Panasonic has unveiled their new Lumix DMC-LZ20 compact “super zoom” digital camera featuring a 16-megapixel CCD imager, 21X Optical zoom which is a 25-525mm equivalent lens with optical image stabilisation, and a 3” LCD screen with a resolution of 460,000 dots.
Together with advanced image processing LSI,that has been designed to support both high quality photographs and video footage.

Its 21 x optical zoom can also be extended further to a massive 48.5 x with the use of the Extra Optical Zoom function, added by Panasonic, and its fitted with a 3 inch 460,000 dot LCD display on the rear.

The Lumix LZ20 can records dynamic HD video in 1280 x 720p at 30 fps in Motion JPEG format, and high sensitivity recording at ISO 1600 and max. ISO 6400.
For beginners, the LZ20 features LUMIX’s popular iA (Intelligent Auto) function powerfully assists in any shooting situation to get the best result and reduce mistakes. This mode is a comprehensive integration of Optical Image Stabilizer, Face Detection, Intelligent Scene Selector and Intelligent Exposure – the camera does all the work, leaving you free to compose shots, aim and shoot the subject.
Face Detection sets appropriate AF/AE while removing unwanted red-eye. Intelligent Exposure corrects the brightness in parts of the image that are too dark due to insufficient lighting, backlighting or use of the flash. The Intelligent Scene Selector automatically selects whichever of 6 Scene modes – Macro, Portrait, Scenery, Night Portrait, Night Scenery and Sunset – that best suit the shooting situation.

In addition to Panasonic’s “intelligent Auto” function, the Lumix LZ20 also features a manual exposure mode that will likely appeal to more experienced photographers.
With the bundled software PHOTOfunSTUDIO 8.2 Lite Edition, videos can be easily edited and uploaded to YouTube to share them with family or friends.
Unfortunately no information on pricing or worldwide availability has been released as yet by Panasonic, but as soon as information comes to light we will keep you updated as always. [ Source: Market Watch]