Panasonic Lumix DMC-S3 information from Consumer Reports

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Panasonic Lumix DMC-S3

Approximate retail price:

$90

Summary: A 14-megapixel camera from Panasonic with a 2.6-inch LCD, 4x optical zoom, and an image stabilizer.

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Type: Subcompact models

About - Panasonic Lumix DMC-S3
The Lumix DMC-S3 is a 14-megapixel camera with 4x optical zoom and has a 35mm-equivalent focal length range of 28mm-112mm. It has a 2.6-inch LCD (230,400 pixels). Because of its small size, we consider this model a subcompact. The Lumix DMC-S3 stores photos and video on SD/SDHC/SDXC memory cards and has 70MB of in-board storage. It captures images as JPG files at a top resolution of 4320 x 3240 and HD-resolution video as MOV files at a top resolution of 1280 x 720. Like most digital cameras, this model comes with a proprietary rechargeable battery. The image stabilization system for this camera is optical. The Lumix DMC-S3 measures 3.9 inches wide by 2.4 inches high by 0.9 inches deep, and weighs 4 ounces (with battery, memory card, and strap).

About - Panasonic Lumix DMC-S3

The Lumix DMC-S3 is a 14-megapixel camera with 4x optical zoom and has a 35mm-equivalent focal length range of 28mm-112mm. It has a 2.6-inch LCD (230,400 pixels).

Because of its small size, we consider this model a subcompact.

The Lumix DMC-S3 stores photos and video on SD/SDHC/SDXC memory cards and has 70MB of in-board storage. It captures images as JPG files at a top resolution of 4320 x 3240 and HD-resolution video as MOV files at a top resolution of 1280 x 720.

Like most digital cameras, this model comes with a proprietary rechargeable battery.

The image stabilization system for this camera is optical.

The Lumix DMC-S3 measures 3.9 inches wide by 2.4 inches high by 0.9 inches deep, and weighs 4 ounces (with battery, memory card, and strap).

About This Brand
Every Panasonic Lumix, from pricey super zooms to budget models, has optical stabilization. Many models offer great value when they combine optical image stabilization with innovations such as intelligent ISO, which automatically raises the camera sensor's sensitivity when it detects motion, allowing faster shutter speed. Panasonic has introduced several G-series Lumix models that are based on micro four-thirds sensor technology. This type of camera combines key SLR features—a large image sensor and interchangeable lenses—with the smaller size and weight of a point-and-shoot. Panasonic also offers two L series SLR bodies and some lenses. It has also introduced a G Series camera that accepts a 3D lens to shoot 3D video and photos.
Read our Brand Reliability

About This Brand

Every Panasonic Lumix, from pricey super zooms to budget models, has optical stabilization. Many models offer great value when they combine optical image stabilization with innovations such as intelligent ISO, which automatically raises the camera sensor's sensitivity when it detects motion, allowing faster shutter speed. Panasonic has introduced several G-series Lumix models that are based on micro four-thirds sensor technology. This type of camera combines key SLR features—a large image sensor and interchangeable lenses—with the smaller size and weight of a point-and-shoot. Panasonic also offers two L series SLR bodies and some lenses. It has also introduced a G Series camera that accepts a 3D lens to shoot 3D video and photos.

Read our Brand Reliability

Features & Specs - Panasonic Lumix DMC-S3
Optical zoom Optical zoom is the maximum magnifcation of the lens. Optical zoom	4
Manual controls Some cameras allow the user to set the aperture (f-stop), shutter speed, or (usually) both. This feature is used to override the automatic exposure settings when more control is needed. During a sporting event for example, you may want to use a high shutter speed to freeze the action. Or, you may want to use a low shutter speed to blur moving objects (like a waterfall) while keeping stationary objects sharp. Using shallow depths of field can be used to blur the background of photos while keeping the foreground in focus. Typically up/down arrow keys are used to change settings displayed on the LCD or in the viewfinder. These controls are not as easy to use as on conventional film cameras. Manual controls	No
LCD size (in.) Digital cameras have a small liquid-crystal display (LCD) screen on the back so you can see the images and decide which to keep. You can also use the LCD to help frame photos, but that's a sure way to run down the battery in a hurry. Most LCD screens are too dim for viewing clearly in sunlight. Many cameras also use the screen for displaying menus and camera settings. It is desirable to have both an LCD display and a viewfinder with an eyepiece. LCD size (in.)	2.6
Touch screen Touch screen indicates touch capability on the LCD. Touch screen	No
Viewfinder Found on virtually all models, this optical device allows you to look through an eyepiece to frame the subject before taking a picture. Not to be confused with the LCD image display found on the back of the camera, which is mainly to view photos you've already taken. Viewfinder	No
More features and specs

Additional Information (The information below has been supplied by an external source.)

General Information
Manufacturer	Panasonic
Manufacturer Website Address	www.panasonic.com
Product Line	Lumix
Product Model	DMC-S3
Product Name	Lumix DMC-S3 Compact Camera
Product Type	Compact Camera

User Reviews - Panasonic Lumix DMC-S3

Consumer Reports User Reviews

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Kale Slate

from

Lakeview Terrace, CA

3.0

Very good camera, video not so good.

12/25/2011

Pros

Easy To Use

Fast/accurate auto-focus

Good Image Quality

Nice Body Color

Small / Compact

Cons

Poor Flash

Volume adjustment

Best Uses

Family Photos

Travel

Comment:

This is a very good camera. The pictures are fantastic, but the video is less than exceptional. When playing back video tou can barely hear the sound. However, in every other category, I am very pleased with this device!

How long have you owned it:

A month or less

Bottom Line

Yes, I would recommend this to a friend.

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