Panasonic announces entry-level Lumix DMC-LS5 camera with wide, bright lens

Panasonic is brightening up its compact camera lineup with a brand new entry-level model: Announced today, the Panasonic Lumix DMC-LS5 looks to be a well-featured but basic everyman's shooter, but it stands out from the crowd with a wider and brighter than average 5x optical zoom lens. The 26-130mm equivalent f/2.8-6.5 lens will allow the average point-and-shoot photographer greater framing flexibility and should deliver better image quality in low light.

Like some entry-level models from Canon and Nikon among others, the LS5 utilizes AA batteries -- a departure for Panasonic, which uses rechargeable Lithium Ion batteries in the rest of its lineup. If you don't want to be replacing your batteries every 160 shots (i.e., the rated battery life using two AA alkaline batteries), you can opt for a NiMH battery, which will give you closer to 320 snaps between charges. But for this camera's target audience (casual, entry-level snapshooters), the option of being able to easily grab batteries on the go is nice.

• The rest of the LS5's feature set is solid, if unremarkable, including:
• 720p HD video recording at 30fps
• Optical image stabilization
• Face Detection
• Intelligent scene selection
• 15 scene modes including Panorama Assist
• In-camera red-eye removal
• 2.7-inch, 260,000-dot LCD

Pricing has not yet been set, but the camera (available in black only) is set to begin shipping in November.

For more information, read the press release »

PANASONIC ANNOUNCES EASY-TO-USE DIGITAL CAMERA WITH 26MM WIDE-ANGLE F2.8 LENS, IDEAL FOR LOW-LIGHT SHOOTING

The LUMIX LS5 Shoots 720 HD Video and Runs on AA Batteries

SECAUCUS, NJ (July 21, 2011) - Panasonic today announces a new 14.1-megapixel LUMIX DMC-LS5 digital camera that features a high-quality 26mm wide-angle, 5x optical zoom lens. With an incredible F2.8 lens and Optical Image Stabilization, the LUMIX LS5 excels in taking clear photos, even in dimly-lit situations. The LUMIX LS5 also features 720p High Definition video capabilities and runs on AA batteries, perfect for the user who is looking for added convenience.

"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."

To further its ease-of-use, the LUMIX LS5 features Panasonic's popular iA (Intelligent Auto mode), which automatically engages the following features, without the user making any setting adjustments:

• O.I.S. (Optical Image Stabilization) - Helps reduce blur caused by a shaky hand
• Face Detection - Finds human faces to give appropriate focus and exposure
• Intelligent Scene Selector - Detects the environment and sets the best shooting parameters based on Portrait, Scenery, Night Portrait, Night Scenery and Macro

The new LUMIX LS5 records HD video in 1280 x 720p at a smooth 30 fps - which is ideal for viewing on a High Definition Television. Users with a VIERA® HDTV, can simply remove the SD Memory Card from the LUMIX and insert it into the built-in SD Memory Card Slot on the VIERA HDTV to enjoy HD videos and photo slideshows.  The LUMIX LS5 can also record video in standard VGA (640 x 480) and QVGA (320 x 240). With the included YouTube and Facebook Image uploader, users can easily share their photos and videos via popular social networking sites.

The Panasonic LUMIX LS5 will be available in black in November 2011. Pricing will be announced approximately 30 days prior to shipping. For more information about Panasonic LUMIX digital cameras, please visit: www.panasonic.com/lumix.

Design and specifications are subject to change without notice.

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•This unit is compatible with SD/SDHC/SDXC Memory Cards. You can only use SDHC Memory Cards on devices that are compatible with them. You cannot use SDHC Memory Cards on devices that are only compatible with SD Memory Cards. (When using an SDHC Memory Card on another device, be sure to read the operating instructions for that device.)

About Panasonic Consumer Electronics Company

Based in Secaucus, N.J., Panasonic Consumer Electronics Company, is a Division of Panasonic Corporation of North America, the principal North American subsidiary of Panasonic Corporation (NYSE: PC) and the hub of Panasonic's U.S. marketing, sales, service and R&D operations.  Panasonic is pledged to practice prudent, sustainable use of the earth's natural resources and protect our environment through the company's Eco Ideas programs. Company information for journalists is available at www.panasonic.com/pressroom.