Panasonic has added the Lumix DMC-FZ100, a 24x optical zoom and 15.1-megapixel MOS sensor camera, and the Lumix DMC-FZ4, a 24x optical zoom, 14.5-megapixel sensor camera, to its FZ-series line. As the company’s inaugural hybrid compact digital cameras, both units come with improved shooting speeds and focusing capabilities.

When using the mechanical shutter mode, users can shoot stills at up to 11 frames per second (fps); in 3.5-megapixel recording mode, images can be shot at up to 60 fps. For action shots, images can be photographed in continuous autofocus mode at up to 5 fps.

The FZ100 features intelligent burst shooting, which enables the camera to judge the appropriate shutter speed and reduce the motion blur according to the movement of the subject. The FZ40 features intelligent resolution technology, which specifically focuses on the finer details for increased image clarity and sonic speed autofocus.

The difference between the two cameras lies primarily in the number of creative scene modes and preprogrammed exposure settings, as well as in the HD video capabilities. The FZ100 can shoot in full 1,080p HD, while the FZ40 shoots in 720p. However, the FZ40 offers color effects for video, while the FZ100 does not. Added creative video filters include pinhole, film grain, high-dynamic and high-dynamic B&W.

When shooting video, the FZ100 uses wind-cut technology and a Dolby digital stereo creator to capture higher-quality sound. The camera can also be used with an accessory microphone. Both cameras feature a free-angle, 3-inch high-resolution LCD screen and a 25mm ultra-wide-angle Leica DC Vario-Elmarit lens.

The Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ100 and the DMC-FZ40 have suggested retail prices of $499 and $399, respectively.