Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ18, Colors II

CCD Resurgence: Images with a Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ18, a super-zoom digital bridge camera with an 8.1MP CCD sensor, an 18x optical zoom lens (28-504mm equivalent), manual exposure controls, and RAW format support.

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Over and above the DMC-FZ8, which the DMC-FZ18 replaces, the 1/2.5-inch sensor enjoys a moderate increase in megapixel power from 7.3MP to 8.3MP.

New features of the FZ18 include a dedicated AF/AE button, Face Detection, and a new Intelligent Auto mode that integrates Image Stabilization, Intelligent ISO, Face Detection, and Scene Detection into a 'Super' Auto Mode.

Form-factor-wise, the FZ18 retains Panasonic's tried-and-tested design formula established with the FZ7. Externally, it is very, very similar to the FZ8, albeit with minor facelifts that give the body a bit more curve. With its good ergonomics, SLR-like controls, and massive zoom range in a very compact package, the FZ18 was the one to look at.

The smallish dimensions do not deter the camera's handling. When held, the camera feels stable, safe, and solid, and the operation of the main controls is very easy. The excellent handling, along with the image stabilization and well-balanced design, makes the camera equally safe to use with one hand.

Lumix DMC-FZ18, Leica DC Vario-Elmarit f/2.8-4.2

As with the Panasonic Lumix series, which started with the FZ1 in 2002, the strength of the FZ18, aside from the 8.1MP sensor and an impressive array of functions and features that make it the choice for a very intelligent bridge compact, is undoubtedly the image-stabilized 18x Leica zoom lens with an f/2.8 maximum opening covering a range from 28 to 500mm.