Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ18 review

Average user rating

9.0

spectacular

Average user rating from 3 users

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Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ18 user reviews

February 3, 2008

Posted by: dougsinnott

"Pricey but worth every penny"

What I like:

The size,versatility,quality of lens and photos,build quality

What I don't like:

Nothing really

Review:

I already have a Nikon D40,and the excellent 18-55 standard lens,and the 55-200 VR tele-zoom lens.
As good as this camera is,sometimes the shear weight of the outfit,which is light,compared to some SLRs,put me off taking it on walks in the country,etc.,meaning I just use to leave it behind,or just take the camera with just one lens,which can be very restrictive.
The FZ18 is the ideal alternative,being packed full of options,with that superb Leica lens,from wideangle to super telephoto.
It quick to use,produces great A4 prints,and I can't fault it.
Obviously,if you were to really picky,as the D40 has a larger sensor,the prints at high ISOs should be better,but up to ISO 400,there is very little noticeable difference at all on the screen,and none on the 11x8.5 prints.
I am,I like to think,quite knowledgable about cameras,and photography,being a keen photographer for over 40years,having had numerous 35mm SLRs,and digital,starting with the very good(at the time)Fuji S602,up to my current Nikon.
But,as I also print most of my pictures,(unlike a lot of digital converts)I have no hesitation in recommending the FZ18 as being a great choice if you want the benefits of an 8MP camera,with almost all the benefits of an SLR,but in a much more user friendly,portable,package.
As the camera is so light,but still a well made piece of kit,it's a joy to take out,and I'm really impressed with it,and have hardly looked at my Nikon since I bought the FZ18.