Review on 📷 Panasonic Lumix DMC-TZ4S 8.1MP Digital Camera: 10x Wide Angle Zoom & Image Stabilization by Gabriel Rosenberg

I have a DSLR that I like very, very much, but sometimes I like to travel with a minimum of gear. And of course, it's absolutely true that the best camera is the one you actually have with you when you see that unique shot. I wasn't a Panasonic user before and was actually quite suspicious of the brand based on professional reviews that complained about other Panasonic models suffering from watercolor effects and noise reduction artifacts. So I went with Fuji first and then Canon, but I couldn't be "satisfied" with either of their offerings. So far this iteration, the TZ-4, shows no noise reduction artifacts or watercolor effects. This is a great metal camera that's easy to hold, even in fairly large hands, despite being very compact. The menu system is fairly simple, and there are plenty of scene modes that at least come close to what a manual camera can offer you. ISO, AF area, metering area, exposure compensation and bracketing, and white balance can be set manually. There's no shutter or aperture priority here, although you can specify the absolute minimum shutter speed the camera chooses, up to a full second. The custom white balance feature is very well implemented and I had no trouble getting nice lighting and proper exposure. existing bright indoor shots with image stabilization and low ISO. The LCD monitor isn't as sharp as the TZ5's, but it's good enough for reviewing images, and this camera's battery lasts longer than the TZ5, if that's important to you. Light is very, very useful, and focus lock is almost always very quick and inexpensive. The macro function is amazing. The controls are well placed and give good feedback. I have three comments: the power button and scene wheel can accidentally activate; there must be tighter latches, otherwise both must be sunk. AF seems to struggle a bit with the video mode, but being able to zoom while recording the actual video is a godsend. And finally, the USB output is annoying. It opens very easily. I can use a piece of black tape to cover it. All in all an excellent little performer for what you get for the money; packed with features and of course a wonderful 28-280 zoom. WOW. I recommend this camera as the perfect all-round travel camera that you can really take with you!