I am having a problem with my Panasonic DMC-TZ3 Lumix. It does not display anything on the screen but it will take a picture with a black screen. Nothing to see. All functions work in the camera. What can it be? Is it something that I can fix?
Battery is a killer on this camera but otherwise it's a fantastic, robust camera with MASSIVE zoom that gets used often.
I am however on the hunt for the a DC charger (so I don't have to take the battery out) and also after a replacement battery that has 1300 mAh (not the standard 1000 mAh).
I have this camera ,got it as a gift,went away camping and lost the bloody charger for it,anyone know where i can get a replacement and for how much? Scotland
I have this camera currently , and I am proud to own it , its photos are fantastic for its size and so many people have complimented its video asking me how I got so much detail into my movies. If anyone is thinking about getting one all my videos and photos on youtube are taken from it :):):)
Also , im thinking of getting a new camera, the panasonic tz38 , what do people think of that?
@kaushiksays Yes but why would you use that. Time stamping is automatically recorded into the Jpeg when it saves the photo. So... the answer is yes but I'd recommend not using it. Makes great photos look ugly.
The camera is excellent for taking pictures but the audio in the video is horrible. They should really fix the audio while taking videos. The NEW DMC-TZ7 HD is actually the best of all cameras.
Great video, well done. Cracking camera, never bother with USB lead, takes an SD card. Only down side is the movie files are .MOV and Windows media player won't play audio, so get media player classic. Don't blame Panasonic, blame MS protectionism! The only camera I have that the scenes modes really work, snow, sunset, really nice colours. Had it a year and not disappointed.
I love your videos...I bought this camera a while back...the specs/build quality really made me excited about using this camera...but I just couldnt get any decent pictures......the best pictures I could get was using the vivid mode...I used for maybe 2 months and then went back to my powershot.....really dissapointing for me..specially when the camera looked so good on paper...anyone have ideas on any fixes?...thanks
Great review and overall guide. There's another guide on youtube that I almost fell asleep to! LOL I have a DMC-TZ3 and you perhaps should have mentioned the battery life as a downer. It drains the life quickly!
The USB and TV ports use the same socket, so you'll need a special cable from Panasonic. Have a look at the manual or support page for it on their website for a model number.
Do you think that this camera is good for normal use ?? Im 17yo and i need good camera for partys and for every day use :) How its your opinion if i can ask ?
^^ do you read the mauel ? I do it after 5 minutes not understandig what what means (too much options ^^) but now i know all the options all the modis and i can do very good pictuers / videos
Depends how much you want the highres screen and HD movies! I've compared them on the verdict page of the TZ5 review at cameralabs . com, so take a look and see what you think!
Excellent!..This man knows what his talking about but leaves out the technical and unnecessary. I'm new to understanding the 'Digital Camera'. Found Gordon via youtube search on Fujifilm F30. His style is matchless! Keep it up lad!
Hello Gordon! love the way you describe the cameras! even easy for a lay man to chose what suites him best. i myself was in a kind of a fix, you helped me in chosing what i was looking for.TZ3! thanks and keep up with your good work.
Hi, I can recommend both of them, although do now look at our new TZ5 review at the Cameralabs website. Its verdict page compares the TZ3, TZ5 and FZ18.
I bought this camera specifically for its amazing zoom (for a compact camera).
I didnt know anything about SDHC cards before, I bought a kingston SD 2GB card (then I knew about reading/writing specification), unfortunately the one I bought is 1.5 MB/sec write speed! Would this work with my Camera? For continues successive shooting (2 shots/sec) what should I look for? class 6, 150X or Ultra extreme III? what do u recommend for TZ3? Do u sell SD cards on line?
Hi, we can answer in more detail if you post your question on the Cameralabs forum, but basically your card will work on the TZ3, BUT you might not be able to record in the best quality movie modes. I'm not sure how it would impact the burst shooting as the TZ3 is already quite slow in that regard - check the manual. There's no need to go for a top-end model though - anything from a SanDisk Ultra II upwards will be fine.
Fantastic aid to buying on-line. The demonstrator knew this camera in detail and gave a better demonstration than I would expect even if I had walked into a camera shop.
Put this video together with the detailed description, tests and specially the FULL RESOLUTION SAMPLE PHOTOS at websites like CameraLabs, you have everything you need to decide what to buy.
It was shoot-out between the Olympus E510 and the TZ3 for me.
The sample photos on the web site decided it. I ordered a TZ3.
Excellent! I'm glad they helped make your decision... if you fancy flexing your creative muscles, check out our monthly Assignment on the Cameralabs forum!
Hi there great review,I watch them all. From the UK myself, I'm just curious where you shoot these stunning scenes from?? Is that where you live?? certainly doesnt look like the UK?! Cheers. Jonathan.
Stunning. I dont blame you moving from the UK :-) 2 of my cousins have also just moved to NZ fro UK. A photogrpahers dream ;-). Thanks for the reply. I look forward to more of your informative reviews here on YT.
you make great reviews. i decided on purchasing the panasonic dmc-fz8 because of your review :D . but one question. why do you guys across the pond say zed instead of z? just a curiosity question.
The display on the back? You'd have to approach Panasonic to see if it can be repaired, but I think you're probably looking at a new camera. Check out the new TZ5 on the front page of Cameralabs which Pansasonic's just announced...
hey gordan i just wanteded to ask, im really interested and like this camera and i wanted to ask, if this camera provided great portrait+ group and macro photos? if not, what other camera would u suggest
Hi, yep, the TZ3 is fine for macro, portraits or group shots, but you might want to wait and see what it's successor the TZ5 works out like. It's due out in a few weeks... keep an eye on the Cameralabs website for news!
Hey Gordon, thx for the reply. I've done some research, through reviews and sample images etc and found that the Canon IXUS 860 IS would better fit my criteria. What are your thoughts on that?
I like the 860 IS, but it depends if you want a compact with a 10x zoom or not. If you're happy with the xoom range of the Canon, then it's a great choice and one of our recommended models. Have you checked out the Best Buys section on the Cameralabs site?
No problem! PS - I only get paid if you visit the Cameralabs site and visit some of our sponsors! See the top right section on the Cameralabs front page for details... Cheers!
Are you sure??? The TZ1 zooms in movie mode, it does it slowly so that the motor isn't picked up on the recording. I can't believe they've disabled the zoom function, that would be mental.
You lucky, lucky barst.....you can thank me for buying 2 copies of Digital Retro (educating my cousins on REAL computers) which has partially funded your annoyingly sunny lifestyle.
Hi, I've not tested the Ixus 950 / 960, but even though it has higher resolution (12 Mpixels), I prefer the spec of the 860 IS - I prefer its wider angle lens and bigger 3in screen. So that means I'd also prefer the TZ3 to the 950 / 960, especially with its 10x zoom.
i have some friends on the norway camera forum, and i have asked 5 that has the 860 IS and they complain that its very unclear in the corners with the wide angle lens.
'its very unclear in the corners with the wide angle lens.' - well that's true, but then again as Scotty was fond of saying 'Ya cannae change the laws of physics, Captain!'
Basically, small lens + wide angle = blurry corners. I'd rather have the extra blur and keep the wide-angle than do without.
Check out the results pages for the T70 at the Cameralabs website. I think there's models by Panasonic and Canon with better image quality, but it depends if you love the Sony's features or not. Also the Pannie TZ3 here has a 10x zoom and proper wide angle, which is v useful...
This seems like the camera I've been looking for. Do you think where this model is nearly a year old that Panasonic will be releasing a new, possibly better TZ model sometime next year?
I would be surprised if Panasonic doesn't update the TZ3 early next year with the latest features like face detection their Intelligent Auto mode... This is just speculation though...
well, I'll keep an eye out next year for a TZ4 with improved noise reduction, a longer-life battery and some manual controls. Then it might be the perfect point-and-shoot for me.
Well I mean you are getting alot for such a relatively compact camera. It sounds like you need to check out super zooms or SLR's for the range of flexability you are after. I have just purchased the TZ2, can't wait to test drive it.
Right, I dont know much about this sort of thing, but would it be possible to write a firmware patch for cameras so that its possible to zoom in and out while recording video? It seems a lot of people want this feature and would put up with the noise.
I doubt the manufacturers would write a patch to allow it on an existing model, but I hope some of them read our comments and incorporate optical zooming into future models. I think the lurching from one position to the next is also a problem, but some cameras are very smooth.
even a digital zoom would be better than nothing, but I agree, optical zoom is essential. Would it be possible for 3rd parties to create a patch that we could install ourselves? or is it impossibe to write over the phones software?
there are, maybe, 3 ways that optical zoom can be "found"
1) Panasonic releasing a firmware patch
2) Someone hacking the firmware(well, its just a software lock that disables zoom when movie mode is on....)
3) Panasonic engineers left a backdoor to enable such an option in the service menu or some werid keypress(maybe, but the service manual for TZ3 doesnt have such.....)
Hi scouser222, I did mention this in the review at cameralabs which goes with the video. If it's any consolation though, very few digital cameras can use their optical zooms while filming video.
Sadly it is one of the few exceptions! I think they don't allow it on most digicams because the noise of the zooming motor would be audible. But then I think most of us would accept that and prefer to have the feature.
I have the Lumix TZ1 and you CAN zoom while shooting video. I don't believe it's just digital zoom because the zoom meter shows it stepping up to the 10X line and then kicking it up to 40X in the digital zoom range.
I love my TZ1 and was hoping for something better with the TZ3, but having zoom while shooting video is way too important to me.
I agree, I don't understand why they removed this feature. Being able to Zoom while shooting video very useful. I think only the huge Canon G5 allows this now.
Does anyone know if the sound quality of the TZ3 has been improved? This was a weak point for the TZ1
My last camera was a Dimage Z5. I had trouble with the audio going out of sync with the video and getting progressively worse with time(file size), even with a high speed card. Also, the audio becomes distorted in loud situations like a concert.
The battery life with the Dimage Z5 is just brutal. It's nice having AA rechargeables but it's not worth having such a short usage between charges.
OK as a camera - but - NO zoom in video record - why! And no video out (only in playback). So can't stick it in a Radio Control model and transmit video, and can't use as a cheap studio video source, if you like to monitor output
Hi Ogham, I don't know why Panasonic disables video output in record mode, but you can actually fix it! If you press and hold the Trash bin button for five seconds, it should enable TV output in all modes, but only if the TV standard is also set to NTSC, not PAL. This works with all Lumix cameras we've tested.
Hi, the video files on the Panasonic cameras are recorded in the Quicktime MOV format, so you'll need to install the Quicktime software on your computer before they'll play on it. You can get it from quicktime . com
gordon, i have 2 questions! I`d like to know if this camera supports Sd of 4 gb! and also what sd do u prefer ? do u know if i can get the manual in spanish??
Hi Napcho, I'm sure there's a Spanish version of the manual, but I'm not sure if you can download it. You'd also have to check the manual to see if it supports 4GB cards. I think it will, but you WILL need the SDHC type. Do check the manual before buying a card though!
hello gordon! i`m from buenos aires argentina. I know just a little bit about digital cameras. I was going to buy the lumix fx 30 but i was all day watching your reviews, and finally decided for this camera. I just can`t wait to get it. Your site and you were very helpful for me to take the desicion! thanks again gordon! from Argentina
We have examples of the full zoom on the Gallery page in our review, and crops showing what it looks like as if you were viewing the image at 100% on your computer. Is this what you wanted to know? Prints from the TZ3 look great at smaller sizes, but above 5x7in, you may see noise at the higher sensitivities... this is like most compacts though...
HI Gordon, thanks very much for you review of this, i enjoy watching you coverages and i think i have fallen in love with this camera. I find the size though a bit big compared to the Canon Ixus 7 which i was hoping to get before.
CAplio r5 or tz3 which to buy?? R5 is nice and small to fit in pocket (big plus for me) whereas tz3 seems to have slightly more control. Do either of these cameras have a wireless remote or a variable timer mode?
I thought about buying FZ8 when it came out,what I like about this camera is that it's relatively small to its big abilities, great built and of course the price, but unfortunetely I've heard that it has some serious noise problems at all ISO settings so I resigned from it, but maybe I'll wait with buying the H9 and see your opinion about FZ8...couldn't wait to read it and see on youtube, peace!:)
PS. Sorry for my English if there are some mistakes, I'm still learning:)
We compared the H9 against the FZ8 in our H9 review at the Cameralabs website - so you can see direct comparisons between them both at all ISO settings! Click on the Results tab of our H9 review, then click on Noise-2... yep, the FZ8 ain't great at higher ISOs, but the H9 is arguably worse...
thanks Gordon, I've already seen it yesterday, it's great and help me a lot, I think I will decide rather on DSC-H9, I didnt choose TZ3 becouse only 2 things are missing there for me...more manual settings and a higher power of the flash..besides I really like the quality of pictures taken with the DSC-H9 and this face detection which work very nice...thanks
I am having a problem with my Panasonic DMC-TZ3 Lumix. It does not display anything on the screen but it will take a picture with a black screen. Nothing to see. All functions work in the camera. What can it be? Is it something that I can fix?
thanks
dlatino2000 1 year ago
Would you be able to review a DMC-FH20?
ilovecars1996 1 year ago
Battery is a killer on this camera but otherwise it's a fantastic, robust camera with MASSIVE zoom that gets used often.
I am however on the hunt for the a DC charger (so I don't have to take the battery out) and also after a replacement battery that has 1300 mAh (not the standard 1000 mAh).
sirbargearse 1 year ago
i have the tz 2 & can not get the menu to work or take pics is there any way i can restore to factory settings ?
darrellscanlan1 1 year ago
Si la quiere alguien la vendo por 100 euros con 2 años de garantia ya que se compró en enero de 2010, esta nueva a estrenar. 350 disparos.
magarciagil 2 years ago
I have this camera ,got it as a gift,went away camping and lost the bloody charger for it,anyone know where i can get a replacement and for how much? Scotland
cornholios1 2 years ago
I have this camera currently , and I am proud to own it , its photos are fantastic for its size and so many people have complimented its video asking me how I got so much detail into my movies. If anyone is thinking about getting one all my videos and photos on youtube are taken from it :):):)
Also , im thinking of getting a new camera, the panasonic tz38 , what do people think of that?
ColouredcloudsSJB 2 years ago
i have one xD
marcolaza0006 2 years ago
Do not buy this camera its a peice of shit i have one and it just stopped workking for no reason
Kooljames20 2 years ago
Thanks!
tbanwell 2 years ago
Does it have date stamping feature ?
kaushiksays 2 years ago
@kaushiksays yes
guydecervens 2 years ago
@kaushiksays Yes but why would you use that. Time stamping is automatically recorded into the Jpeg when it saves the photo. So... the answer is yes but I'd recommend not using it. Makes great photos look ugly.
sirbargearse 1 year ago
i have one!!!
SpydaPres 2 years ago
The camera is excellent for taking pictures but the audio in the video is horrible. They should really fix the audio while taking videos. The NEW DMC-TZ7 HD is actually the best of all cameras.
ConcertKing1 2 years ago
Great video, well done. Cracking camera, never bother with USB lead, takes an SD card. Only down side is the movie files are .MOV and Windows media player won't play audio, so get media player classic. Don't blame Panasonic, blame MS protectionism! The only camera I have that the scenes modes really work, snow, sunset, really nice colours. Had it a year and not disappointed.
black5f 2 years ago
I love your videos...I bought this camera a while back...the specs/build quality really made me excited about using this camera...but I just couldnt get any decent pictures......the best pictures I could get was using the vivid mode...I used for maybe 2 months and then went back to my powershot.....really dissapointing for me..specially when the camera looked so good on paper...anyone have ideas on any fixes?...thanks
mainemonty 3 years ago
What wasn't good about the pictures?
jamagica 2 years ago
Great review and overall guide. There's another guide on youtube that I almost fell asleep to! LOL I have a DMC-TZ3 and you perhaps should have mentioned the battery life as a downer. It drains the life quickly!
sirbargearse 3 years ago
i mean they have models up to tz2 to tz4 and skip tz3
chadevantannerRIP 3 years ago
Well, you can change the shuttle speed... I have one and I have it always at 1/100
lfstweak420 3 years ago
i do plan to purchase on that one, he said the downside about the shutter speed... would that mean i may not capture a fast moving object?? tnx
jimdizon2003 3 years ago
i do plan to purchase on that one, he said the downside about the shutter speed... would that mean i may not capture a fast moving object?? tnx
jimdizon2003 3 years ago
Can somebody please tell me.."What kind of usb cable do I need for this lumix dmc tz3?"
shantreese 3 years ago
The USB and TV ports use the same socket, so you'll need a special cable from Panasonic. Have a look at the manual or support page for it on their website for a model number.
cameralabs 3 years ago
i can't find out about the usb..will a
DMC-LC1 work on the dmc tz3?
shantreese 3 years ago
yes i have the same problem..do i need a battery charger or do i just need the usb to use and charge?
ismokegreentrees 3 years ago
You need to use a seperate charger. All the standard accessories are listed in the manual and on the specs on Panasonic's websites.
cameralabs 3 years ago
I have the same problem I looked on there web site and they only have the models up to tz3to tz4 just completly skips tz3 whats that!
chadevantannerRIP 3 years ago
were is the USB
watupson35 3 years ago
i think its on the right side im not sure because i had the tz1 so...
jdprice455 3 years ago
its on the bottom left..our left.
ayuinu 3 years ago
The USB is on the right side, with a cover... Flip it open and the USB port is the top one.
lfstweak420 3 years ago
great job and 1 beautiful place...thx!
danielhcn 3 years ago
Do you think that this camera is good for normal use ?? Im 17yo and i need good camera for partys and for every day use :) How its your opinion if i can ask ?
Thiev69 3 years ago
i have the tz3 (tz5 was tooo expensiv) the camera ist genious 10X zoom the vidoes form the tz5 ar in 720p HD ready !!!
sonybrokesmyheart 3 years ago
Thx for this review you help me alot!! I have this camera now and i love it !! :)
Thiev69 3 years ago
^^ do you read the mauel ? I do it after 5 minutes not understandig what what means (too much options ^^) but now i know all the options all the modis and i can do very good pictuers / videos
sonybrokesmyheart 3 years ago
please review an fx-100
enkutaurus 3 years ago
Sorry, that's an older model, so I wouldn't be doing it now. I have reviewed the FX500, FX35 and TZ5 at cameralabs . com though if you're interested!
cameralabs 3 years ago
Hi, I have a TZ2, I would like to know what is the difference between camera stablisation mode 1 and mode 2, Thanks
AdamT200 3 years ago
Hi, check out the Features page of our TZ5 review at cameralabs . com for an explanation of the IS modes...
cameralabs 3 years ago
great review.
llAkuTsUll 3 years ago
We really appreciate the clarity and honesty and competence of your reviews. "We", meaning anyone who admires brains and good style.
reidsteam 3 years ago
Thanks!
cameralabs 3 years ago
get the olympus fe-340 its better if you dont beleive me search it on youtube
trospos123456 3 years ago
the zoom optico sucks.
llAkuTsUll 3 years ago
olympus fe-340 its way better 8.0 megapixel and 5 optical zoom and even cheaper so get it not that one its sucks
trospos123456 3 years ago
hi, i have got tz3, do you think upgrading to tz5 is a good idea?
pauljit74 3 years ago
Depends how much you want the highres screen and HD movies! I've compared them on the verdict page of the TZ5 review at cameralabs . com, so take a look and see what you think!
cameralabs 3 years ago
Excellent!..This man knows what his talking about but leaves out the technical and unnecessary. I'm new to understanding the 'Digital Camera'. Found Gordon via youtube search on Fujifilm F30. His style is matchless! Keep it up lad!
eppeywonder 3 years ago
Thanks! Don't forget to visit cameralabs . com for the full review!
cameralabs 3 years ago
really great review shows its features well :) is that queenstown :) best place to test a camera :)
gangstaofhamster 3 years ago
It sure is Queenstown!
cameralabs 3 years ago
Hello Gordon! love the way you describe the cameras! even easy for a lay man to chose what suites him best. i myself was in a kind of a fix, you helped me in chosing what i was looking for.TZ3! thanks and keep up with your good work.
aami664 3 years ago
Thanks a lot for this great review.
Itsalwayslupus 3 years ago
Best guide on this model on the net. Many thanks, very helpful.
PositiveBeing 4 years ago
Thanks! Don't forget to check out our full review of the new version, the TZ5 at the Cameralabs website!
cameralabs 4 years ago
Hi!
Comparing this and the FZ18, the advantage of this camera is, that you can put it in your pocket, but the FZ18 has more zoom.
The image quality of both is the same (after your verdict page).
Can you easily recommend one of them?
Hewson60 4 years ago
Hi, I can recommend both of them, although do now look at our new TZ5 review at the Cameralabs website. Its verdict page compares the TZ3, TZ5 and FZ18.
cameralabs 4 years ago
Thank you very much! I didn´t know the TZ5 so far.
I compared it with the FZ18 on your website but it´s really hard to decide which one is better.
Hewson60 4 years ago
I agree, it is a hard decision!
cameralabs 4 years ago
Hi
thnx for this review.
I bought this camera specifically for its amazing zoom (for a compact camera).
I didnt know anything about SDHC cards before, I bought a kingston SD 2GB card (then I knew about reading/writing specification), unfortunately the one I bought is 1.5 MB/sec write speed! Would this work with my Camera? For continues successive shooting (2 shots/sec) what should I look for? class 6, 150X or Ultra extreme III? what do u recommend for TZ3? Do u sell SD cards on line?
thnx
xmanxman80 4 years ago
Hi, we can answer in more detail if you post your question on the Cameralabs forum, but basically your card will work on the TZ3, BUT you might not be able to record in the best quality movie modes. I'm not sure how it would impact the burst shooting as the TZ3 is already quite slow in that regard - check the manual. There's no need to go for a top-end model though - anything from a SanDisk Ultra II upwards will be fine.
cameralabs 4 years ago
Thank you very much.
I will post my question in Cameralabs forum for further details if available.
xmanxman80 4 years ago
Is it Made in Japan? Is the picture quality equal to the TZ5?
MidnightM3 4 years ago
Check our new TZ5 review at the Cameralabs site to compare it against the TZ3.
cameralabs 4 years ago
Oh. What about the FX100. Which one is better? The FX100 or the TZ3 or TZ5? Thanks. :)
salsera2984 4 years ago
Hi, we've just published a full review of the brand new Lumix TZ5 at the Cameralabs website!
cameralabs 4 years ago
I'm thinking of buying the TZ5. That's better than the TZ3 right? Just making sure. I want the best. :)
salsera2984 4 years ago
Thank you for your work, both video and review on site. Definitely a good help to choose the camera that suited my needs: TZ3!
duncandrake 4 years ago
Fantastic aid to buying on-line. The demonstrator knew this camera in detail and gave a better demonstration than I would expect even if I had walked into a camera shop.
JohnyPenfold 4 years ago
Thanks! Don't forget our videos are just a small part of the full reviews at the Cameralabs website...
cameralabs 4 years ago
OK, what I should have said ... :-)
Put this video together with the detailed description, tests and specially the FULL RESOLUTION SAMPLE PHOTOS at websites like CameraLabs, you have everything you need to decide what to buy.
It was shoot-out between the Olympus E510 and the TZ3 for me.
The sample photos on the web site decided it. I ordered a TZ3.
JohnyPenfold 4 years ago
Excellent! I'm glad they helped make your decision... if you fancy flexing your creative muscles, check out our monthly Assignment on the Cameralabs forum!
cameralabs 4 years ago
Keep up the good work guys!
GoAround1 4 years ago
Hi there great review,I watch them all. From the UK myself, I'm just curious where you shoot these stunning scenes from?? Is that where you live?? certainly doesnt look like the UK?! Cheers. Jonathan.
jonfletcher147 4 years ago
Nope, that's not the UK! I now live in New Zealand, and those shots are taken from Queenstown in the South Island.
cameralabs 4 years ago
Stunning. I dont blame you moving from the UK :-) 2 of my cousins have also just moved to NZ fro UK. A photogrpahers dream ;-). Thanks for the reply. I look forward to more of your informative reviews here on YT.
Jon.
jonfletcher147 4 years ago
Hey Jon, don't forget the videos are just a small part of our full reviews which you'll find on the cameralabs website!
cameralabs 4 years ago
you make great reviews. i decided on purchasing the panasonic dmc-fz8 because of your review :D . but one question. why do you guys across the pond say zed instead of z? just a curiosity question.
keeba29 4 years ago
Hi there! Yep, I think most people from the UK would pronounce 'z' as 'zed', rather than 'zee'...
cameralabs 4 years ago
ha thats really interesting! :D thanks for replying!
keeba29 4 years ago
Is the sound quality better than DMC-TZ1?
The sounds of DMC-TZ1 sounded muffed.
retroforever 4 years ago
The sound quality seemed similar on the videos I made...
cameralabs 4 years ago
I have one.. I broke my LCD display.. where can I buy another LCD display.. please help!!!
aleqo 4 years ago
The display on the back? You'd have to approach Panasonic to see if it can be repaired, but I think you're probably looking at a new camera. Check out the new TZ5 on the front page of Cameralabs which Pansasonic's just announced...
cameralabs 4 years ago
hey gordan i just wanteded to ask, im really interested and like this camera and i wanted to ask, if this camera provided great portrait+ group and macro photos? if not, what other camera would u suggest
plz help. thx
bigbigboy16 4 years ago
edit: im mainly just concerned with image quality, but i dont want a SLR.
bigbigboy16 4 years ago
Hi, yep, the TZ3 is fine for macro, portraits or group shots, but you might want to wait and see what it's successor the TZ5 works out like. It's due out in a few weeks... keep an eye on the Cameralabs website for news!
cameralabs 4 years ago
Hey Gordon, thx for the reply. I've done some research, through reviews and sample images etc and found that the Canon IXUS 860 IS would better fit my criteria. What are your thoughts on that?
Cheers
bigbigboy16 4 years ago
I like the 860 IS, but it depends if you want a compact with a 10x zoom or not. If you're happy with the xoom range of the Canon, then it's a great choice and one of our recommended models. Have you checked out the Best Buys section on the Cameralabs site?
cameralabs 4 years ago
oh yeh i have. yep ok kool thx again.
if the zoom on this camera was a tad higher, it would be the best, but 10x is just a tad too much for myself i think.
aye gordan do u get paid for this, cause your doing a great job lol. (useful + quick replies)
bigbigboy16 4 years ago
No problem! PS - I only get paid if you visit the Cameralabs site and visit some of our sponsors! See the top right section on the Cameralabs front page for details... Cheers!
cameralabs 4 years ago
thanks for recommend the TZ5.. I'm gonna try to approach in panasonic
aleqo 4 years ago
Hi i bought one of these cameras after watching this video.
Its great at gigs posted some videos on here with this cameraits great (takes good photos as well)
rockhillbilly1 4 years ago
doest this camera has sound wean you zoom in movie mode ??? thanks
rommeo30 4 years ago
This camera always does has sound, but be advised: this camera DOESN'T ZOOM in movie mode.
Nilmabostonrio 4 years ago
thanks
rommeo30 4 years ago
Are you sure??? The TZ1 zooms in movie mode, it does it slowly so that the motor isn't picked up on the recording. I can't believe they've disabled the zoom function, that would be mental.
maureenOWW 4 years ago
no it doesn't as they say the zoom is to noisey but you get use to it
rockhillbilly1 4 years ago
What is the nice lake?
jonnyk5614 4 years ago
That's Lake Wakatipu by Queenstown in New Zealand's South Island.
cameralabs 4 years ago
Thought it reminded me of NZ!
jonnyk5614 4 years ago
You lucky, lucky barst.....you can thank me for buying 2 copies of Digital Retro (educating my cousins on REAL computers) which has partially funded your annoyingly sunny lifestyle.
maureenOWW 4 years ago
Thanks - I appreciate it! PS - if they're interested, there's more info on the books at digitalretro . co. uk !
cameralabs 4 years ago
I am torn between two camera... the Panasonic DMC TZ3 or the Canon Ixus 950, what does any1 think?
nathanlfc06 4 years ago
Hi, I've not tested the Ixus 950 / 960, but even though it has higher resolution (12 Mpixels), I prefer the spec of the 860 IS - I prefer its wider angle lens and bigger 3in screen. So that means I'd also prefer the TZ3 to the 950 / 960, especially with its 10x zoom.
cameralabs 4 years ago
i have some friends on the norway camera forum, and i have asked 5 that has the 860 IS and they complain that its very unclear in the corners with the wide angle lens.
they didnt like the canon 860 is...
NorWay707 4 years ago
'its very unclear in the corners with the wide angle lens.' - well that's true, but then again as Scotty was fond of saying 'Ya cannae change the laws of physics, Captain!'
Basically, small lens + wide angle = blurry corners. I'd rather have the extra blur and keep the wide-angle than do without.
maureenOWW 4 years ago
Great review. I saw your review about sony t70, and I cant decide which one is the best. What do you think? thanks!
p.s: I am an amateur, I know just a little about photography.
doelmen 4 years ago
Check out the results pages for the T70 at the Cameralabs website. I think there's models by Panasonic and Canon with better image quality, but it depends if you love the Sony's features or not. Also the Pannie TZ3 here has a 10x zoom and proper wide angle, which is v useful...
cameralabs 4 years ago
This seems like the camera I've been looking for. Do you think where this model is nearly a year old that Panasonic will be releasing a new, possibly better TZ model sometime next year?
eric7088 4 years ago
I would be surprised if Panasonic doesn't update the TZ3 early next year with the latest features like face detection their Intelligent Auto mode... This is just speculation though...
cameralabs 4 years ago
well, I'll keep an eye out next year for a TZ4 with improved noise reduction, a longer-life battery and some manual controls. Then it might be the perfect point-and-shoot for me.
eric7088 4 years ago
I have the TZ1. I shoot a ton of video with it and I think the battery life is incredible.
onlyfoolingmyself 4 years ago
Well I mean you are getting alot for such a relatively compact camera. It sounds like you need to check out super zooms or SLR's for the range of flexability you are after. I have just purchased the TZ2, can't wait to test drive it.
thegreatbasher 4 years ago
Thanks for your great review! It convinced me to buy the TZ3. Camera labs is a great website!
LukeDuggan1990 4 years ago 3
Great review!
What do you think about the panasonic Lumix DMC-LZ6 ??? I'm considering buying it but need a profesional opinion?
xnatey 4 years ago
I'm afraid I haven't tested the LZ6 , so can't comment, sorry!
cameralabs 4 years ago
I got this camera. its Awesome, and i'd recommend it to everyone :)
reyn1r 4 years ago
hi gordon, from argentina.. my name is ignacio.. We `ve already talked about 2 months before..
I finally bought this camera after viewing your review in your website.. thanks again.. I am very happy with the camera..
Soon i`ll post a video response with my TZ3 BLACK!!
see you
napcho 4 years ago
Glad you got your TZ3! I hope you are happy with it! Feel free to tell us what you think on the Cameralabs forums too...
cameralabs 4 years ago
wooo you are connected now! i did`t hope so very fast answer.. haha
ok.. I`ll give my opinion in the cameralabs forum.. promise.
napcho 4 years ago
this camera is the best
eokikoo 4 years ago
i read it was voted best compact in class, is this true
ratneruk 4 years ago
Right, I dont know much about this sort of thing, but would it be possible to write a firmware patch for cameras so that its possible to zoom in and out while recording video? It seems a lot of people want this feature and would put up with the noise.
ballsinyourmouth5000 4 years ago
I doubt the manufacturers would write a patch to allow it on an existing model, but I hope some of them read our comments and incorporate optical zooming into future models. I think the lurching from one position to the next is also a problem, but some cameras are very smooth.
cameralabs 4 years ago
PS - many compacts allow a digital zoom while filming, but I'm after a true optical zoom...
cameralabs 4 years ago
even a digital zoom would be better than nothing, but I agree, optical zoom is essential. Would it be possible for 3rd parties to create a patch that we could install ourselves? or is it impossibe to write over the phones software?
ballsinyourmouth5000 4 years ago
EDIT ... to write over the CAMERAS software?
ballsinyourmouth5000 4 years ago
Some people have managed to edit existing firmware on certain cameras, but I don't think enabling an optical zoom when filming would be easy to do...
cameralabs 4 years ago
there are, maybe, 3 ways that optical zoom can be "found"
1) Panasonic releasing a firmware patch
2) Someone hacking the firmware(well, its just a software lock that disables zoom when movie mode is on....)
3) Panasonic engineers left a backdoor to enable such an option in the service menu or some werid keypress(maybe, but the service manual for TZ3 doesnt have such.....)
evilboi99 4 years ago
Can anyone tell me if this camera is able to zoom in and out while recording video? Cheers.
ballsinyourmouth5000 4 years ago
Sorry, just read through and seen that it doesn't.
ballsinyourmouth5000 4 years ago
i got this two days ago
ironhide52 4 years ago
hows the image quality? i like to use it for macro purposes aswell
bigbigboy16 4 years ago
im thinking of buying this,but still comparing with other brand like cannon,fuji and sony
BUT i love tis...
NeshAran 4 years ago
No mention of no zoom on video, if i had known that i would not have bought one.
scouser222 4 years ago
Hi scouser222, I did mention this in the review at cameralabs which goes with the video. If it's any consolation though, very few digital cameras can use their optical zooms while filming video.
cameralabs 4 years ago
Thanks for the reply, just to say my other camera an Konica Minolta Dimage Z3 has a brilliant optical zoom(x12)on video which may be an exception.
scouser222 4 years ago
Sadly it is one of the few exceptions! I think they don't allow it on most digicams because the noise of the zooming motor would be audible. But then I think most of us would accept that and prefer to have the feature.
cameralabs 4 years ago
I have the Lumix TZ1 and you CAN zoom while shooting video. I don't believe it's just digital zoom because the zoom meter shows it stepping up to the 10X line and then kicking it up to 40X in the digital zoom range.
I love my TZ1 and was hoping for something better with the TZ3, but having zoom while shooting video is way too important to me.
onlyfoolingmyself 4 years ago
I agree, I don't understand why they removed this feature. Being able to Zoom while shooting video very useful. I think only the huge Canon G5 allows this now.
Does anyone know if the sound quality of the TZ3 has been improved? This was a weak point for the TZ1
rnickeymouse 4 years ago
"Does anyone know if the sound quality of the TZ3 has been improved?"
I did read a review in amazon, and people says No. No sound quality improved for the TZ3.
Nilmabostonrio 4 years ago
My last camera was a Dimage Z5. I had trouble with the audio going out of sync with the video and getting progressively worse with time(file size), even with a high speed card. Also, the audio becomes distorted in loud situations like a concert.
The battery life with the Dimage Z5 is just brutal. It's nice having AA rechargeables but it's not worth having such a short usage between charges.
onlyfoolingmyself 4 years ago
OK as a camera - but - NO zoom in video record - why! And no video out (only in playback). So can't stick it in a Radio Control model and transmit video, and can't use as a cheap studio video source, if you like to monitor output
OghamTheBold 4 years ago
Hi Ogham, I don't know why Panasonic disables video output in record mode, but you can actually fix it! If you press and hold the Trash bin button for five seconds, it should enable TV output in all modes, but only if the TV standard is also set to NTSC, not PAL. This works with all Lumix cameras we've tested.
cameralabs 4 years ago
I wonder how i can zoom during video..pls fast answers!(sry for my english)
marx92 4 years ago
ye cant
chaimdijk 4 years ago
Hello, I have a question, I hope you help me.
can you compare this camera with Sony DSC-W90 ?
especially about Intelligent ISO and MOS
agredo 4 years ago
hey i found this exact camera and it wonbt let me watch videos on my computer?....message me back fassst please
water211 4 years ago
Hi, the video files on the Panasonic cameras are recorded in the Quicktime MOV format, so you'll need to install the Quicktime software on your computer before they'll play on it. You can get it from quicktime . com
cameralabs 4 years ago
gordon, i have 2 questions! I`d like to know if this camera supports Sd of 4 gb! and also what sd do u prefer ? do u know if i can get the manual in spanish??
napcho 4 years ago
Hi Napcho, I'm sure there's a Spanish version of the manual, but I'm not sure if you can download it. You'd also have to check the manual to see if it supports 4GB cards. I think it will, but you WILL need the SDHC type. Do check the manual before buying a card though!
cameralabs 4 years ago
im pretty sure i read that is does support SDHC of 4gb
MadazRx8 4 years ago
hello gordon! i`m from buenos aires argentina. I know just a little bit about digital cameras. I was going to buy the lumix fx 30 but i was all day watching your reviews, and finally decided for this camera. I just can`t wait to get it. Your site and you were very helpful for me to take the desicion! thanks again gordon! from Argentina
napcho 4 years ago
Hi Napcho, glad to be of service! Once you get your TZ3, let us know what you think in the User Reviews section of the Cameralabs website!
cameralabs 4 years ago
great review
this has helped me decide its the camera for me
MadazRx8 4 years ago 2
Thanks! Glad to be of service! Don't forget you can see our full review by clicking the link to the right of the video window...
cameralabs 4 years ago
yes ty i read that first before watching this
how does a full zoom look on the computer or printed @ photo lab
i have a samsung digimax 401 and is very poor quality @ max zoom otherwise was a pretty good camera for what it cost at the time of purchase
MadazRx8 4 years ago
We have examples of the full zoom on the Gallery page in our review, and crops showing what it looks like as if you were viewing the image at 100% on your computer. Is this what you wanted to know? Prints from the TZ3 look great at smaller sizes, but above 5x7in, you may see noise at the higher sensitivities... this is like most compacts though...
cameralabs 4 years ago
ah yes i now see the effect you were doing with the resized image and thumbnails of 100%
I'm particularly impressed with how much detail is in the house thumbnail of the 3rd picture
and as you say it is lacking in contrast and other pictures have a little noise, that is very easily fixed up in paint shop pro
MadazRx8 4 years ago
Nice car choice but a little more care for the brand name.. ;)
tansugunal 4 years ago
this camera or the sony DSC_ T100
mahim786 4 years ago
king lumix
jarsurf 4 years ago
HI Gordon, thanks very much for you review of this, i enjoy watching you coverages and i think i have fallen in love with this camera. I find the size though a bit big compared to the Canon Ixus 7 which i was hoping to get before.
jonathanvoo 4 years ago
I love Pansonic
LOVETOYOTAS 4 years ago
A product demo from someone who's not salivating over my wallet. This is shoppers' paradise. I see the future. Brilliant.
aliasbernard 4 years ago
CAplio r5 or tz3 which to buy?? R5 is nice and small to fit in pocket (big plus for me) whereas tz3 seems to have slightly more control. Do either of these cameras have a wireless remote or a variable timer mode?
BlagDAD 4 years ago
f##k sony Cybershot panasonic is the best!! realy
ideas for LIFE...
joebone89 4 years ago
I thought about buying FZ8 when it came out,what I like about this camera is that it's relatively small to its big abilities, great built and of course the price, but unfortunetely I've heard that it has some serious noise problems at all ISO settings so I resigned from it, but maybe I'll wait with buying the H9 and see your opinion about FZ8...couldn't wait to read it and see on youtube, peace!:)
PS. Sorry for my English if there are some mistakes, I'm still learning:)
mosquito1986 4 years ago
We compared the H9 against the FZ8 in our H9 review at the Cameralabs website - so you can see direct comparisons between them both at all ISO settings! Click on the Results tab of our H9 review, then click on Noise-2... yep, the FZ8 ain't great at higher ISOs, but the H9 is arguably worse...
cameralabs 4 years ago
thanks Gordon, I've already seen it yesterday, it's great and help me a lot, I think I will decide rather on DSC-H9, I didnt choose TZ3 becouse only 2 things are missing there for me...more manual settings and a higher power of the flash..besides I really like the quality of pictures taken with the DSC-H9 and this face detection which work very nice...thanks