The DMC-LZ20 incorporates a 25-525mm zoom lens (35mm camera equivalent). The Extra Optical Zoom function that extends zoom power to 48.5x (at 3-megapixel resolution) by using the center part of the 16-megapixel high resolution CCD to bring subjects even closer. Not only drawing near the subject distant away with its powerful optical zoom, the 25mm ultra wide angle lens captures approx.196% wider angle of view compared with a standard 35mm camera. It is helpful for shooting dynamic landscape or indoor group portrait.

The Optical Image Stabilizer compensates for blurring caused by hand-shake without deterioration of image quality. Thanks to the function, you can capture clear images with less blur even when using high zoom. It also lets you shoot in dimly lit rooms or evening illumination without losing the mood. Macro shots, which is especially susceptible to hand-shake, can also be captured with less blurring.

The DMC-LZ20 incorporates iA mode in pursuit of the ultimate ease of operation and the reduction of miss-shots. It is a comprehensive integration of Optical Image Stabilizer, Face Detection, Intelligent Scene Selector, Intelligent Exposure and AF Tracking. In iA mode, the camera does all the work, leaving you free to compose shots, aim and shoot.

The DMC-LZ20 provides easy-to-use manual controls. You can set the aperture to control the depth of field, and adjust the shutter speed to freeze moving subjects or create a motion blur that exaggerates the feeling of movement. The DMC-LZ20 features stable, comfortable grip and mode dial, which allows you to intuitively change between recording modes. The 3.0-inch large 460K-dot LCD assures high visibility in any lighting circumstances, which is excellent for both shooting and playing back images.

The DMC-LZ20 can record motion pictures in high-definition (1,280 x 720 pixels in Motion JPEG format). The Panorama Shot in the Scene Mode makes it possible to shoot panoramic photos by overlaying consequently shot images.