It is safe to say that none other camera system generated as much attention as Panasonic LUMIX DMC-GF1. Internet forums for avid photographers to tweets from gadget neophytes immediately filled with rumors when scanned images of the camera were leaked on Chinese blogs a couple weeks ago. All the rumors finally subsided this morning when Panasonic officially introduce the LUMIX DMC-GF1.
Armed with 4/3 type MOS Sensor from the Micro Four-Third standard, the LUMIX DMC-GF1, or simply came to be known as GF1, offers 12.1 Megapixel resolution. Essentially a SLR, engineers at Panasonic took advantage of the Micro Four-Third sensor, which does not need a mirror or pentaprism to capture light. Thus drastically reduce the overall size and weight of the camera. Comparing to the previous G-Series cameras, the GF1 is 35% smaller and 25% lighter in weight. Form factor-wise, it is within the category of Compact Camera. Another focus for Panasonic during GF1′s design with the concept of “artistic flat”- where all control surfaces have been streamlined to comfortably fit into any user’s hand, pocket, or bag. One the biggest advantage the Micro Four-Third System over other compact camera is the ability to mount different, over 50 lens in fact, from 3 different manufactures, including the storied Leica M/R lenses and Olympus Zuiko. In addition to its 1280 x 720 HD video capability with AVCHD Lite, making GF1 one of the most versatile.
The LUMIX DMC-GF1 will be available starting in October and comes in 3 body colors (red, silver, black) and 2 variations. One include the new LUMIX G 20mm “Pancake” lens with f/1.7, making it one of the fastest Four-Third lenses. The other include a LUMIX G VARIO 14-45mm lens with f/3.5-5.6. Both options, including the camera, will have an suggested retail price of $899.95.
- 4/3 type MOS Sensor
- 12.1 Megapixels
- 3.0″ TFT LCD Screen w. 460,000-dot resolution
- HD Video w. AVCHD Lite
- Face Detection
- HDMI output
- 50+ Lens Options
- Optional leather camera case
- Optional LVF1 Electronic Viewfinder
- 3 Body Colors – Red, Silver, Black
- 2 Kits – LUMIX G 20mm f/1.7 “Pancake” Lens OR LUMIX G VARIO 14-45mm f/3.5-5.6 Lens
Panasonic LUMIX DMC-GF1 Black w. Flash Open
Panasonic LUMIX DMC-GF1 Black w. LVF1 Electronic Viewfinder
Panasonic LUMIX DMC-GF1 Black w. LVF1 Electronic Viewfinder
Pages: 1 2
 |
|
|
 | ||
|
|
A few weeks ago I mentioned my dissatisfaction with the current crop (sorry) of “street” cameras on Lightstalkers.com and was “rebuked” by a member that no one would come out with these cameras given the current market.
Well, it appears he was wrong in his assessment. We may finally have one.
I looked at the E-P1 and, although I was tempted, I didn’t buy it.
I did buy a Canon G10 and am not all that hot about it, although it’s an “OK” carry around.
It looks like Panasonic may have the answer for photojournalists.
All I can say is “Where were you when I needed you?
I was hoping this would be the next step after the G1 a bit more compact but with interchangeable lenses but I’m disappointed that the articulated LCD screen has vanished That is a huge step backwards and enough to put me off buying it. Roll on GF2. When are you guys ever going to get it completely right?
@Neil Leyden
What do you expect? The thing is miniscule, they had to cut some features here and there. Would you rather they waited 6-8 months to release it with an articulated screen, or get it out now and then update later?