I don’t buy digital cameras without a viewfinder. Well, not before buying the Panasonic TZ3. I set aside the requirement because I wanted to have a camera with its incredibly useful zoom range.

Using the LCD is a pleasure. It’s huge, as far as digital camera LCDs go; 3″ with a high resolution of 230,000 pixels. When viewing images on it they are crystal clear. Nice, really nice!  But…

Glare on the TZ3 LCD

I live in Florida and take lots of photos when the sun is bright. Sometimes when the sun hits the LCD, it’s near impossible to view images on it. Oh, I see my reflection as if looking in a mirror but that’s not one of the features I looked for when purchasing this camera.

The TZ3 LCD needs an anti-glare screen protector to prevent it from scratching and to help improve the view in bright light. Though it does NOT work in every situation when light hits the LCD, the anti-glare film improves viewing!

TZ3 LCD features

Power LCD

Use to lighten up the screen when the LCD is difficult to see. However, the accuracy of an exposure can not be judged as easily as when not using it. I personally don’t like using the Power LCD.

I use a lot of minus Exposure Compensation. I’ve gotten myself into trouble a few times (images too dark) because the Power LCD was activated and I didn’t realize it.

For important shots, I check exposure and make adjustment before turning on the Power LCD. I’ve also trained myself to watch if the Power LCD icon is displayed before taking shots, and shut it off if it’s on.

TZ3 High Angle LCD mode

Use when holding the camera above your head, such as taking photos in a crowd. You won’t forget to shut this mode off. When it’s on and the TZ3 is held normally, you can hardly view the screen.

TZ3 Low Angle LCD Mode

Well, there really isn’t one. Just turn the camera upside down when in High Angle mode to take low angle shots. Images remain right-side up thanks to the camera’s orientation sensor.