF function automatically begins focusing without having to press the shutter button halfway, so the shooting process is smooth and easy.
Face recognition
The LX5 expands our popular Intelligent Auto (iA) mode with the addition of Face recognition – a feature that “remembers” faces from previous shots*. When a registered face appears in the frame, the camera will prioritize focus and exposure to capture it beautifully. With Face recognition, when a familiar face is recorded several times, the camera will prompt the user to register the face. Once registered, if the face appears into the frame again, the camera will display the name specified for that person and prioritize focus and exposure so that the registered face is bright and sharply focused.
* Depending on background and facial expression, camera may not recognize a registered person. For family members with similar facial features, camera may not correctly identify the intended subject.
Light detection - Intelligent exposure
The camera instantly analyzes the framed image and adjusts the brightness in areas that are too dark due to dim lighting, backlighting or use of the flash. Adjusting the brightness of dark areas this function produces natural images that are close to the way they actually look to the human eye.
Motion detection - Advanced intelligent ISO control
Thanks to Intelligent ISO control, the camera can determine whether or not the subject is moving. If the subject is moving, Intelligent ISO control changes the ISO sensitivity and shutter speed accordingly. You get clear, beautiful shots with no motion blur even when photographing kids who won't stay still.
Scene detection – Intelligent scene selector
When the camera is iA mode, the Intelligent scene selector senses the ambient conditions and automatically selects either Scenery, Portrait, Macro, Night portrait or Night scenery mode accordingly. It makes several other advanced image settings too, so you're assured of getting beautiful results every time you shoot, no matter what the scene or subject. With the Intelligent scene selector doing all the complicated work for you, you'll find photography easier than ever to enjoy.
* In iA mode, night portrait is not identified when the flash is turned off and night scenery is not identified when the flash is set to auto.
Shake detection - POWER O.I.S.
LUMIX cameras now render nightscapes and other dark scenes, which tend to blur due to their slower shutter speeds, with even more natural beauty. The new POWER O.I.S. image stabilizer has doubled* the corrective power of previous models, making it possible to take beautiful nighttime photos with one hand. You do not need to raise the ISO sensitivity, even in dimly lit areas, so you are able to capture photos with less noise. POWER O.I.S. is an original, advanced LUMIX technology that is leading the way for some remarkable new possibilities in compact cameras.
* Panasonic comparison
Subject detection – AF tracking
Once you focus on your subject, AF tracking automatically tracks it until you press the shutter. When you're taking pictures of an active subject, like children or pets, this function eliminates the need to press the shutter button halfway down repeatedly to readjust the focus. AF tracking makes sure you don't miss those once-in-a-lifetime shooting opportunities.
* In iA mode, AF tracking can be started by simply pressing the top cursor button.
Intelligent LCD
Intelligent / High resolution LCD
The DMC-LX5 is equipped with a 3.0-inch, 460,000-dot Intelligent LCD with super high resolution and a wide viewing angle. The big screen reflects fine details, making it easy to check the focus before shooting. It also serves as a small photo and video viewer, allowing the user and friends to enjoy viewing the still and motion images together. Plus, adopting the high CRI (Colour rendering index) LED backlight realizes vivid, impressive colour reproduction that is true the colour that your eyes (memory) remember.
Also, LUMIX's acclaimed Intelligent LCD function automatically adjusts the brightness in 11 steps according to the shooting conditions. At the highest of these 11 steps, the LCD backlight becomes approx. 1.4 times brighter than normal. In addition, the AR (anti-reflective) coating LCD minimizes glare and provides clear images, for high visibility even in outdoor brightness. This LCD provides sharp, clear images in virtually all shooting situations, from nighttime to bright daylight scenes.
Other Features
AVCHD Lite
The LX5 can record HD videos in AVCHD Lite*. Compared with the conventional Motion JPEG format, AVCHD Lite allows longer recordings with breathtaking HD visual and audio quality. This, combined with a well-considered control interface that includes a dedicated movie recording button on the camera’s back panel, makes the LX5 a hybrid model that performs admirably for both still and motion image capture. The LX5 records HD motion images with 1280 x 720-pixel resolution.
You can also use the iA mode to shoot motion images, and let the camera do all the work for you. This user-friendly mode automatically selects the most suitable Scene mode and helps correct blurring, focus and brightness problems. All you do is aim and shoot. iA is the easy way to capture beautiful HD movies.
* The "AVCHD" is a high definition (HD) digital video recording / playback format jointly established by Panasonic Corporation and Sony Corporation. The “AVCHD Lite” is a subset of the “AVCHD format” for HD digital video cameras with HD video recording restricted to 720P. The new “AVCHD Lite” Logo and the “AVCHD Lite” License are restricted to devices within the AVCHD Video Camera category. Digital cameras have now been added to the AVCHD Video
Consecutive shooting
In spite of its high 10.1 megapixel resolution, the LX5 lets you snap off consecutive shooting at 2.5 fps* with full resolution, even in RAW format. You can take a series of shots, then choose the ones you like best and delete the rest.
* Maximum of 5 images in standard mode and 3 images in fine mode.
HD Motion picture button
Press the button and the camera starts recording right away, regardless of whether it's in Rec or Play mode. You're ready to shoot quickly when there is a sudden shooting opportunity. It automatically selects the most suitable Scene mode (POWER O.I.S, Face detection, Intelligent scene selector and Intelligent exposure), and helps to correct handshake, focus and brightness problems – making iA mode your one-stop solution to capture beautiful still and motion images. By optimizing these settings, the camera allows you to shoot stunning HD motion images.
HD Motion images
The LX5 can record motion images in high definition (1280 x 720) resolution at 30 fps. You can also shoot smooth moving pictures at 30 fps* in WVGA (848 x 480 pixels); standard VGA size (640 x 480 pixels) at 30 fps* and QVGA (320 x 240 pixels) at 30 fps.*
* QuickTime Motion JPEG.
RAW file format compatible / Software for editing
The LX5 records original photos in RAW file format and comes bundled with SILKYPIX Developer Studio 3.1SE software application, enabling the user to freely adjust RAW data settings such as exposure bias and white balance, even after shooting, for greater editing and image development.
Key Features
- Wide-angle 24 mm LEICA DC VARIO-SUMMICRON F2.0 lens
- Redesigned 1/1.63” high sensitivity CCD with 10.1 megapixel resolution
- 3.8x Optical zoom (35 mm equivalent: 24-90 mm)
- 3.0” Intelligent LCD (460K) and 3:2 aspect
- Intelligent auto mode:
- POWER O.I.S. (Optical image stabilizer)
- Intelligent ISO control
- Face detection
- Face recognition
- AF tracking
- Intelligent scene selector
- Intelligent exposure control
- Digital red-eye correction
- Venus Engine FHD processor
- Manual exposure & manual focus
- RAW file capture
- AVCHD Lite movie recording at 30fps
What's Included:
- Battery charger
- Li-ion battery pack
- Lens cap
- Lens ring front
- Hot shoe cover
- Lens cap string
- Cables: AV & USB
- Shoulder strap
- CD-ROM