Panasonic Lumix DMC-FS18 Pro Reviews

Sometimes it's difficult differentiating between Lumix models at the entry-level point and shoot end of the spectrum, so similar are they - and in truth there's nothing much here that we haven't seen before from the brand, albeit with a lower pixel count. It's a shame that the Panasonic Lumix DMC-FS18's zoom cannot be used when recording movie clips, but then the zoom isn't the camera's main selling point. Also pixel fringing is quite readily apparent and ideally you'd want to stick below ISO400 if shooting in lower light without flash. Alternatively there is the night shooting scene mode, the results from which can be quite impressive if you're using a tripod or flat surface. Apart from the fact that it introduces fringing and blown highlights, it's under clear blue skies that this camera excels, so the Panasonic Lumix DMC-FS18 is an inexpensive option for someone looking to slip a cheap-ish camera into their holiday bag that will deliver usable results without having to pore over a manual on the train or plane.

Overall, the Panasonic LUMIX DMC-FH5 is comfortable and also quite fun to use. It has a swag of useful scene modes and it even comes with software that allows you to upload still images to Facebook and videos to YouTube without actually visiting those websites. Its image clarity is decent for a compact camera, and it's a useful camera for happy snaps. However, it did struggle to handle highlights, and this can be annoying when shooting on bright days.

The Panasonic Lumix DMC FS18 is clearly aimed at those wanting quality results with a straightforward approach to their photography. The camera would be ideal for those looking to give young teenagers or older family members an introduction to digital photography. The FS18's lightweight, ultra-compact package produces very good images, is simple to use and provides an excellent overall package for those with a smaller budget.

Aside from more pixels in a more compact form though, we can't help but feel that FS18 / FH5 has little else to offer that's new. It's great to see 720p video, but the FS11 already had that. What's left is AF tracking, a little more internal memory, Intelligent exposure, Intelligent resolution and slighly faster performance, all welcome, but incremental improvements. The FS18 / FH5 is an excellent camera, but it lacks the freshness that features like Smart shutter, Face self time, Live View cotnrol and Creative filters have brought to the Canon PowerShot A-series. So while it earns a Recommended award, we'd strongly suggest closely comparing it against the only slightly pricier Canon PowerShot A3300 IS.