Panasonic Lumix DMC-LX3

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By Leonard Goh
Aug 26, 2008

We admit the Lumix DMC-LX3 is a very unique camera. Its footprint is as compact as a point-and-shoot, yet has a lot of features that professionals desire. Apart from the multi-aspect ratio shooting mode, it also offers a good deal of controls over the exposure. Looks wise, the LX3 reminds us of rangefinder cameras that was very popular in the 1970s for its portability and ease of use. The sensor produced image quality which surpassed our initial expectations. In all, the LX3 is a highly desirable camera which performed as well as it should.

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 style, the LX3's optics is protected by a removable lens cap. While it does add a sense of originality to the snapper, we feel that 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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