There is an emerging class, sometimes referred as rangefinder cameras, driven by Panasonic and Olympus with their 12 megapixel four-thirds DSLR sensor. While they do not use the true optical range finding method to assist photographers to focus the lens, it is more their overall market positioning that inspires the comparison.
They generally are compact cameras with greater capability than simple point and shoot models but lacking some of the complexity and theThrough The Lens viewfinder of SLR cameras.
While the four-thirds sensor may suffer slightly in comparison with the larger sensors used in most DSLRs, it is much larger than other compact digital cameras. Their main competitor is the new Canon G11, although it is handicapped by a smaller compact digital camera sensor.
“The new LUMIX GF1 continues the evolution and is the perfect addition to our LUMIX G Series, as its sophisticated, small body makes it easier and more convenient to carry,” said David Briganti, Senior Product Manager, Imaging, Panasonic Consumer Electronics Company.
“The GF1 is ideal for point-and-shoot consumers looking to step-up to DSLR-quality or for current DSLR users who want greater convenience without compromising performance quality or creative flexibility,”
Interchangeable Lenses
The Panasonic LUMIX DMC-GF1 has the facility for changing lenses, giving photographers the option of fitting a compact standard lens or a longer telephoto when required.
There is new Panasonic micro four-thirds lens announced with the GF1, the LUMIX G 20mm/F1.7 ASPH, is very compact “pancake” lens. With the four-thirds sensor crop factor of two this lens is equivalent to 40mm focal length on a 35mm SLR. This focal length gives a good general purpose view of the world. This is unlike SLR lookalikes with bulky zoom lens permanently attached while offering only modest image quality.
Features Making It Easy To Use
To help novice photographers the Panasonic LUMIX DMC GF1 offers their iA (Intelligent Auto) mode when shooting still or video images.
For shooting video, iA includes Optical Image Stabilization (OIS) to reduce video-blurring due to handshake. Face Detection automatically detects a face in the frame and adjusts focus, exposure, contrast, and skin complexion to suit the face. The automatic exposure system continually checks the light level and adjusts the exposure setting as conditions change to prevent blown highlights and blocked shadows.
For still photos, the iA system also includes Face Recognition for up to six faces; Auto Focus (AF) Tracking; Mega O.I.S.; Intelligent ISO; Intelligent Exposure; and Intelligent Scene Selector.
No Viewfinder
The Panasonic designers could not find room for either an optical or an electronic viewfinder in the LUMIX DMC-GF1. Using a viewfinder allows photographers to hold the camera properly to minimize camera shake in low light conditions. Panasonic are offering accessory electronic viewfinder that clips on top of the camera. However, this rather spoils the slim, smooth shape of the GF1 that makes it easy to slip into a pocket.
Availability
The Panasonic LUMIX DMC-GF1 and new accessories are set for release in early October 2009 with the choice of two kits both with an estimated retail price of $US 899.95. The difference between the two kits is the lens.
One option is the new LUMIX G 20mm/F1.7 ASPH “pancake” lens, and the other is the LUMIX G VARIO 14-45mm/F3.5-5.6 ASPH/MEGA O.I.S.
The optional Live View Finder DMW-LVF1 has an estimated price of $US199.95; and the lens adaptors DMW-MA2M and DMW-MA3R have an estimated price of $US249.95.
 |
 |
 |
