Next up, Panasonic introduces two new models to their LUMIX ZS-Series of digital cameras – the LUMIX DMC-ZS3 and DMC-ZS1. Successors to the TZ-Series, these compact digicams include a 10.1 megapixel resolution, a whopping 12x optical zoom lens, and AVCHD Lite High Definition video recording – all in a form factor smaller and lighter than previous models.

Here’s the rundown on specs for the LUMIX DMC-ZS3:

• 10.1 megapixel resolution
• 25mm ultra-wide angle lens
• 12x optical zoom lens
• First digi-cam to feature HD video recording in AVCHD Lite format
• Face Recognition technology added to Intelligent Auto (iA) mode – same feature as the previous Panasonic digicam posting. The camera remembers faces tagged by users and then later prioritizes focus and exposure on the registered faces should they show up again in the picture.
• iA mode also available in movie mode
• Venus Engine HD processor
• SD memory card slot
• 3 inch 460,000 dot intelligent LCD with wide viewing angle
• Increased scene modes for both still and motion image shooting
• 26 scene modes for still image and 17 for motion image

The LUMIX DMC-ZS1 is similar to the DMC-ZS3 except it has no face recognition technology  and a smaller 2.7 inch 230,000 dot Intelligent LCD display.

The DMC-ZS3 will be available in silver, black, blue, and red for a price of $399.95 while the DMC-ZS1 will be available in black and silver for a price of $299.95. Both models will come out in April.

[Check it out]

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