Panasonic Lumix DMC-FH8 vs DMC-FZ47: A Detailed Camera Comparison for Enthusiast Buyers

Selecting the perfect camera means balancing a wide variety of features, image quality, and handling characteristics against your personal shooting needs. Today, we dive deep into comparing two Panasonic small-sensor cameras from the early 2010s - the compact Panasonic Lumix DMC-FH8 and the bridge-style Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ47. Though both hail from Panasonic’s well-regarded Lumix lineup, these two models cater to different photographic priorities and use cases.

Through extensive hands-on testing and technical analysis, I will guide you through how each camera performs across portraiture, wildlife, landscape, and more, while riffing on their strengths, limitations, and real-world value. If you’re eyeing either for your next grab-and-go camera or even a secondary travel shooter, this article is your go-to, no-fluff briefing with plenty of first-hand insight.

A Matter of Size and Handling: Pocketable vs. Ergonomic Bridge

Our comparison starts where any photographer first interacts with the camera - its physical design and controls. Size, weight, and layout significantly influence handling comfort and shooting spontaneity.

The Panasonic FH8 is a true compact designed for maximum portability. It measures a mere 96 x 57 x 19 mm and weighs an ultra-light 123 grams. Slip it into almost any pocket or tiny purse, and it’s ready to snap the moment inspiration hits. The trade-off? A small grip, minimal buttons, and a lack of an optical or electronic viewfinder, relying solely on its fixed TFT LCD. Controls are simplified, and there’s no manual focus ring - more on that later.

By contrast, the FZ47 embraces the bridge camera form factor, with a bold SLR-like body measuring 120 x 80 x 92 mm and tipping the scales at nearly half a kilogram (498 grams). It’s larger, heavier, and designed with a substantial grip and an abundance of manual controls. The top plate layout clearly prioritizes enthusiast photographers wanting immediate access to exposure modes, aperture, and shutter priority via dedicated dials.

That bigger body also hosts an electronic viewfinder (EVF), a critical tool for shooting in bright daylight or when composing with precision is paramount. The rear LCD is larger and sharper (3 inches, 460k dots vs. 230k dots on FH8), giving a clearer live preview and menu navigation experience.

Ergonomically, the FZ47 feels like a proper camera meant for intentional shooting, while the FH8 is more a casual snapshot device. If you value pocket portability and quick point-and-shoot access, FH8 wins. For those wanting more grip confidence and control versatility, FZ47 shines.

Sensor and Image Quality: Small but Mighty 1/2.3” CCDs Stretched Differently

Both cameras employ the common 1/2.3-inch CCD sensor - a standard for many compact and bridge cameras - measuring roughly 6.08 by 4.56 mm with a sensor area of ~27.7 mm². While this size is modest by today’s mirrorless and DSLR standards, Panasonic optimized each camera differently for their targeted users.

The FH8 sports a higher pixel count, offering a 16MP resolution (4608 x 3456 pixels), likely aiming for detailed prints and cropping flexibility. The FZ47 clocks a slightly lower 12MP resolution (4000 x 3000 pixels), a red flag for some, but often meaning larger individual photosites which can improve low-light noise performance - though the native ISO caps at 1600 compared to FH8’s 6400.

It’s worth noting that both sensors include an anti-aliasing filter (designed to reduce moiré) but are backed by CCD technology, which traditionally excels at color rendering, though it can lag CMOS sensors in readout speed and noise control.

In real-world testing, the higher-resolution FH8 images showed crisp detail under good lighting - especially for printer-friendly sizes - but also revealed noise artifacts creeping in beyond ISO 400. The FZ47’s images were cleaner at ISO 400 and 800, trading off some resolution sharpness but smoother tonal gradations.

Neither camera supports RAW shooting, locking users into JPEG files processed by the internal Venus Engine (FZ47) or Panasonic’s default processor (FH8), limiting post-processing latitude. For enthusiasts who edit heavily, this is a big limitation.

Lens Versatility: Compact Zoom vs. Superzoom Beast

Optically, the differences couldn’t be starker.

• Panasonic FH8 offers a modest 24-120 mm (35mm equivalent) 5x zoom lens with a fairly bright aperture range from f/2.5 to f/6.4.
• FZ47 provides a dizzying 25-600 mm (24x optical zoom) lens ranging from f/2.8 to f/5.2.

The FH8 lens is ideal for casual shooting where wide angles and moderate telephoto reach suffice - family portraits, street snaps, or indoor photos where more light-gathering helps address low ambient brightness. The macro focus range starts at 4 cm, enabling close but not extreme macro shots.

The FZ47’s lens thrusts you into superzoom territory, close to 600 mm telephoto reach, perfect for wildlife or sports enthusiasts who want to capture distant subjects without lugging big glass. Its macro range is impressively close at 1 cm, enabling surprisingly detailed close-ups. The downside is the inherent bulk and slower aperture; the lens reduces in speed as you zoom in.

Sharpness across the zoom ranges holds well on the FZ47 considering its reach, though at max telephoto, expect some softness and chromatic aberrations typical of superzoom optics. The FH8’s lens produces slightly sharper results across its limited range.

Overall, if zoom versatility and reaching far subjects excites you, FZ47’s lens is compelling. The FH8 suits more general-purpose, everyday photography scenarios.

Autofocus and Burst Shooting: Precision vs Speed

Autofocus systems differentiate these models further.

Both cameras employ 23 focus points utilizing contrast detection AF with face detection capabilities, but:

• FH8’s AF system is more modest, without manual focus, and a limited burst rate of just about 1 fps.
• FZ47 adds manual focus control, exposure modes (including shutter, aperture priority), and a faster continuous shooting rate at 4 fps.

In hands-on tests, the FH8’s autofocus locks quickly in good lighting but struggles in low light or with moving subjects. The absence of manual focus and more refined focus modes hampers creative control, especially for macro or landscape work.

The FZ47’s AF, while also contrast-based, felt snappier and more adaptable to different conditions. The availability of manual focus and faster frame rates is a big advantage, particularly when capturing decisive moments in wildlife or sports.

Experienced Users’ Interface and Screen Experience

The FH8’s 3” TFT fixed LCD lacks touch functionality and limited resolution (230k dots). Navigating menus feels basic, more designed for casual users. There’s no viewfinder, which makes bright sunny day composing challenging.

The FZ47 counters this with a 3” 460k dot LCD plus a comprehensive electronic viewfinder covering 100% frame. This is a game-changer for outdoor photography and precise framing.

Panasonic’s menu system on the FZ47 is more robust, with greater access to white balance bracketing, exposure compensation, and bracketing modes - features serious photographers appreciate to nail exposures.

Video Capabilities: HD Footage but Limited Audio Inputs

Video hasn’t traditionally been a strong suit on compact Panasonic Lumix cameras of this vintage, but the FZ47 edges ahead.

• FH8 shoots HD video capped at 720p (1280x720) at 30 fps, encoded in MPEG-4.
• FZ47 offers full HD 1080p (1920x1080) at 30 fps in AVCHD format, plus 720p and standard definition options.

Unfortunately, neither camera comes with microphone or headphone ports, limiting audio recording quality and monitoring. Neither supports 4K or higher frame rates for slow-motion.

While video enthusiasts may find these specs dated compared to modern standards, the FZ47’s sharper video and longer telephoto zoom offer more cinematic framing options.

Battery Life and Storage: Longevity and Convenience

Battery endurance is where the FZ47 also provides an edge - rated for around 400 shots per charge compared to the FH8’s 260. It’s a substantial difference for long day trips or traveling where charging opportunities are sparse.

Both use proprietary battery packs and support SD/SDHC/SDXC cards with single storage slots. Neither has built-in Wi-Fi or Bluetooth, so tethering or remote transfers require removal of the card or wired USB connections (USB 2.0 speeds).

Durability and Weather Resistance: Handling Everyday Demands

Neither camera is weather sealed or ruggedized. They both lack dustproof, waterproof, or shockproof certifications. For serious outdoor use or harsh environments, additional protective measures are necessary.

Price and Value: What’s Your Photography Budget?

At launch, the FH8 was priced around $150, targeted at entry-level casual shooters. The FZ47 commanded closer to $379, reflecting its larger sensor format, superzoom lens, and richer feature set.

Today, both are older models often found at heavily discounted prices or used in the market. Consider your needs carefully before acquiring either; both lack the versatility, connectivity, and image quality advancements native to 2020s mirrorless competitors.

Sample Image Quality Comparison: Real Shots in Various Conditions

Let’s look at some side-by-side sample images captured with both cameras to see how the specs translate in practice.

Panasonic FH8 front Panasonic FH8 screen back Panasonic FZ47 front Panasonic FZ47 screen back

• Portrait shots from FH8 delivered pleasing skin tones due to brighter aperture but suffered from soft focus and noise creeping in beyond ISO 400.
• The FZ47’s portrait output was slightly flatter but maintained better focus and detail with the option of manual focus tweaking.
• In landscapes, the FH8 produced sharper, more detailed images at base ISO but the limited zoom proved restrictive.
• The FZ47’s wide-to-tele superzoom enabled capturing distant vista details but with some softness at the far reaches.
• Wildlife and sports sequences - absent on the FH8 due to its 1 fps burst - were captured well on FZ47, thanks to 4 fps shooting and faster AF.

How They Stack Up Overall

When we aggregate performance across handling, image quality, features, and value, the numbers tell a compelling story.

And digging deeper into genre-specific strengths:

Detailed Use Case Recommendations

Portrait Photography
If you prioritize quick snapshots with usable skin tones for family and social media, the FH8’s bright aperture works well but lacks manual focus for fine eye detection control. The FZ47 performs better overall with manual focusing, but you trade off portability.

Landscape
The FH8’s higher resolution yields crisp details in good light, but the limited focal range restricts composition flexibility. For telephoto reach and varied framing, the FZ47 dominates, especially if you value a viewfinder and exposure controls.

Wildlife and Sports
Here, the FZ47’s fast AF, 4 fps burst, and enormous zoom lens clearly outclass the FH8. The FH8’s 1 fps and limited lens preclude action use.

Street Photography
The FH8’s small footprint and discrete design make it friendlier for street shooting compared to the bulky FZ47. However, lack of an EVF and slow autofocus may frustrate in tricky light.

Macro
The FZ47’s ability to focus as close as 1 cm plus manual focus control wins for macro enthusiasts over FH8’s nominal 4 cm capability.

Night / Astro
Both cameras have limited sensitivity and noise handling compared to modern sensors. The FH8 offers ISO up to 6400 but noise is high. Neither supports long exposures beyond 8 seconds or bulb mode, limiting astro possibilities.

Video
FZ47 supports full HD and a better codec (AVCHD) with optical stabilization, while FH8 maxes out at 720p. Both suffer from lack of audio input.

Travel
FH8’s pocketability and 260-shot battery life are compelling, but FZ47 balances weight with 24x zoom and longer battery life. If weight matters most, choose FH8; for versatility, FZ47.

Professional Work
Neither camera supports RAW, has advanced file formats, or high durability needed for pro work, but FZ47’s manual controls and bracketing make it more flexible for hobbyist pros on a budget.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Buy Which?

Buy the Panasonic Lumix DMC-FH8 if:

• You want a slim, affordable camera for casual everyday shooting.
• Portability and simplicity outweigh professional controls.
• You mostly shoot portraits, snapshots, and indoor photos in good light.
• You value straightforward image quality plus optical image stabilization.

Buy the Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ47 if:

• You desire broad focal length coverage on a superzoom bridge camera.
• You crave manual controls, better AF speed, and the electronic viewfinder.
• Wildlife, sports, or macro photography is a serious hobby.
• You want full HD video coupled with optical stabilization.
• Size and weight aren’t dealbreakers, and you trade compactness for capability.

Both cameras, though somewhat dated now, represent interesting compromises in Panasonic’s Lumix line. Your choice depends heavily on how large you want your camera to be and what kinds of shooting challenges you expect.

Technical Summary Table

For photography enthusiasts drawn to flexibility, the luminosity of the Lumix FZ47 still holds appeal today, particularly where reach and control matter. For compact convenience and everyday carry, the FH8 remains a lightweight companion.

Use these insights and personal shooting preferences to steer your purchase decisively. Happy shooting!

Disclosure: All testing was conducted in controlled and real-world environments under varied lighting, ensuring reliable performance assessments. Both models were used with factory firmware and standard settings to reflect typical user experience.