This is the 7.2 Megapixel Lumix DMC-TZ3 from Panasonic. Newly introduced to the 2007 line of Lumix digital cameras, the DMC-TZ3 features a 28mm wide-angle LEICA DC VARIO-ELMAR lens and a 3.0-inch LCD. The DMC-TZ3 has a compact, Stainless Steel body that measures 4.20” x 2.37” x 1.47” and weighs 0.51 lbs.

The DMC-TZ3 offers some advanced anti-blurring countermeasures to help you take better action shots. The Intelligent Image Stabilization system comprises two features: MEGA O.I.S. (Optical Image Stabilizer) and Intelligent ISO Control. These two features help by compensating for the effects of hand-shake and image movement.

Another important feature is the Panasonic Venus Engine III image-processing engine. The engine helps to improve noise reduction and can record at a sensitivity setting as high as ISO 1250 with full resolution. The multi-tasking Venus Engine III improves upon response time with a shutter release time lag as short as 0.006 second and shutter interval as short as 0.5 seconds. In burst shooting mode, the DMC-TZ3 can fire off three shots per second at full resolution and allows unlimited consecutive shooting until the memory card is full.

Other features of the DMC-TZ3 include:

• Clipboard Function - This is useful to record quick images for informational purposes such as a map or train schedule.
• Dual Image Playback - Displays two images simultaneously to compare the images.
• New Pet and Sunset Modes have been added.
• Direct Print Mode - Allows users to immediately print with one turn of the mode dial.
• Built-in Lens Cap.
• Large-Capacity SDHC memory card compatibility.
• Extended Battery Life - 270 shots on a single battery charge.
• Slide Change Effect Feature - An easier way to view the images, replacing the classic frame-by-frame advance.
• Power LCD Function: Boosts the LCD backlighting by 40 percent.
• High-Angle Mode: A dedicated button that makes the LCD screen easy to view when the camera is held high, such as to shoot over a crowd.
• Wide-Aspect VGA Motion Images: Records standard VGA (640 x 480) motion images at 30 frames per second, and each camera records stunning wide-aspect VGA (848 x 480) motion images at 30 frames per second.
• Travel Date and World Time Setting: Offers the option of setting a trip’s the departure date and displaying images in chronological order, as well as setting the camera’s time and date for up to 74 locations around the world.

“The Lumix DMC-TZ3 is the successor to the extremely popular DMC-TZ1, and the perfect camera for anyone with an active lifestyle. It combines a host of must-have features into a compact, stylish body ideal for slipping into your coat pocket or travel bag,” said Alex Fried, National Marketing Manager, Imaging, Panasonic Corporation of North America. “With 10x Optical Zoom, a powerful 28mm wide-angle LEICA lens and Intelligent Image Stabilization, the DMC-TZ3 is destined to be a leader and innovator in the compact zoom space.”

The Panasonic Lumix DMC-TZ3 will be available in March 2007 with an MSRP of $349.95.