We already own an SLR (a Rebel xTi) so getting a point and shoot can be called needlessly necessary. But hey, I want this and there is no point denying me when I want something.

Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS3 Specifications

• Image Sensor: 10.9mm. 9.1 million effective pixels.
• Lens: Leica DC Vario-Elmar f3.3/4.7-47mm. 28-280mm (35mm equiv). 4x digital zoom.
• Focus Range: Wide/tele 50cm/200cm-infinity.
• Metering: Intelligent Multiple; centre-weighted; spot.
• Image stabilization: MEGA O.I.S.
• Image Sizes (pixels): 4:3 Aspect Ratio: 3456×2592, 3072×2304, 2560×1920, 2048×1536, 1600×1200, 640×480. 3:2
• Aspect Ratio: 3552×2368, 3072×2048, 2560×1712, 2048×1360 pixels. 16:9 Aspect Ratio: 3712×2088, 3072×1728, 2560×1440, 1920×1080.
• Movie Clips: 4:3 aspect ratio: 640×480 pixels, 320×240 pixels at 10 fps/30 fps.16:9 aspect ratio: 848×480 pixels at 10/30 fps. HD 16:9 aspect ratio: 1280×720 at 15/30fps.
• File Formats: JPEG, QuickTime Motion JPEG, AVCHD Lite.
• ISO Sensitivity: Auto, 100 to 6400.
• Shutter Speed: 60-1/2000 second.
• Flash: Auto, auto/red-eye reduction, forced on and forced off, slow sync/red-eye reduction.
• Flash Range: Wide/tele 60cm/1.0m to 5.3/3.6m.
• Power: Rechargeable lithium ion battery, AC.
• Weight: 214 g (minus battery).
• Dimensions: 103.3×59.3×36.5 WHDmm.
• Price: At the time of publishing this review the Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS3 is currently $378.10 USD on Amazon.