Panasonic Lumix DMC-S2: A Practically Perfect Point-and-Shoot Camera for Everyday Use

In this blog post, we'll explore the features and benefits of the Panasonic Lumix DMC-S2. From its HD video recording capabilities to its expansive zoom range, this compact camera is perfect for capturing life's most precious moments. We'll cover everything from technical specifications to real-world usage scenarios, so you can make an informed decision about whether the Panasonic Lumix DMC-S2 is right for you.

Written by Victor Chan | Updated: Mon May 01 2023

Panasonic Lumix DMC-S2 article cover photo

Key Features

Jan 09 2012

Announced

14 megapixels

Resolution

BrandPanasonic
Sensor Type1/2.3-inch
SensorCCD
Weight112g
MSRP$129USD

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Overview of the Lumix DMC-S2

As smartphones continue to gain popularity as the go-to device for taking photos and videos, it can be easy to forget about the humble point-and-shoot camera. But for those of us who still prefer a dedicated device for capturing life's most important moments, the Panasonic Lumix DMC-S2 is a standout option. Packed with features and capabilities that rival much larger and more expensive cameras, the Lumix DMC-S2 is an excellent choice for anyone who wants high-quality photos and videos without the added complexity of a more advanced camera. In this blog post, we'll take a closer look at the Panasonic Lumix DMC-S2, exploring its features and benefits and providing real-world examples of how it performs in a variety of situations. Whether you're a professional photographer looking for a reliable backup, or simply someone who wants a capable camera for everyday use, the Lumix DMC-S2 is definitely worth considering. So let's dive in and see what this camera can do!

Panasonic Lumix DMC-S2 Pros and Cons

Now, we will look more closely at our review of the Panasonic Lumix DMC-S2 camera. We will see what it can do and compare it to other cameras like it. We will tell you what's good about it and what's not so good. This way, you'll know if it's the camera for you!

Pros

High megapixel count
Compact and portable
Image stabilization feature
Fast autofocus
Good low-light performance
Wide-angle lens
Decent video capabilities
Affordable price

Cons

No manual control options
Limited zoom range
Doesn't shoot in RAW format
Mediocre battery life
Can struggle to focus in certain lighting situations
Built-in flash is weak
Plastic construction feels cheap
No built-in WiFi connectivity

Build and Construction

Body and dimensions

Panasonic Lumix DMC-S2

Weather sealed
Dimensions98 x 57 x 21mm
Weight112g
Thickness21mm
Weight
Min
Avg
This
Max
Thickness
Min
Avg
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Max

Weather Sealing

The Panasonic Lumix DMC-S2 is not sealed against water and dust, so it's important to be careful when using it in such conditions. If you often shoot in environments with water or dust, it's recommended to check out another camera with weather sealing.

Design and Handling

Main design features

View FinderNone
Screen TypeFixed Type
Screen Resolution230k dots
Body typeCompact

Suitable for:

PhotographyAbove Avg.
VideographyAbove Avg.
TravelAbove Avg.

LCD Screen

This camera has a fixed type 2.70" screen, with a display resolution of 230k dots. This makes the Panasonic Lumix DMC-S2 not as suitable for those looking for a vlogging camera as you cannot view yourself while shooting selfies easily. Unfortunately, the camera does not have a touch screen, which may make it less user-friendly.

Viewfinder

Panasonic Lumix DMC-S2 does not include a viewfinder. The lack of a viewfinder on the Lumix DMC-S2 camera may make it less suitable for outdoor photography in bright conditions.

Image Quality

Panasonic Lumix DMC-S2 has a 14MP sized CCD sensor. You can shoot at maximum resolution of 14 pixels. Panasonic Lumix DMC-S2 has a native ISO range of 100 - 6400 which can be boosted to null - null.

Key Features

Jan 09 2012

Announced

100 - 6400

ISO Range

Sensor1/2.3-inch
Extended ISOnull - null
Max resolution4320 x 3240 pixels

DXO Sensor Scores

Overall

not tested

Color Depth

not tested

Dynamic Range

not tested

Low Light ISO

not tested

DXO mark sensor scores

The DXOmark rankings indicate that the Panasonic Lumix DMC-S2 camera has excellent color depth performance, which refers to the number of colors the sensor can distinguish. Additionally, its dynamic range is also excellent, allowing it to retain high amounts of details in both bright and dark areas of a scene. The camera's low light ISO performance is excellent, which is an important factor to consider if you plan to use it in dimly lit indoor environments or at night. Overall the image quality of the Lumix DMC-S2 is excellent

Crop Factor

Camera crop factor (or focal length multiplier) refers to how a camera's sensor size affects the apparent field of view of a lens. Crop factor is determined by comparing the size of a camera's sensor to that of a full-frame sensor, which is a standard reference size for camera sensors.

Size comparison

Medium FormatFull FrameAPS-C (Sony, Nikon)

Crop factor calculator

Crop factor

1x

Full frame equivalent

24mm

This camera: 1/2.3-inch

24mm

850100150200

Connectivity, storage, battery

StorageSD/SDHC/SDXC, Internal
Battery Life280 shots
Battery Model
HDMI
USD
Wireless Connectivity

Storage

The Panasonic Lumix DMC-S2 supports SD/SDHC/SDXC, Internal with 1 slots for storage. This may suffice for everyday use. However, for professional applications such as wedding photography, it is not recommended as a memory card malfunction could lead to the loss of all footage.

Battery

The Panasonic Lumix DMC-S2 uses the undefined model of battery pack. This is rated for 280 shots shots which is high. If you intend to take photos or record videos for an extended period, it might be a good idea to bring along additional batteries.

Photography Features

Flash

The Panasonic Lumix DMC-S2 has built in flash which is great for event photography and in low light situations. However it lacks an external flash shoe, which limits you to using the built-in flash.

Shutter

The Panasonic Lumix DMC-S2 boasts a maximum mechanical shutter speed of 1/1600s, which is ideal for shooting fast-moving subjects in bright environments, such as in sports photography. Faster shutter speeds enable you to freeze the action and capture every detail, making it easier to get the perfect shot.

With a continuous mechanical shutter speed of n/a or an electronic shutter speed of n/a, this camera is not capable of capturing the perfect moment more easily, making it not as suited for wedding, sports, and wildlife photography. Higher shutter speeds make it easier to capture fast-paced action, ensuring that you never miss the perfect shot.

Autofocus

The Panasonic Lumix DMC-S2 includes contrast detection autofocus (AF), with 23 number of focus points.

While contrast detection is generally more accurate and precise, phase detection autofocus is faster and more effective in most situations, particularly when photographing moving subjects.

Phase detection autofocus works by dividing the incoming light into pairs and then analyzing how they intersect on the camera's sensor. This method allows the camera to determine not only if a subject is in focus but also the direction and distance needed to adjust the focus to achieve perfect sharpness.

On the other hand, contrast detection autofocus works by analyzing the contrast of an image and adjusting the focus until the highest contrast is detected. While this method is very accurate, it can be slow, especially in low light conditions or when photographing moving subjects.

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FAQ

What is the sensor size of the Panasonic Lumix DMC-S2?

The Panasonic Lumix DMC-S2 features a CCD sensor

Is the Panasonic Lumix DMC-S2 weather sealed?

No the Lumix DMC-S2 does not have weather sealing.

When was the Panasonic Lumix DMC-S2 announced?

The Panasonic Lumix DMC-S2 was announced on Jan 09 2012

Does the Panasonic Lumix DMC-S2 have in-body image stabilization?

Yes the Lumix DMC-S2 does have in-body image stabilization that can compensate for camera shake, making it easier to shoot handheld in low light conditions.

What is the ISO range of the Panasonic Lumix DMC-S2?

The Lumix DMC-S2 has a native ISO range of 100-6400, which can be expanded to ISO null-null for even greater sensitivity in low light conditions.

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