Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH3 Hands-on Preview

September 2012 | By Amadou Diallo

Preview based on a pre-production DMC-GH3
Image quality tests based on a production DMC-GH3 running Firmware 1.00

Since the introduction of the Lumix DMC-GH1 back in 2009, the GH-series' place in Panasonic's Lumix lineup has been clear; a flagship stills and video model designed for enthusiasts who demand a well-handling, responsive and customizable camera with all the latest technology the company has to offer. The goal was to show that a camera did not need to be the size of a DSLR to perform like one. The enthusiastic and largely unanticipated response to the GH2's movie capabilities by working videographers (Google 'GH2 video hack' to get an idea for how keenly its capabilities are being exploited) has meant that Panasonic must now also consider that its camera is being integrated into professional video rigs.

With the announcement of the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH3, the quest to offer a smaller-than-a-DSLR alternative has shifted noticeably to one that seeks to maintain its appeal to video professionals and stills photographers for whom small size is easily trumped by accessible manual camera controls, expandability and durability. If that sounds like a description of a DSLR user, we suspect it does to Panasonic as well. The GH3 is the company's largest Micro Four Thirds camera yet, with dimensions that essentially match those of the APS-C Sony SLT-A65.

The GH3 gains a weather sealed (dust/splash proof) magnesium alloy body which now gives Panasonic a camera body to match their moisture- and dust-sealed G X Vario 12-35mm F2.8 ASPH lens and G X Vario 35-100mm F2.8 ASPH fast zooms. Additional highlights include 6 fps shooting (or 4fps with updating live view) and five customizable function buttons. While the camera's still image resolution remains at 16MP, the GH3 has a new Live MOS sensor, three-core Venus 7 FHD processing engine and a new low pass filter. Panasonic claims improvements in high ISO shadow detail, color reproduction and white balance over its predecessor. The GH3 also offers in-camera HDR and multiple exposure image modes, as well as Wi-Fi connectivity that Panasonic hopes to leverage with its remote triggering and image transfer apps for iOS and Android phones. One thing the GH3 loses, however, is the multi-aspect ratio sensor size found on its predecessor, with 3:2 and 16:9 format images being a crop from the camera's 4:3 ratio chip.

There are pro-focused additions to the GH3's video capabilities, with timecode-supported broadcast quality video that is capable of bit rates as high as 72Mbps (for 1080p24). Video pros may want to re-read that last bit. Only the US $3500 Canon EOS 5D Mark III offers higher bit rates and Panasonic suggests its compression might offer better quality. The GH3 gains the ability to shoot in MOV (h.264) format, freeing it from the restrictive frame- and bit-rates laid out in the AVCHD standard. This means the camera can capture files natively as 30p, as well as 60i. There is also the choice of All-I or IPB compression (more of which later in the preview), which Panasonic is hoping will further endear it to videographers currently using GH2s.

The GH3's new EVF is a 1.7 million dot OLED panel with a 16:9 ratio of 873 x 500 pixels. Panasonic lists a robust 1.34x magnification (equivalent to 0.67x on a full frame SLR), and says that because information is transmitted to the panel 8x faster than the GH2, the onscreen image will remain smooth and natural even while panning quickly across a scene. The rear display panel is a 3" 614k dot resolution OLED unit that, like that of its predecessor, is touch-sensitive. For both stills and video shooters looking to extend the camera's abilities, the GH3 offers a 3.5mm mic input (GH2 users had to resort to a 2.5 - 3.5mm adapter), headphone jack, PC sync socket and a new optional battery grip that attaches to base plate providing the option for additional power.

Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH3 key features

16MP Live MOS sensor with three-core Venus 7 FHD engine
Magnesium alloy body with weather sealing (dust and splash proof)
1.7 million dot 16:9 ratio OLED viewfinder
ISO 200-12800 (extended range of ISO 125-25600)
6 fps continuous shooting
AF speed of .07 seconds
614k dot 3" OLED rear screen
Full HD 60p/50p video with 30p/25p option
MOV (h.264), MP4 and AVCHD formats
Video bit rates of 50Mbps in IPB and 72Mbps in All-I compression modes
Timecode support in MOV(H.264) and AVCHD formats
3.5mm mic socket and headphone socket
Four channel wireless control for the optional DMW-FL360L external flash
PC socket
iOS and Android app control via Wi-Fi

Key differences from the DMC-GH2

Improved sensor and latest Venus image processor
Weather sealed magnesium alloy body
OLED EVF and rear display (versus LCD)
Capacitive touch screen (rather than pressure-sensitive)
60p video capture (versus 60i /30p)
72Mbps bit rate maximum (versus 24Mbps)
3.5mm mic socket (rather than 2.5mm)
Headphone socket
6 fps continuous shooting (versus 5)
Five custom Fn buttons (versus three) and a second control dial
Compatible with new DMW-BGGH3 battery grip
PC socket for external flash
Interval shooting
HDR and multiple exposure modes

Compared to the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH2

With the GH2 having gained such a strong following among enthusiasts and videographers, Panasonic has clearly prioritized external controls and accessory compatibility. As such, the GH3 is a noticeably more bulky camera than its predecessor, comparable in size to the Sony SLT-A57. As you'll see in the image below, control points have been redesigned and much of the camera's layout has been re-adjusted for the larger body.

The GH3 is both taller and wider than the GH2. Its more-prominent handgrip has a decidedly DSLR-like look-and-feel about it, and a texturized grip surface now wraps around the right edge of the front plate. The GH3 also gains a control dial just behind its shutter button and a flash sync port on the front. The AF assist light has been moved to a more sensible location where you're far less likely to inadvertently block it with your finger.


The GH3 has a 610k dot OLED side-hinged rear panel display. The taller shoulder of the GH3 allows for a significantly revised control layout. There is a 4-way control dial as well as a larger-circumference thumb dial. The movie record button now sits on the rear camera plate, alongside four of the GH3's five Fn buttons and a focus mode switch.

The GH3 has a wider, deeper handgrip much more like that of an actual DSLR. The mode dial on the left is now dedicated to drive mode, with the GH2's focus modes moved to the rear of the camera (and AF area options relegated to the touchscreen). Three buttons dedicated to white balance, ISO and exposure compensation lie in a row in front of a re-designed Fn button. Stereo mics now sit behind, rather than atop the built-in flash.

If you're new to digital photography you may wish to read the Digital Photography Glossary before diving into this article (it may help you understand some of the terms used).

Conclusion / Recommendation / Ratings are based on the opinion of the reviewer, you should read the ENTIRE review before coming to your own conclusions.

Images which can be viewed at a larger size have a small magnifying glass icon in the bottom right corner of the image, clicking on the image will display a larger (typically VGA) image in a new window.

To navigate the review simply use the next / previous page buttons, to jump to a particular section either pick the section from the drop down or select it from the navigation bar at the top.

DPReview calibrate their monitors using Color Vision OptiCal at the (fairly well accepted) PC normal gamma 2.2, this means that on our monitors we can make out the difference between all of the (computer generated) grayscale blocks below. We recommend to make the most of this review you should be able to see the difference (at least) between X,Y and Z and ideally A,B and C.

Comments

Total comments: 418

The GH3 was billed as having a clean HDMI output, but I've heard there are problems. ATOMOS tech support probably has a better assessment than any other source.

0 upvotes

Something is clearly wrong with the GH3 if DPReview has not finished it's review of it by now. Either that or as in my case, Panasonic refuse to lend us cameras.

1 upvote

A mix-up meant we only received a GH3 fairly recently, so it's currently in the studio.

0 upvotes

When will we have chance to get a full review from DPR ?

0 upvotes

They seem to be very understaffed. I would expect the review of the DH3 to come out about a week before the DH4 is announced :)

4 upvotes

When I was reading about the "electronic shutter", I got a little excited in that I thought that we'd get nice high flash sync speeds, but then I saw the abysmal 1/160th sync speed.

What a letdown.

1 upvote

Lots of reviews coming out. It may be possible to make a decision based on these, expecting that dpreview will confirm the general drift:

http://www.43rumors.com/new-gh3-tests-and-reviews/
Lumix Gh3 and Canon 5D Mk2 iso noise comparison

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JIZsvgZCqMg
Panasonic GH3, winner of this years Advanced CSC in Photography Weeks Gear Awards 2012.

http://www.naturalexposures.com/corkboard/testing-panasonics-newest-micro-four-thirds-camera-the-gh3/
natural Exporures (see response 12 as well as the review)

http://filmmakermagazine.com/61709-shooting-angels-with-the-panasonic-gh3-in-mexico/
Shooting Angels with the Panasonic GH3 in Mexico

http://coffeeandcelluloid.com/panasonic-gh3-review-coffee-and-quick-thoughts/
Panasonic GH3 Review – Coffee and Quick Thoughts
This is the first time I’ve ever pre-ordered a camera, and I’ll just say I’m not at all disappointed.

http://www.luminous-landscape.com/reviews/cameras/panasonic_gh3_field_review.shtml
the GH3

1 upvote

While I value greatly DPR's reviews, they are seldom the first to fully review a new camera so here are a rew of other reviews I found interesting in the meantime until DPR does complete their review.

http://www.digitalcamerainfo.com/content/Panasonic-Lumix-GH3-Digital-Camera-Review.htm (note based upon a pre-production camera).

http://www.photographyblog.com/reviews/panasonic_lumix_dmc_gh3_review/

http://www.pocket-lint.com/review/6088/panasonic-lumix-gh3-compact-system-camera-review

http://www.naturalexposures.com/corkboard/testing-panasonics-newest-micro-four-thirds-camera-the-gh3/

0 upvotes

Looks like the grip is made of really crap material and gets in a bad state real fast, thats a new camera and look at the state of it already, it looks like its 10 years old already!

0 upvotes

read the green text at the very top.

2 upvotes

Anyway, even there is not yet full review, DPR could have change the product picture with official release ones, this is not profressional at all to keep such rubbish picture for a so long time !

0 upvotes

DPR, if you don't come out with image tests for cameras like this, I might actually have to visit other photography websites!

3 upvotes

My main interest with this 4/3 panasonic system is it´s "Touch Screen Shutter Release and amazing quick focus". Can anyone advise me if there is another camera with these features, which works just as good, but has a bigger sensor?
I work mainly with portraits of children and have found this to be extremelly usefull as you can continuosly have "eye contact" with the kids whils shooting pictures (when shooting with camera on tripod).
I do find an inconvenience of having to open up large aperture to get similar depth of field as to a full frame camera. I use the Olympus 75mm F1,8 and usually have to stop down to F2.0. With my Nikon D800 / Nikorr 135mm F2 I would shoot at F 4,5 for a similar result.
Thanks in advance for any advice.

Comment edited 6 times, last edit 11 minutes after posting

0 upvotes

Of course for those of us who want a lot of depth of field, its great.

0 upvotes

when will the full review of the GH3 (12-35 2.8 lens) be ready?
DPR, could you hurry with it maybe?
thanks

10 upvotes

Wasn't the whole point of 4/3 to provide more compact interchangeable lens system cameras?
It just looks like you have the worse of all worlds... this is very large, smaller sensor, 2x multiplication factor, need faster lenses to get same depth of field as apsc... it is just screaming "get a bigger sensor and brighter lenses for the same size shell".

Comment edited 15 minutes after posting

0 upvotes

It's more about the size of the lenses than the bodies, for example:

canon 70-200mm zoom 3.46 lbs, 3.39" x 7.76"
panasonic 45-200mm zoom .84 lbs, 2.76" x 3.94"

In my case, I rely on a fully articulated LCD - there is only one full-frame camera with this feature, the new Sony, which is a temptation but it is probably priced out of my range.

1 upvote

"Very large" is a relative term.

The GH3 is certainly a lot smaller than an Olympus E5 or anyone else's better quality DSLRs.

And it should be obvious that one size doesn't fit all.

There are 24 M4/3 camera bodies so far, and some are large, some are small. Some have built in EVF, and some don't. Some have flip screens and others don't. A couple are weather sealed, but the rest aren't.

I think Olympus and Panasonic are trying hard to provide something for everyone in their M4/3 product lines, and there certainly is a place for a camera like the GH3.

1 upvote

@ Steveke...

A better comparison might be the Canon 70-200 against the Panasonic 35-100mm lens. In which case, the difference is even more dramatic.

http://farm9.staticflickr.co
/8033/8035366318_3c74358742_z.jpg

0 upvotes

I am in the process of choosing a new platform to go with and think this new GH3 might fit my lifestyle and shooting needs. I inquired to Panasonic about additional lenses which has left me a bit more confused. Panasonic emailed the transcript to me after the chat:
----------------------------
Transcript from Panasonic dated Jan 9, 2013 5:37:12 PM
In response to question: Digital Still Camera
System: Welcome to Panasonic Chat. A transcript of this chat will be emailed to
you once you disconnect.
Agent Ashlee R. says: Hello. How may I assist you?
Customer John says: hello, i'm hoping to find a local retailer that would
carry the new Lumix GH3 near Des Moines, IA
Agent Ashlee R. says: Please contact our Sales Department at 1-800-405-0652 or
e-mail them at customersupport@shop.us.panasonic.com
Customer John says: also, which optional lenses are water resistant?
Agent Ashlee R. says: unfortunately we do not have any

0 upvotes

Customer John says: the product website lists the Lumix G X Vario 12-35mm /
F2.8 ASPH. / Power O.I.S. as splash/dustproof
Customer John says: are you certain that Panasonic doesn't have any? does that
mean that these lenses are real or did I misunderstand?
Agent Ashlee R. says: the lens is moisture sealed , not water resistant
Customer John says: oh i see, are there other lenses that are moisture sealed?

Agent Ashlee R. says: the GX Vario lenses are
Customer John says: thank you, is that what the "X" designation is for? this
will help me better recognize which lenses to consider
Agent Ashlee R. says: yes X Vario
Customer John says: I'm looking at the technical specifications for this one:
LUMIX® G X VARIO PZ 45-175mm / F4.0-5.6 ASPH. Lens
Customer John says: the specifications do not state moisture sealing like the
other lens I inquired about?
Agent Ashlee R. says: most the X vario lenses are moisture sealed

0 upvotes

Customer John says: please list the lenses that are moisture sealed so that I
may pursue those
Agent Ashlee R. says: LUMIX® G X VARIO 35-100mm / F2.8 ASPH. Lens

Agent Ashlee R. says: LUMIX® G X VARIO 12-35mm / F2.8 ASPH. Lens

Customer John says: so two out of four total GX Vario lenses are moisture
sealed?
Customer John says: or are there others besides what are on the Panasonic
website?
Agent Ashlee R. says: yes
Agent Ashlee R. says: no
Customer John says: okay, thank you for your help today. I will contact sales
about the camera
Agent Ashlee R. says: Thank you for visiting. Please contact us at anytime.
System: http://www.chatredirect.panasonic.com/website/public/showsurvey.jsp

Panasonic Corporation of North America
www.panasonic.com

----------------------

so I'm a bit confused, anyone want to chime in and help me better understand so that I make a good product selection?
Thanks and Happy New Year

0 upvotes

I've been using the G2 with three Panasonic lenses for several years. When I was in the rainforest in Peru for about 10 days I noticed that both the camera and the G Vario 45-200mm lens had moisture in them one morning under the somewhat extreme high-humidity conditions. I put the camera and lens in a sunny spot for half an hour and they cleared up. This is one reason I'm interested in the GH3, it is environmentally sealed to some degree.

Comment edited 2 minutes after posting

0 upvotes

You can see the peru photos taken with the G2 with Panasonic lenses on flickr (the other two were the 45 mm macro and the 1.7 50mm lens) - these are all fine jpg, not raw - but posted full-size (4000 x 2672)
http://www.flickr.com/photos/steve_goddard/sets/72157626915062029/
The Gh3 should have a good deal better resolution. I've been very happy with the camera and lenses and it would have been a real chore to carry the equivalent full frame gear everywhere I went.

0 upvotes

The X lenses are just premium lenses with special features, not necessarily weatherproofing. They didn't even have a weatherproofed body before the GH3, so it's unsurprising that they don't have many lenses. Those zooms are nice lenses, if kind of expensive. Better than the bulky, low quality Olympus 12-50mm (also weatherproof).

0 upvotes

Does the existence of a preview indicate that a review will in fact be published at some point? The photographyblog review linked by pat a month ago was useful but it would be helpful to compare the GH3 image quality with other gear if dpreview gets to it.

1 upvote

Focus Peaking or not?
Clean 4.2.2 HDMI out or not?
So many rumors.
Some people have a production model already.
Can anyone confirm?

0 upvotes

This is a video (footage) comparison of the 5D Mark III and the GH3

https://vimeo.com/55060120

Hope you enjoy.

0 upvotes

Wait... am I hallucinating... or is someone actually comparing a MFT with a FF? You've got to be kidding me! Oh, it's just video... not image. Because as far as image quality is concerned, don't kid yourselves... it's still a much smaller MFT sensor inside.

Comment edited 3 times, last edit 4 minutes after posting

0 upvotes

Given that the GH3 is mainly aimed at video shooters, I'd say its pertinent for many. For a still photographer, of course the FF DSLR will have better image quality.

0 upvotes

See reviews at

http://www.ephotozine.com/article/panasonic-lumix-dmc-gh3-review-20489

and

http://www.photographyblog.com/reviews/panasonic_lumix_dmc_gh3_review/

0 upvotes

Months are passing by and still nothing available for sale. What's up?

0 upvotes

People are already getting these shipped out.

1 upvote

Oh ya? I would love to see from where. I see GH2 and G3, but the only GH3 for sale is "out of stock, order now and we will ship when avaiable". So where would I buy one today?

0 upvotes

The preorders got theirs. They ran out on preorders so they are out of stock again.

1 upvote

Video notwithstanding, how will the image quality compare to the G5? I'm getting a little interested coming from a 60D with large, heavy lenses and would love to downsize but not at the expense of IQ. My Holy Grail is 16X24 prints with great inherent sharpness. My Canon lenses give me that. I've always liked the Lumix but never trusted the smaller 4/3 sensors but I'm reading that the gap is closing.

Comment edited 6 minutes after posting

1 upvote

Most speculation is RAW IQ will be about the same as the EM5. You should be able to use the DPR tool to compare that with your current camera to get an idea of how it will measure up assuming the speculation is correct. Panny and Oly have very different JPG engines so I would recommend only using RAW. I use a GH2 and print large on a regular basis with no issues.

0 upvotes

They'll probably end up phasing our 4/3 as competitive pressures detract attention away from them. I hear they said they'll never go beyong 16MP in a 4/3, and you can get smaller cameras with larger sensors and nice features (for example, NX20) at this price point. Buying a 4/3 in 2012 just seems like throwing money after outdated technology.

1 upvote

The quality is here homie. Shooting with mirrorless cameras like the OMD and G5 have transformed the way I shoot. Being able to shoot great looking stills and video this easy is awesome.

http://giuliosciorio.com/portfolio/miami-people/ All OMD, no retouching.

1 upvote

@G S homie: I don't doubt that you are doing better with today's technology. But we aren't comparing today'd MFT with yesterday's APSC or yesterday's FF! To be fair, you have to compare technologies of the same generation - the latest MFT with the latest APSC. Both employ the same improvements - BSI, closer microlenses, shallower photosites, on-chip phase detection, etc, etc...
If ANYONE is naïve enough enough to believe that technology only advances for 4/3 while others stand still, please raise your hand!

Comment edited 1 minute after posting

0 upvotes

Empirical DxO and other tests tell the tale about IQ. Lets wait for the DPR review.

0 upvotes

APS-C lenses will always be bigger and heavier, as will bodies, typically. Larger sensors will continue to cost more, though the difference will likely narrow. The reasons for creating MFT are as valid today as they were a few years ago. Given that neither Panasonic nor Olynpus make any larger-sensored cameras, why would they abandon aan attractive product line? Sure, sales have been a bit slow, but that's poor marketing and limited access to retail channels. Best Buy can more easily sell Nikons and Canons and even Sonys because they have stronger brands with better name recognition, especially outside Asia. So you don't see many Micro 4/3 models outside camera shops, and camera shops have been dying off fast. Switching to some other sensor size isn't going to solve their problems and it would put them back to having no product to sell.

0 upvotes

In case anybody is interested, I've had the opportunity to play around with a pre-production model this weekend. Wrote a little report and thrown some shots together. Please be kind, this is not meant as a extensive scientific test, just a personal impression of the GH3

(and please note it's a v0.5 firmware pre-production model)

http://www.workstation.nl/gh3eng.html

http://vimeo.com/51928527

3 upvotes

Thanks for doing that. Well done.

0 upvotes

It looks like things are really coming together now!!

0 upvotes

now i'm on the fence between this and the OMD.
I am trying to cut down on weight and size from my D7000... the panny seems to be almost as big as the nikon, although it is 1/2 lighter than the nikon..
i'm using a 18-200mm lens as well. i'm just wondering if this is a deal killer for me... although there are some nice pluses to the camera...
i guess i will just have to wait until i get both in my hands at the same time ?

0 upvotes

where are the people getting the size references from???

http://camerasize.com/compare/#181,381

1 upvote

Yeah that's no D7000.

0 upvotes

Main selling point for 4/3's was the size, now panny offer this? Odd choice.

Still be interesting to see just what its capable of.

0 upvotes

The size comparison that drives me crazy is this one:
http://camerasize.com/compare/#162,381

1 upvote

Thank you for the Camera Size reference. It was nice - and surprising to me - to find out my Pentax K-x is almost the same size as the GH2.

0 upvotes

Don't be silly... if you absolutely want smaller, why not just get yourself the very affordable D5200. At least you retain a decent sized sensor in a camera the same size (and weight) as a GH3: http://camerasize.com/compare/#393,381
There is NO way I would downgrade to a smaller sensor if there isn't a size advantage, or a significant cost savings.

Comment edited 4 minutes after posting

0 upvotes

If you don't see the advantages of the GH3, you aren't who they were targeting. It's not very attractive to still photographers because it was designed for video primarily.

0 upvotes

Forgetting about opinions for a second, Does anyone know if the wireless flash on the DH3 is compatible with the Olympus Wireless Flash allowing the use of wireless METZ Flashes? All indications are yes, but I haven’t gotten any clear answers. It would nice to have a broader selection than just the one DMW-FL360L flash unit that has wireless capability. Thanks,

0 upvotes

Here is a link that the GH3 will be using the Olympus Wireless Flash protocol. (http://fourthirds-user.com/forum/showthread.php?p=86718#post86718) It will be interesting to see if the built in flash can also contribute vs. just being a commander.

0 upvotes

Yes 100% its been confirmed by Panasonic on camera in a G+ hangout I did with them some time ago.

0 upvotes

A personal experience with Metz flashes: I once had a Metz 50AF1 which was 'compatible' with my Olympus m4/3 system. Wireless TTL worked just fine until I added a second flash (Olympus brand FL-600R) to the set up. At that point it refused to contribute the appropriate flash output. Instead it always just gave a minimum power burst. I thought a firmware upgrade would do the trick (one thing Metz boasts about as being an advantage with their flashes). Nope. Needless to say, I got rid of my Metz product and have not looked back.

0 upvotes

We will know just how exceptional the GH3 is when see come comparison shots to the larger sensor APS sensors. The pictures that Lumix is publishing on their global site (http://panasonic.net/avc/lumix/dslm/gh3_special/gallery/index.html) are really quite exceptional. If the GH3 can produce pictures equivalent to the D7000 with its great color depth, and still maintain its smaller footprint with smaller lenses, and great features, how can you argue with that? The Lumix and Leica/Lumix lenses are already first class! Even if the sensor is manufactured by Sony, it certainly has great siblings. If the only weaknesses for the M4/3 cameras were the sensors, and that issue has been handled, we are certainly in for a treat.

Remember when APS sensors couldn’t compare to the Full Format Sensors. That gap has closed, and now the M43 gap appears to be closing as well. Let’s just hope the gap is closed and no more luging around oversized cameras and lenses!

0 upvotes

You are completely missing the DOF issue. Perhaps not of importance to you but it is to most others.

0 upvotes

Don't kid yourself. Just as 4/3 has been improving slightly, so has APS. It is still the same gap. And the fact that Sony also makes the new 24MP APSC sensors for their and Nikon's cameras, makes your theory dead in the womb. Granted you have nice glass, but so does Nikon, no one can deny that.

2 upvotes

Troll is trolling.

1 upvote

Hope that Panasonic will fill the gap between G5 and GH3 for serious still shooters soon. Yet keep the size tiny like an M4/3 should be. ( OM-D EM-5 is a good example.) G5 compared to G2 has less hard buttons for quick access to key shooting control like focus mode and focus point, Drive mode... etc. which is a deal breaker to me. Anyway, I am looking forward to replace my G2 for its sandy shadow detail , mute JPEG color rendering and slow burst rate.

Comment edited 2 times, last edit 4 minutes after posting

1 upvote

Yep... G5 and GH3 have an huge gap in features and price... I complained about EM-5 'hump' as it would make fitting in some bags troublesome, but GH3 took it to another level.

For me, my GH1 will serve me till it rots, I would rather have some glass than a new body, but it is always good to have alternatives :/

Still waiting for a rangefinder style like LC-1 though I wouldn't mind a bit of a grip.

Though if GH3 truly offers a bump in image quality that could mean new, cheaper bodies with the same bump. And thinking a bit ahead, maybe that gets to compacts realm as well, Panny sure needs help with those sensors there, even though they are winning in lens department...

0 upvotes

I've had the OMD since it shipped in the states and I love it. Killer camera and it took a beating. I shot about 70 assignments this year so I can tell you easy its a solid shooter, probably one the most well balanced cameras I've used.

I've had the G5 for a few weeks and its been a blast as well but the OMD and G5 are two different types of camera. The G5 might not look like an exciting camera but it handles very well and is pretty straight forward. I like the EVF more in the G5 then I do in the OMD but the OMD has the edge when it comes to screens.

OMD has a slight advantage over the G5 with still photo quality but the G5 has a very noticeable advantage over the OMD with video.

I gotta say though for $200 more then the OMD the GH3 seems pretty rad.

0 upvotes

Good job, Pana..!

2 upvotes

Not to offend everyone who's politely discussing this *camera*, but I can't believe how many a-holes are fighting like high school girls. I read all 268 comments because I'm interested in the GH3, and I barely made it through all the name calling and butt hurt ego tiffs.

Anyway, I'm excited to see what the image quality is like. Since this sensor is about the size of Sony's APS but has about half the MP of the a65/a77, there's a good chance the image will have a wider DR. I am split about 50/50 with photo and video, so both matter to me. The ability to record at a much higher bit rate is huge. I own an a65 and the video quality in decent lighting is just about equal to my consumer Canon HF-S200 camcorder. DSLR's give you a lot more control over DOF but you give up just about every useful feature in a camcorder. So, to me, bit rate is everything. I've graded/corrected footage with low bit rates and there's a huge difference in how much you can do witih the footage in post.

4 upvotes

Tyler, the GH3's m4/3 sensor is smaller than an APS-C...

http://static1.discoverdigitalphotography.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/digital-camera-types-explained-mirrorless/APS-C-vs-m43-sensor-sizes.png

I have a firmware hacked GH2 which I use just for shooting video. It has great video IQ. The hope is that the GH3 retains the GH2's IQ but will have at least one or two stops more dynamic range and will also be better for stills.

It appears the GH3 is still 8 bit 4.2.0. (video) and there has been some noticeable moire in some of the GH3's video clips thus far which is almost non existent in the GH2. Anyway we'll have a better idea once the camera is released with more mature firmware.

You'll have to excuse some of the low brow comments. One particular poster who you have no doubt identified has been quite actively slagging off at most things m4/3'rds as well as getting quite personal. It appears he has taken a break so things should be somewhat more civil around here.

Comment edited 3 times, last edit 12 minutes after posting

0 upvotes

Is there ANY forum that keeps the discussion to facts and opinions without personal attacks?
I have not seen one.

0 upvotes

I so can't wait for this camera - I just ordered mine!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

1 upvote

Thank You dpreview team for updating Your specification sheet!

0 upvotes

While some dislike the idea that Sony made the sensor, I have to say that being a fan of both Panasonic and Sony cameras, I think it's actually very good news.

My three main issues with the GH1 and GH2 were:

1 - Price
2 - Whiteouts due to dynamic range limits of the Panasonic sensor
3 - Designs looked weak and a bit girly

I quite like this new camera so far, in fact very much so. For starters, a Sony sensor is almost certainly going to improve the dynamic range. Secondly, it looks far better than the previous designs, much more meaty than the previous toy-like aesthetics of the GH1 and GH2.

Panasonic seem to excel in their ability to 'tune' and 'tone' whatever dynamic range they have to play with, and to get a very detailed image. If they manage that same sharpness out of the Sony sensor as well, the image will be amazing.

The only thing that concerns me is what the price will be, because as far as I'm concerned, the entire M4/3 format is a blatant rip-off, always has been.

4 upvotes

"The only thing that concerns me is what the price will be, because as far as I'm concerned, the entire M4/3 format is a blatant rip-off, always has been."

pumeco, Lumix DMC-GH3 is probably way too expensive for you then, especially at the now known "blatant rip-off price" of USD $1300.

You must be one of the few hearty souls who like both Panasonic M4/3 and Sony. My experience on the M4/3 forums has been that Micros 4/3 shooters are against all other formats, form factors, and manufacturers, but particularly dead-set against Sony.

Now that Panasonic is using a Sony food stamp for its sensor, we shall see if the arrogant M4/3 behavior of some M4/3 fan-zealots will change.

0 upvotes

To Francis,
I you are of the mindset that “Smaller” should be “Less Expensive” as compared to a larger format DSLR I won’t be able to change your mind, but I can assure you that you are not paying much more. Usually you get more specifications and features in a smaller package and that is what it is all about. I know, my wife has a D5100 and it compares very favorably with my G3 specifications. (And mine is $100 less) In addition, I found lenses of similar quality and speed, are pretty equal in price. M43rds might be slightly more, but they usually have better specifications. The GH3 will retail for $1299 and that compares pretty favorably with the D7000 Magnesium body with water and dust resistant enclosure. The GH3 has loads of features (Particularly Video) that the D7000 just doesn’t have.

The real reason you get Micro Four Thirds, however, is size. For a serious photo shoot, I have more lenses and a smaller case as compared to hers. Big heavy clunky vs. small light and compact.

Comment edited 2 minutes after posting

2 upvotes

@Francis
I've read a few of your replies here and get the impression you're upset about them using a Sony sensor, but in your reply to me, you come across different.

As a rule, I generally prefer the NEX system because it has a larger sensor, and that sensor has better dynamic range. Until recently the M4/3 system was still a better bet from a size and video detail point of view, but since the new Sony lenses, size is no longer a winner for M4/3.

Panasonic excel in the video detail, and they're pushing it forward a fair bit with this model from the sounds of it. One of the reasons you will now have that whopping bit-rate with All-I, is no doubt due to the Sony sensors having a fast readout. If Panasonic don't have such a sensor, they have to outsource it.

I don't visit M4/3 forums and am not aware of the other stuff, but as for price; when it reaches the UK, Dollars tend to get converted to Pounds at a ratio of 1:1, which is an absolute p-take!

Gonna be expensive then :-(

0 upvotes

I'm loving it to death, the Micro 4/3 regulars now have to put up with the added insult against M4/3 in that one of their arch-enemy, Sony is supplying the CMOS imager to Panasonic that is to be used in the Lumix DMC-GH3. M4/3 shooter have been usually belittling and even outright attacking Sony Alphas and especially Sony NEX cameras, and now -- this final insult against the M4/3 domain. The newest flagship Panasonic Micro 4/3 camera -- well, actually it is partially by Sony. I am just loving the immense irony of it.

1 upvote

Where is the problem?

I guess lot's of photographers don't have the > us and them < mentality,
so Your point is almost pointless - exept for the > us and them < fanboys... ;-)

... isn't it ironic?

3 upvotes

No real problem, based on what I read in the Micro Four Thirds Talk forum, M4/3 zealots pretty much dislike pretty much all other camera form factors and non-Panny and non-Oly mfrs.

Also, there may be a bit of a 'problem' when the camera has a body from one company, the lens from another, a sensor from a third, and who knows what else is being sourced from whom else? So, you are saying it is perfectly all right when one buys a camera that says PANASONIC, one is getting a camera w. a Sony sensor?

Incidentally, as far as I know Sony is not too deep into the entire Micro 4/3 sensor size and form factor business, but I guess there is a first try out for everything, huh?

0 upvotes

Tell me one manufacturer where all parts are made by the manufacturer himself...

...and does it make a difference for You in which country they are made...
...and does it make a difference for You, who were the shareholders of the manufacturer and his suppliers?

Could You imagine, that one shareholder owns parts of two or more competitors?

Which camera would You buy, to assure that it is completely made from one source?
And what do You think, where the ressources are from and who owns them?
Who assembles the device - does it also matter for You?

A piece of charcoal and a flat stone could be a good solution,
if one want's to have more than sand and a finger to make a picture with a tool from a known manufacturer with a known supplier - ah, wait, who is the supplier and / or manufacturer in this case?

The world is as big as Your mind, avoid to have only one point of view. ;-)

2 upvotes

@Francis, I think you crucially misunderstand the mentality of most m4/3 fans. Where is the irony in the system getting some decent sensor tech from yet another investor in the ecosystem? Go and visit m43 rumours and see the joy with which the news about the Sony sensor in the E-M5 was received, for instance. Or don't, your choice; it's just that you appear to be fighting straw men.

The only thing that has ever got my goat as a user of this system (amongst others) is the perception that m4/3 is inherently flawed because of the sensor size, along with the spurious f-number "conversions" and such that people perform. The Sony sensors are capably disproving the claims about inherently worse image quality; sadly the strange mathematics will probably never go away as long as there are "full frame" enthusiasts about. Still, what's not to love?

1 upvote

I encountered a second mistake in the GH3 specification list from dpreview:

They missed not only the environmental sealing,
but also the timelapse recording function of the GH3!

Please correct the specification list accordingly.

1 upvote

How about the 3.5mm jacks for mike and headphones?

Also, the model name could do w. some refinement. Since the GH3's amazing sensor is by Sony, maybe this thing should be called the Panasonic-Sony Lumix DMC-GH3 or something?

Comment edited 1 minute after posting

1 upvote

The dpreview standard specifications list has certain points like the point > Environmentally sealed <...

...this point contains (at the moment) the information > No <,
which is wrong...

...does the list contain the point > size of the jacks < ?
I didn't see it, so I could not spot a error there - could You?

0 upvotes

@Francis Carver
...more than 90 percent of the people on this planet don't have English as their first language...

...have I missed something?

...ah, well, I missed Your argument to the topic and the answer to my question.
U see?

3 upvotes

Physical
Environmentally sealed No

Dpreview, you have to correct that.

3 upvotes

The GH3 has about everything I wanted to see in the successor of the GH2...

...the only thing that could be the show stopper is the IQ...
...has it the fine grain of the Fuji XPro 1 or the Sigma DP1s in conjunction with Silkypix Pro?

How is the spectral response including fine color gradations?
Can one completely disable the noise reduction within Silkypix?

The specs on the datasheet are perfect for my needs - including a suited body for my hands, whilst still lightweight in comparison to a D7000...
...and a silent mode: wild animals and church visitors love that!

I'm curious to see the first RAW's for download and the performance of the 12-35 mm F2.8 - I hope the lens will deliver outstanding image quality across the whole frame and wide open - without software correction!

All in all, the GH3 seems to be the camera I was waiting for... :-)

0 upvotes

I love how you compare wild animals to church visitors!! XD... even when you actually meant wild animal photographers. I like this panny too

4 upvotes

He, he, it depends always from the point of view...

...and oh, wild animals will enjoy the Panny for sure - everywhere!

...meanwhile I am out to clean the mirror...

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Usee, you definitely need to get a FUGGI or a SIGMA then, my friend, you will be so very much happier with one of those. The Panny-Sony GH3 has an IQ that is way too low for your usual high expectations out of a camera, it seems.

0 upvotes

I already own and use Fuji and Sigma cameras...

...and I am very confident at the moment, that a Panasonic GH3 will be a good supplement.

Have You seen a spot in the mirror? ;-)

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@ Usee: you already OWN a Fuggi and a Sigma? Using them too, I suppose? Heck, no wonder then that you have absolutely no need for yet another camera, huh? Good thing too, by not getting it, one can save a nifty USD $1,300 right off the top.

What do you mean that the Panasonic-Sony GH3 is going to be a "good supplement" for your Fuggi-Sigma? You mean when one of them breaks down and then you have to send the Fuggi back for sensor replacement and lens repairs, for instance?

I guess having extra cameras in one's bag is always a good idea. I heard somewhere that seven (7) was a lucky number, as far as number of cameras to own goes.

0 upvotes

The Fuji has a nice rendering for portraits, but in comparison a low resolution...

The Sigma delivers outstanding sharpness and contrast and is very well suited for taking spectra and well lit non moving subjects...

The GH3 is probably suited for everything and surely better suited for fast snapshots in difficult angles and low light situations - especially when silence is needed - something I miss sometimes.

0 upvotes

By increasing size / weight (+25%) and canning "multi-aspect sensor" the GH3 loses 2 key advantages over APS DSLR's. No matter how they tweak processors / sensors, a smaller sensor size will always be a disadvantage compared to APS-C or FF sensors. Panasonic want to produce a hybrid video / stills camera, which unfortunately is becoming too video based and less suitable for stills photographers who need a feature rich camera in a compact package.

Negatives IMO: base ISO 200; (partial?) loss of multi aspect sensor; too video oriented; bulk, TOO many buttons / reduced ergonomics due to button/control placements and price. Other shortcomings of GH1/2 still not addressed.

I see positive gains with sealing, better screen, dual control wheels and a larger battery. Better DR / high ISO performance / faster processor??? Past claims in this regard were always way exaggerated, so would have to test this. In-camera HDR is clearly no substitute for a good sensor.

No GH3 for me, thanks!

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Thank you for sharing with us why you are not buying a GH3, Alan, thanks again. BTW, didn't you know before you read the review that the Micro 4/3 sensor is actually physically (surface area in square mm) SMALLER than either an APS-C sensor or a FF 135 sensor?

I guess I had the advantage of knowing that going into the most excellent DP Review preview, so I am not as shocked at anything as you seem to be.

1 upvote

@Alan. If you look at the weight of the body and lens combination the micro four thirds system is still significantly lighter. In terms of size, it actually isn't an issue as most of the micro four thirds cameras with even their kit lenses are not pocketable, except maybe the GF3/5 with the x kit lens. And the GH3 is ~90g heavier than GH2 with the weight of all the lenses remaining the same, so it doesn't add that much more weight.

@Alan Just curious, which of the disadvantages of the "smaller sensor size" are important to you? Are you talking shallow depth of field, high ISO shooting? For shallower depth of field the 25mm 1.4 and 20 1.7 work pretty well. In some cases the increase in the depth of field can be advantageous (macro for example). Unless you are shooting at ISO 3200 or more on a regular basis, you would be hard pressed to find a difference unless you blow your images to poster size or have your nose an inch away from the computer screen and the image at 200%.

Comment edited 2 times, last edit 4 minutes after posting

1 upvote

GH2 was significantly better than GH1 in both stills and video, but it remains to be seen if GH3 is significantly better than GH2. I think it is too soon to judge if GH3 is a good/great camera or not, and even if it is great it may still not be for everyone.

I was a little disappointed when Panasonic moved away from the multi-aspect sensor, but hopefully they have a good reason for it and the new sensor is significantly better than the old one. If it isn't then the GH3 does not offer enough in terms of an upgrade from GH2 for me to get it, but let's wait and see.

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Agreed, the lack of a multi-aspect sensor is a HUGE disappointment. I won't rule out the cam, though, but one great selling point over the Oly EM is gone. I'll be giving the Oly a longer look now.

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Panasonic, please put back multi-aspect sensor to GH3!

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Panasonic, please get back multi-aspect sensor to GH3!

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Nope -- we really don't need that for 1920 x 1080 video. Not even for 1280 x 720 video. Further, with an anamorphic lens or anamorphical lens adapter front of the spherical lens, we can happily shoot CinemaScope-style video clips using the M4/3 sensor. Nifty.

0 upvotes

I agree with Rocklobster below...I have 2 extensive kits (MFT & Fullframe)..also..video is not my thing...
The whole attraction for MFT for me is the small size (WITH image quality)..so..I don't understand the GH3. Once i start getting into this size realm...I might just as well pick up my 5D Mark III and be done with it. (I know that the Canon camera & lenses are tons bigger..but if I am headed in that direction in camera size, I might as well get the image quality,too).)
MFT..just keep it simple...and SMALL!
I would not buy the GH3, although it is a great camera..it's just not for me.

Comment edited 2 minutes after posting

0 upvotes

> MFT..just keep it simple...and SMALL!
Meaning: Avoid competing with Canon.

GH3 is still only 550g vs. 950g of MkIII with same level of controls and ergonomics.
Add ~600g for optically better 4/3 Panasonic Leica D 14-150mm+adapter vs ~1.7kg of EF 28-300mm L.
Or Lumix G 7-14mm vs DSLR ultra wides and weight difference of travel package is major.

In DSLRs others couldn't challenge Canikon duopoly. Now transformation to fully digital mirrorless gives others new chance enabling flexible system from simple compacts to full controls and ergonomics bodies depending on needs and situation.

So people wanting to start serious photography might realize they don't need flapping mirror DSLR.
Obviously that makes Canon and Nikon nervous.

Isn't that the real reason why you and many others so obsessively resist mirrorless systems offering also bodies with high end controls and ergonomical grip?
That's what Canon and Nikon want people to think to retain their market stranglehold.

3 upvotes

I guess if one hangs around here long enough, one can find some totally serious comparisons of M4/3 to full-frame 135 DSLRs. Personally, I also like the 1/2.3-inch sensor P&S camera comparisons against the medium format cameras -- so useful!

1 upvote

I always thought the GH1/2 were TOO small to handle. So the increase in size is a GOOD thing, IMO.

2 upvotes

Gee that camera is big - almost average DSLR size - better grip/handling I suppose but has grown in weight from 394 to 550g or nearly 40%. Wouldn't like to lug that around especially taking video. Sort of goes against the whole M4/3 philosohy. Pity, as this was almost a benchmark for M4/3 but I, suppose, there are smaller options in the G5 and E-M5 if ultimate video performance is not your bag.

Cheers

0 upvotes

Difference is ~100grams with battery, and that in the all right places.

Philosophy of mirrorless system should be flexibility!
Not religious dogma to only small unergonomical and on screen menu hell controls bodies forcing you back to film legacy DSLR systems when you want camera which doesn't get in the way of photography.

2 upvotes

Nice, concidered the GH2 for it's video attributes but wasn't keen on hacking it. Glad panasonic manned up with decent out of the box compression/bit rate, this might be my first ever ticket to M43 territory.

1 upvote

The GH3 is exactly the upgrade from my GH2 I was hoping for.

I wanted a slightly larger body to make the handling a little less 'fiddly'. The body size isn't what matters with M43, it's the advantage in lens size that makes the difference.

The wifi capabilities are exciting and with the 12-35 zoom ( which I already have) and the new 35-100mm, it now has an almost pro level capability in a twin lens package. I did say almost.

I'd never done video before I bought a GH2 but now I find myself making a bit of money from Youtube with it. I'm not usually inclined to upgrade a cameras just because one comes out but this looks like a camera I will keep for years and I have pre-ordered one and the 35-100 zoom.

3 upvotes

The GH3 is not a camera for us ordinary folk. Now is the time for Panasonic to introduce a GX-something with manual controls and internal EV for those who do mostly stills photography and prefer a rangefinder style camera but want something a bit more modern and pocketable than the the EM-5. Some will say that the G5 offers a viewfinder in a small package, and I am sure it is a good camera, but prefer the rangefinder style with smaller and collapsible lenses.

As for longer and heavier lenses, a GH2 or a G5? - an interesting question.

0 upvotes

Maybe you should be looking at a camera manufacturer's products that actually makes rangefinder VF cameras then? Why does it has to be a Panasonic?

0 upvotes

So many seem to be missing the point about this camera. It is Panasonic's response to the demands of serious videographers, who proved to be a far bigger market for the GH2 than the company expected. It had to be bigger, to be more rugged, and to offer better handling and controls for filming. That it can also be a good weather-sealed stills camera is a bonus. The multi-aspect sensor is less important for videographers because video is using only a small proportion of the pixels anyway. And 16:9 is classically used for video. 4:3 is a classic stills aspect ratio, although I know some stills shooters like a wider frame.

If you want all the benefits of a really small stills system, 43 is still good - just go for OMD, G5 or one of the smaller GFs or Pens.

2 upvotes

I'm still system free and looking for a video-focused, tele focused, ILC camera but I'm not sure this sits well with me. If anything, it's making me look for a GH2. I'm not going to be doing a whole lot of post work on anything I pick and that seems to be the main additional feature (bitrate stuff) compared to the GH2.

I like the A65 a lot, the viewfinder is amazing. I also like the E-M5. The IBIS in both really appeal to me compared to the panasonics. Then again, the panny 45-200mm F4-5.6 OIS looks like a winner so I wouldn't need it. APS-C gets me the Sigma 50-500mm F4.5-6.3 DG OS HSM though, and 750mm equiv seems awesome.

Also, the ETC feature is awesome. Unique to the GH2/GH3 right?

Advice? Main use case: boredom at little league games from the stands.

0 upvotes

well best advice is .. wait for the image quality on GH3 ..
many tele focused lenses available and upcoming!

If results wont be good enough get OMD!

APSC and SLT sucks big time :))

0 upvotes

I was also looking to go for the Sony a77 with the 16-55 f2.8 but then I found some reviews online and I don't think I will be going there. Do you know the Sony has an additional crop factor for video?!? and the AF tracking durring video on the a77 is pretty sad. Glad they are innovating though and hope they work it out.

0 upvotes

There is no "additional crop factor for video" on the Sony SLT Alpha 77 or any other DSLT from Sony, unless you engage IBIS. So, if you shut it off, as you should, you have your standard 1.5x crop, AFAIK.

If you don't like how Sony DSLTs do autofocusing in video mode, maybe you should be looking at Canon and Nikon HDSLRs instead. They are well know to be far superior in AF in video mode than anything else out there, you know.

1 upvote

As a Canon 550D and Nikon D3200 owner as well as a GH2 videographer I can tell you that AF on video from Canon and Nikon is not as good as a follow-focus rig. The GH2 already has very competent video AF and I expect the GH3 to improve upon that, plus the higher DR and bitrates. I have no illusion with the stills IQ but as a videographer, the GH3 deserves a serious look. While the weather sealing does add to the pricing, I expected the price to be lower, oh well...

Comment edited 1 minute after posting

0 upvotes

Prices I'm seeing for this look like they're going to be in the seriously expensive range. $1299 for the body alone, according to Amazon. Other stories indicating that the standard bundle will be with the very nice 35-100mm lens, and that the package will be around $2000. Wow.

Edit: Although, now I look at it, if the body goes for $1299, I'd be surprised if the bundle is as low as $2000, since the two weathersealed, high quality Lumix lenses are about $1400-$1500 each. So maybe more like $2200? This is, of course, just a guess.

Comment edited 7 minutes after posting

0 upvotes

I wouldn't say $1299 for the body was 'seriously' expensive. Besides, that's MSRP. No doubt we'll see it at $999 or lower after a while.

1 upvote

The GH3 with the 12-35mm f2.8 as a kit for $2,000 would sell like hot cakes. I know I would run to the bank for that combo.

Comment edited 44 seconds after posting

0 upvotes

Camera itself is priced all right, and of course one of the main reason to get a M4/3 mount camera is that there are dozens of lens mount adapters out there, so you can get hundreds if not thousands of legacy photo, film, television, etc lenses on this thing. Some start as low as US$0.49 on eBay, there are quite a few for $0.99, and starting at around $10, we are getting into zoom optics that, with a handy mount adapter and proper consideration to image circles, barreling and the like, will suit a M4/3 sensor job like the GH3 fine.

These new Panasonic zooms are about 2.5x-3x the price than what they should be. I could afford the camera, but not the new Panny and Oly M4/3 lenses.

0 upvotes

I really like the look of this. It could replace my E3 and my Sony HDR-HC1E video camera.
To all those people whinging about the size of it - same size as Canon this or Nikon that....okay maybe it is. But those are entry level toy cameras. Plus, do they have compact constant f2.8 zooms? No, they do not.

4 upvotes

Fair points indeed. I think the real area of comparison here is the OM-D E-M5. And it might come down to a size vs. video capability trade-off, depending on one's needs. For stills, edge would likely go to the OLY (even if the GH3 is ultimately able to match it in IQ, the faster frame rate, IBIS, and fact that it's less than half the size should win out for most). But if videos matter to you in a serious, professional sort of way, and size is not a concern, I'd imagine that the GH3 would be the no-brainer choice if picking between these two.

5 upvotes

Yeah, I think thats right. As I am more of a photographer than videographer the Oly might be a better bet. I would love to have aplay with this though and I really hope it does well.

3 upvotes

Me, too. What it does with videos looks pretty stunning, and I'm sure it will be a great still camera. Rather big for what it is, but I also hope it does well.

2 upvotes

The only concern about OMD is its compromise on handeling. If it handels well in your hands .. its a clear winner for still photographers with its outstanding IBIS and already proven high IQ

0 upvotes

Sore points, surprises, and stupidness IMO:

- Still no IBIS,
- Still limited to 1/4000s
- Still a 128s limit on bulb (no matter what)
- X is still too low at 1/160s.
- USB 2.0 - Not 3.0? Really?
- Only 6fps in continuous drive? (how big/fast is the buffer?)
- EC is still ±5 EV and not ±7

Comment edited 2 times, last edit 7 minutes after posting

2 upvotes

Where did you see that the bulb mode is limited to 128 seconds?

2 upvotes

it looks you are clearly very disappointed with this huge list of complains but none is a big conern for me, atleast!

non multiaspect sensor is a bit of concern, but i guess can live without it!

why you need faster than 1/4000 sec? and +7 EV for :))

3 upvotes

of course a FF sensor would have been better! But oh-well, these little µ4/3 are doing a pretty great job anyway!

The size and weight of FF glass is only a concern for weight-wimps IMHO! There seems to be a class of half-girly like photos that have risen up lately and they're very very verbal about saving an unnoticeable amount of grams and millimeters. Phewy I say!! I aint no girly photog. :) I barely notice the difference between the GH2 and the D700 in the field! Of course I usually don't carry more than 2 lenses with me unless it's a paid gig and the GH2 (or GH3) probably won't be stepping in on that territory anyway.

The news here is the weather sealing, and nice size increase, and the now adequate video codec. All of which Panasonic deserve praise for.

The rest of the improvements seemingly look rather lackluster to me. Like only 6fPS in continuous? Not 12 or 20? And how big is that frame-buffer - I bet it's too small (again), etc. etc.

2 upvotes

>>if it had a FF sensor we would be all oooh and ahhhh
Oooh, how am i gonna carry all this FF glass in the field?

Comment edited 4 minutes after posting

1 upvote

I downsized to a Panasonic G3 from a Canon 450d to save a lot of weight and bulk. Seems like the GH3 is moving too close to DSLR territory which appears to defeat one of the main purposes of MICRO 4/3rds. Even the new G5 is bigger and heavier than the G3. Is the market confused? With travel by air these days limiting you to a tiny 5kg carry on and that is all--cameras need to be smaller and lighter and not the other way around. Panasonic might just as well go the whole hog and move into FX territory.

Comment edited 35 seconds after posting

2 upvotes

True, i've seen men who couldn't take all the glass they wanted because of the airplane max takeoff weight limit )

0 upvotes

you still have and will have smaller cheaper m43 if you really want small. additional functionality and pro body and controls has its price!

otherwise am quite agree with your comment about FF. However FF lenses are atleast 3 times heavier and even their smallest bodies D600 and 6D are considerably heavier!

http://www.seriouscompacts.com/f2/merging-system-bounderies-fullframe-d600-fourthird-gh3-12646/

0 upvotes

Panasonicus, have you looked into some of the new P&S cameras priced at US$150 and under? Some of them weigh 150 grams or under, you know.

So, at a buck per gram, you are getting a heckluva lot better deal with those than with this here DMC-GH3, see? Less reason to visit your chiropractor, too.

0 upvotes

At 550g the G3 is almost exactly the same size and weight as the Nikon D5200. If I'm going to carry around that much bulk I may as well use a real DSLR.

0 upvotes

Total comments: 418