Panasonic Lumix DMC-LF1 review – Our verdict
Panasonic’s Lumix DMC-LF1 is certainly a good camera but it is up against many excellent advanced compact cameras, so it may struggle to find its own place in the market. Obviously, the 7.1x zoom lens and electronic viewfinder are the defining features, but while an EVF is something I hope to see in more cameras, the resolution of this one is very low and the viewfinder window small. I don’t think anyone will use the EVF by default, but instead only when it is too bright for the screen to be properly seen. Similarly, while the 7.1x zoom in a tiny body is in itself a great feat of engineering, the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX50 carries a 30x zoom lens and is only a little larger.
As for image quality, while it is good it is not exceptional, and doesn’t quite justify the £379 price tag. Whie the LF1 is a good option for those who want an all-round compact camera and travel companion with advanced features, with such models as the Fujifilm FinePix X20 and Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX100 only costing around £70 more, any buyers may be better off spending that little bit extra.
Image: When shooting at the 200mm equivalent setting I was able to get close enough to this fox club to take a shot
