14 DAY TRIAL // Together with the Lumix FZ47 superzoom camera, Panasonic has also released a much more simple point-and-shoot for casual photographers, known as the Lumix LS5, that also supports high definition video recording.
This time though, the camera is limited at 720p resolutions, where it supports frame rates up to 30fps, even though its CCD sensor is able to capture images at 14.1MP.
Compared to its older brother, the Lumix LS5 also loses the powerful “creative mode,” as well as a series of other features, but it gains in functionality as it was designed to run of regular AA batteries.
Fortunately, the camera has retained Panasonic's iA (Intelligent Auto) Mode that automatically adjusts the current setting and shooting conditions when taking a picture, while also selecting from the available scene modes the one that best suits the picture you want to take.
The rest of the features list includes 5x optical zoom, a 2.7-inch rear screen with a 230K dot resolution, O.I.S. (Optical Image Stabilization), and a special YouTube & Facebook image uploader.
All these are paired together with a fast F2.8 lens, which can take macro pictures at 5cm from the target.
"The Lumix LS5 is the ideal digital camera for an entry-level user who wants an extremely easy to use digital camera that does not sacrifice image quality," said David Fisher, Product Manager, Imaging, Panasonic Consumer Electronics Company.
"With top-quality features like HD video and an F2.8 26mm wide-angle lens, the LS5 is giving consumers exceptional performance and value, while being easy-to-use and convenient.
“By adding a Lumix model that runs on AA batteries, we are mindful that consumers have different needs and preferences," concluded the company's rep.
The Panasonic Lumix LS5 will be available in November of 2011, and pricing will be announced approximately 30 days prior to shipping.