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Panasonic's Lumix G7 is a small camera with serious 4K chops
Panasonic has been a huge proponent of 4K-ready cameras, starting with the Lumix GH4 and LX100. A few days ago, the Lumix G7 joined that group. The recently introduced Micro Four Thirds camera features a 16-megapixel Digital Live MOS sensor, an ISO range of up to 25,600 and a quad-core CPU for speedy image processing. But here's the one thing it does best: 4K. More specifically, I'm talking about Panasonic's 4K Photo feature, which lets you extract high-resolution pictures from 4K, 30 fps videos and save them at an 8-megapixel equivalent. This is particularly useful when you shoot moving subjects, as you're able to record a 4K video (roughly up to 30 minutes), choose whatever frame you want from it and save that to the camera's SD card. Is it cheating? Perhaps, but it works perfectly.
Panasonic's Lumix G7 camera is all about 4K video and photos
Well, Fujifilm isn't the only camera maker with an announcement today. Now it's Panasonic's turn. The Lumix series manufacturer is introducing the G7, a Micro Four Thirds body with a 16-megapixel Digital Live MOS sensor, ISO range of up to 25,600 and a Venus Engine image chip that packs a quad-core CPU for high-speed signal processing. That said, Panasonic is placing significant emphasis on the mirrorless shooter's 4K attributes, like its ability to capture video at 24 and 30 fps at 3,840 x 2,160 resolution (QFHD) -- there's the option for 1080p too, naturally. The company is also touting the Lumix G7's 4K Photo feature, which was revealed last year and is available on the LX100 as well. What this mode lets you do is extract high-resolution photos from 4K, 30 fps videos, with the results being saved at an 8-megapixel equivalent. You'll be able to pick up a kit in mid-June for $800, and that includes a 14-42mm lens to help you get started.
Panasonic's mirrorless GF7 gets classic looks, trendy selfie features
If you just can't get enough of you, Panasonic has joined the recent parade mirrorless cameras marketed at selfie photographers. The Lumix GF7's Micro Four Thirds, 16-megapixel sensor will give you much nicer shots than your smartphone ever could without being a burden to haul around. Panasonic transformed the GF7 into a more classic-looking camera than the GF6 and managed to shave a few millimeters from the already-small form factor, too. The 3-inch, 1.04 million-dot screen switches to selfie mode as soon as it's flipped around, and built-in WiFi lets you activate the shutter via a smartphone. It's also nicely specced with 1920/60p video, 25,600 ISO and a 5.8 fps shooting speed. You'll be able to get one February 20th for $600, with a 12-32mm f/3.5-5.6 lens that's wide enough to capture you and at least several pals.
Panasonic's LX100 makes huge compact leap with 4K video, MFT sensor
If you're thinking about buying Sony's sublime RX100 III compact camera, Panasonic has just made that decision a lot more difficult. The new $899 Lumix DMC-LX100 is leaps and bounds ahead of its LX7 predecessor and the most sophisticated compact the Japanese company has ever built. For starters, Panasonic has trumped the RX100's 1-inch sensor by equipping the new model with a Micro Four Thirds-sized, 12.8-megapixel MOS chip, the same size used on its big-boy interchangeable-lens models. Though it's cropped compared to its mirrorless models to allow for different aspect ratios, the sensor is still 50 percent larger than the LX7's 1-inch model. It's also got a fast Leica 24-75mm (35mm equivalent) f/1.7-2.8 lens, a wide-screen, 2,764K dot LVF (live viewfinder) and 4K video capture. Some of those specs put it on par with the company's flagship GH4, and well ahead of all its other interchangeable MFT models.
Panasonic's GM5 mirrorless is still tiny and now has a live viewfinder
Panasonic has just launched the Lumix DMC-GM5 targeted at shooters who want high performance with a form factor that's about as small as you can make an interchangeable lens, Micro Four Thirds camera. To remind you (Panasonic has a dizzying array of MFT cameras that even confuses us), the GM5 is the successor to the GM1, the company's smallest form-factor ILC model. It's roughly the size of a pack of cards, and weights about 0.62 pounds including a battery and lens. Specs remain similar to the GM1, with a 16-megapixel sensor, 1080p/60fps video, a max ISO of 25,600, a 1/16,000 shutter speed and a new "snap movie mode," that allows photos and video to be taken at the same time. The other new toy is a 1,166K-dot live viewfinder (LVF) with a 100 percent FOV and full color reproduction. Ironically, most of those specs (other than the pixel count) are lower than Panasonic's LX100, a new compact, fixed lens MFT model also introduced today. Daniel Cooper contributed to this report.
Panasonic's Lumix FZ1000 is a camera that wants to do it all
Since its beginnings, photo and video enthusiasts have been very fond of the GH4 camera. Now, as it looks to broaden its Lumix portfolio, Panasonic is introducing the FZ1000, a compact shooter that offers 4K (30fps) video-shooting capabilities to folks who may not want to spend too much money. Inside, there is a 1-inch, 20.1-megapixel "high-sensitivity" MOS sensor, paired with a 16x Leica DC Vario-Elmarit optical zoom lens. For $900, you'll also get a 3-inch articulating LCD, WiFi features, a top ISO of 12,800 and a newly minted AF system which promises to "extremely fast focusing." Panasonic says its Lumix FZ1000 is aimed at those wanting to shoot great pictures and video, but perhaps don't have the need (or bank balance) for something as powerful as its $1,700 GH4. If you're interested, the FZ1000 is set to go on sale late July.
Panasonic's 4K-ready Lumix GH4 priced at $1,700, ships in late April
Panasonic promised it would deliver a GH mirrorless camera capable of recording 4K video for under $2,000, and now we know just how far under that is. The Lumix GH4 camera body and its 16MP CMOS Micro Four Thirds sensor will cost $1,700, while the optional YAGH pro audio/video interface unit is available for an extra $2,000. The pre-order listings on Panasonic's website currently show an estimated ship date of late April. EOSHD.com confirms the same information from retailers like Adorama and B&H, which also have their pre-order buttons ready. Check out our hands-on impressions of the camera and Panasonic's own 4K demo reel if you need some convincing about how it will measure up to its predecessor, the GH3.
Here's a sample of what to expect from Panasonic's 4K-ready Lumix GH4
It's been a mere couple of days since Panasonic unveiled its next-generation GH camera, the Lumix GH4. But, since there's no release date information as of yet, chances are it's going to be a little while before interested parties can take this new shooter out for a spin. Luckily, Panasonic has already let some professionals have their go at its GH4; Hungary, Japan and Northern Kenya are where sample shots were taken, and there's also an incredible 4K video (embedded after the break) that was shot in Yucatan, Mexico. The results produced by Panasonic's Micro Four Thirds camera are definitely impressive, but we wouldn't have expected any less from something that could be priced at around $2,000. For more, head to the source link below, where you'll find the entire set of pictures and some extra behind-the-scenes stuff.
Panasonic's GH4 clearly packs serious 4K video chops, but pricing and availability remain TBA (hands-on)
Long gone are the days when digital cameras were just for still photographers. In fact, with its GH4, it's easy to argue that Panasonic is putting an even greater emphasis on video capture -- of the 4K variety, in this case. The Lumix GH4, teased as the "next GH" just last month at CES, offers tremendous advantages over its predecessor, the GH3. Perhaps most notable are the camera's 4K capabilities. This year's model can shoot both 3,840 x 2,160 and a 4,096 x 2,160 "cinema 4K" format at 30 frames per second with a 100 Mbps bit rate. If you're willing to settle for 1080p (at 60, 30 or 24 fps), Panasonic's also added a 200 Mbps option, with 100 and 50 Mbps offerings available, too. You can capture clean HDMI video with an external recorder at 4:2:2 8/10-bit output, while a (relatively gigantic) interface unit mounts on the bottom and adds four SDI outputs with support for 4K (4:2:2/10-bit), time code, two XLR microphone inputs and a 13.8-volt Canon terminal for external power. That accessory also includes phantom power controls and LED audio level readouts. There are significant improvements on the stills front, too. There's a new 16-megapixel CMOS Micro Four Thirds sensor, which should benefit video captures as well. The camera supports a sensitivity range of ISO 200-25,600 (compared to a 12,800 max with the GH3), while the viewfinder has been boosted with a very sharp 2.36M-dot OLED panel and the 3-inch main tilt-and-swivel display now has a higher-res 1.04M-dot OLED screen. Panasonic is also emphasizing performance improvements, including a new 0.07-second focus speed, 12 fps burst mode or 7 fps with AF tracking and a shutter rated for 200,000 total clicks. The body is still constructed of magnesium alloy, and it's splash- and dust-proof. Expect to snap more than 500 stills with a full charge. There's also SDXC UHS Class 3 compatibility -- you'll need a latest-gen card to capture 200 Mbps video internally. What we don't have at this point is pricing or a ship date. At CES, Panasonic quoted a price below $2,000, and considering the improvements over the GH3, which currently retails for about $1,000 (and will remain on the market), we wouldn't be surprised to see a final MSRP near the $2k mark. Reps promised more information on the availability front next month, and while the info rollout has been anything but speedy, we're inclined to think the GH4 will be worth the wait.
Panasonic's Lumix GM1 looks classy, adds WiFi to your 16-megapixel shots (update: hands-on)
In an age of megapixel-heavy camera phones, the Micro Four Thirds format is becoming increasingly popular with those who don't want the trappings of a full DSLR, but want to take their photos more seriously. Panasonic, one of the pioneers of the MFT system, has today announced its latest offering in this category -- the Lumix GM1. The sleek GM1 is remarkably small in physical size, and comes with a 16-megapixel sensor, a 3-inch tilting LCD, 1 / 16,000 shutter speed, 1080p video recording, electric shutter plus built-in wireless to help get your snaps out into the wild. It's all enveloped in a metal alloy frame, with aluminum dials and a brushed-steel finish to keep things looking classy. The sensor is actually the same as that found in the GX7, and has high ISO 25600 support. The kit lens is a 12-32mm f/3.5-5.6 affair, custom designed to fit the GM1s small form. This sort of class will cost £629 in the UK, where it launches in black, and curiously, orange on November 8th, we'll add the US price once we get it. We're hoping to hear more on that from Panasonic later today.
Panasonic unveils 16MP Lumix GX7 Micro Four Thirds camera, 42.5mm f/1.2 lens
There's not much to reveal about Panasonic's Lumix DMC-GX7 since it leaked (nearly) in full just days ago, but now it's official. This 16-megapixel Live MOS shooter is Panny's latest Micro Four Thirds offering aimed squarely at prosumers. This retro-styled camera is a much svelter option than the video-focused GH-3 ($1,500) thanks to its magnesium alloy casing. Along with in-body image stabilization and a swift shutter that tops out at 1/8000th of a second, the ISO tops out at 25,600. If video is your concern, it'll capture 1080p footage at 60 fps (24 Mbps) in AVCHD. While the GX7 will burst shoot with autofocus tracking at 4.3 fps, its electronic shutter lets it hit 40 fps if pure speed is what you're after -- while we're on it, the shutter will also operate in a silent mode. Notably, a vertically-tiltable 16:9 Live View Finder is onboard, packing a resolution of 2.76 million dots and the ability to fire off the autofocus once it detects an eye. Two control dials aid in manual settings along with a rear-facing LCD touchscreen, which tilts up to 80-degrees. If all that wasn't enough, built-in WiFi and NFC allow for the likes of remote viewfinder apps and sharing media.%Gallery-195145% The GX7 will hit the US this November in a silver and black colorway priced at $1,100 with a 14-42mm kit lens, and $1,000 for just the body itself. A sleathier all-black variant will also be available, though only in Japan. Aside from the camera, a new Lumix lens with Leica tech will also hit shelves, offering a 45mm 42.5mm focal length with a speedy f/1.2 aperture -- the fastest in the lineup to date. Hit the press releases after the break for more details. Update: We've corrected the focal length of the fast prime lens, which is 42.5mm rather than the 45mm we originally reported.
Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ70 superzoom packs 16.1MP, massive 60x optical zoom
The 600mm zooming capabilities of Panasonic's DMC-FZ200 superzoom not quite up to your telephoto needs? The company's added a new sibling to its Lumix lineup as a followup to the FZ60, dubbed the FZ70. Also known as the Lumix FZ72 in the UK, it's packed with a 16.1MP sensor and a 20mm lens that's capable of 60x zoom (1200mm), besting both the FZ200 and FZ60 (24x zoom). That said, you're looking at a variable aperture of F2.8-5.9 and HD video recording that tops out at 60FPS for 1080i and 720p resolutions. A powered optical image stabilizer is onboard to help you keep things steady for stills and movies, while built-in Dolby-certified microphones capture stereo sound. The FZ70's Venus image engine lets burst-mode lovers shoot at 9FPS, although you'll be capped at three photos per use. As you'd expect, creative filters and an intelligent auto mode are included and some of the existing Lumix tele-converters, flashes and filters can hookup with this camera. There's no word on price or retail availability just yet, but zoom past the break for more details in the meantime.
Panasonic GH3 and G5 firmware update brings low light AF, silent shooting
If you've been spooking subjects or failing to focus on them with your Panasonic Lumix GH3 or G5, you might feel like you got a brand new camera today thanks to a firmware update. Its new features include low-light (-3EV) autofocus and a "silent mode" setting that'll turn off the electronic shutter, all sounds and the flash emission in one go, leaving subjects like deer or golfers undisturbed. You'll also get an exposure compensation shutoff reset option, better AF performance with certain lenses and a WiFi fix for Mac computers. You can grab it at the source, proving it's not only hackers that bring free goodies to pricey cameras.
Panasonic gussies up Lumix DMC-XS1 with 10 different designs
It's that time of year again -- the gadgets of CES are finally starting to march into stores. Today's newest catalog item comes from Panasonic in the form of the 16.1-megapixel Lumix DMC-XS1 compact. Equipped with a 24mm wide-angle 5x optical zoom lens, this $200 point-and-shoot is aimed at people looking to move beyond the hazy world of cellphone photography. Unlike some high-end smartphone cameras the DMC-XS1's 1/2.33-inch CCD sensor is limited to 720p video capture at 30 fps. So, it likely won't win over the hardcore paparazzo, but this compact's 10 flashy design options may manage to score some points with fledging shutterbugs.
Panasonic launches $500 Lumix DMC-LF1 enthusiast compact with WiFi, NFC
Panasonic's just unveiled the 12-megapixel Lumix DMC-LF1 compact for fans of high-end compacts like Canon's S110 who may not want to snap with a smartphone camera. But the social set will still be able to share images to their handset or tablet thanks to the LF1's built-in WiFi with NFC pairing and included app. Meanwhile, most cellphones definitely can't compete with the 1/1.7-inch, 12-megapixel CMOS sensor and 28-200mm equivalent f2.0-5.9 Leica zoom lens. Other specs include 1,920/60i video with AVCHD and MP4 recording, POWER OIS, a 200K EVF, a variety of shooting modes like panorama, and full manual control. There's no set arrival date, but it'll run a hefty $500 or so -- perhaps a hard sell against certain photo-clever handsets.
Panasonic Lumix GF6 announced for the US, shipping in June for $600
Panasonic's latest entry-level Micro Four Thirds cam appears to follow the design language (and perhaps usability) of its GF predecessors, but at least it's got WiFi, right? We'll hold out on passing further judgement until we have the camera in hand, but if past models are any indication, you'll definitely want to try the Lumix GF6 on for size in a retail store before handing over a cool 600 bucks. That said, there are some major improvements here -- there's NFC and WiFi functionality, as we mentioned, and the 1,040k-dot LCD is certainly a step up from the GF5, as is the top sensitivity of ISO 25,600. There's also a dedicated mode dial (always a plus), a pop-up flash and a bundled manual-zoom 14-42mm f/3.5-5.6 lens. The new MFT camera, which was announced for Japan just last week, will be hitting US retailers in June.
Panasonic's 16-megapixel Lumix DMC-GF6 official with wireless sharing, flip screen
Panasonic's micro four-thirds Lumix DMC-GF6 is finally official after a leaky start, and the news is good for social types with high photo standards. The mirrorless cam's standout feature is without a doubt its connectivity, letting you pair it to a smartphone or tablet via NFC, then transfer photos and video automatically over WiFi with an included app -- which can also remotely control the camera. The GF6 also sports an updated 1,040k-dot screen that can tilt and flip 180 degrees for self-portraits, along with a new mode dial from its GF5 predecessor, a welcome change for more serious shooters. Other highlights include 1080/60i full-HD AVCHD video, a 25,600 ISO range, JPEG and RAW shooting, built-in flash, a new Venus Engine image processor, 3.7 fps burst shooting, low-light autofocus and a 0.5-second start-up time. You'll be able to grab one in black, white, brown or red, and while Panasonic hasn't officially announced a price or arrival date, it's expected to hit shelves in the next month or so for around £449 with a 14-42mm kit lens ($680). Check the PR after the break for the full dope.
Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF6 leaks out in white ahead of April 9 launch
After a review was published prematurely on another site revealing specs of Panasonic's Lumix DMC-GF6, Digicam Info has leaked press images of the upcoming model in white. As noted before, the stylish-looking micro four thirds will pack 16-megapixels, a new Venus image engine, low light AF system, 4.2 fps burst speed, 1080-60i video, WiFi, NFC and up to 25,600 ISO, among other features -- if the leaks pan out, of course. We noted earlier that the GF6 would start at around $680 with a 14-42mm kit lens, and sources also claim the camera will be launched early tomorrow morning -- though at this point, there's very little left to actually announce.
Panasonic's Lumix GF6 leaks early with a 16MP sensor, tilting touchscreen and NFC for £449
After passing by Taiwan's WiFi certification tests, Panasonic's latest interchangeable lens camera has broken cover over at TechRadar. The leak has given us the first glimpse at the Lumix GF6's full spec list, which include the same 16-megapixel sensor as the GX1, a new Venus engine to assist with imaging performance, an electrostatic touchscreen and (in a first for ILCs) built-in NFC . Better still, the team had some time to play with the camera, which has shown itself almost precisely 12 months after the last GF iteration. The camera apparently tries to straddle the gap between compact point-and-shoots and the more technical world of mirrorless and DSLR shooters with a new mode dial on top and a more responsive touchscreen. In addition to NFC, there's even built-in WiFi to aid image sharing -- although we can only share the original article through the magic of Google cache -- take a peek at the source below. No word on a specific release date in the leak, although the UK's £449 price tag (which includes a new 14-42mm kit lens) should translate to around $680 on the other side of the Atlantic. (Update: At TechRadar's request, we've taken down the image of the GF6)
Panasonic Lumix GF6 passes through Taiwan certification with WiFi
Panasonic's support for WiFi in its Micro Four Thirds cameras has so far skewed toward the high end. Thanks to a new filing at Taiwan's National Communications Commission, though, we know the entry level should be covered as well. The regulator has been looking at a DMC-GF6 camera with with built-in WiFi, hinting that the Lumix GF5's sequel will make networking one of its centerpiece upgrades. Other clues aren't quite as forthcoming -- there's nothing imaging-related at the NCC, so we don't know if the GF6 is an optical revolution or another subtle refresh. It's mostly safe to presume that Panasonic will watch out for celebrity leaks this time around.
