Panasonic Lumix loads the DMC-TZ3 with features and very sharp lens

We picked up the DMC TZ3 during a Black Friday sale at Circuit City 2007, so we've put it through its paces since then.  We replaced a Nikon Coolpix 3500 due to slow write speed and unsharp lens.  The Panasonic is packed with many great control features and photo modes.  A few modes are very similar in what they offer but you can manually adjust or use an idiot-proof point and shoot mode.  The Leica lens is wonderfully sharp, something my earlier Nikon didn't have, as well as a large and bright LCD screen of the TZ3.  I have fairly large hands and the camera grips well, unlike some smaller frames I've tried at the store. Some of the smaller buttons on the rear are difficult to press with bigger fingers, or with gloves. The battery life lasts longer if you don't review every photo or use flash, but that goes for every digital camera.  Otherwise, I recommend a replacement battery if traveling around without access to a wall outlet.  A small battery charger is included, it fits easily into a case or pocket.  I would definitely buy this camera all over again.  This model uses Leica glass but Panasonic electronics.  Leica offers a similar model with their branding, but they still use Panasonic's electronics for theirs...and it's more expensive by a few hundred dollars.