Panasonic Lumix DMC-FT3 (TS3) – the rugged waterproof camera
In a past article we presented the new Nikon Coolpix P300, and now it is time for us to tell you a few things about the Panasonic Lumix DMC-FT3 (also known as TS3). If the model launched by Nikon is for advanced photographers, this one is for a completely different target. As Panasonic says on their official site, the Lumix FT3 is dedicated to adrenaline amateurs.
Design and build
From first sight you will notice the solid construction of the Panasonic Lumix FT3 (also known as TS3), and its science fiction design. It could not have been any different since the phone has a waterproof, shock, dust, and freeze proof case.
If the info provided by Panasonic is correct then you should have no problems when faced with:
- taking photos under photo at a maximum depth of 12m
- taking photos during winter at -10 degrees
- if you accidentally drop your camera from 2 meters.
Panasonic Lumix DMC-FT3 (DMC-TS3) is available in multiple colors
Panasonic Lumix FT3 (also known as TS3) was specially created for extreme activities amateurs and adrenaline lovers who want to be able to take photos in any conditions.
On its front side you will find the Leica DC Vario-Elmar lenses with a large photograph angle, an AF assist lamp and the internal flash. On the back of the camera there are more buttons and a directional pad which will offer rapid access to the main functions (compensate exposure, flash, auto shoot, and macro function). On the upper side there is a charge button, the shoot photo button and a button that starts video recording.
Because it is an extremely resistant camera Panasonic chose to position the camera, memory card and 2 ports on the back of a sealed secure lid. This prevents the accidental opening of the lid.
Without a battery and a card the camera weighs 175g, and its size is more than reasonable: 103 x 64 x 26.5 mm.
Panasonic Lumix DMC-FT3 (also known as TS3) uses a 2.7" LCD screen
Technical specs
Panasonic Lumix DMC-FT3 (also known as TS3) comes with a 12 MP CCD sensor and the new Venus Engine FHD image processor. The Leica lenses is built out of 10 elements placed in 8 groups that cover a focal distance of 4.9 – 22.8mm. This means you have an optical zoom of 4.6x. If you choose lower resolution photos the value of the zoom will grow considerably, reaching 9x in the case of 3MP photos. The camera has an intelligent zoom of 6x and a digital zoom which probably does not have pleasant effects on the photos. Under the Leica lenses there is an inscriptioned text: “POWER O.I.S.” which means that the lenses has an image stabilizer. Because it is addressed to amateurs the Lumix FT3 has an automatic mode which is pretty good in most situations. It also has a manual mode in which you can set resolution, ISO sensibility (100-1600), white balance, focalizing type and other functions.
The camera records at Full HD quality (1920 x 1080 pixels) in AVCHD. For movies the image stabilizer and automatic focalization can be activated along with the LED light for night use. Photos and movies are displayed on the 2.7inch LCD with 230000 points. Because it is for travel fans the Lumix FT3 includes a GPS, a compass, an altimeter and a barometer. The integrated GPS system is used for geo-tagging and coordinates are saved in the EXIF of each photo.
Panasonic Lumix DMC-FT3 has GPS, compass, altimeter and barrometer
Connectivity and battery
- List Price:
$379.99 - Current Price: $358.00
- [Details or Buy from Amazon]
[Amazon User Reviews]
The Panasonic Lumix FT3 (also known as DMC- TS3) offers a HDMI and a USB port. The producer also included an user guide in the package, an USB Cable and a AC charger, and a CD with a diversity of apps. Unfortunately users that want to view their photos on a HD screen need to buy a HDMI cable.
The 940mAh battery offers an autonomy of up to 310 photos. For storing you only have 19 MB and a slot card that accepts SD, SDHC or SDXC cards.
Availability and price
Panasonic Lumix FT3 (also known as TS3) is a compact camera great for trips. It is extremely useful due to its dust, weather, low temperature and shockproof casing. The camera is already available at a price just below 600 dollars.
Video Review – Part 1
Video Review – Part 2
Ionut is Chief Editor. He has a degree in Computer Science BA and worked in IT since 2002. Ionut is now managing several tech sites, including GadgetRoad. Find me on Twitter
Hi just bought this camera been really happy read all instructions bout 8 times to get to no my new camera but i had two weeks took to bali for pitcture went in pool to find its not water proof and its now water damaged. Is there anythi g i can do and is this. Covered on warranty any help will be greatful regards dave