Panasonic DMC FZ72 Detailed Review

In additional DMC FZ72 has a Compact CMOS sensor with size of 6 x 5 mm² (0.24″ x 0.18″).

Also DMC FZ72’s image sensor has an effective resolution of around 16 megapixel. That’s roughly average and will be sufficient for most purposes. Photos with this resolution can easily be printed to A3 or A2 size.

The Panasonic supports taking images in RAW. RAW images are stored as they come from the sensor, without any in-camera processing or sharpening. Converting to JPEG or other formats takes place on the computer, using software like Adobe Lightroom or Panasonic’s RAW converter. This involves one extra processing step but almost always results in superior image quality. Some filters, like converting to monochrome (black and white) will only yield decent results when used with RAW images.

The DMC FZ72 uses an electronic viewfinder with a resolution of 0.20 megapixel, close to the practical minimum for a viewfinder like this.

The magnifcation is c. 0.46x, an average value for an electronic viewfinder.

The DMC FZ72’s shutter speed varies from 1/2000s to 60s.

The highest shutter speed of the Panasonic is just 1/2000s. That’s no longer state of the art and may cause problems in challenging light conditions.

The DMC FZ72’s sensitivity goes from 100 ISO und 3200 ISO, a very useful and practical range.

The DMC FZ72 supports all general exposure modes.

The Panasonic allows spot exposure for the difficult occasion.

The DMC FZ72’s auto focus processor uses 23 AF points (or sensors). A basic rule of thumb says that the more AF points you have, the better. More AF points mean a better chance to have a point at the location of interest in a scene, a big plus in challenging situations (e.g. in low light).

Manual focus is also possible with the Panasonic, a plus in tricky situations or for some creative freedom.

The DMC FZ72 has a built-in flash with a diapason of up to 8m (27 ft.). That range will fit for almost all occasion.

The DMC FZ72 features a monitor with a diagonal of 75.00mm (3.0 in.) and a resolution of c. 0.46 megapixel. That rather low resolution is no longer state of the art and will make it difficult to evaluate images on the display.

Unfortunately, the DMC FZ72’s monitor is not articulated. That can make it tricky to frame your subject in some situations, e.g. when taking selfies.

The DMC FZ72 does not feature a touch screen.

Display characteristics at a glance:

DMC FZ72 video supported the resolution with 1920 x 1080 pixel.

ACamera is not equipped with an external microphone.

Panasonic DMC FZ72 Video parameters:

Built-in wireless connectivity is not available with the Panasonic. You will need appropriate accessories to wirelessly transfer images between camera and smartphone.

Connect the Panasonic to a monitor or TV set over HDMI.

The Panasonic supports USB 2.0.

Connection parameters:

The camera supports SD HC and SD XC cards.

Memory cards characteristics:

The Panasonic DMC FZ72 works with a BMB9 battery. The battery lifetime is a generous 400 shots. Usually enough for a full day or more.

The battery can be charged over USB while in camera. Very useful, especially on vacation when most people bring a USB charger for their smartphone anyway.

The DMC FZ72’s battery battery parameters:

The Panasonic DMC FZ72’s dimensions are 130.2 x 97 x 118.2mm³. (5.1″ x 3.8″ x 4.7″). This includes the lens. The camera’s weight is a reasonable 600 grams (19.4 oz.), lens included.

Here is front and top view of the DMC FZ72:

For a better idea of the size of the camera, takes a look off camera and ID card comparison image.