Panasonic DMC-GF3XK (Black)

12.1-megapixel Lumix digital camera

495065929

For a pro-quality camera without pro-camera size, look to Panasonic's DMC-GF3XK. This camera offers interchangeable lens capability in a body size that won't weigh you down. It also has all the manual controls that diehard photographers desire, while still offering plenty of scene modes and guides for those still masering the art.

Bridging the gap

Cameras come in two basic varieties. On one hand, you have point-and-shoots. These cameras are known for their convenience; They're small, they're automatic, and they usually come in cool colors, too. On the other end of the spectrum are DSLRs. These "professional" cameras are loved for their quality and control; They have manual settings and interchangeable lenses, and they take great pictures, but they also take up a lot of space in your bag. Making the move from point-and-shoot to the much more powerful DSLRs can be a big leap, but it's a lot easier with the Panasonic DMC-GF3XK. This incredible camera is designed to bridge the gap between the two categories, marrying the convenience of a point-and-shoot to the advanced qualities of a DSLR. On one hand, it lets you switch out lenses, uses a powerful Venus Engine, and gives you plenty of manual control options for boundless creativity in your shots. But it's also got a small body, touchscreen LCD, and plenty of automatic and scene modes. Plus, in manual modes, it has helpful guides for learning photographers to be sure they get the shot they're trying for. It's the perfect camera for anyone who's getting serious about their photography, but isn't quite ready to jump right into the big leagues. And we think that is simply brilliant.

What's in the box?

Included with purchase is the DMC-GF3XK camera body, H-H014 lens with front cap, PHOTOfunSTUDIO 6.2 HD Edition, SILKYPIX Developer Studio 3.1 SE, USB driver, Super LoiloScope trial version, Batter charger, AV cable, USB connection cable, shoulder strap, stylus pen, and user's manual.

Comparison Specifications

12.1 effective megapixels
Accepts SD/SDHC/SDXC media
14mm to 42mm lens included (3x optical zoom rating); Power Optical Image Stabilization
Scene modes: Portrait, Soft Skin, Scenery, Architecture, Sports, Peripheral Defocus, Flower, Food, Objects, Night Portrait, Night Scenery, Illuminations, Baby (2), Pet, Party, Sunset
Flash modes: Auto, Auto/Red-eye Reduction, On, On/Red-eye Reduction, Slow Sync., Slow Sync/Red-eye Reduction, Off
Movie modes: Portrait, Soft Skin, Scenery, Architecture, Sports, Flower, Food, Objects, Low-light, Party, Sunset
Manual exposure, shutter speed, and aperture options with helpful display system
3.0" touchscreen LCD viewscreen
USB, AV, and mini-HDMI ports