Recommendations for handheld documentary/social/street/photojournalism? + OM-D E-M5 or GH3

The E-M5 IBIS is excellent for vidéo. It is the first time that I'm able to get some viewable clips without tripod (the cameras I have used before the E-M5 are the Panasonic G3 and E-P3). The OIS present on the Panasonic lens is not enough to stabilize the body, at least not that of the 14-45mm on the G3 or the Pens. I'm an amateur, much more interested by stills and the first time I have been able to produce some valid clips is since I have got the E-M5.

My take on this is that for very amateurish videos (aka without tripod) you gain more from the E-M5 stabilization than from the Panasonics GHs better codecs, but that if you are aiming at more professional videos, then you would be happier with the better video codecs of the GHs; but you will need to get a tripod or some other heavy accessories to stabilize the camera. Forget about the Pens if you want to be serious about video.

Forget the Pens camera for video, I have never got anything good from Them in matters of video. Given your time constraints it should be either a GH2 or an E-M5, because the GH3 won't be available early enough. The E-M5 has the edge for IQ when it comes to stillsthat also has a better stabilization for handheld video. But the GH2 has the edge for video IQ. The E-M5 may be more rugged than the GH3 : it is weather sealed, but try handholding one before buying : not everyone likes the control layout and the buttons. The daunting customization options may put some users off at first, but there are some good ressources around. For both cameras you will need to spend some time to get accustomed to their menus and buttons and to find out how to customize them best for your needs.

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rrr_hhh