After having owned a model FZ-7 for 6 months, I was eager to upgrade to the wider and longer lens offered by the FZ-18 and gave the FZ-7 away as a gift. After several hundred photos, I have found the FZ-18 to be as easy and satisfying as the FZ-7. The lens delivers sharp photos in all modes and the camera is intuitively easy to use. It offers a full range of features on a very light body which will be easy to tote along in most situations. The FZ-18 is nearly $125 more than the FZ-7. If it were not for the new lens, the earlier model would have been most satisfactory.
FMC-FZ18
Ease Of Use
Value
Performance
Overall Rating
(5.0/5.0)
(5.0/5.0)
(5.0/5.0)
(5.0/5.0)
Reviewed By: Henry Wilson Odon, IN
I purchased the Panasonic LUMIX FZ18 because of the 18x optical zoom with Leica DC Vario-Elmarit 28mm wide angle to 504mm telephoto lens. 8 mega pixel. Image stabilizer worked flawlessly on 18x pictures. I used the camera to photograph mule deer and antelope in Wyoming. Exception digital pictures at long range. I like the extended telescoping ability to 115x by reducing the mega pixel quality. The image stabilizer does not function in the higher extended range but resting on a fence post or stable surface produced excellent photos with unbelievable clarity even without a tripod. The easy switching between viewfinder and 2.5 LCD monitor is great. I cant think of anything Ive tried to do with this camera that hasnt produced near perfect results. I wanted a camera for wide angle and long range capabilities without a hefty weight and two or three separate lens. This camera filled the need. If you want a camera that really zooms in quickly and takes great long range photos without a tripod along with wide angle capability this camera will do it. There are so many other features I havent even used but it surpasses what I bought it to do.
I ordered this camera from Vanns two days before leaving on vacation and it arrived as the shipping indicated it would. The day before I left. Great service, good price.
Panasonic
Ease Of Use
Value
Performance
Overall Rating
(4.0/5.0)
(5.0/5.0)
(5.0/5.0)
(5.0/5.0)
Reviewed By: Jenny Carey Tampa, Florida
This camera is lots of fun. I have been a digital snob, preferring print photographs, so this is my first foray into this field and I am having so much fun with this camera. It does all that it promises on the spec sheet and more. I did have some problems with blurry photos with the zoom but they cleared up with practice.
Great first digital camera, could work for the sophisticated user that wanted something light for the weekend or someone who didnt want the hassle of extra lenses.
