Panasonic DMC-FZ18 Technique for Starry sky mode, Technique for Fireworks mode

Models: DMC-FZ18

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Advanced (Recording pictures)

￿Press ￿/￿ to select the number of seconds and then press [MENU/SET].

It is also possible to change the number of seconds using the quick setting (P71).

￿Take pictures.

Press the shutter button fully to display the countdown screen. Do not move the camera after this screen is displayed. When countdown finishes,

[PLEASE WAIT...] is displayed for the same length of time as the set shutter speed for signal processing.

Press [MENU/SET] to stop taking the picture while the countdown screen is displayed.

￿Technique for Starry sky mode

The shutter opens for 15, 30 or

60 seconds. Be sure to use a tripod. We also recommend taking pictures with the self-timer.

We recommend using prefocus (P54) to focus in advance on a subject, such as a bright star or a distant light, that is easy to focus on.

The LCD monitor automatically becomes darker.

Histograms are always displayed in orange.

The flash setting is fixed to Forced OFF

[ ].

The optical image stabilizer function is fixed to [OFF].

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The following functions cannot be used.

[EXPOSURE]

[AUTO BRACKET]

[BURST]

[W.BALANCE]

[AUDIO REC.]

[CONT.AF]

[FIREWORKS]

Press [ MENUSET ] to display the [SCENE MODE] menu and select a scene mode. (P59) This mode allows you to take beautiful pictures of fireworks exploding in the night sky.

￿Technique for Fireworks mode

We recommend performing the following steps to prefocus on the point the pictures will be taken so that you do not miss taking pictures of the fireworks when they are fired.

￿Aim the camera at an object, such as a distant light, that is about the same distance from the camera as the point where the fireworks will rise.

￿Press the shutter button halfway until the focus indication (P25) lights.

￿Press the [AF/MF] to select [MF]. (P52)

￿Aim the camera in the direction that the fireworks will be fired and wait.

￿Press the shutter button fully to take the picture when the fireworks are fired.

If zoom was used, the focus position will not be correct. Perform steps ￿ to ￿ again.

We recommend using a tripod.

The focus range is 5 m (16.4 feet) to ￿ in AF mode. (We recommend performing steps ￿ to ￿ for prefocus.)

The shutter speed becomes the following.

When [OFF] is set on the optical image stabilizer function: Fixed to 2 seconds

When [MODE1] or [MODE2] is set on the optical image stabilizer function: 1/4th of a second or 2 seconds (The shutter speed becomes 2 seconds only when the camera has determined that

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Panasonic DMC-FZ18 operating instructions Technique for Starry sky mode, Technique for Fireworks mode

DMC-FZ18 specifications

The Panasonic DMC-FZ18 is a versatile bridge camera that has gained recognition for its impressive blend of advanced features and user-friendly design. Introduced in 2007, this model falls under the Lumix series and is celebrated for its compact size while offering the capabilities typically found in larger DSLR cameras.

At the heart of the DMC-FZ18 is a 8.1-megapixel CCD sensor, which delivers sharp images with a remarkable level of detail. This sensor is complemented by an impressive 18x optical zoom lens, with a focal length range equivalent to 28-504mm in 35mm terms. This extensive zoom range allows photographers to capture everything from wide landscapes to distant subjects without needing additional lenses.

The camera is equipped with Panasonic's Optical Image Stabilization (O.I.S.) technology, which helps reduce the effects of camera shake, particularly important when shooting at longer focal lengths or in low-light situations. This feature enhances the overall usability of the camera by allowing handheld shooting with reduced motion blur.

The DMC-FZ18 also boasts a high-performance Venus Engine III, which enables fast continuous shooting at up to 3 frames per second and quick autofocus. This engine plays a significant role in processing images efficiently, ensuring that the camera responds swiftly to a variety of shooting conditions.

One of the standout features of the FZ18 is its advanced image processing capabilities, which provide excellent low-light performance and vibrant color reproduction. The camera supports shooting in various modes, including manual, aperture priority, and shutter priority, catering to both beginners and experienced photographers alike.

For those interested in video recording, the FZ18 offers the ability to capture high-quality motion in 720p resolution, making it a solid choice for casual videographers. Additionally, the camera features a 2.5-inch LCD screen, which provides a clear view for composing shots and navigating through the camera's menu.

In terms of connectivity, the DMC-FZ18 includes options for easily transferring images to computers or printers, although it lacks some of the modern wireless capabilities found in newer models. Despite being an older model, the Panasonic DMC-FZ18 remains a reliable option for photography enthusiasts looking for a capable and compact camera that delivers quality performance across a wide range of shooting scenarios.