Panasonic Lumix DMC-FX8/FX9 Movie Mode

[VolKoz]

Does anybody know if you can use digital zoom while recording movies with this camera? I know the optical isn't usable, nor do I need it (due to the noise of the motor). Why is it that Panasonic doesn't provide a manual on their website?? :mad: Rhetorical question, needs not to be answered :)

[evereststar]

I have read in a recent review that it is not possible to use the zooming capability of the Panasonic FX9 while shooting a movie. That is disappointing to me. There always seems to be one or two things about a camera that disappoints me..... and so I haven't bought any, yet. I'm looking for the perfect compact digital camera. Evereststar

[VolKoz]

Have you looked into the upcoming Pentax Optio S6? I'm anxious to see what the reviews will be, because it does sound like a perfect ultracompact to me. It doesn't have an optical image stabilization like Panasonic, but it has an antishake feature for your movies, I'm pretty sure you can zoom while recording movies, and overall they claim the video quality is comparable to that of a camcoder, it's got a powerful flash (over 16 feet!) etc. Yes, there is a drawback, which is the batterty life (130 shots), but I personally can settle for that considering everything on the plus side.

[rschofield]

VolKoz,

You can find the operator's manuals for these cameras at:

http://service.us.panasonic.com/OPERMANPDF/DMCFX8.PDF

http://service.us.panasonic.com/OPERMANPDF/DMCFX9PP.PDF


Dick

[VolKoz]

Thanks for the links!