A simple and easy to use compact digital camera, the Panasonic Lumix DMC LS85 has 8 mega pixels and a 4x optical zoom lens. The zoom can be increased to 6.4x when shooting at low resolution. Powered by two AA batteries, the camera has a standard movie mode and a 2.5 inch screen. A reasonably-priced camera from Panasonic, it is the only one in its class to offer image stabilisation. Slightly larger in size than a pocket-sized camera, it has a raised grip area on the front that helps the user hold it steady. Available in black and silver models, the digital camera allows the user to press the iA button for various in-camera optimisation features such as optical image stabilization, automatic scene selection based on the shooting environment, red-eye correction and ISO adjustment.

A handy camera, it is good value for money and takes decent pictures. Easy to use, it allows the user to select the scene mode manually. There are 21 settings to choose from in the LS85’s menu. Standard modes like Portrait, Landscape, Sports and Candlelight are there but it is also equipped with some unique modes such as Aerial Photo (helps in taking pictures through airplane windows), Fireworks, Food and a High Speed Burst mode. The camera can click up to 5 shots per second at the lowest-resolution setting in the High Speed Burst mode. Equipped with an SD/SDHC card slot that exists on the camera’s side, the Panasonic Lumix DMC-LS85 has a fairly decent battery life and can take about 280 shots before needing to be replaced. A good point-and-shoot camera, it offers amazing image and flash quality. However, it is difficult to handle with one hand and feels bulky. Its 2.5-inch LCD screen is on the small side though it’s bright enough to see in sunlight. All in all, though it is not a professional camera, it offers nice features for a user on a budget.