Lumix GF1

Panasonic Lumix GF1 is a direct competitor to the recently reviewed the camera Olympus PEN E-P2. These cameras are based on the matrix Standard Micro Four Thirds, which is not surprising, since both companies are part of a consortium of Four Thirds. As tests have showed, the main disadvantages of Olympus PEN E-P2 – is that it has no backlight, auto focus and flash, as well as the very considerable cost. Compact Panasonic LUMIX DMC-GF1 also not cheap, but does not have these disadvantages Olympus PEN E-P2. Let’s see, is it a good camera for the rest, and whether it can seriously compete with the representatives of the line Olympus PEN, which appeared earlier and have already gained popularity among amateur photographers as well as an everyday camera – even among professionals.

Appearance and ease of use

As already mentioned, the camera Panasonic Lumix GF1 is quite similar to its main competitor, Olympus series of PEN, which is not surprising, because they belong to a class Micro 4 / 3 – the same lens mount, lack of a mirror or pent prism, a large (for a compact) matrix . In general, both cameras are something in-between “DSLRs” and ordinary “soap”.

Housing is mainly made of metal panels, which in this case painted black matte finish. Cover securely, and it is very difficult to scratch. To find fault with the build quality is difficult, even if to try very hard. But in terms of ergonomics have lapses. If Olympus PEN camera on the left side of the front panel there is a ledge with a surface similar in appearance to the skin, which allows more securely fix the camera, then the Panasonic Lumix GF1 the left side of the front panel has only a slight thickening of the mirror with a decorative insert. It does not add convenience – the camera and tries to slip out of hand, so the testing process when using the camera with one hand had to wind up the insurance on the brush shoulder strap.

The camera is very similar to the rangefinder cameras, which were actively produced in the middle of last century. At the same time looks modern, the design is in any case not old school. It is rather a skillful combination of old and new traditions.

Lumix GF1 with 20 mm lens, pancake easily fits into a small carrying case, purse or even a jacket pocket. From complexes due to the fact that lenses are small and do not cause sufficient awe and respect for others – is absolutely wrong. Chip camera in a very different – in a ratio of “compact – image quality,” and it is indeed optimal.

Lumix GF1 perfectly fits in your hand, by the way has very little visible knob on the right side. GF1 is not only convenient but a pleasure to hold in their hands – it’s made of metal and quality plastic. Beautiful and comfortable machine does not want to let go, it’s tempting to shoot again and again.

Cameras with an incomprehensible interface and sophisticated management finally became as unreal as Santa Claus. Panasonic Lumix GF1 only clearly proves it. It seems to be a difficult and a camera with excellent functionality, but to manage it very easily. If you at least once in his hands the camera (in people who have not done this way, I do not believe it), it can easily cope with GF1.

At the top of the wheel are switching modes, switch on / off, shutter release and a wonderful button that allows you to instantly switch to video mode. Incidentally, the invention is so convenient control – only Panasonic merit. This is then similar to the buttons began to appear on cameras from other manufacturers.

On the rear panel buttons are more, but they are also quite familiar. Above left – lift button built-in flash, there is exactly the same on some SLRs. In the top right of the – button to go to view the footage, the focus button and great wheel, which in different modes helps to quickly change some settings. For example, in video mode it can be set exposure compensation, manual and photo mode – to change the shutter speed and aperture.

In addition to the fully automatic mode, Lumix GF1 has also P, A, S and M modes, that is, the program, the priority of the exposure, shutter speed and manual. The first will make the perfect shot beginners, others – will be pleased with those who have some experience. Moreover, from the shoot cameras in GF1 moved stage of the program – they are as much as 16 pieces. Another interesting mode is “My Color”. By switching to it, you’ll be able to apply many different filters before the shooting. Moreover, infusions very flexible – in addition to the usual well b / w, sepia, etc. You can separately adjust the brightness, saturation and lightness.

Display of Lumix GF1

Diagonal Screen in 3 and a resolution of 460 000 points will appeal to all, without exception. It’s not just enough to frame your subject, but also enjoy the picture quality in playback mode. In addition, these parameters confirm once more, “median” position in the market photographic GF1 – between DSLRs and compact. The first few overtaking Panasonic camera resolution, and sometimes in the diagonal, and the number of dots on the screens rarely exceed second 230 000.

Flash of Lumix GF1

This is one of the few small weaknesses of Panasonic GF1. Guide number of built-in flash – only 11. For most cases, this figure would be sufficient, but sometimes the power is not enough. Two solutions – either increase the ISO or shutter speed to reduce or go to the store for an external flash. Speaking of power. It can be adjusted, that is very good.

Battery

Camera is powered by a rechargeable battery DMW-BLB13E with a capacity of 1250 mAh. Its full charge you enough to do as much as 350 photos. For such a modest size camera and the display of the serious – this is a very good indicator.

So, as I can see, there is no reason to not to buy this camera.

Lumix GF1 information coming soon!