Panasonic FZ18

[Sheepshooter]

Well we were gifted enough cash at Christmas to top up the camera fund so it's time! I've been thinking about the FZ 18 because 4 of my friends have one and they are all really happy with it. Do any of you have 2 cents to add?

[Winterhawk1960]

Here is a very good review of the camera that you are asking about.

 http://www.dpreview.com/reviews/panasonicfz18/

Just be sure and get yourself an EXTRA lithium ion battery pack, just keep one on charge all the time, and when taking lots of pictures that use a flash.......you will thank me.

We have had a DMC FZ-30 for several years now, and it only has a 12x optical zoom, this camera that you are looking at has 18x optical zoom. WOW, I can tell you that you will have trouble holding the camera still enough to zoom to that level.

That sounds like a VERY NICE camera......in my opinion. Panasonic uses Leica lenses on it's cameras......pretty good German glass. The lense on a camera is what gives those pictures the best look........I didn't search for the best price, but I can tell you that the only price that I saw listed was less than I paid for our camera several years ago.

I carry it with me EVERY time I go hunting in my pack. Takes excellent pictures......and I am quite sure that you will be very happy with your purchase, if you decide to get this camera.

Winterhawk1960

[Winterhawk1960]

Up near the top of that link, there is a dropdown box that will let you see several areas of review........I'll say it again, that is a NICE camera !!!!!

Winterhawk1960

[Sheepshooter]

Thanks Winterhawk. The FZ 18 has been discontinued so I ended up getting the new FZ35. It's still an 18x zoom but is 12mp and has HD video w/stereo sound plus a faster, quieter processor. I was able to compare mine to my friend's FZ18 and it definitely is an improvement (not that there was anything wrong with the FZ18) There are just a few extras that make operating the camera more friendly. I didn't end up getting an extra battery pack because 2 of my friends said the batteries lasted a long time. Maybe they don't take as many pics as you do. I can't wait to try it out some more. I've just basically been learning to get around the menu so far. It sure has a lot of settings.

[Winterhawk1960]

Your quite welcome.....sir.

GOOD choice on the camera......now play with that sucker, and take lots of pics. Read, and re-read the manual, and try some things out. I think you will get lots of use out of your new camera.        

Winterhawk1960