When this powerful camera--which features image-stabilized optical zoom up to 18x--is put into Intelligent Auto Mode, the multifaceted functions engage automatically, so there is no need to adjust settings every time conditions change. The DMC-FZ18's intuitive Intelligent Auto Mode comprises:

• Intelligent Scene Selector, which automatically selects the appropriate scene mode from the most frequently-used modes such as Portrait, Scenery, Macro, Night Scenery, and Night Portrait;
• Face Detection System, which helps the camera to focus, set autoexposure, and detects up to 15 human faces, capturing them clearly and brightly; and
• Continuous Autofocus, which allows the camera to keep focus on the subject without having to press the shutter button halfway and allowing for the best results out of a shutter chance by minimizing the autofocus time.

The Lumix DMC-FZ18 also is equipped with a 2.5-inch large, high-resolution LCD with 207,000 pixels, a 0.44-inch electric viewfinder with 188,000 pixels and f2.8 brightness, and is powered by the high-quality, high-performance Venus Engine III, which boasts shooting at ISO 1600 in normal recording mode.

The DMC-FZ18 has been redesigned to make the camera more stylish and easier to use. The autofocus, autoexposure lock, and Macro buttons are now independent, to allow quick and direct operation. A metal-finished mode dial adds design strength, and an enhanced rubber grip makes the camera easier to hold. The redesigned body also incorporates the joystick made popular by the DMC-FZ8 model, which enables a host of settings, such as manual focusing and exposure, to be done quickly and easily.

Other advanced features of the Lumix DMC-FZ18 include:

• Custom Setting Mode that memorizes your frequent setting patterns for instance use applied by simply selecting this function on the mode dial.
• 1920 x 1080 pixel photos ideal for full-screen viewing on a wide-screen HDTV.
• Six autofocusing methods including face detection, multi, three-point high-speed, one-point high speed, one-point normal speed, and spot. With the one-point autofocus or spot autofocus method, the autofocusing area can be chosen from as many as 11 points with the joystick or cursor button.
• Advanced Scene Modes provide users more control over some frequently used scene modes, such as indoor and outdoor modes, when selecting portrait or sports mode and nature or architecture settings when selecting portrait mode.
• Bundled SILKYPIX Developer Studio 2.0SE software application for editing and developing images in the RAW file format.
• 27MB of built-in memory--perfect for backing up SDHC/SD memory card recording.
• Extra Optical Zoom feature extends zoom power to 28.7x at 3 megapixels.
• Compatibility with large-capacity SDHC memory cards.
• Title Edit Function allows inputting of text and additional picture information.
• Picture Playback by category sorts images into categories such as portraits, landscapes, nightscapes, events, and motion pictures. Also, allows slideshow playback of images in the same category.
• Optional accessories including a teleconversion lens, close-up lens, ND filter, MC protector, lens adapter, AC adapter, battery pack, soft case, and camera bag.
• Available in two colors: silver and black.