FZ-1 user here since Dec-2003. Just upgraded the firmware to v2.0 1 week after purchase and it performs like FZ-2. The pictures turn out great outdoor and even tried in studio shootout. Even its weakness in low-lighting and noise, as long as one master the characteristic of the camera and photogrpahy techniques, one can turn out great picture.
It took sometime for me to consider between this camera and other Ultrazoom than as FZ-1 is 2MP.
Here's a article for those who cant decide on where to go over the Lens or Megapixels .....
http://forums.clubsnap.org/showthread.php?t=59148
Actually wanted to wait for FZ-10 but wasnt sure when it arrive on shore and cant wait then.
Anyway love this cam cos of the 12X, IS and well produced shoots.
Been using film SLR (Canon A-1) for a decade but retired it as it had gone through wear and tear (winter snow, wet weather, sand, etc ...). The 28-80mm lens even had fungus after all these times. It had serve very well.
Now I hope the FZ-1 will also serve me for years to come. :bsmilie:
Its lighter and thus will revive me on carry it out more often.
Might considering getting the FZ-10 for its full manual setting, hotshoe and 4 MP in near future when $prices$ drops. :think:
Cheers