This
Panasonic Lumix DMC-G1 Review is based on a
production model. All sample images are unretouched,
except where specified.
Swans
The Panasonic Lumix DMC-G1 has turned the DSLR world on its head with the first mirror-less Digital Interchangeable Lens camera that provides pretty much most, if not all, the features serious and advanced photographers have come to expect from a DSLR and, in addition, throw in practical features from the point-and-shoot world that DSLRs are now starting to incorporate. The G1 is both fast, precise and a pleasure to use, featuring Live View the way it is supposed to work.
Most people move up to a DSLR for its fast auto focus and performance. The G1 features a fast Contrast-Detect AF that almost rivals the Phase-Detection AF used in DSLRs. It has no practical shutter lag, and performance is almost comparable with that of an entry-level DSLR, but not quite there: startup and continuous shooting still have room for improvement.
The G1's real claim to fame is, of course, the availability of smaller and lighter lenses. By using a smaller lens mount (micro FourThirds) and getting rid of the mirror (whose sole purpose is to reflect the light coming from the lens to the viewfinder, but is not necessary anymore with the use of a high resolution EVF and LCD) and the optical prism, the G1 allows the use of lenses that are much smaller and lighter than those used on DSLRs. The result is not only a smaller and lighter camera body, but also of the interchangeable lenses that attach to it.
The G1 captures excellent image quality up to ISO 400, with low noise and detail preserved. It provides full exposure flexibility; Live View like no other DSLR currently has; Dust Reduction; an articulated extra large high resolution 3.0-in. LCD; a high resolution EVF that displays all the exposure information you desire, including a Live Histogram; and the list of very practical features goes on.
The Panasonic Lumix DMC-G1 will appeal
to serious amateur and advanced photographers desiring a DSLR-level digital camera but without the size, bulkiness and weight usually associated with DSLRs. Though there are still improvements to be made, Panasonic has otherwise done a superb job with its first micro FourThirds Digital Interchangeable Lens system camera and we award it our Editor's Choice 2008.
See if you fit the Panasonic Lumix DMC-G1
User Profile below:
Panasonic
G1
User Profile
•
Desire a quality 12.1
MP resolution Digital Interchangeable Lens camera.
•
Want DSLR-like handling
and controls: zoom ring, manual focus
ring.
•
Want a LCD that flips
out and rotates for comfortable high
and low-angle shooting.
•
Want fast response times
with no practical shutter lag.
•
Want fast and precise
auto and manual focus.
•
Want a full-featured digital
camera with many pro features.
•
Want ability to add on
optional accessories, including lenses and a choice of powerful
external speedlights.
•
Want all this in a smaller and lighter form factor than typical DSLRs.
