3. The new Venus Engine FHD assures high picture quality for both photo and movie
For the image processing LSI, the newly developed Venus Engine FHD gives the LX5 even higher-speed and performance. It enables the recording of beautiful photos and high-definition movies with higher quality signal processing.
The triple CPUs in this imaging engine dramatically speed up processing while achieving exceptional noise reduction performance. Energy efficiency, the Venus Engine FHD supports long-time AVCHD Lite movie recording and allows the output of images and sounds via HDMI. It also supports a super-fast response time.
The shutter release time lag is as short as approximately 0.007 seconds and the camera's quick response makes it easier to capture sudden, spur-of-the-moment photo opportunities together with the Sonic Speed AF (Auto Focus) that gain approximately 40% higher speed* and the quick startup time.
With the Intelligent Resolution technology, three areas outlines, detailed textured areas, and soft gradation areas are automatically detected. The outlined parts are enhanced to show clear edges while giving a moderate accentuation to the textured areas to make images look more finely defined. As for soft gradation, the superior noise reduction system of the Venus Engine FHD is applied to achieve smoother images. Apart from delivering consistent sharpness, the Intelligent Resolution performs precise signal processing pixel by pixel.
As a result, photo and movie images look naturally clear and crisp. The Intelligent Resolution technology also enhances the Intelligent Zoom to extend the optical zoom ratio to its approximately 1.3x equivalent and maintain the picture quality even when using the digital zoom. Details of an image in high sensitivity recording tend to be lost in the noise reduction process, but the Intelligent Resolution works to keep them.
Despite its high performance, the Venus Engine FHD is highly energy efficient, extending the battery life of the LX5 to 400 pictures (CIPA) per single charge.
*In comparison with DMC-LX3, using 1-area AF, at wide/tele-end.
4. Save memories in movie -Start enjoying videography as you enjoy photography.
In addition to Motion JPEG, the LX5 records high-definition motion pictures in AVCHD Lite, which almost doubles the recording time in HD quality compared with the conventional Motion JPEG format. The picture quality is enhanced by the newly added Intelligent Resolution technology. The LX5 also features Dolby Digital Creator to record high quality audios.
The LX5 goes beyond recording HD movies. It features a Creative Movie mode that lets users set the shutter speed and aperture manually. Changing the shutter speed brings special effects
Panasonic Corporation to movies, especially when shooting fast-moving subjects. The ability to control the aperture is convenient when there are several subjects at different distances yet all needs to stand out.
The optical zoom is also available in movie recordings. With the newly added Video Divide function, users can divide the video into two sections to shorten or delete the unwanted part directly from the camera. The Intelligent Resolution technology allows users to cut out a clear still image from a movie in the camera. The wind cut function blocks out most of the noise from background wind. The minimum illumination is as low as 3 lux, thanks to the F2.0 super bright LEICA DC VARIO-SUMMICRON lens and the high sensitivity CCD.
The popular iA (Intelligent Auto) is also available in movie recording. The POWER O.I.S. (Optical Image Stabilizer), Face Detection, and Intelligent Scene Selector all work together to make beautiful movies easily. The Intelligent Scene Selector automatically switches between Normal, Portrait, Macro, Scenery, and Low Light modes, according to the situation to optimize visual quality. The Intelligent Exposure optimizes the exposure to prevent over/under exposure from occurring.
Still or motion images recorded in AVCHD Lite on SD Memory Cards are easy to view on a Panasonic VIERA TV. Simply insert the card into the VIERA Image Viewer (SD Memory Card slot) on VIERA TV or DIGA Blu-ray Disc Player to playback content. Alternatively, you can use an optional mini HDMI cable to output the still and motion images you took from the LX5 directly to the TV for VIERA Link. You can take maximum advantage of LUMIX camera's playback functions including the slideshow in which both still and motion images are integrated in the timeline and category playback according to the scene mode used or calendar display and so on. All control is possible using only the TV's remote control.
With the bundled software, PHOTOfunSTUDIO 5.0 HD Edition, viewing and editing recorded content is a breeze. It also allows users to upload their videos to YouTube or burn them to a DVD disc for archiving.
Motion images can be recorded continuously for up to 29min 59 sec in European PAL areas
Continuous recording exceeding 2GB is not possible when recording motion JPEG. Remaining time for continuous recording is displayed on the screen.
Use a card with SD Speed Class with "Class 4" or higher when recording motion pictures in [AVCHD Lite]. Also, use a card with SD Speed
Class with "Class 6" or higher when recording motion pictures in [MOTION JPEG].
*SD Speed Class is the speed standard regarding continuous writing.
5. Enhanced operability and unlimited possibility for expression
The LX5 has been designed to deliver maximum operability based on feedback from the users of the predecessor LX3. Both models almost share the same size, but LX5 comes with a new gently formed grip that makes easier handling even while actively shooting. The Hot Shoe is also a newly added for attachment of the optional Live View Finder (DMW-LVF1). Users can also choose the External Optical Viewfinder (DMW-VF1) whenever it suits them. The newly adopted jog dial enhances the operability for quick setting change and the dedicated playback button lets the user playback the images and return to the shooting menu in split seconds. The aspect ratio can be changed directly with the aspect switch on the lens barrel - 4:3, 3:2, 16:9 and the new 1:1.
In addition to the Film mode in which users can select the texture of the photo as they choose a film, My Color mode is added to LX5. My Color mode is a special option that gives free reign to the user's creativity. Users can select the color out of 12 options including Expressive, Retro, Pure, Elegant, Monochrome, Dynamic Art, Silhouette, Pin Hole, Film Grain, High Dynamic, Dynamic B&W and Custom (the parameter of color / brightness / saturation adjustable). This makes it easier and more fun to create interesting, expressive images. The user can adjust the settings that best suit the shooting conditions and his or her expressive intent, for greater photographic control. It is available also in movie recording, giving the user a wider range of expressive possibilities to explore together with the Creative Movie mode.
6. Other features that add fun and ease-of-use to the camera.
The LX5 is equipped with a 3.0-inch, 460,000-dot Intelligent LCD with super high resolution and a wide viewing angle. The screen brightness automatically adjusts in 11 steps as the surrounding brightness level changes, ensuring good visibility at all times. The big screen reflects fine details, making it easy to check the focus before shooting. It also serves as a small photo and video viewer, allowing users to enjoy viewing both the still and motion images together. Reflection is suppressed with the AR coating and the adoption of the High CRI (Color Rendering Index) LED backlight realizes vivid, impressive color reproduction true to the memory color that you envision.
The ISO value can be set in 1/3 EV increments for finer control. The maximum setting is ISO 12800* enabling shooting in extremely dark places. The new Step Zoom option allows zoom ranges to be set to 24mm, 28mm, 35mm, 70mm or 90mm via the easy menu as you change the fixed focal length lens with D-SLR. The maximum 800mm is possible if the Intelligent Zoom and digital zoom is combined.
The LX5 has advanced functions that will satisfy experienced photographers, yet is easy enough for beginners to use comfortably if iA (intelligent Auto) mode is used. POWER O.I.S. (Optical Image Stabilizer), Face Recognition, AF Tracking, Intelligent ISO Control, Intelligent Scene Selector, and Intelligent Exposure are all available in photo recording and POWER O.I.S. Once you enter the iA mode, these functions are activated instantly and automatically, so you can shoot without the bother of adjusting settings every time conditions change.
*In 3-megapixel recording mode.
7. Rich options for expandability.
LX5 offers a wide variety of options to choose from to match every shooting situation and shooting style. Hot Shoe allows the attachment of optional tilt-shift Live View Finder of 1.04x (0.52x*) magnification, 202,000-dot, 100% field of view, which ensures comfortable monitoring even under the strong daylight.
Live View Finder: DMW-LVF1
External Optical View Finder: DMW-VF1
Wide Conversion Lens: DMW-LWA52 NEW
Conversion Lens Adaptor: DMW-LA6 NEW
MC Protector: DMW-MC52
ND Filter: DMW-LND52
PL Filter: DMW-LPL52
External Flash: DMW-FL220(GN22) / DMW-FL360(GN36) / DMW-FL500(GN50)
Genuine Leather Case

MW-CLX5 NEW
Battery Pack: DMW-BCJ13 NEW