Korean Job Discussion Forums

[Thedudeabides]

So I've been looking for a new camera. Based on what I've read, a compact ultrazoom fits what i need the best. I usually take pictures on hiking trips or while I'm riding my bike (I know it sounds dangerous, but it's often the best way to get shots during sunrise or sunset). So it has to be an easy to use, point and shoot camera with enough optical zoom and megapixels to get high quality shots. It has to fit in my jacket pocket, so no DSLRs.

From my research, the Panasonic Lumix DMC-TZ4 seems to fit my needs. It's relatively small, has a great lens, and is easy to take pics with one hand.

Here's a review: http://www.digitalcamerareview.com/default.asp?newsID=3411

The problem is, I can't find a place in korea that sells it. I've visited all the department and electronics stores and had a Korean friend look online for me. Apparently, it is not for sale in Korea yet.

So, does anyone have advice on a comparable camera, or a way to order the TZ4 to be shipped to Korea? Any thoughts or help is greatly appreciated. I'm planning on taking vacation in mid January, So I'd like to have a new camera by the new year.

[Jeff's Cigarettes]

http://www.bb.co.kr/main/search/search.php?searchCategory=TOTAL&qry=DMC-TZ4

[Golem]

For the quality of the camera you are getting I think that is ridiculously priced. Consider getting one of the canon compacts. Although I starting to like Nikon better for their professional and semi-pro DSLRs I think Canon still makes the best compacts when you consider quality, price, and ergonomics. The canon's can also be hacked to give them extra functionality usually only found on professional DSLR cameras. Don't worry to much about megapixels and consider getting a slightly older cannon model with good reviews. I like the canon IXUS line quite a bit.

[crazy_arcade]

I totally disagree with the above poster.

Nothing in the price-range can compare with the Panasonic lens wise. Furthermore, the Panasonic is a superzoom and is extremely clear even at the widest zoom. Finally, Panasonic has the best image stabilization technology in the industry.

Now, Panasonic's weakness is in low light setting...things like indoor concerts and stuff are it's weakpoint--but I've heard they're getting better. Considering the op's main usage, this would be a good camera.

The prices you see for around 450 are the prices for the Korean model.
At Yongsan, you should be able to find a grey market model for probablyl about 100 less. This would be the Japanese model (although identical) that has been imported under the table. I bought my Panasonic this way and I wouldn't trade it for anything (well...perhaps maybe for the newer one in it's line...)

[crazy_arcade]

[quote="crazy_arcade"]I totally disagree with the above poster.

Nothing in the price-range can compare with the Panasonic lens wise. You just can't beat the Leica lens. Furthermore, the Panasonic is a superzoom and is extremely clear even at the widest zoom. Finally, Panasonic has the best image stabilization technology in the industry. Remember that some of Panasonic's cameras get a dual release in Leica's lines too. Same camera at double the price tag.

Now, Panasonic's weakness is high iso--pics get a bit noisy compared to canon, nikon, fuji--but I've heard they're getting better. Considering the op's main usage, this would be a good camera.

On Enuri ( a Korean comparison site) I found the tz15 (which is one model up) for as low as 360

It appears that the tz4 hasn't been released yet. I'd probably buy the tz15 for 360. If you search aroudn Yongsan, you could probably find a grey market tz4 for a decent price. This would be a Japanese released model that has been imported to Korea illegally. They're pretty common.