Panasonic Lumix DMC-FP8

Opinion: My first Panasonic camera and it is a very convenient little camera.

The construction is robust but I would have liked a cover over the lens.
Controls are easy to learn and have what I need handy.
The wide angle end of the lens is used more often than the telephoto end.
The flash is okay but could be stronger.
Focus, not as good as I would like, It is my biggest dissapointment with the camera.
Movie mode does okay, it is not something I tend to use.
Macro mode is pretty good.

Very "Do-able" camera.

Opinion: I bought this camera as soon as it was released (paid a slight premium on prices now).

I wanted a pocketable companion/alternative to my FZ50, and now when I am sure I will not need the extended zoom of the FZ50 the little FP-8 is a constant companion.

I have been very pleased with the results obtained. I shoot mostly in 8mp normal mode to gain a little more zoom. This camera incorporates some of the new features that have been issued to earlier Panasonics by updated firmware.

I have found the “dynamic” mode extremely useful in difficult lighting conditions, and surprisingly have not had problems with noise as this mode fixes the ISO at 400. I have duplicated some difficult shots on the FZ50, and the FP-8 wins hands down.
I rarely use pp on my jpg images.

The fast focus and shutter delay are as specified, and action shots have been achieved, although I prefer the FZ50s EVF.
The colour control via. Standard/Natural/Vivid/BW/Sepia/Cool & Warm are useful once you get used to the effects, and the exposure compensation is quickly implemented.

The controls are fine, I like the illuminated buttons for navigation, although they would not be easy with large fingers or gloves. For the quick (no time) snapshot a single press on a top button puts the camera into I.A. mode and normally results in a good image.

Battery life is good, I am now looking for a third party battery that works with the new firmware control. One interesting point is the MEGA O.I.S it works well, but I can get better results with the FZ50 due to the handling differences between them.

The FP-8 is always with me now even when I take out the FZ50. I now leave the WA lens adaptor for the FZ50 at home, and use the FP-8 if 28mm is required.