Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ35

The 12-megapixel Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ35 has a lot going for it. Although its 18x Leica lens is not quite as long as some of the other leading ultra-zoom models, it takes consistently excellent images throughout the full 27 mm to 486 mm range. It has a maximum aperture of 2.8 that permits faster shutter speeds for night shooting, and auto focus is super fast. The DMC-FZ35 also boasts an improved optical image-stabilization system that reviewers say reduces image blur at most zoom ranges. The camera is also more compact than other ultra-zooms, making it handy to throw in a coat pocket or purse.

The DMC-FZ35 has both an electronic viewfinder and a 2.7-inch LCD with 230k resolution, which is on the small side for cameras in this class. It can store images in RAW format, which is handier for photo editing than the regular JPEG format. There is a fully automatic Intelligent mode that chooses the best scene, but the camera also comes with a range of manual controls that allow you to set shutter or aperture priority, white balance and focus. One of the DMC-FZ35's greatest strengths is its video capabilities. It records HD at 720p resolution and features AVCHD Lite recording, which is great for showing on an HDTV. Most reviewers praise the camera for having consistently sharp images, even in low light. "For those of you who want a full-featured super zoom camera with elaborate movie recording features, the FZ35 should be high on your list," DCResource.com editors write.

The DMC-FZ35 has been widely reviewed. The most comprehensive looks are at Imaging-Resource.com, DCResource.com and CNET.com. This camera also has been extensively evaluated by users on Amazon.com, who verify many of the judgments of the professional testers.