Engadget http://www.engadget.com Engadget http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.engadget.com/media/feedlogo.gif Engadget http://www.engadget.com en-us Copyright 2012 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Olympus adds 75mm f/1.8 portrait lens to Micro Four Thirds lineup]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/24/olympus-75mm-f-1-8-micro-four-thirds/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/24/olympus-75mm-f-1-8-micro-four-thirds/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/24/olympus-75mm-f-1-8-micro-four-thirds/#comments

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During our first encounter with the OM-D E-M5 in February, Olympus told us to expect several more lenses to launch throughout the year, including a 75mm f/1.8 variant suitable for portraits and a splash- and dust-proof 60mm f/2.8 macro. Well, that first optic will be coming sooner than you may have thought -- it's expected to hit stores this summer with an estimated price tag of $900. The lens offers a 150mm 35mm-equivalent focal length when paired with a Micro Four Thirds camera, and consists of 10 elements in nine groups, including three ED elements that assist with correcting aberrations. Everything else you need to know can be found in the PR after the break.

Continue reading Olympus adds 75mm f/1.8 portrait lens to Micro Four Thirds lineup

Olympus adds 75mm f/1.8 portrait lens to Micro Four Thirds lineup originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 24 May 2012 01:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cameracamerasfour thirdsFourThirdsilclenslensesmftmft lensMftLensMicro Four Thirdsmicro four thirds lensMicroFourThirdsMicroFourThirdsLensminipostmirrorlessolympusolympus lensOlympusLensThu, 24 May 2012 01:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Panasonic launches 12-35mm Micro Four Thirds lens with constant f/2.8 aperture]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/21/panasonic-12-35mm-micro-four-thirds/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/21/panasonic-12-35mm-micro-four-thirds/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/21/panasonic-12-35mm-micro-four-thirds/#comments Image

As powerful as they've become, Mirrorless camera systems can't match the versatility of a full-size DSLR. One key component we haven't seen is a constant-aperture lens, offering a consistent large aperture size throughout the zoom range. That changed today. Panasonic's new Lumix G X Vario 12-35mm optic packs one incredible advantage over its compact competitors -- a constant f/2.8 aperture. Because of the Micro Four Thirds system's 2x multiplication factor, this 12-35mm lens covers the same zoom range of 24-70mm glass on a full-frame camera, in a significantly smaller package. The optic consists of 14 elements in nine groups, and includes UED and UHR lenses to increase image quality and minimize distortion, along with built-in image stabilization and Panasonic's Nano Surface Coating to reduce ghosting and lens flare. It's also splash- and dust-resistant, and features a metal mount on the rear. Panasonic has yet to release pricing in the US, but the European price tag has been estimated at €1,100 (about $1,400) -- by comparison, Canon's equivalent optic (from a specification perspective) will run you $1,600. For its part, the 12-35mm MFT lens is expected to hit stores in August. Full PR is just past the break.

Continue reading Panasonic launches 12-35mm Micro Four Thirds lens with constant f/2.8 aperture

Panasonic launches 12-35mm Micro Four Thirds lens with constant f/2.8 aperture originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 21 May 2012 16:43:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cameracamerasdslrfour thirdsFourThirdsilcinterchangeable lens cameraInterchangeableLensCameralenslensesmftmicro four thirdsMicroFourThirdsmirrorlessmirrorless cameraMirrorlessCameraopticphotographyMon, 21 May 2012 16:43:00 EST<![CDATA[Olympus OM-D E-M5 Micro Four Thirds camera review]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/01/olympus-om-d-em-5-micro-four-thirds-camera-review/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/01/olympus-om-d-em-5-micro-four-thirds-camera-review/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/01/olympus-om-d-em-5-micro-four-thirds-camera-review/#comments Image

Stepping across the great DSLR divide into the land of mirrorless cameras always requires some compromise. Focusing speed, image quality, lens compatibility and battery life are frequent casualties, but for everyone except professional shooters, the size and cost benefits of swapping a full-grown beast for a compact ILC surely help soften the blow. The latest Micro Four Thirds model from Olympus, the OM-D E-M5, adds functionality that expand that list of betterments even further, allowing more versatility than larger DSLRs have to offer. These perks include a water-resistant design, for starters, along with a nifty lens that offers macro shooting and both manual- and powered-zoom in one compact package.

One area where the 16-megapixel E-M5 does match the footprint of its full-size brethren is in price: you'll drop a cool grand for the body alone, while the 12-50mm f/3.5-6.3 lens kit will bump that tag up another $300. Make no mistake, the E-M5 is a fantastic camera, but $1,300 is mighty steep for any mirrorless model, especially one with a Micro Four Thirds sensor. This, however, is no ordinary MFT camera. As the first model in Olympus's OM-D line -- taking design cues from the company's popular line of OM film cameras -- the E-M5 is in a class of its own, at least as far as Olympus's portfolio is concerned. Besides physical appearance, perhaps, the most notable selling point is its focus speed: press the shutter release, and your subject comes into clarity with rapid-fire precision, whether you're shooting in bright sunlight or a dark restaurant. But though the E-M5 has already received accolades for its powerful focusing, you might be wondering how the whole package performs. Meet us past the break to find out.

Gallery: Olympus OM-D E-M5 review

Continue reading Olympus OM-D E-M5 Micro Four Thirds camera review

Olympus OM-D E-M5 Micro Four Thirds camera review originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 01 May 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cameracamerasdigital cameradigital camerasDigitalCameraDigitalCamerasdslrE-M5electronic viewfinderElectronicViewfinderevffour thirdsFourThirdsilcinterchangeable lensinterchangeable lens cameraInterchangeableLensInterchangeableLensCameramftMicro Four ThirdsMicroFourThirdsmirrorlessmirrorless cameraMirrorlessCameraOLEDolympusOlympus E-M5olympus Micro Four ThirdsOlympus OM-Dolympus penOlympusE-m5OlympusMicroFourThirdsOlympusOm-dOlympusPenOM-DpenphotographyreviewvideoTue, 01 May 2012 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Fujifilm X-Pro1 high-ISO shots go under the loupe in mirrorless standoff with OM-D E-5 and NEX-7]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/23/fujifilm-xpro-1-sony-minolta-high-iso-shootout/http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/23/fujifilm-xpro-1-sony-minolta-high-iso-shootout/http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/23/fujifilm-xpro-1-sony-minolta-high-iso-shootout/#comments Image

We'll soon be putting Fujifilm's new interchange able shooter through our own wringer, but in the meantime we found an apt low-light comparison with two of its non-reflex brethren. Although blogging photog Steve Huff admits the tests are "crazy" and depend on the camera's own auto-exposure choices, the results do give some food for thought. How would the pricier rangefinder-bodied X-Pro1 stack up against the Sony NEX-7 and Olympus OM-D E-M5? If we had to guess -- and we really do, given his methodology -- the noise levels on the Fuji at ISO 3200 and 6400 look to be slightly better than the Sony and smaller-sensored Olympus. If you'd like to take a stab at judging for yourself, follow the link below.

Fujifilm X-Pro1 high-ISO shots go under the loupe in mirrorless standoff with OM-D E-5 and NEX-7 originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 23 Apr 2012 15:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aps-ccameracamerasd-slrdigital cameradigital camerasDigitalCameraDigitalCamerasdslre-m5four thirdsFourThirdsfujifuji x-pro1fujifilm x-pro1FujifilmX-pro1FujiX-pro1interchangeablemicro four thirdsMicroFourThirdsmirrorlessmirrorless cameraMirrorlessCameranex-7nex7olympus micro four thirdsOlympus om-d E-m5OlympusMicroFourThirdsOlympusOm-dE-m5photographysony nex-7SonyNex-7x-pro1Mon, 23 Apr 2012 15:27:00 EST<![CDATA[Panasonic Lumix GF5 looks identical to its predecessor, offers similar specs for $100 more (hands-on)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/05/panasonic-lumix-gf5-hands-on/http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/05/panasonic-lumix-gf5-hands-on/http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/05/panasonic-lumix-gf5-hands-on/#comments Image
It's been a bumpy ride for Panasonic's GF line of Micro Four Thirds cameras. The GF1, an excellent mirrorless camera for its time, was soon replaced with a less-capable entry level model, the GF2. Then another, the GF3. And now, it's time to say hello (again) to the GF5. For better or worse, the GF3 won't be going away -- it'll sit tight at its new $500 price point (with a 14-42mm kit lens), ready to confuse consumers looking to purchase its nearly identical, yet $100 pricier, pseudo-replacement. Both cameras come equipped with 12.1-megapixel Live MOS sensors, though the newer model adds a "High Picture Quality" distinction -- it's been dubbed a 12.1-megapixel "High Picture Quality" Live MOS sensor. So, naturally, we're going to expect some pretty incredible images. Panasonic has also added an ISO 12,800 "extended" mode (the GF3 topped out at a native ISO 6400). There has been a jump in the video department, with 1080/30p MP4 recording joining the 720p mix. Burst mode capabilities have seen an increase as well, from 3.8 frames-per-second to... 4. Finally, it's slightly larger, due to a more substantial (and more comfortable) grip, though battery life has dropped from 340 shots to 320, likely due to a new processing technique aimed at further reducing noise in low-light captures.

The GF3 and GF5 look so similar that we mistakenly photographed the former for a minute or two, only realizing the error when we flipped on the LCD. The 5 has a much-improved touchscreen, with a 920k-dot resolution (460k dots on the GF3). It looks gorgeous by comparison, but amateurs making the switch from a point-and-shoot may not take notice. The features they'll appreciate most relate entirely to the GUI, and include a highlight window for selection options, 14 filters with a realtime preview option, a background image that appears on the main menu and a filter recommendation while in Intelligent Auto. This feature works by suggesting that you apply the Expressive or Toy Effect if you're taking a macro shot, for example. Other additions include a stereo microphone for video capture, though the left and right mics are positioned oddly near each other -- on either side of the word "MIC" on the top of the camera, with the right mic angled towards the left -- so we can't image that you'll be getting a true stereo effect. Like its predecessor, the GF5 is clearly designed with beginners in mind -- more advanced photogs should consider the GX1 -- but with a $599 sticker price (with 14-42mm lens), it's sure to be a hit.

Gallery: Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF5 hands-on

Continue reading Panasonic Lumix GF5 looks identical to its predecessor, offers similar specs for $100 more (hands-on)

Panasonic Lumix GF5 looks identical to its predecessor, offers similar specs for $100 more (hands-on) originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 05 Apr 2012 01:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cameracamerasdigital slrDigitalSlrDMC-GF5dslrentry levelEntryLevelfour thirdsFourThirdsGF5hands-onilcinterchangeable lensinterchangeable lens cameraInterchangeableLensInterchangeableLensCameralumix gf5LumixGf5micro four thirdsMicroFourThirdsmirrorlessmirrorless cameraMirrorlessCamerapanasonicPanasonic GF5panasonic lumixpanasonic lumix gf5PanasonicGf5PanasonicLumixPanasonicLumixGf5slrThu, 05 Apr 2012 01:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Lensbaby Composer Pro gets Samsung, Sony, Micro Four Thirds mirrorless mounts]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/02/lensbaby-composer-pro-mirrorless-mount/http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/02/lensbaby-composer-pro-mirrorless-mount/http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/02/lensbaby-composer-pro-mirrorless-mount/#comments ImageLensbaby faithfuls awaiting a mirrorless-compatible Composer Pro lens need not hold out any longer. The company's high-end creative optic is now shipping for mirrorless mounts of the Samsung NX, Sony NEX and Micro Four Thirds variety -- including the Panasonic Lumix G and Olympus PEN. These latest additions join Canon, Nikon, Sony Alpha, Pentax K and Four Thirds versions, which are all available for 300 bucks at the source link below.

Continue reading Lensbaby Composer Pro gets Samsung, Sony, Micro Four Thirds mirrorless mounts

Lensbaby Composer Pro gets Samsung, Sony, Micro Four Thirds mirrorless mounts originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 02 Apr 2012 20:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cameracamerasCanoncomposer proComposerProFour ThirdsFourThirdsilclenslensbabylensbaby composer prolensbaby proLensbabyComposerProLensbabyProlensesMicro Four ThirdsMicroFourThirdsminipostmirrorlessmirrorless cameramirrorless camerasMirrorlessCameraMirrorlessCamerasNikonolympusopticopticsPentax KPentaxKphotographySamsung NXSamsungNxsonySony AlphaSony NEXSonyAlphaSonyEricssonSonyNexMon, 02 Apr 2012 20:28:00 EST<![CDATA[Panasonic Lumix GF5 accidentally leaked by Hong Kong spokesperson?]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/18/panasonic-lumix-gf5-leak-hong-kong/http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/18/panasonic-lumix-gf5-leak-hong-kong/http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/18/panasonic-lumix-gf5-leak-hong-kong/#comments Frequent social networkers will tell you that Instagram's usually plastered with food photos and self-portraits, so we were quite surprised to see a product leak over there. After some careful inspection, we're pretty certain that the above picture shows a legit Panasonic Lumix GF5, which from this angle bears much resemblance to the GF3 bar the grip. To add credibility here, the uploader is none other than Hong Kong celebrity Angelababy who happens to be the brand ambassador for Panny (oopsie!). Unsurprisingly, the twee model has already removed the offending picture from her account, but the direct image link still works.

You may be wondering: shouldn't this Micro Four Thirds camera be the GF4 after the current GF3? Well, much like Chinese superstition, Japan also prefers to steer clear of the number 4 as it sounds the same as "death" in Japanese. For instance: there was no Lumix LX4 before the LX5. As for specs, Chinese website Nphoto reported earlier this month that the GF5 will also feature a 12-megapixel sensor but with a better signal-to-noise ratio and topping at ISO 12800, while on the back it'll have a much sharper LCD with 920k dots (instead of just 460k on the GF3). Judging by the looks of things it shouldn't be long before we see Angelababy presenting this new camera for real -- let's just hope that she gets to keep her job.

Panasonic Lumix GF5 accidentally leaked by Hong Kong spokesperson? originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 18 Mar 2012 09:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>angelababycameraGF4gf5hong kongHongKonginstagramleaklumixlumix dmc-gf5lumix gf5LumixDmc-gf5LumixGf5MFTMFTsmicro 43Micro Four ThirdsMicro43MicroFourThirdspanasonicSun, 18 Mar 2012 09:33:00 EST<![CDATA[Olympus OM-D E-M5 Micro Four Thirds camera to ship on March 31st? (update: now April)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/29/olympus-om-d-e-m5-micro-four-thirds-march-31st/http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/29/olympus-om-d-e-m5-micro-four-thirds-march-31st/http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/29/olympus-om-d-e-m5-micro-four-thirds-march-31st/#comments If a ship date pops up on Amazon for a date in the not-so-distant future, we're typically inclined to listen up -- after all, the world's largest e-tailer probably has a fairly good idea of when its products will first leave the warehouse. This time, it's the Olympus OM-D E-M5, which just appeared on the distributor's Japanese site with an estimated release date of March 31st. There's no mention of a date on the company's U.S. site, however, so it's still unclear whether or not the Micro Four Thirds cam will hit North American shores on the 31st as well. Still, unless a trip to Japan is in the cards for the end of Q1, your best bet for getting early access to the highly-anticipated mirrorless cam would probably be to get your pre-order on at our coverage link below.

Update: We're now seeing US retailers listing the device with an April 10th release date. Check the More Coverage links below.

Olympus OM-D E-M5 Micro Four Thirds camera to ship on March 31st? (update: now April) originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 29 Feb 2012 07:39:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amazonamazon japanAmazonJapancameracamerasdatedigital cameradigital camerasDigitalCameraDigitalCamerasdslrE-M5four thirdsFourThirdsmicro four thirdsMicroFourThirdsmirrorlessmirrorless cameraMirrorlessCameraolympusOlympus E-M5olympus Micro Four ThirdsOlympus OM-Dolympus penOlympusE-m5OlympusMicroFourThirdsOlympusOm-dOlympusPenOM-Dpenreleaserelease dateReleaseDateship dateShipDateshippingWed, 29 Feb 2012 07:39:00 EST<![CDATA[Sonnetar 25mm f/1.1 lens coming with Micro Four Thirds mount]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/27/sonnetar-25mm-f-1-1-lens-coming-with-micro-four-thirds-mount/http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/27/sonnetar-25mm-f-1-1-lens-coming-with-micro-four-thirds-mount/http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/27/sonnetar-25mm-f-1-1-lens-coming-with-micro-four-thirds-mount/#comments Just what the optician ordered: a prototype Micro Four Thirds 25mm lens that will put just 1.1 f-stops between you and a beautiful photograph. It's the work of specialist fast-glass maker Sadoyasu Miyazaki, who manufactures under the Sonnetar brand and is well know for his hand-assembled primes. There's no word on price or release date yet but the same lens with a Pentax Q mount can be had on eBay right now for $650 including shipping, so this MFT lens should be in the same range. Don some shades and then click the KTF Turbo link below for sample images (and look for "MS Optical R&D" in the top-right.)

Sonnetar 25mm f/1.1 lens coming with Micro Four Thirds mount originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 27 Feb 2012 09:51:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>25mm25mm lens25mmLensaperturef1.1fast lensFastLenslarge apertureLargeAperturemftmicro four thirdsMicroFourThirdsprime lensPrimeLensSadoyasu MiyazakiSadoyasuMiyazakisonnetarMon, 27 Feb 2012 09:51:00 EST<![CDATA[Olympus black E-M5 Micro Four Thirds camera and internals eyes-on]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/09/olympus-black-e-m5-mirrorless-camera-and-internals-eyes-on/http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/09/olympus-black-e-m5-mirrorless-camera-and-internals-eyes-on/http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/09/olympus-black-e-m5-mirrorless-camera-and-internals-eyes-on/#comments By now we're quite familiar with the Olympus E-M5's attractive external appearance, but what does it look like on the inside? The company carefully disassembled its new flagship model, and displayed the components in ten layers for us to examine at CP+ in Yokohama, Japan. The image sensor module is perhaps the most impressive component, due in part to its five-axis sensor-shift image stabilization. We can also spot the magnesium alloy shell, main system board and top plate. Another display encased a compete E-M5 kit, with a lens, split right down the middle. You'll find a variety of views in the gallery below, along with a special treat: the all-black version of the E-M5, in all its smooth metal glory.

Gallery: Olympus black E-M5 mirrorless camera and internals eyes-on

Olympus black E-M5 Micro Four Thirds camera and internals eyes-on originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 09 Feb 2012 00:48:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cameracamerascp pluscp plus 2012cp+cp+ 2012Cp+2012cp-plusCpPlusCpPlus2012d-slrdigital cameradigital camerasdigital slrDigitalCameraDigitalCamerasDigitalSlrdslrE-M5four thirdsFourThirdshands-onimpressionsjapanMicro Four ThirdsMicroFourThirdsmirrorlessmirrorless cameraMirrorlessCameraolympusOlympus E-M5olympus Micro Four ThirdsOlympus OM-Dolympus penOlympusE-m5OlympusMicroFourThirdsOlympusOm-dOlympusPenphotographytokyotrade showtrade showsTradeShowTradeShowsThu, 09 Feb 2012 00:48:00 EST<![CDATA[Olympus OM-D E-M5 five-axis sensor-shift image stabilization hands-on (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/08/olympus-om-d-e-m5-five-axis-sensor-shift-image-stabilization-han/http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/08/olympus-om-d-e-m5-five-axis-sensor-shift-image-stabilization-han/http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/08/olympus-om-d-e-m5-five-axis-sensor-shift-image-stabilization-han/#comments Olympus's inaugural OM-D mirrorless interchangeable lens camera, the E-M5, boasts the world's fastest autofocus and a pretty fantastic design, but it's also the first camera to implement a new five-axis sensor-shift image stabilization technology, that allows the lens to compensate for camera shake. The company was on hand at CP+ 2012 to demo the new sensor, which really does shift every which way to keep your photos and video still. We'll of course need to spend some time shooting photos and video with the E-M5 before labeling the five-axis sensor a success, but from the demo we saw today, it looks pretty darn promising. Jump past the break for a video hands-on, and scroll through the photos below for an up-close view of Olympus's latest Micro Four Thirds masterpiece.

Gallery: Olympus five-axis sensor-shift image stabilization hands-on

Continue reading Olympus OM-D E-M5 five-axis sensor-shift image stabilization hands-on (video)

Olympus OM-D E-M5 five-axis sensor-shift image stabilization hands-on (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 08 Feb 2012 22:42:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cameracamerascp pluscp plus 2012cp+cp+ 2012Cp+2012cp-plusCpPlusCpPlus2012d-slrdigital cameradigital camerasdigital slrDigitalCameraDigitalCamerasDigitalSlrdslrE-M5four thirdsFourThirdshands-onimpressionsjapanMicro Four ThirdsMicroFourThirdsmirrorlessmirrorless cameraMirrorlessCameraolympusOlympus E-M5olympus Micro Four ThirdsOlympus OM-Dolympus penOlympusE-m5OlympusMicroFourThirdsOlympusOm-dOlympusPenphotographytokyotrade showtrade showsTradeShowTradeShowsvideoWed, 08 Feb 2012 22:42:00 EST<![CDATA[Olympus OM-D E-M5 Micro Four Thirds camera preview (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/07/olympus-om-d-e-m5-micro-four-thirds-camera-preview-video/http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/07/olympus-om-d-e-m5-micro-four-thirds-camera-preview-video/http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/07/olympus-om-d-e-m5-micro-four-thirds-camera-preview-video/#comments Olympus has embraced the camera designs of yesteryear for several generations, from its first Micro Four Thirds models to last year's E-P3. But now the Japanese camera maker is stepping up its retro game, announcing a brand new line of Micro Four Thirds cams. Meet the OM-D. A dramatic departure from the more modern-looking PEN cameras, this new line of mirrorless models, specifically the E-M5, in many ways duplicates the design elements of the 1970s-era OM System. The first consumer camera in that SLR lineup, the OM-10, served as clear inspiration for the slightly boxy, black or silver and black magnesium alloy digital model we have today. We were able to spend some time with the Olympus E-M5 before tonight's announcement, and were very impressed with what we saw. Jump past the break for our impressions and an Olympus-guided video walkthrough, and thumb through the gallery below for a detailed look at the company's answer to the Fujifilm X-Pro1.

Gallery: Olympus OM-D E-M5 hands-on

Continue reading Olympus OM-D E-M5 Micro Four Thirds camera preview (video)

Olympus OM-D E-M5 Micro Four Thirds camera preview (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 07 Feb 2012 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cameracamerasdigital cameradigital camerasDigitalCameraDigitalCamerasdslrE-M5four thirdsFourThirdshands-onimpressionsMicro Four ThirdsMicroFourThirdsmirrorlessmirrorless cameraMirrorlessCameraolympusOlympus E-M5olympus Micro Four ThirdsOlympus OM-Dolympus penOlympusE-m5OlympusMicroFourThirdsOlympusOm-dOlympusPenOM-DpenpreviewvideoTue, 07 Feb 2012 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Olympus OM-D E-M5 leaks continue, 'super fast' AF and 3D tracking system on the way?]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/07/olympus-om-d-e-m5-camera-details-leaked/http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/07/olympus-om-d-e-m5-camera-details-leaked/http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/07/olympus-om-d-e-m5-camera-details-leaked/#comments Olympus E-M5 leaks continue, 'super fast' autofocus and 3D tracking system on the way?

A certain purported Olympus Micro Four Thirds shooter has been anything but shy prior to its official unveiling (whenever that happens). Now, 43 Rumors is keeping the intel flowing with tidbits it received from a "super European source." The fresh bits suggest the E-M5 could sport a "super fast" autofocus and 3D tracking system, an external "weather-sealed" GN10 flash and additional filters. And, if rumors are to be believed, you'll be able to see the effects of the image stabilization through the electronic viewfinder. Though your skep-alarm should be on high alert, we can't keep you from believing, so hit up that source link to find the rest of the alleged details.

Olympus OM-D E-M5 leaks continue, 'super fast' AF and 3D tracking system on the way? originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 07 Feb 2012 10:42:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cameracamerasdigital cameradigital camerasDigitalCameraDigitalCamerasE-M5micro four thirdsMicroFourThirdsOlympusOlympus E-M5olympus micro four thirdsolympus om-dOlympusE-m5OlympusMicroFourThirdsOlympusOm-domom dom-dOmDTue, 07 Feb 2012 10:42:00 EST<![CDATA[Olympus OM-D E-M5 shots orchestrally maneuver out of the dark]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/05/olympus-om-d-e-m5-shots-orchestrally-maneuvering-out-of-the-dark/http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/05/olympus-om-d-e-m5-shots-orchestrally-maneuvering-out-of-the-dark/http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/05/olympus-om-d-e-m5-shots-orchestrally-maneuvering-out-of-the-dark/#comments
Would you look at that? According to PhotoRumors, that chunk of retro beauty is purportedly a full-on snap of Olympus' new OM-D Micro Four Thirds shooter (from an Amazon Japan listing that's since been pulled) affixed with its optional battery grip (adding what appears to be a secondary shutter button). That, or someone knows exactly what makes us go "Oooh." The chunky '70s stylings make us fear we'd abandon our career to go become a war photographer if one of those was placed in our hands. 43Rumors believes the unit will hold a 16.1 megapixel EDR CMOS, beefier than the 12.3 sensor inside the PEN E-PL3, but we hope this new body (however beautiful it is) doesn't spell the end for the dinky PEN series. If that wasn't enough, that Amazon listing we mentioned also pointed out a 1.44-megapixel electronic viewfinder, a tiltable OLED display on back and a total weight of 454 grams with its kit lens attached. We've got a few more shots in the gallery below, with others rocking some serious cropping, but each is more deliciously teasing than the last.

Gallery: Olympus OM-D E-M5 leak gallery



Joe Pollicino contributed to this report.

Continue reading Olympus OM-D E-M5 shots orchestrally maneuver out of the dark

Olympus OM-D E-M5 shots orchestrally maneuver out of the dark originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 05 Feb 2012 15:41:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>CameraMFTMicro Four ThirdsMicroFourThirdsOlympusOlympus OM-DOlympus PENOlympusOm-dOlympusPenOM-DOMDPENPEN E-PL3PenE-pl3Sun, 05 Feb 2012 15:41:00 EST<![CDATA[Kenko Tokina 400mm lens for Micro Four Thirds and Sony NEX hits Japan tomorrow]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/02/kenko-tokina-400mm-lens-for-micro-four-thirds-and-sony-nex/http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/02/kenko-tokina-400mm-lens-for-micro-four-thirds-and-sony-nex/http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/02/kenko-tokina-400mm-lens-for-micro-four-thirds-and-sony-nex/#comments Looking for a zoom booster to flesh out your NEX or MFT kit? Then take a highly magnified gander at Kenko Tokina's 400mm f/8 mirror lens, which now comes with both E- and T-mounts to complement the manufacturer's existing SLR-compatible range. So long as you don't mind the light-sapping aperture and manual focus, you'll be able pick one up in Japan tomorrow for a price that should soon become apparent. Just bear in mind that other new MFT options from Tamron and Astrodesign are likely on their way too.

[Thanks, Tibor]

Kenko Tokina 400mm lens for Micro Four Thirds and Sony NEX hits Japan tomorrow originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 02 Feb 2012 12:54:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>400mmE-mountKenkoKenko TokinaKenkoTokinalensMFTmicro four thirdsMicroFourThirdsNEXSony NEXSonyNexT-mountthird-partythird-party lensThird-partyLensTokinazoomzoom lensZoomLensThu, 02 Feb 2012 12:54:00 EST<![CDATA[Tamron and Kenko bring third-party glass to the Micro Four Thirds bash]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/28/tamron-kenko-tokina-join-micro-four-thirds-group/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/28/tamron-kenko-tokina-join-micro-four-thirds-group/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/28/tamron-kenko-tokina-join-micro-four-thirds-group/#comments Tamron and Kenko bring third-party glass to the Micro Four Thirds bash
The fresh trend of Micro Four Thirds shooters is on the rise, thus it shouldn't come as a surprise that more glass-makers are jumping on the MFT bandwagon. Joining the likes of Panasonic, Olympus and Kodak as part of the Micro Four Thirds Group, is a trifecta of third-party lens manufacturers: Tamron, Kenko Tokina and ASTRODESIGN. Following closely behind rival Sigma, the newcomers are looking to make a dent in the four-thirds universe. Better late than never, right? There's still no sign of these optics being available for you to stack in your camera bag, but the news just came in, so it shouldn't be too long before you can get some extra glass for your shiny new GX1.

Continue reading Tamron and Kenko bring third-party glass to the Micro Four Thirds bash

Tamron and Kenko bring third-party glass to the Micro Four Thirds bash originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 28 Jan 2012 02:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>astrodesigncamerasdigital camerasDigitalCamerasglassilcinterchangeable lens cameraInterchangeableLensCamerakenkokenko tokinaKenkoTokinalensesmicro four thirdsmicro four thirds lensesMicro Four Thirds System Standard GroupMicroFourThirdsMicroFourThirdsLensesMicroFourThirdsSystemStandardGroupminiposttamronTokinaSat, 28 Jan 2012 02:27:00 EST<![CDATA[Panasonic Lumix DMC-GX1 Micro Four Thirds camera review]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/23/panasonic-lumix-dmc-gx1-micro-four-thirds-camera-review/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/23/panasonic-lumix-dmc-gx1-micro-four-thirds-camera-review/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/23/panasonic-lumix-dmc-gx1-micro-four-thirds-camera-review/#comments It's no surprise that the mirrorless interchangeable lens camera category is continuing to grow at a rapid pace. These compact, pro-featured ILCs undoubtedly have a strong future, with mass consumer appeal and a widening assortment of price points. We're particularly taken with the technology's compact footprint -- we're focusing our camera reviews on mirrorless models, and even outfitted our entire CES team with Sony's NEX-C3. But long before the likes of Sony and Fujifilm launched their first cameras, Olympus and Panasonic dominated the then-infant mirrorless category, developing the Micro Four Thirds sensor standard, that, for better or worse, has failed to catch on among other manufacturers. Surprisingly, Panasonic's pioneering days were far stronger than those of recent past, with the company's GF1 melting the hearts of compact-seeking professionals. But following that successful first model, Panasonic opted to take the GF series in a different direction, launching a dumbed-down GF2 (and later GF3) in what was likely an attempt to appeal to the much larger amateur category. This left the GF1 faithful without a worthy successor -- until now.

The Panasonic Lumix DMC-GX1 looks pretty standard on paper: there's a 16-megapixel Live MOS sensor, a choice of body colors, RAW shooting, HD video and a top sensitivity of ISO 12,800. Just as it did with the GF2 and GF3 body designs, Panasonic took a different direction with its new X-series lenses, swapping the traditional manual zoom for a motorized version, enabling a much more compact footprint. The difference when positioned alongside the NEX-C3's 18-55mm zoom is staggering, but Panasonic didn't arrive at this slick design without compromise, particularly noticeable when it comes time to swallow the $950 kit price. Still, one look at the hardened matte black metal body is all it takes to know that this is no GF4 -- this is it, the long-awaited successor to the GF1 has finally arrived. So, will the GX1 be our new top pick for the mirrorless category? Join us past the break to find out.

Gallery: Panasonic Lumix DMC-GX1 review

Continue reading Panasonic Lumix DMC-GX1 Micro Four Thirds camera review

Panasonic Lumix DMC-GX1 Micro Four Thirds camera review originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 23 Jan 2012 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cameracamerasdigital cameradigital camerasdigital slrDigitalCameraDigitalCamerasDigitalSlrdslrfour thirdsFourThirdsgf1gf2gf3gx1ilcinterchangeable lens cameraInterchangeableLensCameralumixlumix gx1LumixGx1micro four thirdsMicroFourThirdsmirrorlessmirrorless cameraMirrorlessCamerapanasonicpanasonic lumixpanasonic lumix dmc-gx1panasonic lumix gf1panasonic lumix gx1PanasonicLumixPanasonicLumixDmc-gx1PanasonicLumixGf1PanasonicLumixGx1photographyreviewvideoMon, 23 Jan 2012 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Olympus teases with leaked image of OM-D camera, saves the best for last?]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/20/olympus-om-d-digital-camera-leaked-image/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/20/olympus-om-d-digital-camera-leaked-image/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/20/olympus-om-d-digital-camera-leaked-image/#comments
Some would say that "one picture is worth a thousand words," but all we're visualizing here are a few camera-driven buttons and a small portion of Olympus branding. Though, 43 Rumors is claiming that this is indeed the soon-to-be new addition to the OM series, which is expected to get unveiled next month. Olympus is no rookie in the Micro Four Thirds game, so it shouldn't come as a surprise for the rumored specs to be a decent upgrade in comparison to its PEN shooters. Allegedly, the rig may sport a magnesium chassis, 16 megapixel sensor with HDR optimization, up to 25600 ISO and a 3-inch OLED swivel display (because Olympus knows you love gadgets with rotating screens), amongst other features. Tickle your fancy? Well, best start saving now, as word on the web is that it'll set you back a cool $1,100 when it's revealed.

Olympus teases with leaked image of OM-D camera, saves the best for last? originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 20 Jan 2012 15:13:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cameracamerasdigital cameradigital camerasDigitalCameraDigitalCamerasmicro four thirdsMicroFourThirdsOlympusolympus micro four thirdsolympus om-dolympus om-d5OlympusMicroFourThirdsOlympusOm-dOlympusOm-d5omom dom d5om-dom-d pictureom-d5om-d5 pictureOm-d5PictureOm-dPictureOmDOmD5PEN E-P3PenE-p3rumorrumorsFri, 20 Jan 2012 15:13:00 EST<![CDATA[Engadget Primed: Why your camera's sensor size matters]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/16/engadget-primed-why-your-cameras-sensor-size-matters/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/16/engadget-primed-why-your-cameras-sensor-size-matters/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/16/engadget-primed-why-your-cameras-sensor-size-matters/#commentsPrimed goes in-depth on the technobabble you hear on Engadget every day -- we dig deep into each topic's history and how it benefits our lives. You can follow the series here. Looking to suggest a piece of technology for us to break down? Drop us a line at primed *at* engadget *dawt* com.

The first thing I look for when purchasing a camera is something most aren't even aware of. It's not the brand name or the quality of the lens, the touch screen technology or the LCD screen size, and not the array of functions it offers or shooting presets available - it's the size of the image sensor. As a 20-year pro photographer who's captured over a million images during my career, I'm the guy who admires the parts of the engine instead of falling in love with the flashy exterior or high-end sound system. The image sensor is where the rubber meets the photosensitive diodes.

In writing my first installment for Primed, I'll give a few definitions to clear things up a bit when it comes to a camera's image sensors and size, explain in detail the parts of a sensor, how it alters the photos (or video) you capture, where it came from, and why it's important to consider its size - I'll cover the meat and bones, get to the heart of the matter, the nub, the crux, the nuts and bolts, get down to the brass tacks, all while exhausting our thesaurus. Let's dive in, shall we?

Continue reading Engadget Primed: Why your camera's sensor size matters

Engadget Primed: Why your camera's sensor size matters originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 16 Dec 2011 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cameracameraphoneCCDCMOSDSLRengadget primedEngadgetPrimedimage sensorImageSensorISOmedium formatMediumFormatMFTmicro four thirdsMicroFourThirdsNikonphotophotographyphotosPhotoshoppoint and shootPointAndShootprimedsensorsensor sizeSensorSizeSLR cameraSlrCameraTexas InstrumentsTexasInstrumentstutorialFri, 16 Dec 2011 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Panasonic launches Lumix DMC-GX1 Micro Four Thirds camera, we go hands-on]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/07/panasonic-launches-lumix-gx1-micro-four-thirds-camera-we-go-han/http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/07/panasonic-launches-lumix-gx1-micro-four-thirds-camera-we-go-han/http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/07/panasonic-launches-lumix-gx1-micro-four-thirds-camera-we-go-han/#comments Remember the Lumix GF1? It was one of Panasonic's first Micro Four Thirds cameras, setting the bar quite high for models to come. But the GF1's successors -- the GF2 and GF3 -- did not live up to expectations, with the company gradually shifting the series towards transitioning point-and-shoot users, and away from early adopters who grew accustomed to the performance and build quality offered by that beloved early mirrorless cam. Now that familiar look and feel is back, in the form of the Lumix DMC-GX1. The 16 megapixel ILC includes a Live MOS sensor and Venus engine, with a maximum ISO of 12,800. Like other Panasonic G-series cameras, the GX1 uses a Micro Four Thirds mount, and is compatible with both Panasonic and Olympus lenses, including the standard 14-42mm zoom that ships with the $800 kit, or the Lumix G X Vario PZ 14-42mm retractable lens that comes packaged for $950. Existing lens owners can pick up just the body for $700.

What we really missed was the solid feel of the GF1 -- everything from the housing to the controls felt well-made, while the design of later GF models, was... underwhelming. Picking up the GX1 helped to restore our confidence in the series -- it was a pleasure to hold. There's quite a bit of power under the hood, too. We weren't able to test the GX1, which is expected to hit stores in mid-December, but Panasonic promises autofocus speeds of 0.09 second -- you can focus simply by touching your subject on the 3-inch, 460,000-dot touchscreen. There's also an external EVF option, which attaches to the camera's hot shoe and offers a 1.44 million-dot display with 100-percent field of view. Movie buffs can capture 1080/60i HD video, with either MP4 or AVCHD compression. It goes without saying that the GX1 can shoot in RAW, and offers the complete gamut of advanced shooting modes. Of course the features don't stop there, so jump past the break for the full PR from Panasonic.

Gallery: Panasonic Lumix GX1 hands-on

Gallery: Panasonic Lumix GX1 press shots

Continue reading Panasonic launches Lumix DMC-GX1 Micro Four Thirds camera, we go hands-on

Panasonic launches Lumix DMC-GX1 Micro Four Thirds camera, we go hands-on originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 07 Nov 2011 00:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cameradigital slrDigitalSlrdslrgf1gf2gf3gx1hands-onilcinterchangeable lensinterchangeable lens cameraInterchangeableLensInterchangeableLensCameralumixlumix gf3lumix gx1LumixGf3LumixGx1micro four thirdsMicroFourThirdspanasonicpanasonic gf1panasonic gf2panasonic gf3panasonic lumixpanasonic lumix gx1PanasonicGf1PanasonicGf2PanasonicGf3PanasonicLumixPanasonicLumixGx1photographyslrMon, 07 Nov 2011 00:00:00 EST<![CDATA[How would you change Olympus' PEN E-PL3 and E-P3?]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/06/how-would-you-change-olympus-pen-e-pl3-and-e-p3/http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/06/how-would-you-change-olympus-pen-e-pl3-and-e-p3/http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/06/how-would-you-change-olympus-pen-e-pl3-and-e-p3/#comments Canon's been focused solely on the top-end of things here recently, but it's obvious that the mirrorless and Micro Four Thirds markets are booming. Cute sells, right? And if you've taken the plunge on either of Olympus' newest PENs (that'd be the E-PL3 or E-P3), we're interested in knowing how you really feel about 'em. Would you have preferred a slightly larger casing? Still want it smaller? Cool with the kit lens? Any quibbles with the exterior? The UI? The company's made quite clear that the PEN line ain't going anywhere anytime soon, so speak up in comments below, won't you?

How would you change Olympus' PEN E-PL3 and E-P3? originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 06 Nov 2011 22:36:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>camerae-p3e-pl3How would you changeHowWouldYouChangehwycMFTmicro four thirdsMicroFourThirdsmirrorlessmirrorless cameraMirrorlessCameraolympuspenpen e-p3pen e-pl3PenE-p3PenE-pl3Sun, 06 Nov 2011 22:36:00 EST<![CDATA[Panasonic Lumix GX1 Micro Four Thirds camera surfaces in leaked photos]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/31/panasonic-lumix-gx1-micro-four-thirds-camera-surfaces-in-leaked/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/31/panasonic-lumix-gx1-micro-four-thirds-camera-surfaces-in-leaked/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/31/panasonic-lumix-gx1-micro-four-thirds-camera-surfaces-in-leaked/#comments
Panasonic just launched a whole new series of Micro Four Thirds lenses a couple of months ago, and it looks like it might soon also have a new Micro Four Thirds camera to take advantage of them. That photo you see above recently turned up on the Mobile01 forums with a bundle of others, showing a hereto unannounced Panasonic Lumix GX1 MFT camera, which looks like it could be a true successor to the GF1 (as opposed to the GF2 and GF3 that moved in a less pro-minded direction). Rumored specs remain a bit light, but the camera apparently has a touchscreen display 'round back, which will likely see a fair bit of use unless you opt for an external EVF. It's also suggested that the camera will be launching soon -- on November 8th -- although that's obviously yet to be confirmed.

[Thanks, Amin]

Panasonic Lumix GX1 Micro Four Thirds camera surfaces in leaked photos originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 31 Oct 2011 04:13:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>gx1lumixlumix gx1LumixGx1mftmicro four thirdsMicroFourThirdspanasonicpanasonic gx1panasonic lumix gx1PanasonicGx1PanasonicLumixGx1Mon, 31 Oct 2011 04:13:00 EST<![CDATA[LiveLens MFT adapter brings aperture control to Canon EF lenses]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/02/livelens-mft-adapter-brings-aperture-control-to-canon-ef-lenses/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/02/livelens-mft-adapter-brings-aperture-control-to-canon-ef-lenses/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/02/livelens-mft-adapter-brings-aperture-control-to-canon-ef-lenses/#comments It may be serving a somewhat small niche, but we're guessing that niche will be plenty pleased that something like the LiveLens MFT adapter now exists. That's MFT as in Micro Four Thirds, and the adapter is for Canon EF lenses. Nothing too special there, but this particular adapter now also allows for aperture control for the first time, which is actually done on the adapter itself, not the camera -- the only remaining drawback is a lack of autofocus. Expectedly that ability comes at quite a premium -- you'll have to fork over $442 for the adapter and an extra $52 for the necessary 9V battery cable.

LiveLens MFT adapter brings aperture control to Canon EF lenses originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 02 Oct 2011 09:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adaptercanonCanon EFCanonEflenslens adapterLensAdapterlensesLiveBloglivelens mftLivelensMftMFTmicro four thirdsMicroFourThirdsSun, 02 Oct 2011 09:59:00 EST<![CDATA[Panasonic G-series lenses get firmware update, performance boosts aplenty]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/14/panasonic-g-series-lenses-get-firmware-update-performance-boost/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/14/panasonic-g-series-lenses-get-firmware-update-performance-boost/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/14/panasonic-g-series-lenses-get-firmware-update-performance-boost/#comments Jonesin' to shoot some radder-than-usual HD video with that Lumix G-series lens? You're in luck. Panasonic released a firmware update for the family of lenses that gives them a needed level-up -- bringing 'em to version 1.1 -- to shoot higher quality video. Added features include enhanced tracking focus for videos, silent auto focus, improved stability for the optical image stabilizer and exposure control. The update applies to seven slabs of metal and glass, and every single unit in the 2011 line is also covered. Hit the source if you're ready to update, but don't expect that 720p ceiling to magically raise to 1080p -- it's just a poor attempt at marketing genius.

Continue reading Panasonic G-series lenses get firmware update, performance boosts aplenty

Panasonic G-series lenses get firmware update, performance boosts aplenty originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 14 Sep 2011 07:34:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>720pcameracamera bodyCameraBodyfirmwarefirmware updateFirmwareUpdatefour thirdsFourThirdsHDHD videoHdVideolenslensesmicro four thirdsMicroFourThirdsminipostolympuspanasonicpanasonic g-seriesPanasonicG-seriesupdateWed, 14 Sep 2011 07:34:00 EST<![CDATA[Olympus Pen E-PM1 hands-on (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/01/olympus-pen-e-pm1-hands-on-video/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/01/olympus-pen-e-pm1-hands-on-video/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/01/olympus-pen-e-pm1-hands-on-video/#comments

Joining the family of Olympus Pen products is the lovingly nicknamed "PEN Mini," or E-PM1. Compared to its big brothers the PEN E-PL2 and E-PL3, this little guy packs some serious punch in a tiny body, with a similarly small price tag of $500. But can this ILC that Olympus claims offers "DSLR quality in a compact camera design" stack up against the big boys in the pit at the US Open? The 12.3 megapixel camera comes with a 14-42mm f/3.5-5.6 kit lens and includes a Micro Four Thirds mount, enabling it to accept compatible lenses from both Olympus and Panasonic -- something that was really easy to get the hang of for speedy switching between sets. Check out our impressions as we go hands-on with the camera at one of the biggest tennis matches of the year.

Gallery: Olympus Pen E-PM1 Mini hands-on


Gallery: Images shot with the Olympus Pen E-PM1 Mini

Continue reading Olympus Pen E-PM1 hands-on (video)

Olympus Pen E-PM1 hands-on (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 01 Sep 2011 17:41:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>12.3 megapixel12.3Megapixel14-42mm3-inchLcdcameracamera lensCameraLenscamerasdslrE-PL1E-PL2e-pm1epm1f3.5-5.6hands-onilcinterchangeable lens cameraInterchangeableLensCameraisolenslens kitlensesLensKitmicro four thirdsmicro four-thirdsMicroFour-thirdsMicroFourThirdsOlympusolympus pen cameras interchangeable lens kitOlympus Pen E-PM1OlympusPenCamerasInterchangeableLensKitpen miniPenMinivideoThu, 01 Sep 2011 17:41:00 EST<![CDATA[Olympus PEN E-PL3 Micro Four Thirds camera review]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/29/olympus-pen-e-pl3-micro-four-thirds-camera-review/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/29/olympus-pen-e-pl3-micro-four-thirds-camera-review/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/29/olympus-pen-e-pl3-micro-four-thirds-camera-review/#comments Look, the Olympus PEN E-PL3 is cute. Adorable, even. In fact, those swayed by looks alone may be sold after whisking through our hands-on gallery below. But for those interested in more than a highly-capable fashion accessory, it's worth taking a deeper look into the latest member of the PEN Lite family. We'd strongly recommend reading over our PEN E-P3 review before continuing on, as a lot of what we found true there also applies here. 'Course, that's not at all unexpected given the wealth of shared resources: a new 12.3-megapixel Live MOS Image Sensor, TruePic VI Image Processor, an ISO range peaking at 12,800, a reengineered autofocus system, full 1080i HD video with Dolby Digital sound recording, newly designed user interfaces and a variety of Art Filters / built-in creative features. Now that you're in the know, let's continue.

Gallery: Olympus E-PL3 Micro Four Thirds camera hands-on

Continue reading Olympus PEN E-PL3 Micro Four Thirds camera review

Olympus PEN E-PL3 Micro Four Thirds camera review originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 29 Aug 2011 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>720pdigicamdigital cameraDigitalCamerae pl3e-pl3EPl3interchangeable lensinterchangeable lens cameraInterchangeableLensInterchangeableLensCameramftMicro Four ThirdsMicroFourThirdsolympusolympus e-pl3olympus penOlympus PEN E-PL3Olympus PEN Lite E-PL3OlympusE-pl3OlympusPenOlympusPenE-pl3OlympusPenLiteE-pl3penPEN Lite E-PL3PenLiteE-pl3reviewvideoMon, 29 Aug 2011 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Olympus PEN E-P3 Micro Four Thirds camera review]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/29/olympus-pen-e-p3-micro-four-thirds-camera-review/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/29/olympus-pen-e-p3-micro-four-thirds-camera-review/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/29/olympus-pen-e-p3-micro-four-thirds-camera-review/#comments Being the gadget hounds that we are, we're still struggling to fully digest the Micro Four Thirds / interchangeable lens camera market. The performance freak in us suggests that one simply buy a smaller DSLR given the parallel annoyance of carrying around a bag full of lenses, but the mobility junkie in us does appreciate the downsizing -- however minor. Olympus' PEN line has been a beautiful one from the start, but one that found itself out of consideration for many due to the poor value proposition. Even the newest PEN E-P3 isn't a bargain; at $900 with a somewhat versatile 14-42mm lens, it's well north of most entry-level DSLRs, and on-par with many mid-rangers. So, is it really worth splurging on a slightly more compact frame, devilishly good looks and "the world's fastest autofocus system?" Read on for our take.

Gallery: Olympus E-P3 Micro Four Thirds camera hands-on

Continue reading Olympus PEN E-P3 Micro Four Thirds camera review

Olympus PEN E-P3 Micro Four Thirds camera review originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 29 Aug 2011 13:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cameradigital slrDigitalSlrdslre-p1e-p2e-p3E-PL1E-PL2ILCinterchangeable lensInterchangeableLensMFTmicro four thirdsMicroFourThirdsOlympuspenPEN E-P3PEN E-PL3PEN E-PM1PenE-p3PenE-pl3PenE-pm1reviewvideoMon, 29 Aug 2011 13:59:00 EST<![CDATA[Panasonic shrinks its Micro Four Thirds lenses, launches X-series with wide-angle, telephoto zooms]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/26/panasonic-shrinks-its-micro-four-thirds-lenses-launches-x-serie/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/26/panasonic-shrinks-its-micro-four-thirds-lenses-launches-x-serie/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/26/panasonic-shrinks-its-micro-four-thirds-lenses-launches-x-serie/#comments
Anyone who's used Panasonic's 14-42mm Micro Four Thirds zoom lens has probably noticed its relatively bulky design, especially when compared to Olympus's counterpart. Today, the company announced a new lens that offers the same zoom and f/3.5-5.6 aperture range in a housing less than half the size when closed, and still noticeably smaller when extended. The first of two optics in Panasonic's premium X-series -- the second is a 45-170mm f/4-5.6 zoom -- it's been billed as the world's smallest digital interchangeable power zoom lens, thanks to its internal zoom motor which lets you adjust the focal length using a side-mounted rocker -- the design is similar to the zoom toggle included with the company's new FX150 superzoom. Priced at $399, it also includes a metal lens mount, instead of the plastic mount used with the existing $199 14-42mm lens.

That second 45-170mm zoom ($449) can replace Panasonic's 45-200mm lens ($349), and while the size difference isn't as dramatic is its smaller X-series sibling, it's still noticeably smaller and lighter. Both lenses include optical image stabilization and feature nano surface coatings, designed to reduce ghosting and lens flare. The 14-42mm lens will ship in October in black and white (for use with silver bodies), and the 45-170mm zoom will ship in September. They'll only be compatible with the GF-2, GF-3, and G3 at launch after downloading a firmware update -- Panasonic is leaving it up to Olympus to release supporting firmware for its own cameras be compatible with all G-series cameras at launch, without the need for a firmware update. Jump past the break for more details from Panasonic, and check out the gallery below -- complete with side-by-side shots for both lens classes.

Gallery: Panasonic X-series Micro Four Thirds Lenses


Update: Panasonic issued a correction saying that both lens will be compatible with all G-series cameras without the need for a firmware update.

Continue reading Panasonic shrinks its Micro Four Thirds lenses, launches X-series with wide-angle, telephoto zooms

Panasonic shrinks its Micro Four Thirds lenses, launches X-series with wide-angle, telephoto zooms originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 26 Aug 2011 01:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>four thirdsFourThirdsGF3Xlenslenseslumixmicro four thirdsMicroFourThirdsolympuspanasonicpanasonic GF3Xpanasonic lumixpanasonic lumix GF3XPanasonicGf3xPanasonicLumixPanasonicLumixGf3xFri, 26 Aug 2011 01:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Olympus PEN E-PM1 Mini gets a $500 price tag, September release date]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/25/olympus-pen-e-pm1-mini-gets-a-500-price-tag-september-release/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/25/olympus-pen-e-pm1-mini-gets-a-500-price-tag-september-release/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/25/olympus-pen-e-pm1-mini-gets-a-500-price-tag-september-release/#comments
Remember that cute little Micro Four Thirds camera that Olympus unveiled in June? Well, we just got word that the PEN E-PM1 Mini will ship next month, with an equally petite $500 price tag -- including a 14-42mm f/3.5-5.6 kit lens. The company is positioning the 12.3 megapixel camera as an upgrade for point-and-shoot users, as "the easiest PEN to use," thanks to a new, simpler user interface and 23 Scene-Select modes. Still, the E-PM1 is a very capable interchangeable lens camera (ILC), and includes a 3-inch 460k-dot LCD, 1080i HD video capture, RAW shooting and a maximum sensitivity of ISO 12,800, along with Manual, Aperture Priority, and Shutter Priority shooting modes. The Mini will be available in purple, pink, brown, white, silver, and black -- our color of choice. Jump past the break for the full scoop from Olympus.

Continue reading Olympus PEN E-PM1 Mini gets a $500 price tag, September release date

Olympus PEN E-PM1 Mini gets a $500 price tag, September release date originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 25 Aug 2011 17:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cameradigital slrDigitalSlrdslre-p1e-p2e-p3E-PL1E-PL2hands-onILCinterchangeable lensInterchangeableLensMFTmicro four thirdsMicroFourThirdsnow shippingNowShippingOlympuspenPEN E-P3PEN E-PL3PEN E-PM1PenE-p3PenE-pl3PenE-pm1shippingshipping nowShippingNowThu, 25 Aug 2011 17:58:00 EST<![CDATA[Panasonic GF3 reviewed: aging 12 MP sensor, good upgrade for current compact users]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/12/panasonic-gf3-reviewed-aging-12-mp-sensor-good-upgrade-for-cur/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/12/panasonic-gf3-reviewed-aging-12-mp-sensor-good-upgrade-for-cur/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/12/panasonic-gf3-reviewed-aging-12-mp-sensor-good-upgrade-for-cur/#comments When the Lumix GF1 was released less than a year after Micro Four Thirds first made its debut, it made a huge splash for its size, image quality, and versatility. Problem is, Panasonic set the bar very high for future GF-series models, and has sadly come up short with its latest update, positioning the GF3 ($600 with 14-42mm kit lens) as an upgrade for compact camera owners while leaving enthusiasts longing for much more. DPReview took the GF3 to task, publishing a very comprehensive review while finding that while Panasonic's latest ILC is a good fit for some photographers, more advanced users will likely be disappointed -- especially if they're expecting a rangefinder-like successor to the GF1. We spent a few hours with a pre-production GF3 earlier this summer, and weren't blown away by its performance. When testing against the class-leading Sony NEX-C3, we found the Sony camera to offer faster focusing, better high-ISO performance, more accurate white balance, and better image quality overall. So unless you're really gunning to save 50 bucks on an ILC with a kit zoom (or you already have a collection of Micro Four Thirds lenses), the $650 C3 is definitely the better bet.

Panasonic GF3 reviewed: aging 12 MP sensor, good upgrade for current compact users originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 12 Aug 2011 00:38:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cameradigital cameradigital camerasDigitalCameraDigitalCamerasdslrfour thirdsFourThirdsgf1gf2gf3ilcinterchangeable lens cameraInterchangeableLensCameralumixlumix gf3LumixGf3micro four thirdsMicroFourThirdspanasonicPanasonic Lumixpanasonic lumix gf3PanasonicLumixPanasonicLumixGf3Fri, 12 Aug 2011 00:38:00 EST<![CDATA[Olympus PEN E-PL3 gets a price tag, release date]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/27/olympus-pen-e-pl3-gets-a-price-tag-release-date/http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/27/olympus-pen-e-pl3-gets-a-price-tag-release-date/http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/27/olympus-pen-e-pl3-gets-a-price-tag-release-date/#comments Last month, Olympus lifted the veil on a trio of 12.3-megapixel Micro Four Thirds cameras, replacing both models in its PEN line and adding the small and light E-PM1. We already knew to expect an August ship date for the $900 E-P3, but now the company filled us in on its tilt-enabled E-PL3, which will be available in black, white, red, and silver when it ships in September. Priced at $700, the kit will include either a 14-42mm zoom or 17mm fixed lens, and will retail for a full c-note higher than its predecessor, the E-PL2. Olympus also announced the VF-3 Electronic Viewfinder (EVF), which will feature a 100-percent field-of-view, 90-degree rotation, and brightness and color temperature adjustments -- though it sounds like that last feature could potentially leave you with off-color images if you mistake the EVF's white balance for what the camera will capture. We're still waiting on availability for the runt of the litter, but we imagine the E-PM1 will make its stateside debut soon -- perhaps even with a price tag lower than its rather pricey, beefier siblings.

Continue reading Olympus PEN E-PL3 gets a price tag, release date

Olympus PEN E-PL3 gets a price tag, release date originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 27 Jul 2011 01:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cameradigital slrDigitalSlrdslre-p1e-p2e-p3E-PL1E-PL2ILCinterchangeable lensInterchangeableLensMFTmicro four thirdsMicroFourThirdsOlympuspenPEN E-P3PEN E-PL3PEN E-PM1PenE-p3PenE-pl3PenE-pm1Wed, 27 Jul 2011 01:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Olympus PEN E-P3, PEN E-PL3, and PEN E-PM1 hands-on]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/30/olympus-pen-e-p3-pen-e-pl3-and-pen-e-pm1-hands-on/http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/30/olympus-pen-e-p3-pen-e-pl3-and-pen-e-pm1-hands-on/http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/30/olympus-pen-e-p3-pen-e-pl3-and-pen-e-pm1-hands-on/#comments
Earlier today, Olympus announced its loosely veiled PEN E-PM1 (in the image above), along with the PEN E-P3 and PEN E-PL3. Our Chinese bureau had a chance to go hands-on with the trio of Micro Four Thirds cams at an event in Hong Kong, and walked away with some fairly positive impressions. The $900 E-P3 feels solidly built, and did appear to offer excellent autofocus performance, though we weren't able to verify Olympus's rather lofty claims that the new flagship model features "the world's fastest autofocus." We were able to capture an image within a second of tapping the shutter button, including the time required to refocus on a subject. The 3-inch OLED display was sufficiently bright for outdoor use, with noticeable improvements over its predecessor, and the touchscreen was a pleasure to use, offering three straightforward shooting functions -- focus, focus and shoot, and enlarge. We'll have additional details to share after spending more time with all three models, but our hands-on photos in the gallery below should help whet your appetite in the meantime.

Gallery: Olympus PEN E-P3, PEN E-PL3, and PEN E-PM1 Hands-On

Olympus PEN E-P3, PEN E-PL3, and PEN E-PM1 hands-on originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 30 Jun 2011 10:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cameradigital slrDigitalSlrdslre-p1e-p2e-p3E-PL1E-PL2hands-onILCinterchangeable lensInterchangeableLensMFTmicro four thirdsMicroFourThirdsOlympuspenPEN E-P3PEN E-PL3PEN E-PM1PenE-p3PenE-pl3PenE-pm1Thu, 30 Jun 2011 10:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Olympus reveals PEN E-P3, PEN E-PL3, and PEN E-PM1 interchangeable lens cameras]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/30/olympus-reveals-pen-e-p3-pen-e-pl3-and-pen-e-pm1-interchangeab/http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/30/olympus-reveals-pen-e-p3-pen-e-pl3-and-pen-e-pm1-interchangeab/http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/30/olympus-reveals-pen-e-p3-pen-e-pl3-and-pen-e-pm1-interchangeab/#comments You won't be coloring us surprised at the launch of the E-PM1, but those other two? Well, let's just say we've always been big fans of the elusive trifecta. Olympus just went live with the PEN E-P3 (shown above), PEN E-PL3, and PEN E-PM1, three 12.3 megapixel interchangeable lens cameras with Live MOS sensors, TruePic VI image processors and an ISO ceiling of 12,800. You'll also get a reengineered autofocus system, a 1080i HD video mode, newly designed user interfaces and a variety of Art Filters. The E-P3 is outfitted with an all-metal body and "the world's fastest autofocus" (really?), while the rear is dotted with a 614,000 pixel OLED touchscreen. The E-PL3 steps it up with a 3-inch tilting LCD, while the smallest and lightest of the PEN line (yeah, the E-PM1) will be shipping in a half-dozen hues. The outfit also revealed a new pair of prime lenses, a camera grip and a FL-300R flash, all of which are detailed in the source links below. The bad news? Only the P3 is being priced, with $900 landing you a fairly swank kit this August.

Update: We got hands-on with these guys, and you can check it out right here.

Gallery: Olympus PEN E-P3, PEN E-PL3, PEN E-PM1

Continue reading Olympus reveals PEN E-P3, PEN E-PL3, and PEN E-PM1 interchangeable lens cameras

Olympus reveals PEN E-P3, PEN E-PL3, and PEN E-PM1 interchangeable lens cameras originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 30 Jun 2011 01:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breaking newscameraMFTmicro four thirdsMicroFourThirdsOlympuspenPEN E-P3PEN E-PL3PEN E-PM1PenE-p3PenE-pl3PenE-pm1videoThu, 30 Jun 2011 01:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Olympus E-PM1's petite frame outed before launch]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/29/olympus-e-pm1s-petite-frame-outed-before-launch/http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/29/olympus-e-pm1s-petite-frame-outed-before-launch/http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/29/olympus-e-pm1s-petite-frame-outed-before-launch/#comments On the eve of its rumored launch, we've spotted what looks to be a leaked press shot of Olympus' new teensy micro-four-thirds camera. According to the folks at 4/3 Rumors, the miniature shooter is pegged to debut (alongside the E-PL3 and E-P3) with a 12 megapixel sensor and TruePic VI engine. Not making the jump however, are its brother's OLED screens, leaving the emaciated light-box to make do with just a regular LCD. Interest piqued? Start pinching those pennies now -- we hear tomorrow isn't far away.

Olympus E-PM1's petite frame outed before launch originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 29 Jun 2011 22:34:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cameradigital cameraDigitalCameraE-PM1EPM1leakmicro four thirdsMicroFourThirdsolympusolympus E-PM1olympus penOlympusE-pm1OlympusPenWed, 29 Jun 2011 22:34:00 EST<![CDATA[Panasonic Lumix GF3: sample photos and video]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/29/panasonic-lumix-gf3-sample-photos-and-video/http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/29/panasonic-lumix-gf3-sample-photos-and-video/http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/29/panasonic-lumix-gf3-sample-photos-and-video/#comments
We already gave you some hands-on impressions of Panasonic's new Lumix GF3, but we just had a chance to shoot video and stills with the Micro Four Thirds cam at an event in NYC, leaving with a couple hundred photos and a small handful of video clips. There's no question that this GF2 successor was designed with interchangeable lens camera (ILC) newbies in mind, with no dedicated mode dial, a touchscreen display, and a boatload of auto settings, along with the usual spattering of effects modes. Panasonic chose a mock wedding scene as the centerpiece of its demo today, complete with bride, groom, and celebrity cake designer (a rather enthusiastic Ron Ben-Israel). Weddings mean colorful flowers, well-dressed subjects, and food -- but also dim lighting and chaos -- a perfect environment for showing off a camera's strengths shooting in low-light, assuming it can actually deliver. The GF3 probably won't be the camera of choice for our next celebration, however.

Gallery: Panasonic GF3 Image Samples


First up was a balcony shot with bride and groom. As expected, the backlit scene presented an incredible challenge for the GF3, which had trouble focusing and compensating exposure to properly light our subjects -- even the professional wedding photographer on hand had difficulty focusing his GF3 at times. The position-adjustable flash allowed us to light our subjects at an angle, or to bounce light off the ceiling, which didn't seem to work well in the cavernous room. As we progressed through the morning, additional scenes highlighted new shortcomings. Jump past the break for a sample video and more impressions, or check out the gallery above for sample images -- the first four shots highlight different positions with the adjustable flash.

Continue reading Panasonic Lumix GF3: sample photos and video

Panasonic Lumix GF3: sample photos and video originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 29 Jun 2011 20:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1080i14-42mm14mmAVCHDcameraDMC-GF2DMC-GF3GF2GF3hands-oninterchangeable lensInterchangeableLensLumixLumix DMC-GF2Lumix DMC-GF3lumix gf3LumixDmc-gf2LumixDmc-gf3LumixGf3Micro Four ThirdsMicroFourThirdsPanasonicpanasonic gf3PanasonicGf3videoWed, 29 Jun 2011 20:35:00 EST<![CDATA[Is this the Olympus E-P3?]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/26/is-this-the-olympus-e-p3/http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/26/is-this-the-olympus-e-p3/http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/26/is-this-the-olympus-e-p3/#comments There's only one way to make leaked blurrycam images appear even less legit: shoot 'em in black and white. That's exactly what we have here with the claimed leak of a new Olympus camera -- the E-P3, according to Photo Rumors -- in all its Micro Four Thirds glory. The camera appears to be a hybrid of both the E-P2 and E-PL2, including a P2-style button layout, but with a pop-up flash and sloping top plate reminiscent of the PL2. The new cam is also rumored to include a new 12 megapixel sensor, a max sensitivity of ISO 12,800, a high-res touchscreen, much-needed AF improvements, and an updated UI. Photo Rumors expects Olympus to announce the E-P3 on June 30th, along with an E-PL3 and E-PM1. That last model would be the first in the rumored Pen Mini series. We don't expect the E-PM1 to best the new Pentax Q's record-breaking small size, but with a significantly smaller sensor, the Q will be no match for any of Olympus's new Micro Four Thirds offerings.

Update: Andrea wrote in to tell us that Mirrorless Rumors now has a much clearer publicity shot. Isn't it lovely?

Is this the Olympus E-P3? originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 26 Jun 2011 19:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cameradigital cameradigital slrDigitalCameraDigitalSlrdslre-p2e-p3E-PL2e-pl3E-PM1micro four thirdsMicroFourThirdsOlympusolympus e-p3olympus E-PL2olympus e-pl3olympus e-pm1Olympus PenOlympusE-p2OlympusE-p3OlympusE-pl2OlympusE-pl3OlympusE-pm1OlympusPenphotographyrumorrumorsSun, 26 Jun 2011 19:59:00 EST<![CDATA[Panasonic plans to expand GF line, return to serious shooter roots]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/13/panasonic-plans-to-expand-gf-line-return-to-serious-shooter-roo/http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/13/panasonic-plans-to-expand-gf-line-return-to-serious-shooter-roo/http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/13/panasonic-plans-to-expand-gf-line-return-to-serious-shooter-roo/#comments Panasonic GF3 We know some of you have been a little disappointed in Panasonic's GF line of Micro Four Thirds cams as they've shed advanced features and become more "consumer friendly" -- terrifying words for any serious user to hear. But, we've got some good news, at some point in the future the GF line will split with a more professionally-minded model sold alongside the more simplistic GF3. That's straight from the mouth of Ichiro Kitao, the head of Panasonic's camera division, who spoke to PhotoRadar about the company's plans. When the GF1 will finally get a spiritual successor isn't exactly clear, but we're glad to hear the pocketable Micro Four Thirds series will finally get another serious shooter.

Panasonic plans to expand GF line, return to serious shooter roots originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 13 Jun 2011 20:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cameracamerasdigi camDigiCamdigital cameradigital camerasDigitalCameraDigitalCamerasgf3lumix gf3LumixGf3micro four thirdsMicroFourThirdspanasonicpanasonic gf3panasonic lumix gf3PanasonicGf3PanasonicLumixGf3Mon, 13 Jun 2011 20:33:00 EST<![CDATA[Panasonic Lumix GF3 official: 12.1 MP, 1080i video, no hot shoe in sight (hands-on)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/13/panasonic-lumix-dmc-gf3-official-12-1-mp-1080i-video-no-hot-s/http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/13/panasonic-lumix-dmc-gf3-official-12-1-mp-1080i-video-no-hot-s/http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/13/panasonic-lumix-dmc-gf3-official-12-1-mp-1080i-video-no-hot-s/#comments Last week, we caught a glimpse of the Lumix DMC-GF3, a new addition to Panasonic's ever-growing family of Micro Four Thirds shooters. Turns out, the camera we spied in that YouTube video was legit: the company just made it official and yes, it's missing a hot shoe. Available in four colors with 12.1 megapixel resolution, it uses Panny's latest imaging processor, shoots 1080i AVCHD video, and has a 3-inch touchscreen, ISO range of 160 to 6400, and the usual array of intelligent Auto enhancements. Unlike the GF2 -- which isn't going anywhere, by the way -- it's designed with the greenest of novices in mind, which means it forgoes things experienced photogs might like, such as a hot shoe and viewfinder. This one has a mono, not stereo mic, and swaps in a simple scroll wheel on the back side. Panasonic also rejiggered the touch UI to make certain settings easier to find and added a miniature art filter -- already a staple on Olympus' PEN series. Oh, and as a beginner-friendly camera, it looks more like a point-and-shoot than a DSLR -- it's 15 percent lighter than the GF2, and 17 percent smaller.

The GF3 will be available in July for $699 with a 14mm lens, to be followed in late August by a $599 kit that comes with a 14-42mm lens. In the meantime, head on past the break and check out our impressions after spending a few minutes with a not-final unit and a 14mm lens. We only got to play with it in a fluorescent conference room, alas, but hopefully our handful of test shots will give you a taste of what you can do with the depth of field should you spring for the higher-end of the two kits.

Gallery: Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF3

Gallery: Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF3 hands-on!

Continue reading Panasonic Lumix GF3 official: 12.1 MP, 1080i video, no hot shoe in sight (hands-on)

Panasonic Lumix GF3 official: 12.1 MP, 1080i video, no hot shoe in sight (hands-on) originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 13 Jun 2011 01:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1080i14-42mm14mmAVCHDcameraDMC-GF2DMC-GF3GF2GF3hands-oninterchangeable lensInterchangeableLensLumixLumix DMC-GF2Lumix DMC-GF3LumixDmc-gf2LumixDmc-gf3Micro Four ThirdsMicroFourThirdsPanasonicMon, 13 Jun 2011 01:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Panasonic GF3 spied by Micro Four Thirds enthusiasts in YouTube vid?]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/06/panasonic-gf3-spied-by-micro-four-thirds-enthusiasts-in-youtube/http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/06/panasonic-gf3-spied-by-micro-four-thirds-enthusiasts-in-youtube/http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/06/panasonic-gf3-spied-by-micro-four-thirds-enthusiasts-in-youtube/#comments Panasonic GF3? The folks at 4/3 Rumors believe they've spotted Panasonic's successor to the compact Micro Four Thirds GF2 -- the aptly named GF3. The site's eagle-eyed camera fiends noticed an unfamiliar digicam in a promo video (since removed from YouTube) that sports an interchangeable lens and is smaller than a DSLR. The design of the camera is somewhat similar to the GF2, though it sports a more pronounced hump and a more modern look. Rumors have suggested that the GF3 would lose the hot shoe, which this glossy-white mystery device clearly lacks, and borrow the 16-megapixel image sensor from the G3. While you wait for Panasonic to announce its tiny new hobbyist shooter, which is expected to happen on June 13th, enjoy another pair of pics after the break.

Continue reading Panasonic GF3 spied by Micro Four Thirds enthusiasts in YouTube vid?

Panasonic GF3 spied by Micro Four Thirds enthusiasts in YouTube vid? originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 06 Jun 2011 11:44:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cameradigicamdigital cameraDigitalCameragf3interchangeable lensInterchangeableLensleakleakedleaksmicro 43micro four thirdsMicro43MicroFourThirdspanasonicpanasonic gf3panasonic lumixpanasonic lumix gf3PanasonicGf3PanasonicLumixPanasonicLumixGf3Mon, 06 Jun 2011 11:44:00 EST<![CDATA[Panasonic Lumix DMC-G3 ups the interchangeable lens ante with fancy new touchscreen]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/12/panasonic-lumix-dmc-g3-ups-the-interchangeable-lens-ante-wit/http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/12/panasonic-lumix-dmc-g3-ups-the-interchangeable-lens-ante-wit/http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/12/panasonic-lumix-dmc-g3-ups-the-interchangeable-lens-ante-wit/#comments Right on schedule, Panasonic's gone and made its thinly-veiled Lumix DMC-G3 Micro Four Thirds shooter official. The camera succeeds the G2 with a 16 megapixel sensor, support for 1080p AVCHD video recording with stereo audio, 4fps burst shooting at full resolution, and an articulating, 3-inch touchscreen that supplants some of the dials adorning the last-gen model. In addition to poking around menus, you can touch that display to focus on your subject, and slide your finger to tweak exposure, white balance, and depth of field -- all in all, not unlike how you might interact with a smartphone camera. And, at 11.8 ounces, the aluminum-clad body weighs about ten percent less than its predecessor. Look for it in June for $700 in brown, red, and white -- in addition to your garden-variety black. In the market for something more compact? Panny also trotted out the Lumix-FH7, a 16 megapixel point-and-shoot with 4x optical zoom and 720p movie recording. Oodles of photos below with a press release after the break.

Gallery: Panasonic Lumix DMC-G3

Gallery: Panasonic Lumix DMC-FH7

Continue reading Panasonic Lumix DMC-G3 ups the interchangeable lens ante with fancy new touchscreen

Panasonic Lumix DMC-G3 ups the interchangeable lens ante with fancy new touchscreen originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 12 May 2011 04:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1080p16 megapixels16MegapixelsavchdcameradigicamdigicamsG2G3interchangeable lensInterchangeableLensLumix G Micro SystemLumix G2Lumix G3LumixG2LumixG3LumixGMicroSystemmicro four thirdsMicroFourThirdsPanasonicPanasonic G2Panasonic G3Panasonic LumixPanasonicG2PanasonicG3PanasonicLumixrefreshrefreshesThu, 12 May 2011 04:00:00 EST