Review of the recently released Lumix GF1. Was only teasing about the Olympus EP-1 ^^;
While the EP1 was enticing, I've been berry pleased with the Lumix LX3 so the natural choice in my eyes was to go for the GF1.
The GF1 is a micro DLSR that employs the Micro Four Thirds standard. The standards provide a means to develop interchangeable lenses and a more compact camera body size compared to the regular DLSRs.
There is no view finder and one looks at the live view screen for taking photos - but taking photos out in sunlight can be a problem as the screen can be hard to see at times.
Panasonic have also released the DMW-LVF1 live view finder which costs 17,770 yen (170 USD) - prolly end up getting one.
Looks like I will need to get the DMW-LMC46 lense protector too which will cost me 2,377 yen.
The Micro Four Thirds system gets rid of the mirror that flips up to expose light onto the sensor. Because there is no need for the mirror, physical space is not needed which is why a compact body size can be achieved.
One does however need to be extra careful when changing lenses as dust can now easily get on to the sensor without the protection of a mirror.
Having said that though, mechanical dust will still get onto the sensor. Probably good idea to carry around a few cotton buds and a blower when out n about.
Micro Four Thirds attachment is compatible with lenses made from different companies.
Currently thinking of some other lenses for the camera.
The H-ES045 Macro Lens - costs more than the camera itsself at 99,750 yen! (997 USD).
Click on the photo thumbnails on this page to see samples taken by the various lenses.
But before I do fork out for new lenses, I will get myself an adapter that allows me to use my current Canon lenses on the GF1. This page has photos of how EOS lenses will look like attached to a Micro Four Thirds camera. I still need to figure out exactly which mount is the one I need.
While the GF1 was a free sample, looks like I will be spending quite a bit of moolah on the lenses ^^;
Box with too much reading material. You can also click about on the official site to see more bits n pieces on the camera.
The back of the GF1 looks a bit cheap. Buttons on the LX3 look much nicer.
The GF1 lens kit cost about 79,000 yen (790 USD) while the Olympus EP1 lens kit costs about 120,000 yen (1200 USD).
I'm guessing the crappy look of the back was a factor to reduce production cost and allow competitive pricing against the EP1.
Took a quick video with the GF1 which you can see below.
There are HD, WVG!, VGA and QVGA settings.
Two compression choices - AVCHD Lite ideal for playback on a HDTV and Motion JPEG - apparently ideal for playback on a PC or Mac. The video below was set to Motion JPEG.
The GF1 auto focuses while shooting video too.
Got a new pair of eyes coming soon for Nanoha - wonder what she will look like in them.
BTW - have not forgot about the Google Giveaway and will announce winners later on today.
Tokyo Figure Show in Singapore?
This is what Chris stares at when trying to figure out problems. Hes working on Otaku.fm now which should be ready today. Will announce the submission process soon.
GF1 has met my expectations of what I wanted it to be and could possibly replace the Kiss 2. With the Kiss 2, I need to take a few shots and confirm what it looks like on screen. With the GF1, I can immediately see the effect of changes to WB for example.
Also the lighter and more compact form is another major factor for me. The Kiss 2 is just too bulky and heavy to carry around all the time.
Folks in Japan can pick up the GF1 in red, white or black at Amazon for 79800 yen.
What camera type are you using at the moment? Are you thinking up upgrading your imaging armory?
I know that many of you are into photography - if you have some photos to share with us then post them at Figure.fm.
If you take photos and are located in Japan then by all means show us your goodies. Am in the middle of working with The Japan Times on an exciting project and would love to involve you - win win all round.