The Intelligent Auto button, set on the top of the camera, next to the shutter button, turns on the in-camera optimization features – optical image stabilization, red-eye correction, automatic scene selection based on the shooting environment and an ISO adjustment. The position of this iA button is very at handy for the casual set-it-and-forget-it photographers.
The scene mode which presents a LS85 menu with 21 setting to choose from, can be selected manually. The unique modes that it has make Lumix DMC-LS85 appear out of the ordinary: Aerial Photo (enables you to take pictures through airplane windows), Fireworks, Food, and High Speed Burst mode that provides up to 5 shots/second at the lowest-resolution setting. At the price offered by this camera one can get a great optical image stabilization even when one shakes it around. The screen at this type is a 2.5†LCD, maybe a little bit small, but bright enough to be seen in the sunlight. The camera is powered by 2 AA batteries (that last for approximately 280 shots before needing to be replaced) and has also a SD/SDHC card slot that is positioned on the side of the camera.To evaluate the quality of a picture, tests were conducted by taking a series a photos, using or not the flash, with the camera’s highest resolution. The photos were taken on a complex still life, a mannequin (to check on the way camera is capturing details and the subtle colors) and a target resolution chart. Scores for the image-quality were assigned to have an idea on this feature that Lumix DMC-FS85 presents.
The switches and the buttons (shutter button, zoom, off/on switch) are all positioned on top of the camera. At the back side one can find a photo/playback button, a dedicated mode button, and a menu button to browse the four navigation system with a one-touch activating the exposure settings, the flash, the macro mode, and the timer. Set under these buttons are two more to adjust display settings and access a separate menu for image stabilization, controlling the white balance, auto focus option and LCD brightness.
The evaluations of the lab test have shown an overall image quality rated to GOOD. Its size (3.9†–W x 2.5†–H x 1.2†–D) and the weight 6.2 lbs. make Lumix DMC-LS85 a easy to handle and wear camera. If your budget is restricted and you are in the thing of taking snap shots whenever a landscape strikes your view, the affordable Panasonic Lumix DMC-LS85 is definitely an option to be taken into account.