Panasonic Lumix DMC-TZ6

Panasonic Lumix DMC-TZ6 Review

The Panasonic Lumix DMC-TZ6 is a part of the illustrious TZ series, whose quality, price, and range is impeccable. The images are breathtakingly crystal clear. Though the prices are low, the value is quite high. The TZ6, which is the largest both in price and size out of the Panasonic trio models, is a camera you will want to keep with you always. It’s a nifty camera that will astound even the most particular of photographers.

Without a doubt, the best feature is definitely the Leica-brand zoom lens. It has a range that can and will dwarf just about any other camera out there. It can go from the super-wide 25mm down to the 300mm ultra-zoom area. While the 25mm doesn’t have that much of an advantage of the 28mm available models, the 300mm will allow you to capture shots you will not get with any other camera. If nothing else, you should get the TZ6 just to experience the 300mm ultra-zoom function. It’s simply amazing.

When capturing shots outside in everyday conditions, we were completely blown away by the great quality, startling contrast, and plentiful vibrancy. Even the detail reproduction was noteworthy, especially when using the long end of its zoom range. Add in the fact that it’s equipped with a 12x zoom and the lens is razor sharp over the whole spectrum, and it’s easy to see why the TZ6 is well worth the cash.

The only really mentionable downside is its low-light performance. Though it has improved greatly since the cheaper Lumix models, it still isn’t the best. It’s also very disappointing that it doesn’t retain its predecessor’s HD video recording capabilities. If you’re determined to get this camera with HD recording features, you’ll have to upgrade to the TZ7, which is roughly £300. Still, even without the HD video recording devices, it’s still a wonderful camera.

The TZ6 is something of an acquired taste. It has a very distinct lag time and is prone to overshooting when in zoom mode. It more than makes up for its shortcomings with the lightening quick and completely accurate autofocus, plus it has a focus-assist light which gives it a major boost in low light settings.

Another issue people might have with it is its size. It’s a rather large and bulky camera, as its lens housing sits on the camera, rather than in the camera. Even if you manage to cram it into some small space – like your pocket – the most you can hope to achieve is to get it stuck in there. However, this is a camera of quality more than convenience. If you’d rather have a large but wonderful, exceptionally well performing camera, you should definitely opt to get the DMC-TZ6.

Pros

• Great build quality
• Impeccable macro and micro images
• Wonderful color performance
• Powerful intelligent automatic mode
• Very easy to use

Cons

• Loose command dial
• Unnatural-looking flash
• No HD video mode