Panasonic has released the new DMC-ZR1 with ultra-wide-angle 8x optical zoom and Power OIS (optical image stabilization) to its line of Lumix cameras. The camera has 12.1-megapixel resolution.

The 25mm ultra-wide-angle Leica DC Vario-Elmar zoom lens, is useful for landscapes, wide indoor shots and capturing distant subjects. By reducing resolution to 3 megapixels, the extra optical zoom function can reach 15.6x magnification.

Like other Lumix cameras on the market, the ZR1 comes with the new MEGA OIS to prevent hand shake when taking high-powered zoom, low-light or nighttime shots without a tripod.

Other notable features include face recognition, AF subject tracking, intelligent ISO and exposure control, and wide-screen HD video capabilities.

The manufacturer's suggested retail price for the ZR1 is $279.