Panasonic 12MP Lumix DMC-3D1 Twin-Lens 3D Camera Review by StevesDigicam

On November 7 2011, Panasonic announced the LUMIX DMC-3D1, a 3D camera with two newly-developed lens units in a compact body for 3D and 2D photos and videos. The LUMIX 3D1 features 25mm ultra-wide angle lenses with 4x optical zoom for recording 8 Megapixels 3D photo and 1920x1080 60i high quality 3D HD video (in MP4 format) using side-by-side method. It supports approximately 169% larger viewing space compared to that of 35mm cameras. It comes with a 12 Megapixels High Sensitivity MOS sensor, the Venus Engine, dual shooting capabilities (photo & video), Multi-process Noise Reduction, 3.5-inch Smart Touch screen, and fast consecutive shots at 8 fps (without auto focusing) or 4 fps (with auto focusing). 

There is an iA (Intelligent Auto) mode in the camera, which combines a suite of functions to help users achieve the perfect shots, including: MEGA O.I.S, AF Tracking, Intelligent Scene Selector, Face Recognition and Intelligent ISO Control, Intelligent Exposure and Intelligent Handheld Nightshot, which generates night scenery with illumination by layering multiple images shot consecutively, allowing bright, glamorous night scenery to be recorded without using a tripod. The Panasonic LUMIX DMC-3D1 will be available in December 2011 for a suggested retail price of $499.99. Here's the summary of review by Steve's Digicam:

"Looking at our outdoor image samples from the 3D1, we were pleased to see that this specialty camera keeps the same high level of image quality we've come to expect from the rest of Panasonic's Lumix line. Exposure, color and detail all show through in our samples. The only exception is our museum shot, where the camera overexposed for the shadows and blew out the highlights. While doing this, it also had a bleaching effect on the image's color. While this is the effect of iAuto, setting the camera to program and picking your focus and exposure point is an easy fix. On the positive side, the amount of detail in the other outdoor images is incredible, allowing us to see some very distant details. Also helping to get closer to those fine details are the dual 4x optical zoom lenses. With a 35mm equivalent of 25-100mm (2D) or 30-120mm (3D / 16:9), the lenses offer a great range for everyday use; and at 4x optical, it is setting the standard for the future of 3D cameras. Our indoor sample images give us an outstanding look at how impressive these HS MOS sensors are. Looking closely, it is even easier to see the fine details, even at some of the higher ISO settings. ISO 100 - ISO 400 show incredibly low amounts of noise within the image, allowing for very large, very clear prints. Once you reach ISO 800 - ISO 1600, the increase in noise becomes noticeable, but the images are still suitable for smaller prints. Assisting with your indoor and lower-light images is a small flash unit with an equally small range. At ISO Auto with a max range of just 11.5 ft, you will definitely have to stay close to your subjects. 

Capturing portraits with the 3D1 is just as easy as with any other Panasonic model. The camera quickly recognizes faces within the frame and follows them without problems. Good color and natural skin tones capture your subjects just the way you see them. In our sample image the flash, set to auto, chose not to fire leaving no chance for red-eye, but we had no problems with that at any time. The camera's face recognition allows you to store faces in the camera, so that your favorite people to photograph will always be the stars of your images. With the set of dual lenses and sensors, the camera is capable of a few other special shooting modes other than 3D. One mode allows the camera to capture two images at a time, one from each lens/sensor combo, with both lenses using a different focal length. This is a great way to capture two views of a scene at once. This feature also allows you to capture full-sized images while the camera is recording video, without there being any type of break in the video. Another great way to capture different medias at the same time with the same tool. With a dedicated video recording button, the camera is always ready to capture video with just one push of a button. Whether it is in 2D or 3D, you will be pleased with the quality of the full HD (1080p) video capture with stereo sound. It's clear, smooth playing video and clear sound provide a pleasurable experience on any HDTV. With the camera's small built-in speakers, they still pick up a lot of background noise and concentrate on the sound that is closest to the camera; and not necessarily what you are focused on. An external mic input would have been an excellent addition to increase the quality of the audio. However, this is quite typical with almost all compact digicams. 

Bottom Line - The Panasonic 3D1 is a the perfect camera for the 3D enthusiast. With 3D image and video capabilities without having to use special shooting modes, 3D capture is as easy as capturing a regular photo or video with any consumer camera; just point the camera and shoot! While 3D is the main selling point of this model, the camera still captures amazing 12-Megapixel 2D images and full HD video. Loaded with extra components and features, the camera's battery does not last very long, which was the only major disappointment we encountered. Overall with a MSRP of $499.99 USD, this is one of the few true 3D camera's available, and its great 2D image quality means you will use it all the time. While it may not be for everyone, the Lumix 3D1 does have a lot to offer those who are fascinated with 3D, while still being a very capable 2D point-n-shoot. "

Very good camera, L. Rusu - Jan 27 2013
Very good compact camera for 3D photos and 3D videos. Rarely, I have some white dots (1 or 2) on the 3D photos (only left or right side), possible is my camera. After some investigations, I have found that most of the compact camera with the flash very close to the lens present this issue....

Good 3D camera but..., Mindblade - Dec 09 2012
...not the perfect one. Here's why: Pro: + Can be used quickly - delay after turning it on is minimal + 4x optical zoom + good battery life + Full HD Video (in 2D mode, 3D uses SBS, so only half the resolution) + Good weight + 12 Megapixels (2D pictures) Con: - 3D effect is okay but not great (probably because the two lenses are relatively close together) - 3D video us...

Excellent camera for portraits etc. (3 cm base), Laurent D. - Oct 27 2012
Hello, I have purchased this 3D1 in June 2012. I also own a Fuji W3. The Fuji W3 is good but it cannot take pictures closer than about 2 meters away from the subject, due to its 7,5 cm base. But to photograph a head almost "full frame", no way with the Fuji W3: this is why I also have the Panasonic 3D1; it takes excellent pictures (still) of my kids, of flowers, etc. becaus...

Jitterbug built in camera., James P. Ltaestro "Pat Maestro" - Oct 24 2012
It's been a while since I have done a review but this one is very necessary to anyone consdiering buying this Panasonic 3D1 camera specifically for 3-D video. The term JITTER is something I've never read in any camera owners manual and it's used frequently by Panasonic on the 3D1. All 3-D video has this Jitterbug problem and it's terrible because every little slow pan or...