Panasonic Dmc FX500

I decided to cotinue using my film camera until the technology moved on and digital cameras improved. Last year I started researching Digital Cameras. I shortlisted 5 cameras that included the features/criteria I wanted but none had them all in one. Decided to wait as I felt it wouldn't be long before a manufacturer came up with the goods.

The FX500 not only meets all my criteria but surpasses it. Very user friendly, 3" touch sensitive screen with manual controls too, IA feature is amazing but I like the fact this camera allows you to grow into it with its manual functions. Wide angle lens was important to me as I was used to this with my film camera. Face Detection is superb. Zoom was quite important as I enjoy scenic shots and this camera 5x optical zoom is great; this can be improved, if needed, by reducing the mega pixels.

I chose the FX500 before realising it had won TIPA's best compact 2008. Thought the joystick may be a problem, it isn't. The manual buttons are well set out. Picture quality is best I have seen from a Digital Compact and feels solid when using.

Some are say this is expensive at £300; it's worth every penny.