
The Lumix LX3. Sold out at all photo stores in DC and NYC. B&H doesn't have it, and I was too late at Willoughby's. I was lucky to find it at 42nd Street Photo this weekend (my sole reason for traveling to NYC). Last one. I know I'm going to have a blast with this new toy.
The camera is nearly identical to the more expensive
Leica D-Lux 4. Both have the same fast, sharp Leica lens. The cameras have a cult following that I'm excited about--you can count me in as disciple. [Update 2/28/10: Don't count me in! The LX3 is stellar].
My LX3 looks retro and beautiful. People who like the current look of point-and-shoots think my new camera looks super ugly, and I actually like that comment! The old school look and amazing photos of this Panasonic-made camera have made me the happiest photo boy in DC.
The LX3 is the smallest black camera. It is shown alongside a Canon Powershot SD800IS, a Nikon D300 and a D70.
Reasons to consider the prosumer LX3 over a regular, consumer point-and-shoot
- The Decisive Moment: You keep missing shots because it takes you took too long to power up your camera phone (I use the iPhone, and 10 seconds for me is 10 seconds too late)
- Breathtaking Photos: If you are interested in photography, this is the camera to carry around. You will be impressed with its photos right out of the box. If you decide to be creative, you have complete manual control.
- Tiny and Mighty: Leave your heavy photo equipment at home! The LX3 is small and light.
- Freedom to Shoot in Low Light: Like you, I hate camera phone noise, camera shake, and ugly direct flash in low light. You will love LX3's sharp, F2 lens.
- The Field of View: I feel limited with a 50mm lens, although it is still my favorite. With the LX3, you will enjoy wide-angle shoots--great for street photography and events.
- Future Value: The LX3 and D-Lux 4 will be around just happily for at least 20 years. They will still be wanted, appreciated, and traded.
Reasons to wait
Sorry Suze Orman! People first, THEN PASSIONS, then money, then things!

Here you can really see the size difference! Tell me if you want to see nicer pictures of the LX3. I'll do another post about it.
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