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25 of 26 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars
The ultimate serious photographer's point & shoot, September 5, 2010
This review is from: Panasonic Lumix DMC-LX5 10.1 MP Digital Camera with 3.8x Optical Image Stabilized Zoom and 3.0-Inch LCD (Black) (Electronics)
Wow, I am so impressed by this camera! I am a professional photographer and have been searching for a quality point & shoot for casual use when I don't want to lug around my DSLR (Nikon D700 at the moment) but have never been happy with the compromises of a P&S. Some of the features that were most important to me for a P&S were:
- RAW files - LX5 can shoot RAW files to allow changing WB and giving maximum flexibility in editing images in my preferred RAW converter, Lightroom 3.
- Fast glass - f/2 lens!! Even at 90mm, it is still f/3.3!
- Wide-angle - 24mm (35mm equivalent) is awesome, the Canon S90 only goes to 28mm and most P&S no wider than 35mm.
- Decent zoom range - I wasn't interested in a 10x superzoom but wanted something at least to 70 or 80 mm. The zoom range of 24mm to 90mm is just perfect without compromising the quality and speed of the lens.
- Reasonable compactness - it is fairly compact without feeling like I'm handling a bar of soap. It handles well for a P&S and feels like a real quality piece of equipment. The controls are logically placed with controls for the most commonly used adjustments within easy and quick access. Not as pocketable as most compact P&S cameras, but has the best handling of a P&S I've ever used.
- Low light sensitivity - I almost never shoot with the on-camera flash, so low light sensitivity is really important to me. I've shot images up to ISO 1000 that clean up quite well in LR3. I even feel that ISO 1600 is usable in a pinch if you aren't going to blow it up too large.
- Manual controls - I love that I can set everything manually: aperture, shutter speed, ISO and the controls make it quick and easy to do so without digging into the menus.
- Sharp, high quality images - I have been blown away by the quality of the lens on the LX5. I've taken shots wide open at f/2 and was very surprised at the quality, and sharpness of the images. They seriously rival images from my DSLR with some of my pro f/2.8 lenses.
Some other things to note:
- Has effective image stabilization. I've taken sharp photos at 1/10 sec.
- Shoots 720p video in AVCHD
- Has hotshoe to attach an electronic viewfinder, flash, or radio trigger (like a Pocket Wizard)
- Has a small pop-up flash
- Has a removable lens cap that many complained about on the LX3. I actually don't mind since I am used to having to remove it with my DSLRs.
- Can shoot in a number of different aspect ratios: square, 4:3, 3:2, and 16:9
- Can quickly go from play (review) mode to shooting mode with a quick tap of the shutter release button
- Can add filters and lens converters with an adapter
- All metal body - it feels really nice in the hand
One thing I really wish it had was some way to remotely trigger the camera. There is no infrared shutter release or a manual shutter release available for it. It does have the usual timer mode.
I considered a micro 4/3 camera such as a Panasonic GF1 or Olympus EP2 but the size with the lens approaches that of the smaller DSLRs. I bought a Canon S90 but returned it because the handling was just terrible. It was too small, had no hand grip and had a finnicky dial. Also, the image quality and sharpness were not nearly as good as the LX5. I've only briefly borrowed a friend's LX3 but I didn't use it enough to provide a comparison besides looking at the specs and reading the reviews.
Overall, I highly recommend the LX5 if you are in the market for a serious photographer's P&S camera. No, it won't replace a DSLR if you need the ultimate image quality and speed, but within the context of a P&S, it fits the bill nearly perfectly for me.
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7 of 7 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars
Excellent Image Quality, September 5, 2010
This review is from: Panasonic Lumix DMC-LX5 10.1 MP Digital Camera with 3.8x Optical Image Stabilized Zoom and 3.0-Inch LCD (Black) (Electronics)
I have owned a few premium compacts, so this is a review of how I think the LX5 compares to the competition. My primary camera is a Nikon D90, but I like to have a compact camera that I can put in a pocket for outings when photography is a secondary objective.
***THE GOOD
The image quality of this camera is excellent for a compact. The metering and auto white balance do a fine job of accurately reproducing the scene. The contrast and colors are excellent with nice saturation. Skies look better than some other Panasonics which tend to render the sky more cyan than blue, but the reds seem a little too strong (be careful not to blow the red channel). I can definitely see a difference between the LX5 and previous Panasonics and overall, I think the new Venus Engine FHD does a fine job.
The ergonomics of this camera are great. I never could get used to the small size of the Canon S90, it is too small and too slick; I always felt as if I could easily drop it. The LX5 is just slightly larger than the S90 and feels much better. I have no problems operating this camera with one hand. The buttons and menu system are well designed so you can get to the most commonly used settings quickly.
The lens is super sharp for a compact fixed lens and the extended zoom range compared to the LX3 is a nice improvement. Pictures taken with the LX5 are slightly sharper than the Canon G11 and much sharper than the Canon S90 and Samsung TL500. The lens is also wider and faster than other compacts.
Low light (high-ISO) performance has long been Panasonic's Achilles heel. Pictures taken with an LX3 at ISO settings above 200 were very noisy. The LX5 is greatly improved in this area and I find ISO 800 to be very usable. Don't expect the low-light performance to be as good as an APS-C or 4/3 camera, it is not even close, but considering the sensor size, the LX5 does a good job. I think the Canon compacts are still ahead in this area, but the difference is now very slight. The new intelligent-ISO feature is also an improvement; it considers both available light and subject movement when setting the ISO. I usually set ISO manually, but by setting the ISO limit to 800 and using intelligent-ISO I have found the camera sets the ISO just where I would want it.
Autofocus seems very accurate and I seldom get a blurry shot. The AF speed is typical of cameras in this class, but noticeably slower than my GF1. I had hoped the fast AF of the GF1 would make it into the LX5, but I presume this is a trade-off for a smaller, lighter camera.
The image stabilization feature works very well and is equal to the Canon compacts.
The camera ships with the latest version (3.1) of SilkyPix, which does an excellent job of raw file conversion. The camera is also supported in Adobe Camera Raw 6.2 for users of Photoshop and Photoshop Elements.
***THE BAD (in case Panasonic is listening)
Manual Focus is difficult to use! The MF assist zoom releases within 1 second of changing the zoom while the camera is still shaking from the operation of the wheel or button. The zoom really needs to stay on longer (the GF1 stays on for about 10 seconds). I hope Panasonic releases a firmware update to fix this issue soon. I think 3-5 seconds would be ideal.
The AE-Lock indicator is only displayed with the normal display along with all other setting icons. AE-Lock only functions as lock-hold, so the status indicator is necessary. Users should have the option to disable lock-hold and the indicator should be displayed regardless of display mode.
The detachable lens cap seems unnecessary; I would prefer a built-in cap like most cameras in this class.
It is annoying that the only way to view a histogram in playback mode is to enable it in live-view mode. My personal preference is to not have it in the way while framing, but I occasionally check the histogram when reviewing a shot. A color histogram would also be nice in playback mode.
The buttons on the rear control pad are in different locations compared to my GF1 which has the ISO button on the top and the focus button on the left. The memory card orientation is also inconsistent between Panasonic models. These are not major issues, but I wish the designers hadn't overlooked this. As long as I own both cameras, I will occasionally push the wrong button and insert the memory card backwards.
There is no remote trigger option.
***SUMMARY
There really aren't many cameras to choose from in the premium compact market. I only consider those with 1/1.6 or 1/1.7 sensors and the ability to shoot raw to be true premium compacts. Anything with a smaller sensor will not deliver the same image quality. There are also some larger sensors available in small cameras, but if you want to fit it in a pocket or small belt case, then you are limited to a single focal length, like the Sigma DPx or a Micro 4/3 with a pancake lens. Once you put a zoom lens on a micro 4/3, then you are so close to the size of a small DSLR that you might as well carry a Rebel or D5000 (the same goes for the Sony NEX series). I expect when I walk out the door I will either select the D90 for image quality or the LX5 for its small size, the GF1 might get lost in the middle and may not remain in my arsenal much longer.
If you are trying to choose between an S90, a G11, an LX5 or a TL500, then I recommend you cross the S90 and TL500 off your list straight away; the LX5 and G11 are better. Choosing between the LX5 and G11 is a bit more difficult as there are some things each camera does better. I personally think the LX5 has the edge based on image quality and a slightly wider (24mm) and faster (f2.0) lens, but if an articulating screen and remote control are important to you, then a G11 will also provide excellent images. The good qualities I listed above far outweigh the minor bad issues; I highly recommend this camera.
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6 of 7 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars
Nice upgrade from the LX3, September 5, 2010
This review is from: Panasonic Lumix DMC-LX5 10.1 MP Digital Camera with 3.8x Optical Image Stabilized Zoom and 3.0-Inch LCD (Black) (Electronics)
This camera is really fantastic and a nice upgrade from the LX3 for some. For others it won't be, because at the end of the day both cameras take excellent photos.
For me, I really needed the additional zoom and was very excited to hear that this is exactly what the LX5 had, without sacrificing the f2.0 lens. My brother needed a new camera anyway and was happy to get my 2 year old LX3. By the way that camera is in nearly perfect condition. Panasonic really build a quality product with the LX line and I think the LX5 is even better.
Here are the major comparisons to the LX3. Decide if these are worth it to you:
- Better image stabilization. I am getting crisp photos at speeds as low as 1/10
- Better sensor than the LX3. The colors are slightly more accurate and the auto white balance works better (I need to make less adjustments).
- Better low-light shooting. Perfectly usable up to 1600 out of the camera. Shots in ISO 3200-6400 can be used with some photoshopping. ISO 12800 won't be very good, but nice to have if you don't care about quality and just need a quick shot in the dark. With the LX3 I was getting usable shots at ISO 800.
- Faster autofocusing.
- Better processor. Faster startup and shot-to-shot time.
- Better battery life... this camera lasts almost twice as long!! And I always thought the battery life on the LX3 was already outstanding. I'm going on a weekend trip soon and feel confident that this will last the entire weekend without needing a charge.
- As mentioned, the added zoom is terrific. The leica lens is better than any PaS lens I've ever used.
- Easier to get into the film mode with the dedicated movie button. Honestly I havent really tested recording in 720p yet, but the AVCHD codec is supposed to give better results.
- More comfortable to hold and better build quality.
- Hot shoe, but I don't see this as a benefit to myself. The option to add an EVF or flash is nice, but defeats the purpose of keeping this camera compact. At that point you may as well get an SLR.
- Better control with the GF1 style click wheel on the back. Seriously, this is the best PaS camera I've ever used. You literally forget about the controls. Really well thought out. The menus are similar to the LX3 and "just work". Really a nice interface and plenty of options to tweak.
- Improved screen. Looks better in the bright Singapore sun than my LX3 ever did. Wish it had more pixel density, but still looks great.
- Added 1:1 square format is really neat. Not a major addition, but nice to have. I really like that the LX-series has a dedicated image ratio button. Very useful and unique.
Complaints:
- The lens cover needs to be built in. I really don't mind the one it comes with much, but there were lots of complaints about the lens cover on the LX3. Not sure why Panasonic chose to ignore these. I would definitely prefer not to worry about losing the lens cover.
- Should be a better panorama mode. I think sony's "Sweeping panorama" feature is fantastic. Panasonic should adopt something similar if they can. The current mode works fine, but could be improved.
Wish list for the "LX6":
- Larger sensor, like m4/3.
- Brighter lens, F1.8 or lower would be nice :)
- Built in EVF!
- Articulating screen.
- Built in lens cover.
- Weather sealed to make it even more durable against splashes and dust.
- Manual focus/zoom wheel that can be programmed like the canon S90/95.
I think adding these would make for a nearly perfect PaS.
Other cameras to consider:
Canon S95: I tried this camera out the other day and it's not as good as the LX5 in many ways, but does have a few advantages. Image quality on the S90 was not as good as the LX3/LX5. The LX cams are also wider at 24mm (I think the canons are 28mm). The jog dial on the back of the S95 is cool but since the camera is so small I found myself hitting it accidentally a few times and changing the settings. Can be kind of annoying, especially if you want to take a quick shot. The LX5 is also much nicer to hold and easier to dive into the menus as a result of the control placement. But to be fair, the Canon does start at ~$100 cheaper and is smaller. Assuming size and price are more important to you, I would say it makes for a fine choice. It's still better than most other cameras out there and also has an f2.0 lens. The addition of 720p on the S95 is nice as well.
Canon G11: Not a big fan of this camera as it uses the same sensor as the Canon S90 and doesn't use as fast a lens. Lacks HD video recording and is more expensive. It's also larger and bulkier than the LX5. Overall I just don't feel like it is a strong competitor. The G12 will probably be something better to compare against the LX5 or any of the other cameras mentioned here. To the G11's credit, it does have an articulating screen and a view finder which is nice.
Olympus EP-L1: This camera is also a worthy competitor and has the benefits of a larger sensor and interchangeable lens. However, the build quality is not as good, the lens that comes with the EP-L1 isn't very impressive and it's a bit larger. You will need to spend some serious money on the 20mm f1.8 lens which makes this purchase almost ~$850. If you are okay with the kit lens this is a great bargain for just slightly more than the LX5.
Pansonic GF1: This was the most difficult decision to make for me. The GF1 costs $250 more than the LX5 at this point, but comes with a better lens (20mm f1.8) and is m4/3 like the EP-L1. While the 20mm kit the GF1 does take noticeably better pictures, I still ended up choosing the LX5. Why? The LX5 is still cheaper (the $250 difference does matter to me, it might not to you), has image stabilization (the GF1 does not) and it's substantially smaller. I like the GF1 and think it is tiny compared to traditional digital SLRs, but it's still not as convenient as a compact PaS like the LX5. Basically, I see myself taking the LX5 to more places and using it more in general. I think that beats out the image quality edge that the GF1 has.
Ricoh GR Digital III: Looks interesting and has a nice spec'd 28mm f1.9 lens, but is fixed (no zoom) and has no HD video recording. I didn't test this because I need zoom and HD recording, and it's also larger and a good amount more expensive than the LX5. I've heard the menu system on the Ricoh's is one of the best to use, but it seems to be targeted at a very niche audience.
Samsung TL500: Was really impressed and seriously considered this camera because I read about it having a f1.8 lens at 24mm! And it has a nice articulating AMOLED screen. I played with the camera a bit and was impressed, but it's larger than the LX5, doesn't have as good a zoom range and about 1/2 the battery life. I've also examined the TL500 image samples on the web and don't think they are good as the LX5. Low light performance is a little less impressive, but the LX5 just produces more crisp images with better colors IMO. This is comparing jpg's straight out of the camera, not RAW files. Lastly, there is no HD video recording (only does 480p). The price on this camera is great though and it looks and feels like it will last a LONG time. Great design here by samsung.
Conclusion:
After weighing the LX5 against the competition I think overall it's the most balanced camera out there and a worthy successor to the classic LX3.
If you're willing to sacrifice some features and IQ, but need a cheaper camera with a fast lens and with smaller size go for the Canon S90/95.
The LX3 still competes with most of the cameras mentioned and is a terrific bargain. I'd definitely recommend looking into getting one if you're a bit tight on cash, but want a great camera that will last years and years.
If you don't mind being able to record video and are willing to sacrifice some IQ look at the Samsung TL500, it has even faster glass than the LX5 and offers some unique features like an articulating amoled screen. Overall an excellent value for what you get.
Finally, if you want SLR-like image quality and are willing to pay a bit more, look at the Panasonic GF1. The 20mm kit will take amazing photos but you get a less compact camera, no zoom, no image stabilization, and of course the higher price for a camera that's already about 1 year old.
Hope this was helpful.
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