The 7.2 megapixel DMC-FX12 features a bright f/2.8 LEICA DC VARIO-ELMARIT lens with 3x optical zoom. The high quality Leica DC lens carries on the proud tradition of its famous Leica brand, the German camera maker renowned for lenses that combine superb performance with compact size. Comprising seven elements in six groups, including three lenses with three aspherical surfaces, this advanced lens unit matches Leica's stringent standards and delivers an exceptional optical performance..

The zoom ratio can be extended up to 4.5x in 3 megapixel resolution mode with minimal deterioration thanks to the Extra Optical Zoom. By using the central part of the CCD, this powerful zooming function allows you to easily capture and magnify distant subjects.

Keeps your shots steady, even if you're not
Jitter from handshake is far and away the biggest single cause of blurry shots. Lumix cameras help solve this problems with an advanced optical image stabilising system Panasonic's ingenious MEGA Optical Image Stabiliser (OIS). This system uses built-in gyrosensors to detect even tiny camera movement and then shifts a lens in the opposite direction to compensate, giving you sharp, clear images without deterioration.

Detects movement, prevents blurring
While hand-shake is the single biggest cause of blurry images, it is not the only one. Another problem is the motion blur that can occur when a subject moves as the shot is being taken, particularly common when taking pictures of sports or young children for example. In these conditions Intelligent ISO Control comes into its own. This system actually detects whether the subject is moving and, as necessary raises the ISO setting and shutter speed according to how fast the subject is moving and the light conditions. This happens automatically, so you can effortlessly shoot without the need to adjust the settings every time the conditions change.