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Panasonic LUMIX FZ3 Point & Shoot Camera

The Panasonic DMC-FZ3 is a 3MP 1/3 inch compact camera — with SD (480p) video. Check GearFocus for current availability, with buyer protection on every purchase.

Panasonic LUMIX FZ3 Point & Shoot Camera

Panasonic LUMIX FZ3 Point & Shoot Camera

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Camera Overview — Panasonic DMC-FZ3

The Panasonic LUMIX FZ3 is a compact point-and-shoot camera built around a 3MP sensor housed in a 1/3-inch format. It features optical image stabilization (OIS), which sets it apart from basic fixed-lens compacts by helping reduce camera shake during handheld shooting. The autofocus system uses contrast detection across 9 focus points, providing a reliable if traditional approach to acquiring focus.

For shooters who need a physical viewfinder experience, the FZ3 includes an electronic EVF alongside a 1.5-inch fixed LCD display with 114,000 dots of resolution — a practical pairing for varying lighting conditions. The camera stores images on SD media and connects via USB, keeping the workflow simple and accessible. Image capture tops out at 2016x1512 pixels with a maximum burst rate of 4 frames per second, and color profile options include Standard, Vivid, and Natural.

The ISO range runs from 80 to 400. The built-in pop-up flash covers a range of up to 4.6 meters and supports multiple modes including Auto, Red-Eye Auto, Slow Sync, and Off. The body is constructed from plastic, measures 108 x 68 x 85 mm, and weighs 290 grams.

Battery life is rated at approximately 260 shots per the CIPA standard. There is no weather sealing, WiFi, or Bluetooth on this model.

Key Features — Panasonic DMC-FZ3

3MP 1/3-Inch Sensor: Captures images at up to 2016x1512 pixels, suited for standard prints and everyday snapshots.

Optical Image Stabilization: OIS helps counteract camera shake during handheld shooting, reducing blur in lower-light or zoom situations.

Electronic Viewfinder + LCD: Includes both an EVF and a 1.5-inch fixed LCD display, giving options for framing in bright sunlight or low-light conditions.

9-Point Contrast AF: Contrast detection autofocus across 9 points provides reliable focus acquisition for a compact of this era.

4fps Burst Mode: Shoots up to 4 frames per second, useful for capturing moving subjects with a point-and-shoot.

Built-In Pop-Up Flash: Covers up to 4.6 meters with multiple modes including Slow Sync and Red-Eye reduction for varied shooting situations.

Camera Specifications — Panasonic DMC-FZ3

Panasonic DMC-FZ3 full specifications
SpecDetail
Use CasesTravel, Wildlife, Sports
TypePoint and Shoot
Sensor1/3 inch
Resolution3MP
ISO Range80 – 400
AF SystemContrast Detection
AF Points9 points
Max Photo Resolution2016x1512
Burst Rate4 fps
Max Video ResolutionSD (480p)
Max Frame Rate30fps
Image StabilizationOptical (OIS)

Description — Panasonic DMC-FZ3

The Panasonic LUMIX FZ3 is a point-and-shoot compact camera featuring a 3MP sensor on a 1/3-inch format. It delivers a maximum image resolution of 2016x1512 pixels and offers three color profiles — Standard, Vivid, and Natural — for basic in-camera image control. The camera's Optical Image Stabilization (OIS) system helps counteract camera shake during handheld use.

Autofocus is handled by a contrast detection system with 9 focus points. For composing shots, shooters can use the electronic EVF or the 1.5-inch fixed LCD with 114,000 dots of resolution. A built-in pop-up flash covers distances up to 4.6 meters and includes modes such as Auto, Red-Eye Auto, Slow Sync, and Off.

The ISO range spans 80 to 400, and burst shooting is supported at up to 4 frames per second. The plastic body measures 108 x 68 x 85 mm and weighs 290 grams, with SD card storage and USB connectivity. Battery life is rated at approximately 260 shots (CIPA).

There is no weather sealing, WiFi, or Bluetooth.

Pros — Panasonic DMC-FZ3

  • ✓Optical image stabilization (OIS) helps reduce blur during handheld shots
  • ✓Both an electronic EVF and a 1.5-inch LCD display are included for flexible framing
  • ✓9-point contrast detection autofocus system provides reliable subject acquisition

Cons — Panasonic DMC-FZ3

  • ✗3MP maximum resolution (2016x1512) is quite limited for modern printing or cropping needs
  • ✗ISO range tops out at 400, severely restricting low-light shooting flexibility
  • ✗No WiFi or Bluetooth for wireless image transfer

Reviews — Panasonic DMC-FZ3

Videos — Panasonic DMC-FZ3

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Frequently Asked Questions — Panasonic DMC-FZ3

Does the Panasonic LUMIX FZ3 have image stabilization?+
Yes, the FZ3 features Optical Image Stabilization (OIS). This is a lens-based stabilization system. Note that in-body IS and digital IS are both listed as absent on this camera.
What memory cards does the FZ3 use?+
The FZ3 uses SD memory cards for image storage. No other card formats are supported according to the specifications.
Can the FZ3 shoot video?+
The FZ3 supports video recording at up to 30fps. No specific maximum video resolution is listed in the specifications beyond the frame rate.
What is the battery life on the FZ3?+
Battery life is rated at approximately 260 shots per the CIPA standard. The camera uses a Lithium-Ion rechargeable battery.
Does the FZ3 have a viewfinder?+
Yes, the FZ3 includes an electronic EVF (electronic viewfinder) in addition to the 1.5-inch fixed LCD display. No resolution figure for the EVF is listed in the specifications.
Is the Panasonic LUMIX FZ3 weather sealed?+
No, the FZ3 has no weather sealing. The body is constructed from plastic, so care should be taken to avoid exposing it to rain, dust, or moisture.

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