Are five megapixels a technological step backwards or an exercise in affordable photography?
As the digital camera market turns its focus to models with at least 8 megapixels, it’s interesting that Panasonic has released a new 5 megapixel unit.
An update to the DMC-FZ3, the DMC-FZ5 packs an extra 2 million pixels, a larger 1.8in LCD and a 36-432mm (35mm equivalent) 12x optical zoom. As with the FZ3, the new model also includes the Venus Engine II and sports V Panasonic’s Optical Image Stabilisation (OIS) B technology to help reduce camera shake.
Designed to be as user-friendly as possible, the DMC-FZ5 has a “simple” mode with larger menu graphics and less tweakable options for inexperienced users and kids. It’s also chock-full of features for those after more control, including a range of semi-manual modes, though photography buffs wanting a fully manual camera should look elsewhere as there’s no manual focus ring.
Regardless of the mode you choose, the DMC-FZ5’s Venus Engine II helps to correct colour aberrations (coloured fringing) and vignetting (darkened corners of images), although it wasn’t totally successful during testing.
The body is made from plastic and at 290g, is a pleasure to carry around all day. However, you get the distinct impression it wouldn’t take too kindly to rough handling.
Under testing, the DMC-FZ5, which comes with a high-quality Leica lens, was used to shoot images in both natural light and using the artificial lighting compensation mode. Image quality was good, and the 12x optical zoom lets you get nice and close to the action. Colour reproduction was accurate, and an acceptable amount of digital noise was present when shooting in low-light conditions.
The DMC-FZ5 features nine preset scene modes (portrait, night portrait, scenery, night scenery, sport, panning, fireworks, party and snow) to help you take the best photos regardless of the situation. What’s more, the camera’s three second start-up time will do its best to make sure you don’t miss that once in a lifetime moment.
Panasonic’s software bundle includes Arcsoft Photobase, Panorama Maker 3 and Photoimpression 5. The software is incredibly easy to get the hang of and you’ll quickly be creating albums, slideshows, calendars and panoramic images.
While the DMC-FZ5 is a well-built camera with lots of useful features, and you get quite a bit of kit, its price puts it close to its 8 megapixel competitors. At the same time, travellers and outdoor enthusiasts might want something slightly more robust.

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