Capture Life's Moments with the Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS3 Camera

In this blog post, we will explore the features and capabilities of the Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS3 camera. From its high-quality lens to its advanced shooting modes, this camera is perfect for capturing memories on the go. We will also discuss its portability, making it an ideal travel companion.

Written by Victor Chan | Updated: Mon May 01 2023

Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS3 article cover photo

Key Features

May 14 2009

Announced

10 megapixels

Resolution

BrandPanasonic
Sensor Type1/2.3-inch
SensorCCD
Weight229g
MSRP$399USD

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Overview of the Lumix DMC-ZS3

As we go about our lives, we are constantly presented with new opportunities to capture memories. Whether it be a beautiful sunset, a milestone in a loved one's life, or simply a moment we want to remember forever, having a reliable camera is essential. The Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS3 is one such camera that offers both quality and convenience. With its compact size and range of features, it is the perfect device for capturing life's moments on the go. In this blog post, we will dive into the different aspects of the Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS3, and how it can help you document your life in a way that's convenient and high quality.

Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS3 Pros and Cons

Now, we will look more closely at our review of the Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS3 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

10.1 megapixel resolution
12x optical zoom
High-speed autofocus
Optical image stabilization
HD video recording
Wide-angle lens
Compact and lightweight design
Multiple shooting modes
Good color reproduction
User-friendly interface

Cons

No manual exposure controls
No RAW shooting capability
Small sensor size
Limited low light performance
Screen glare in bright sunlight
Slow burst mode
No external mic input
Limited manual focus control
Battery life could be longer
Some users report issues with durability.

Build and Construction

Body and dimensions

Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS3

Weather sealed
Dimensions103 x 60 x 33mm
Weight229g
Thickness33mm
Weight
Min
Avg
This
Max
Thickness
Min
Avg
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Max

Weather Sealing

The Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS3 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 Resolution460k dots
Body typeCompact

Suitable for:

PhotographyAbove Avg.
VideographyAbove Avg.
TravelAbove Avg.

LCD Screen

This camera has a fixed type 3.00" screen, with a display resolution of 460k dots. This makes the Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS3 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-ZS3 does not include a viewfinder. The lack of a viewfinder on the Lumix DMC-ZS3 camera may make it less suitable for outdoor photography in bright conditions.

Image Quality

Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS3 has a 10MP sized CCD sensor. You can shoot at maximum resolution of 10 pixels. Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS3 has a native ISO range of 80 - 6400 which can be boosted to null - null.

Key Features

May 14 2009

Announced

80 - 6400

ISO Range

Sensor1/2.3-inch
Extended ISOnull - null
Max resolution3648 x 2736 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-ZS3 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-ZS3 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/MMC/SDHC card, Internal
Battery Life
Battery Model
HDMI
USD
Wireless Connectivity

Storage

The Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS3 supports SD/MMC/SDHC card, 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-ZS3 uses the undefined model of undefined. This is rated for undefined 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-ZS3 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-ZS3 boasts a maximum mechanical shutter speed of 1/2000s, 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-ZS3 includes contrast detection autofocus (AF), with 11 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-ZS3?

The Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS3 features a CCD sensor

Is the Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS3 weather sealed?

No the Lumix DMC-ZS3 does not have weather sealing.

When was the Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS3 announced?

The Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS3 was announced on May 14 2009

Does the Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS3 have in-body image stabilization?

Yes the Lumix DMC-ZS3 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-ZS3?

The Lumix DMC-ZS3 has a native ISO range of 80-6400, which can be expanded to ISO null-null for even greater sensitivity in low light conditions.

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