The Lumix ZS7 is an update to the Lumix ZS3, which was one of our favorite cameras. One feature we found lacking in the previous ZS3, manual exposure mode, has been included in the ZS7. Also newly added is the built-in GPS which records and displays the location where a picture is taken.

 

The made in Japan, Lumix ZS7, looks and feels very solid. Focusing and shooting is quick and responsive for a compact. The excellent lens is Leica made, and its zoom range amazing. It can go from an extra-wide 25mm to a long 300mm telephoto making the camera very versatile, especially for travel photography. Lisbon has amazing 'miradouros' or viewpoints overlooking the city where we could shoot sweeping city views with the wide end, and also pull in distant buildings with the telephoto end.

 

Overall, the Panasonic Lumix ZS7 is a perfect compact-superzoom travel camera (there are cameras with faster lens for better low light shooting but they don't have the superzoom range).

 

The main competitor of the ZS7 is the features-packed Sony Cyber-shot HX5V, which seemingly has everything except a black & white mode. It's a hard decision to choose between these two excellent cameras.

 

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