Panasonic introduces a reflex that is a bit uncommon in that it can be considered a bridge-reflex hybrid.   The Panasonic Lumix L10 actually has an articulated LCD screen equipped with an aiming system and autofocus as precision is important when you use the camera in this mode. It’s a particularly interesting concept for the beginning photographer that doesn’t have reflex habits yet.

Handling

The Panasonic Lumix L10 is a quality camera.  Construction is serious and the lens is superb.  The zooming ring is fluid and functions without catching meaning we are far from lenses that come in entry level kits.  Those that have already used a Panasonic bridge will not be lost when using the L10 which uses many of the same commands.  For example, we liked the numerous shortcuts to modify white balance, sensitivity, autofocus or light reading.  On the top of the camera, the barrel dial enables choosing exposure and offers the now traditional scene modes as well as an interesting Custom one.  For priority modes, there are two dials (on the front and back of the handle) to quickly set shooting parameters.  The viewfinder is a bit narrow (a tunnel effect) while information appears on the right.  To improve visibility Panasonic proposes a magnifier eye cup for enlargement of the field of view.  Although it is efficient, those who wear glasses are handicapped because their lenses get in the way of a reduced eye point.

Of course, the most interesting component is the LCD screen mounted on a swivel joint.  This can be moved in all directions and combined with live view you can shoot in unorthodox positions.  It is very practical in macro mode or simply to photograph subjects more conspicuously.  The Lumix L10 has two focusing systems.  The first is classic and functions by phase detection (optical aiming) on 3 points.  The second, and more original for a reflex, functions by contrast detection (like on compacts) when aiming with the LCD.  It has 9 AF points and a face detection mode.  In both cases, focusing isn’t the fastest but is still honorable and especially functional.   However, the most unnerving when aiming with the LCD is still the lowering of the mirror before the photo is actually taken which results in a non negligible delay of 0.13 s.

Image quality

The 10 million pixel sensor and 14-50 mm Leica produce good precision in images. The 14-50 mm zoom is of good quality:  distortion with the wide angle is moderate and practically invisible when zooming, chromatic aberrations are barely visible (the Venus Engine III processor functions rather well) and vignetting is minimal in the wide angle. In standard mode, the L10’s colors are a bit soft but nothing too serious.  White balance functions well in natural light and becomes yellowish under incandescent lighting.  Noise control is amazing resulting in shots easily useable up until 800 ISO.