AVCHD means extended HD shooting time
Hey, there's no doubt — your Lumix DMC-ZS3's 10.1-megapixel still images deliver the clarity and details you're looking for. However, this camera is packed with loads of image-enhancing features, starting with the ability to record video . . . in HD . . in AVCHD format. AVCHD (MPEG-4/H.264) format is important because it stores less data than other formats and lets you shoot more minutes of HD motion images. Supported by the Venus Engine, you can now record your own high-definition, motion images right on the DMC-ZS3 at a smooth 60 frames-per-second with 1280 x 720-pixel resolution. Oh yeah, and you can zoom-in and out while shooting motion images! Back at home after a day of shooting, use the DMC-ZS3's mini HDMI input and a separate HDMI cable to connect directly to your HDTV and enjoy your video and your memories in HD.
YouTube capable — and more outstanding features
Your DMC-ZS3K is the world's first compact camera to feature Dolby (R) sound, which means you get dynamic, natural audio to compliment your HD images. Another handy feature is the wind-cut function, which minimizes the distracting sound you hear from the wind. And yes, your camera comes with YouTube™ uploader software, so you can easily upload your video clips to YouTube. Thanks to the HDMI output and VIERA Link, you have direct transmission of digital picture and sound signals. If you have a VIERA HDTV, you can control the camera's playback functions with VIERA's remote control unit.
iA mode: Worry about the shot, not the scene mode
Just set the camera to iA mode, aim, and shoot. The camera does all the rest. It automatically determines the most suitable Scene mode and helps correct blurring, focus, and brightness problems. With iA mode, it's easy to get beautiful, clear results. Note: In the ZS3, iA mode cannot be used when shooting motion images.
Five! Shot-enhancing technologies
Take every shot with confidence. Intelligent Auto mode places five technologies under your control that help you snap shots free of common shooting-errors. Intelligent Exposure corrects lighting differences so images come out just the way you see them. The DMC-ZS3's broad list of Scene modes — including Portrait, Soft Skin, Transform, Self-Portrait, Scenery, Low Light, Food, Party, Candle Light, Sunset, High Sensitivity, Beach & Surf, Snow, Aerial, Pinhole, Film Grain, and Underwater — might seem daunting, but the Intelligent Scene Selector makes things easy by choosing the mode that best fits each situation for you. When the excitement of the shot makes you a little unsteady, MEGA Optical Image Stabilization (for stills and movie recording!) reduces blurring caused by hand shake. Motion blur that might otherwise occur when shooting moving subjects is reduced by Intelligent ISO Control. Finally, when you're recording or taking portraits of friends and family, Face Detection helps produce clear portraits by optimizing focus and exposure settings.
Whoa, steady now . . . One more word on O.I.S.
Get ready to bid camera-shake blur adieu. Whether you enjoy shooting pristine landscapes, wildlife, sports or candid moments at gatherings with friends, the excitement of the shot can get to even the most seasoned of photographers, putting even just a teeny shake in an otherwise steady hand. The unfortunate result? Blurry memories and fuzzy moments. Enter Panasonic's MEGA Optical Image Stabilizer, featured on the DMC-ZS3 digital camera. A built-in gyrosensor detects any hand movement during a shot, and then sends a signal to the camera's microcomputer. After calculating the necessary compensation, the microcomputer shifts the optical image stabilizer to guide the incoming light from the subject directly and cleanly to the CCD image sensor. You get all of your DMC-ZS3's 10.1 megapixels devoted to sharp, clear detail and not to blur and fuzz.
Composing, reviewing, and sharing each shot is easy
Many digital cameras — including your new DMC-ZS3 — use an LCD screen on the back of the camera as the viewfinder for composing shots. By automatically adjusting its brightness as ambient light conditions change, the DMC-ZS3's wide 3.0" LCD screen gives you a clear view of each shot you compose, and is ideal for reviewing shots right after you've taken them, or for sharing images with friends.
A professional technique made automatic
Seasoned and novice photographers, alike, use a technique called bracketing both as a learning tool and to help guarantee that they don't miss the perfect shot. Bracketing is simple — photographers simply take three or four photographs in succession, slightly changing the exposure settings for each shot to ensure that the right exposure is given. The DMC-ZS3's Auto Bracketing mode automatically takes multiple pictures with a single press of the shutter, each using a different exposure. Review all the images after the shot and keep the best one.
Don't let fast subjects slow you down
Whether it's a break-away play at your child's hockey game, or wildlife darting through the trees, fast-moving subjects usually don't give you a chance to take more than one shot. Take between 2.5 and 6 shots-per-second (depending on resolution) with the DMC-ZS3's High-Speed Burst mode. You just got a whole lot better at catching that perfect action shot.
Special travel functions for the perfect trip
The Clipboard allows you to take photos of maps, timetables, and other travel info. These images are saved in a separate folder of the DMC-ZS3's built-in memory to distinguish them from normal photos. You can print titles and other characters on the photos you shoot with the Title Edit and Stamp function. This is great for creating your own postcards from a vacation trip. Input your departure date and destination with the Travel Date Setting. Later, during photo viewing, the camera will indicate on which day of the trip each shot was taken and the location.
Standard accessories and included software
The following accessories are included with the purchase of the DMC-ZS3K: Battery charger / Battery pack / Battery carrying case / AV and USB cables / Strap / CD-ROM. The following software are included with the purchase of the DMC-ZS3K: PhotofunStudio v3.0 / ArcSoft® MediaImpression&trade / ArcSoft Panorama Maker&trade / QuickTime / USB driver.
