Testing out the Panasonic Lumix ZS3

So I got myself a new point and shoot camera a week ago, and after extensive research I decided on a Panasonic Lumix ZS3. I originally wanted to get a Flip HD Mino for digital video goodness, but after reading many many many reviews I figured that I should just upgrade my point and shoot digital camera at the same time for a few more bucks with even better video quality at the same time.

So, I bought the camera through special order since it just came out and has a high demand their sold out everywhere. This weekend I got a chance to test out the camera and am somewhat confused on whether I should keep it or exchange it for a Canon SD780. Reason being, the Canon is about 3/4 the size, 1/2 the weight and Canon pictures are supposed be a lot more vivid and also has more features on the camera itself. BUT, what I lose according to the many results I read is quality in video, and the Panasonic has a much better lens on the camera which includes wide angle and an unheard of 12x zoom.

With all that said, i'm kind of borderline on both... do I want to sacrifice quality for size and coolness? I got a chance to sample the camera/vid while driving and at NYC's annual Japan Fair. Take a look and let me know what you think.

Panoramic Shot of Japan Fair 2009 (click)

Few other random shots including some Cosplay heroes lol

Video of me driving in Long Beach

(Be sure to open the video in a new window and click the HD button for best results)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Jk1Bt-nGhHs&feature=channel_page