Panasonic Debuts LUMIX DMC-FZ50

Successor To Critically Acclaimed DMC-FZ30 Delivers Performance Enhancing Upgrades Including World’s First Intelligent ISO Control

SECAUCUS, NJ (July 19, 2006) – Panasonic today introduced the LUMIX DMC-FZ50, the successor to the critically acclaimed DMC-FZ30, featuring 10.1 megapixels and Panasonic’s revolutionary Intelligent ISO Control technology which compensates for subject movement to decrease image blurriness – an industry first. The DMC-FZ50 will have an MSRP of $649.95.

The LUMIX DMC-FZ50 with MEGA O.I.S. (Optical Image Stabilizer) features a powerful 12x optical zoom (equivalent to 35 mm to 420 mm on a 35 mm film camera) f/2.8 LEICA DC lens. It also boasts a 10.1-megapixel high resolution CCD for its image sensor and Venus Engine III for the image processing LSI, making it possible to record an image at a maximum ISO 1600 high sensitivity setting at full resolution. Furthermore, by dramatically reducing noise levels, the DMC-FZ50 is able to capture 10.1-megapixel full resolution images even in high sensitivity recordings.

“Panasonic is staking a strong claim in the digital camera market and we’re doing it by constantly seeking to improve upon the proven winners in our FZ series of long-zoom cameras,” said Rich Campbell, Director, Digital Imaging, Panasonic Corporation of North America. “The debut of the FZ50 is an example of our commitment to pushing the envelope with technology like Intelligent ISO Control, advanced image processing with the Venus Engine III LSI, and manual focus, ISO and aperture controls. These advanced features make picture taking an enjoyable and successful effort for the most demanding photo hobbyist, or the newer photographer who is learning to get more out of advanced digital photography.”

Panasonic is synonymous with clear, stable picture taking, and incorporates MEGA Optical Image Stabilization into all of its digital cameras. The worldwide debut of the revolutionary new Intelligent ISO Control (IIC) feature on Panasonic’s LUMIX cameras signals the arrival of a new level of photographic excellence. IIC allows high sensitivity recording at full resolution (1250 ISO maximum) made possible by the advanced image processing LSI Venus Engine III. When set to the IIC, the Venus Engine III detects the subject’s movement and adjusts the ISO setting and shutter speed to best suit the movement and the light condition automatically. Panasonic’s intelligent image stabilizing system allows users to take clear, crisp images in just about any situation.

Among the enhancements from its predecessor, the DMC-FZ50 is equipped with a new Function Button which serves as a shortcut to quickly set frequently-used settings such as recording image size, light metering, AF area, white balance, and ISO sensitivity. A newly incorporated custom setting function memorizes the user’s frequent setting patterns so they can be instantly applied by simply selecting this function with the mode dial. The FZ50 also has a 2-inch LCD which flips out to 180 degrees, making it easier to view even when shooting from high or low angles.

The DMC-FZ50 is now compatible with TTL external flashes creating greater flexibility for shooting in a wider range of conditions. The long battery life will allow the user to shoot approximately 360 images on one charge* (CIPA), yet another way the FZ50 stakes its claim to a premium spot in the digital camera market.

The DMC-FZ50 will begin shipping in September.

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 Matsushita Electric Industrial Co. Ltd. (NYSE: MC) and the hub of Panasonic's U.S. marketing, sales, service and R&D operations. Information about Panasonic products is available at www.panasonic.com. Additional company information for journalists is available at www.panasonic.com/pressroom.

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* Based on the CIPA standard.