Panasonic Lumix DMC-LX3

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Once in a blue moon comes a camera that sets our hearts on fire. The Lumix DMC-LX3 is such a shooter. Beneath the compact physique are an array of features that professionals will feel comfortable using, and the high-res widescreen format capture is something noteworthy. The full-range of exposure controls are complemented by intelligent features such as face detection for better photography experience. Looks-wise, the LX3 reminds us of rangefinder cameras that were very popular in the 1970s for their portability and ease of use. The large sensor produced image quality which surpassed what other shooters in its class could deliver. In all, the LX3 is a highly desirable camera which performed as well as it should.

Editors' note:

Subsequent to a second review unit being extensively tested, we have verified that the image quality issue mentioned in our review previously was found to be isolated to the earlier evaluation unit. We have since updated our review with new comments in the Image Quality section and awarded an Editors' Choice to the LX3.

Design

The LX3's design is nothing to shout about. Its chassis is relatively plain with the extreme right end raised slightly to provide a better grip--a practical design consideration further complemented by a textured rubber surface. The lens protrudes from the body, and if you are wondering why it has to be engineered this way, it's probably because the sensor in the shooter is larger than your typical point-and-shoot, resulting in an adjustment of the lens-to-sensor distance (known as flange focal distance). On the lens barrel are two switches for toggling between picture aspect ratio as well as focusing mode.

The LX3 is a handsome shooter with an aura of class around it.
(Click for larger image)

Keeping true to retro camera styling, the LX3's optics are protected by a removable lens cap. While it does add a sense of originality to the snapper, we feel this can be quite a hassle sometimes as we had to remove the cover before taking a shot, as opposed to just pressing the power button and snapping away. The supplied camera strap further accentuates the retro theme and we found it quite classy.

Panasonic usually keeps the mode dial nestled under the top right corner, but for the LX3, it is right on top. The tactile feedback was great when we turned it, and users who are used to operating a dSLR will find the labels familiar.

This digicam has a hotshoe onto which you can attach an external flashlight or an optional viewfinder. A small switch beside the hotshoe pops up the built-in flash.

The rear of the LX3 houses a lush 3-inch widescreen LCD. The Q.Menu button on the side also acts as a four-way joystick, which can be used in place of the navigation pad situated below it.

Although it may not look especially outstanding, the LX3 somehow exudes a professional aura that we could feel when taking pictures. This may sound pompous, but for a moment we felt like Henri Cartier-Bresson (the man who used and made Leica famous).

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