Panasonic Lumix Camera Review

The Nikon Coolpix P7000 is Nikon's gift in the 'prosumer' market interesting the Canon Powershot G11/G12 and the Lx5 from Panasonic that currently lead the high end compact camera segment.

The P7000 has a 10.1 megapixel sensor with capability to shoot 720p Hd video along with a jack for an external microphone. The cameras also allows continuous auto focus and zoom while recording giving the user higher creative flexibility especially while shooting habitancy and interesting objects. Unlike most compact cameras it allows you to shoot photos in Raw mode which gives the user many flexibility for processing pictures in a photo editing software after the pictures has been taken. This feature is regularly found in the digital Slr cameras. Complimenting this impressive feature set is the 7.1x zoom (28-200mm equivalent focal length) with an cleft range from f2.8 to f5.6. The camera also has an Hdmi production allowing for playing the video directly onto your Hdtv or computer.

Nikon decided to drop the Gps in the P7000 compared to the previous P6000 model which will be a disappointment to some users. However, the new model compensates with a higher zoom range, greater custom controls, best video shooting mode and a larger 3 inch Lcd rear screen.

This camera is a good option for the person getting more serious about their photography but not quite ready to buy into a full scale Dslr law and also for the seasoned Dslr user finding for a second smaller body to carry around.

So how does it correlate to the Canon G11, the upcoming G12 from Canon and the Panasonic Lx5?

Based on optic Zoom: This is where the P7000 wins easily with its 28-200mm optic zoom vs a 28-140mm zoom for the G11/12 and a more restrictive 24-90mm on the Lx5. So if a versatile zoom is leading to you or a longer telephoto focal length then the P7000 is a clear winner.

Based on size: If you need something more compact and easy to carry that can easily slip in your pocket, the Panasonic Lx5 is the easy winner as it is lighter and slimmer.

Based on lense speed: This determines the capability to shoot in lower light. The Panasonic Lx5 has the faster lense with the f2.0-3.3 cleft range.

Other features: The Canon G11 has a dedicated dial for changing the Iso, a blink detection mode and probably the best Lcd with a tilt/swivel display allowing for great control while shooting pictures. The Coolpix P7000 has the top resolution Lcd screen.

Based on the criteria mentioned above the Nikon P7000 may or may not be the winner among these cameras depending on what is most leading for your photography.

The P7000 is easily a worthy contender for the photographer finding for a high end digital camera allowing for fullness of creative control. If you are already a Nikon person waiting to get an easy to carry alternative to your Dslr, the P7000 deserves a good look.