Big news from Panasoinc today; three new Lumix cameras: the DMC-FZ30, the DMC-FX9, and the DMC-LX1.

The FZ30 is the new top of the line EVF, replacing the FZ20 series. It will feature 8MP resolution and a  12x optical zoom f2.8-3.7/11 Leica DC Vario-Elmarit lens with manual zoom and focus rings. Other improvements over older FZ models include an AE lock button, eliminating the need for the "half-press trick," a macro switch on the lens that doesn't require mode selection, image sizes up to 3264 x 2448, a new 3:2 format option, and, finally, RAW capture, brighter LCD and EVF because of the new 9 pixel CCD video out, and a better grip.

With the expected $950 price tag, Ryan Block still thinks you’re better off with a DSLR. He may have a point. But with all this camera’s got going for it, I’d like to at least get my hands on it. Really, the only difference between EVF and DSLR cameras is how the image in the viewfinder is displayed. And with all the talk we’ve been around here about how to shoot raw lately, having histogram information overlayed as I’m shooting has a certain appeal.

Next up is the DMC-FX9 6MP compact. With a 2.5” LCD, 3x optical Leica lens, and Mega O.I.S. image stabilization, it first looks like essentially the same camera as its older brother, the FX8. There’s a big change under the hood, though. In addition to the upgrade from 5MP to a 6MP sensor, the processing has been overhauled with Panasonic’s new Venus Engine plus technology resulting in a reported 70% sevings in energy consumption (meaning battery life). At $420, it’s a little pricy.

Finally, the DMC-LX1, Panasonic’s new compact wide-angle 8.4MP shooter. At $780, this compact is spendy. There is, however, a lot of camera hiding in this little package. At 8.4MP, it has incredible resolution for a compact. Furthermore, it captures 16:9 aspect ratio shots (as well as 3:2 and the standard 4:3) and comes with a new 4x optical Leica zoom.

[via Engadget]