Ready for its close-up: Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ1000 Review

Just make them sign a liability waiver. Maybe it's different in the UK, but here, you'd occasionally need to worry about some bridezilla who'd want to sue you for not getting just the right picture. You'd also want to have some sort of back-up camera, I think.

Now that I've replied, I see that its been a month since you posted this, what did you decide?

Jan 28, 2016permalink

utomo99

Panasonic please design new cameras based on this. and try to solve the Cons problems.
and use new sensor technology and use 2.8 Lens

Dec 20, 2015permalink

precious09

my screen size on my fz 1000 is now halve of the size. How do I set it back to normal?

Dec 17, 2015*permalink

I have been using this camera now for around a year and I am very happy with it. Here are a few recent shots from a music festival:
https://www.flickr.com/photos/maleny_steve/albums/72157656347853214

And some video here:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PJglsU6QDu0

I often use a plug-in power microphone with the camera for video, a Tascam TM-2X Stereo Camera Microphone.

Dec 7, 2015permalink

I hate menus

Excellent shots from the festival - nearly all pin sharp and very impressive photos in low light or coloured ambient light. VERY useful examples of what the camera can do. Persuasive. Many thanks for the link.

Feb 24, 2016permalink

MarioRR

Hi Steve,
Graet boat trip, would like to do the same, maybe this Summer..
Did you shoot video in 4K or HD?

Feb 28, 2016permalink

davids8560

A BIG +1 on the video, for sure! I was so happy when this camera came out. But I hardly use mine, as it turns out.

Mar 17, 2016permalink

tbcass

Why is bulky a con. I consider small size a con in many ways. If it's a con for some it's a plus for others.

Dec 1, 2015permalink

marike6

"Bulky" is a con because DPR decided it was a con. In the real world photographers demand robust cameras with deep grips. These tiny fashion accessory snap shot cameras that reviewers seem to favor, are absolutely terrible to shoot with.

Dec 7, 2015permalink

Agreed. When one considers that there are no other lenses needed, the bulk factor goes way down. Just a small camera bag with maybe a spare battery, table-top tripod, lens cloth, spare battery and card... It's not possible to make a 25-400 w/1" sensor any smaller. If size is the priority, one would either have to give up some of the zoom range, go to a smaller sensor, or both.

Jan 28, 2016permalink

essibja

does anybody knows wich microphone can I bouy for this camera in a low price

Oct 4, 2015permalink

I use a plug-in power microphone, a Tascam TM-2X Stereo Camera Microphone. No batteries needed, does not suck out too much power from the camera battery and gets rid of all camera noises.

Dec 7, 2015permalink

James Bondage

Edutige ETM-006 is a nice small mic that works well. About 50 bucks.

Jan 21, 2016permalink

alexandis

Look at this full-size picture:
http://3.static.img-dpreview.com/files/p/TS5472x3648~sample_galleries/5539195489/4968385202.jpg?v=3333

Do you see this gouache on cranes?
And it's called super quality?! Gold award? For what?
There are other photos with the same loose of details.

What a disappointment! Compare this to great pictures by Nikon Coolpix P7800, that is represented on this site, too. It's a far cry.

Oct 1, 2015permalink

Astrotripper

LOL, comment of the month.

So I guess now cameras are expected to defy physics and fix atmospheric distortions in-camera. Now that would be something worth Platinum award :)

Oct 9, 2015permalink

tbcass

alexandis; The P7800 is a tiny sensor POS compared to this camera. What I do see in that photo are distortions cause by atmospheric disturbances, a common problem with long telephoto shots. The fact you didn't realize than is a true display of your ignorance.

Dec 1, 2015*permalink

I hate menus

Agreed. Even before I saw these subsequent comments, it struck me as obvious that a lot of zoom was being used and it takes a mighty lens and a rock-solid platform to get high levels of sharpness. The ship is mostly in focus but not the faces of the folks on the upper platform - another giveaway that this was a fairly extreme zoom.

Feb 24, 2016permalink

Denny Pritchett

I have one of these on order, plus a variable strength ND, stereo shotgun mic, and a 128gb class 3 SD card, and if I keep the camera, I'll get a Nissin i40 flash with wireless capability. I've read all the reviews and comments I could find, and I've decided to try this. I just sold a Nikon D7000, and a Nikon D7100, plus a bag full of lenses, which replaced 2 Olympus E-M5s and lenses that I used for 2.5 years. I became disillusioned with M4/3 because there isn't a long lens available with acceptable image quality for nature/wildlife, and only the very latest, top of line, most expensive camera bodies have acceptable focus tracking for action, and even they are suspect. The 100-300mm Panasonic, the 70-300mm Olympus lenses are not fast enough, and like all entry to mid-level lenses of that focal length in any brand suffer terribly from softness and poor IQ at the longer focal lengths; I've tried most of them.

I think the FZ1000 is going to put the fun back into photography for me.

Sep 29, 2015permalink

Gediminas 8

That class 3 SD card is certainly going to.

Dec 2, 2015permalink

Also make sure you get a spare battery or 2. I have done a lot of travel with this camera and can go all day doing video and stills on 2 batteries.

Dec 7, 2015permalink

James Bondage

Make that a UHS Class 3 than.

Jan 21, 2016permalink

How is the FZ1000 working out for you 4 months later, Denny? I'm thinking of replacing my old Pentax K100D with one, and maybe the MX1 also.

Jan 28, 2016permalink

Denbettes

What about you Smaug1? Did you buy it? And what's your experience?

Jul 11, 2016permalink

Gearóid Ó Laoi, Garry Lee

Denbettes: Yes, I bought it and I love it. This is the camera I take with me probably 70% of the time. It's big enough (lens and sensor) to be really capable and to give high quality results, but small enough to carry as to be convenient. (no accessories really needed) When I really need to go small, I carry my G9X, and when I really want the top quality photos and am willing to carry more, I take the Nikon D610. The 1" sensor with a high quailty lens is really a happy medium between a 1/2.5" sensor point & shoot and a larger sensor SLR.

Jul 11, 2016permalink

I got one last week and I've used it a lot. I've very good "serious" cameras and lenses, Canon D and Sony NEX to name some, but I've always like bridge cameras of which I've had three in the past. They are very handy.
The AF in this is as good as most SLRs and better than some. I've used it for cycling and running and it's great. The OS keeps the ISO low so in reasonable light, it's fine. The lens is great. I've a couple of quibbles. The zoom/focus button and OS buttons are easily knocked out of position, accidentally. I'm going to tape over them. The second is that the motorised zoom is a bit slow. The IQ is fine. It took me a good bit to work out all the practical workings of the camera. One thing they might address in software is button combinations to rush the zoom to particular focal lengths, or stored ones.
Overall, for what it does, this is a magnificent all-in-one. It's less than two pounds weight.

Sep 13, 2015*permalink

Frank999

I used the FZ1000 now for over one month. I'm very satisfied with the results so far. I'm used shooting dslr full frame with good glass. I bought this camera for traveling/hiking trips because of the weight.

I agree with the review that the image quality is excellent, but it should add 'for the money this camera costs'. It can not compare with the quality of a dslr full frame with good glass, but that option costs at least 5 times more, so forget about that comparison.

But what about the video quality? that is amazing, never seen before. The result is superb. Very sharp, good colors and excellent handling. Just plug in your microphone and use a ND filter. You really will need that ND filter in bright sunlight. Excellent, I'm very happy with this camera.

Aug 30, 2015*permalink

Birdy1970

i agree..but if u have enought light u can compare with DSLR and good glasses.there enought examples in internet.specialy when u use raw.
there test where compare with full format sensors and thats very intresting.
at last the price is ok.no DSLR can give u all that for this price.

Sep 11, 2015*permalink

KZMike

How about some info on the ND filter. . . factor #.

Sep 18, 2015permalink

Denny Pritchett

The Ritz Gear variable ND 62mm is excellent, great quality and price on Amazon, check it out.

Sep 29, 2015*permalink

Birdy1970

i use the XCSOURCE 2-400.its very cheap and had very good quality for that price.some people say build quality not so good.i cant say that.im happy with it.

Oct 28, 2015permalink

I hate menus

How are you finding battery life for still photography? The dpreview doesn't suggest that batteries last too long. I assume there are plenty of options for spares.

Feb 24, 2016permalink

chrisnfolsom

For the soccer mom or dad who wants full range, video with zoom and manual when needed it's so much better then the slr they all have and barely use. Yes it's big, but smaller then an slr with a 400mm lens and still flexible with great video support.

The only issue might be indoor sports and speed which I would like to see some examples of.

I could give this to my wife and have her take pictures and not worry too much - not so for an slr and two lenses, or even a long zoom lens and non with have power zoom which is much easier and similar to most compacts.

With the new Sony though - love that sensor..... Any chance on a FZ2000 any time soon?

Aug 11, 2015*permalink

theoldphotoguy

I bought the FZ 1000 after using the FZ 50 recommended by another pro for a light weight pack camera...and have to say i a'm very happy with camera for alot of reasons . tooo many newbies think they need all the bells and whistles and in reality as a pro we need something that has a sharp lens with a workable f stop because most of what i shoot is on a tri-pod . I was shocked at the prints i have made on my Epson wide format printer even at 400mm . It is not the box but the len's that i look for . Good Glass give's you good prints...and this thing has beautiful glass for something under $900 . Love It !

Jul 4, 2015permalink

meetinglands

I'm personally waiting for Lumix GX 8 with 4K , ists the most beautifull camera

Jun 19, 2015permalink

ZAnton

To DPReview: Thanks for the exellent comparison. It would also be nice to see lens comparison at 35, 50 and 85/100 mm equivalents. For example on the studio test scene at 60mm Pana has definitely sharper image in the center and 2/3 outside (cards). So those focus lengths are much more usefull than telezoom extremes such as 200 or 400mm.

Jun 2, 2015*permalink

So this is a really interesting option and probably the best point-and-shoot camera available today. A true bridge camera.

But, for that same amount of money or less, you can get a two-lens DSLR or mirrorless camera kit.

"Sure," you say. But those lenses aren't as fast. You'd be right, they're not. But with larger sensors, you can make up for the slower lenses by dialing up the ISO. You get more ISO flexibility with a mirrorless or DSLR camera by 1-2 stops, which makes up for it.

In terms of shallow depth of field, you won't get it with a camera like this, as you can see with the "equivalent aperture" charts.

Instead, spend your $800-900 on a two-lens ILC kit and then go find a used portrait prime lens somewhere.

The only real advantage of a camera like this over entry-level interchangeable lens cameras is that you don't have to carry QUITE as much around because it's an all-in-one solution. But this is a pretty bulky camera considering it's just a very good point & shoot.

May 29, 2015*permalink

straylightrun

That's a terrible comparison. Someone after a single lens solution isn't going to bother with getting 2 lenses they need to swap and an additional prime lens. Also I'm not sure you'll find many MILC cameras starting from 25mm and ending at 400mm. Most start at 28mm and end at 300mm. Closest MILC to this would be the Panasonic G7 with the 14-140 lens (28-280mm vs 25-400mm) which also has 4k. This is still cheaper and has a bigger range. There is nothing else on the market.

May 30, 2015permalink

I think most people are just after better photos. If they're REALLY concerned about size and portability, they're probably not going to buy this camera anyway since it's quite bulky.

So who is it really for?

It's very expensive for a point-and-shoot...more expensive than many entry-level DSLR and mirrorless kits, even with two lenses.

The faster lens is a selling point over interchangeable lens cameras, but the smaller sensor negates that selling point.

In terms of wide angle, Panasonic has a new 12-32mm kit lens. But if you're buying the FZ100, are you primarily concerned about wide angle? Probably not. This camera was built for telephoto.

Canon's 2-lens Rebel T3i bundle for $799 covers a full-frame equivalent range of 28.8-480mm. http://shop.usa.canon.com/shop/en/catalog/eos-rebel-t3i-ef-s-18-55mm-is-ii-lens-kit-with-ef-75-300mm-f-4-56-iii?cm_sp=SP-_-estore-_-

The biggest selling point I can think of for this camera is the 4K video. But how useful is that for a P&S camera?

May 31, 2015*permalink

straylightrun

Yes, the consumer is after better photos. This 1inch sensor and huge zoom range is already a massive step up from their smartphones. This bridge camera is more convenient than having to switch lenses all the time, and those kit lenses do not compare to the lens on the FZ1000, and especially when you have to stop down to f/8 to get good results. You don't understand how the average consumer thinks. Convenience is of high priority, and convenience is what the FZ1000 delivers. A 2 lens bulkier DSLR kit is just not comparable.

Jun 3, 2015permalink

One great thing about Micro 4/3 is that almost every lens is designed to be shot wide open. They are so sharp you don't need to stop them down. Almost every review of Micro 4/3 lenses that I read says something like, "This lens is so sharp you won't have a problem using it wide open...how do they do it?" That includes the kit lenses.

I can't really comment on the kit lenses for consumer DSLRs.

If you're savvy enough to care about sensor size and lens aperture (and you're spending $800 on a camera), the simple task of switching lenses is probably not a huge burden. Some enthusiasts might say, "Wow, I can get a camera with an f2.8-f4 25-400mm equivalent lens for $800!" not realizing what they lose in ISO flexibility. I almost got sucked in by it myself.

The FZ1000 and RX10 would be a huge hit at $500 or even $600. But $800 or more is asking just a bit too much. Give the RX10 a teleconverter and

The person buying this camera is not stepping up from a smartphone.

Jun 8, 2015*permalink

skewed

I already have two Pentax APS-C DSLR bodies, one of which is the flagship K3. I also have 8 enthusiast quality lenses including a Sigma 120-400. But I can walk around with my FZ1000 and be ready for almost anything, including birds in flight. The combination of 400mm reach with very fast and accurate autofocus is simply not available in a light, compact and affordable DSLR combo.

If I set out to take carefully composed shots of stationary subjects, then of course I'll use my Pentax equipment. But I will definitely keep my FZ1000, and probably sell some of my Pentax kit. Some experienced guys have completely abandoned their DSLR kits in favor of the FZ1000, which is much more than a "very good point and shoot".

Jun 13, 2015permalink

User8461851375

Well I'm no pro but I have an old Hasselblad medium format and a Cannon F1n DSLR along with a host of cameras I inherited from my Dad. I don't use any of those because a) they use film, b) they are too much to lug around and c) none of them are auto focus. I have a wheeled case for the Hasselblad like a roll aboard for all the lenses and accessories. I have one digital P&S camera, a Panasonic Lumix DMC-LX2S that I want to upgrade. I have NO INTEREST in buying another interchangeable lens camera and a bag full of lenses. I'm tired of buying lenses and accessories that become obsolete. I want something with a wider zoom range, a bigger sensor, the fastest aperture I can get but still in a small enough package I won't break my back. This looks like the perfect camera for me. As others have said, the Sony DSC-RX10 (II) is the only other camera in competition. I like that the Sony is F2.8 at all focal lengths but in the image comparisons I've seen the FZ1000 looks better.

Sep 10, 2015permalink

I think this is a pretty good shallow depth of field shot, taken a few days ago with my FZ1000...
https://flic.kr/p/BDCU8A

Dec 7, 2015permalink

MediaDigitalVideo

Are there people with the FZ1000 who don't have problems with Wifi connection to Android device with Lolipop 5.1 and higher

May 20, 2015permalink

skysi

@adamgreen

I'm personally waiting for Lumix GX 8 with 4K

May 16, 2015permalink

skysi

@danieladougan

I didn't really ask. I responded to the OP's dilemma :)

May 16, 2015permalink

onezerosix

i'm debating on DMC-FZ1000 or Sony A6000. I'll be taking pictures at family events & scenery shots. which be better choice? i'm not really looking for 4k video.

May 4, 2015permalink

skysi

Then why pay for 4K? Get the Sony

May 14, 2015permalink

adamgreen

4K video is a lot of fun. Reading the comments here (assuming these are legit people, who knows?) this particular Pana is not a great camera for video (noise, build quality, functionality of the controls) and expensive for a mega-zoom.
I really like the control ring, but as the reviewer noted, even that isn't quite properly done (for lack of a good grip on the lens) so I think this is a "wait for version 2" product.

May 15, 2015permalink

http://www.freshfordsomerset.co.uk/photosurvey_freshford.php

skysi asked "why pay for 4K?"

What makes 4K so interesting to me is that you can take 8 MP photos with a 24 fps burst rate. Video is, after all, just a series of photographs. How good is that if you're shooting action?

Also, the FZ1000 has a long lens (400mm in full-frame terms) with, at worst, an f4 aperture. Now think how much that would cost and how bulky that would be with even a mirrorless camera let alone a DSLR.

May 15, 2015*permalink

yudi

I am thinking about the same. Sony a6000 + 18-200mm lens has the similar weight as Pan FZ1000. but, the APS-C sensor inside a6000 is a big attraction. The 4K video doesn't really bothers me, besides that a6000's video shooting is very functional. I have been wondering why Pan cannot make the FZ1000 not so bulky.

Aug 16, 2015permalink

Geoff Edwards

I have published two examples of photos taken with my Canon SX10 and my Panasonic FZ1000. The photos are taken from the same location on a tripod. I set the cameras to their widest angle and used Aperture priority F8. The SX10 was set to ISO80 and the FZ1000 to ISO 125.

I was quite surprised that there wasn't a major difference between the two cameras.

Apr 18, 2015*permalink

Seriously? there's noticeable difference (even at that low ISO) the canon blows out highlights much, much more not to mention the shadows are a bit of a mess on the canon too. Either way, you'll find it hard to tell differences in IQ (not that you can't on your comparison) at low ISOs even if you compare a m43 with an iPhone, the whole point of a larger sensor is high ISO performance, and when couples with optics, more flexibility with DOF. In short, you are looking for differences in the wrong places, try high ISOs in low-light.

Aug 4, 2015permalink

Sprintmedley

I did not like the body work but particularly the play in the on/off and lens levers (absurd for the Leica model). The camera worked impressively but I returned it based on the body which I do not think will hold up well in any level of precipitation.

Mar 9, 2015permalink

Sabatia

Hey man, you knew or certainly should have known it wasn't weatherproof before you bought it. What were you thinking? Or not.

Apr 1, 2015permalink

I bought a BMW 1 series convertible and it worked impressively but I returned it based on the body which I do not think will hold up well in my furniture delivery business.

Aug 4, 2015permalink

inDefiance

Whenever I'm outside in daylight, I"ll wear polarized sunglasses. I've read that the EVF of the FZ1000 in landscape position cannot be used with polarized sunglasses. If that's true, can I use the lcd screen in landscape position to take pictures? I think most photos are probably taken in landscape, so I was a little surprised that the EVF could not be used if you're wearing polarized sunglasses. Perhaps someone who wears polarized sunglasses and has used the FZ1000 could help me out on this. I looked through the review and the posts below and didn't find this information. Thank you for any help or suggestions.

Feb 22, 2015permalink

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YS7a4F3aiYU

remove your glasses before shooting ;)

Apr 16, 2015permalink

CharlesMar

Actually, in my case anyway, it's the back display that appears dark while wearing polarised sunglasses and holding the camera horizontal. Turning my head a few degrees left or right fixes that. Holding the camera vertical (portrait mode) also. The EVF works fine with my sunglasses.

May 10, 2015permalink

aaanouel

Just give it a try, many cameras get rough times while using a CPL and autofocusing... but it's half truth only. It's not a big problem indeed, not an absolute restriction.

May 12, 2015*permalink

tom855

I had the chance to look at some videos taken with the FZ1000. Why do they appear "choppy?" It looks like they record then skip a beat the record some more. Honestly I'm interested in the camera for photos and not videos, but of course I'd like quality video as well. I'm looking to replace my FZ28. Can anybody comment on what I'm seeing and why the video looks like that? Thanks!

Feb 4, 2015permalink

jim stirling

If you are viewing videos at 4k resolution it could well be your computer or player . I have found VLC works very well.

Feb 12, 2015permalink

Denny Pritchett

Also depends on speed of the card used. I found with the Olympus E-M5 that using the fastest cards I could find at the time greatly improved the smoothness of video.

Sep 13, 2015permalink

ajadwin

Does anyone else have a problem with the audible humming noise?

I found it to be very annoying, and I really didn't like it humming over my indoor video. It's quite audible on scenes that should be quiet, with no zooming or focusing and certainly no wind. I wondered if maybe the DPR test camera didn't have the noise, since they make no mention of it. But their sample video inside the bar has it.

That video sounds as if the camera was out on a busy street, not indoors.

Feb 3, 2015*permalink

http://www.dpreview.com/forums/post/55215361

I know about the noise, but i use a Rode stereo video-mic pro, so it is not a problem for me, i know it can be for some, however, this is a camera that demands the best and for serious video work like i do i would never use any camera mic whatsoever, there is another thread somewhere regarding this noise and workarounds.

Feb 4, 2015permalink

EcoPix

The thread is at:

It's worth reading for anyone thinking of doing vid with this camera. There is also a discussion on the Amazon user's forum.

To give an idea of the volume, it is very obvious when standing by the camera in a quiet place, or around your neck, and very obvious on video with the volume set highish, viewed in a quiet room. If you put your ear to the body, it is loud.

However, I took it back to the shop in a shopping mall, and there was no hope of hearing it. I put my ear to the camera in the shopping mall, and still couldn't hear it - just the 'seashell effect'.

So it's about quiet situations, and no good for 'atmos' recordings. The external mic is the solution, though sometimes inconvenient, but I've had to extend mine to 50mm higher than the hotshoe to avoid the external mic recording the noise.

We hope for a fix, be it software or a recall by Panasonic.

Feb 5, 2015permalink

Marc Trotter

Does this not have an "auto" mode for people who want to use it as a point and shoot? Looking for a travel zoom for my daughter, who would like to take advantage of the larger sensor and image quality, but probably will not want to spend much time on all the settings. Thanks.

Feb 2, 2015permalink

It `has` got an auto mode, its called `IA`mode, read the review or download the manual for it, before jumping to conclusions.

Feb 4, 2015permalink

EcoPix

The more I use the FZ-1000, the more I'm convinced it's the mirrorless body Canon and Nikon should have made for their lens systems but didn't.

Imagine this with an APS-c sensor and an EF mount. Or a DX sensor and F-mount. A big percentage of SLR users would add it as a body that's better integrated into video use than an SLR. They'd have sold millions.

Instead of that Canikon mucked around with odd-ball things for restricted markets, and Panasonic has had to do the sensible thing instead. But to accommodate a compact do-everything fixed lens, it needed a small sensor, which is a bit too rough for bigger print sizes in stills.

So we have a somewhat compromised version of a Canikon mirrorless body, with it's own lens. But it still complements Canon or Nikon SLR gear quite well. I'd call it the first non-fiddly mirrorless body that handles like an SLR and doesn't require Canikon users to invest in an expensive duplicate lens system.

Jan 28, 2015permalink

A3 is more than big enough for me and the FZ1000 can achieve this no probs, also it can hold its own against the APS-C format easily, this is the future, DSLRs will soon be a specialist item in a few years, this camera kicks the butt off the old Canon 60d and 28-250 Sigma lens i had, got rid of them on E-Bay when i purchased the FZ1000, its also lighter and far more convenient than an SLR.

Feb 4, 2015permalink

Gediminas 8

You are imagining things bending the rules of physics.

Oct 23, 2015permalink

EcoPix

It depends on the light levels. In good light, yes; in bad (read exciting) light, no. Same goes for vid - 4k or not, the FZ1000 falls apart in low light.

I just had an interesting experience buying a new camera for a mature but inexperienced photographer. I explained SLR, mirrorless and bridge, but she went with SLR because it was more 'professional', and I couldn't budge her with the facts. It had to be an SLR.
So in 2015, we still have a way to go to convince many newcomers that these 'other' cameras can do a fine job.

Nov 4, 2015permalink

ARCUS1200

I have ordered my Panasonic FZ1000 yesterday on amazon.de for 699,00 euros. The price is not too bad for what I will get in the end I think.

I also ordered 2x 64GB SDXC UHS-I U3 memory cards (39,34 euro each) so for total amount of 789,- euro's (included shipping and handling, normally I pay this amount easy for one L-lens for my Canon 6D).

I hope the camera will be fun to play and work with it and that it can be used semi-professional as well in some situations (when it comes to 4K video editing and so on). Also 4K full frame DSLR camera's are a bit too expensive for me at this moment, so this would be a nice solution to get the basics right.

Jan 22, 2015*permalink

Luke Suth

Do any users of this camera notice the image shift when zooming out and coming to the stopping point of the widest zoom available? I notice it on mine and it persists no matter what mode I'm shooting in. The image shift becomes very noticeable when the power O.I.S. is disabled and on a tripod. I'm not sure if mine is defective and would value other users' feedback on this.

Jan 14, 2015permalink

Nope, mines ok there!

Feb 4, 2015permalink

Mine's okay as well.

Apr 16, 2015permalink

Maxxus

Is there any way to install North American firmware to European model? I've just bought the FZ1000 and was disappointed to discover that its characteristics are inferior to US version (25 in 4K, 50/100p in hd video).

Jan 12, 2015permalink

DigitalMission

What is funny about this post is that a LOT of people are complaining that there is no 24p mode for 4K, yet the PAL version does have 25 that is very close. Some WANT the "inferior" version!

Feb 9, 2015permalink

Rune89

That's exactly what I'm looking for as well. I see its 11 months since you posted this, have you been able to figure it out?

Dec 19, 2015permalink

Joe Tam

I read the FZ-1000 at 300mm+ becomes fuzzy. Can anyone confirm if this is true. I am planning on getting this camera for long lens shots and want to avoid the kind of softness I get on my 100-300mm Panasonic at the long end. Thanks.

Dec 29, 2014permalink

There are plenty of test footage clips when the camera is being zoomed through 16x and 32x ange, check them out on You Tube and if you really have to, on Vimeo.

Jan 5, 2015permalink

Nope, mines ok there!

Feb 4, 2015permalink

mine's fine too

Apr 16, 2015permalink

(unknown member)

There are comments about the RX10 having a weather-sealed body, but this is not Sony's claim, they just say "weather- resistant".

I take issue with all such claims as microphones , especially those on the top of bodies cannot exactly be waterproof, and even were they so, the water collecting inside the mic grills would surely stop them working (and probably everything else). If these machines were waterproof there would be ads on TV with footage glorifying in the fact, but other than a few AW compacts there is no such footage available from anyone-including Nikon and Canon pro "weather-sealed" bodies, and apparently it is a fact that the D800 is NOT weatherproof, and though the Canon is more so, the corrosion from water-especially salt water affects them as well. That RX10 isn't waterproof, or dustproof. Sony have not ever said it was and will not refund you or do a free repair on one, I bet, if it gets a soaking over the winter outdoors. The FZ1000 has no such pretences.

Dec 13, 2014*permalink

Good comment Munro.

Nov 13, 2015permalink

(unknown member)

Both fail. I have had to return an RX10 for an obvious reason-when you film it insists in recording all focussing and zooming sounds to your footage. Optically the lens is good despite very heavy distortion at 24mm that can only be corrected in software-easily more than 5% barrel. As you get to 200, at f2.8 the one I had was very sharp in the centre, but only a narrow circle in the centre beyond which the fall off was rapid- think adjacent trees in a row of trees equidistant from camera, or a line of people. Even in good light you need that f2.8 but it is of limited use given most of the picture is at a lower resolution.

This is ALL deliberate of course since the zoom for size is underdesigned: at 24mm it certainly does not cover the sensor. That said the Leitz lens on the Panasonic is far worse, and I do mean a LOT worse. So wait for the next models and curse the people who lead you up the garden path to nowhere but frustration

Dec 11, 2014permalink

Lumix FZ1000 "Truth in Lensing Specs" disclosure:

Camera's WA is at 25mm -- in still picture mode, but only in some of the possible aspect ratios.

In 1080p video mode, it is at 27mm (equivalent).

Finally in 4K videeo mode, it is at 37mm (equivalent). So, at 37mm, that is not even a proper WIDE angle.

You must shoot video with this camera in 4K UHD resolution only, otherwise you are recording HD video in the ages old, not too desirable, really low bitrate AVCHD codec, a coeec that seemingly refuses t die. Just ask Panasonic and Sony.

So, would you want to spend $900 on a camera that has a fixed lens that starts at only 37mm (equivalent) when shooting video? Some might, others will not.

Jan 6, 2015permalink

xsamie

You can shoot MP4 1080/50 fps and 1080/120 fps. It has 5 axis stabilization. Silent mode awesome. It has 12 fps still photos. Great wifi.

For a 1" sensors f2.8's equivalence in a Full Frame is f8(!) and f4 on a 1" is f11 on a FF.

So the Sony is a 24-200 f8 compared to the FZ1000 f8 to f11 (35mm equivalence). All in one solution, especially if you like or own DSLRs. Its the price of a good lens.

Amazing zoom, great lens. Not a low noise camera

Jan 15, 2015permalink

ARCUS1200

I ordered my FZ1000 only for 4K video and I hardly do ultra wide or crazy zoomed in shots, 35mm till lets say 150mm will do the job most of the time. I like to see as much as possible most of the time in video (DOF and so on), so f2.8 is not used often anyway, I like to film most of the time in f5.6-8. The price is really good for what you get imo, especially when you want to start with 4K recording without spending an arm and a leg like I would do with a similar GH4 setup.

Jan 22, 2015permalink

Nope, mines ok there!

Nov 13, 2015permalink

Very intersting conclusion. At the moment (9 Dec 2014) the RX10 is 50 EUR cheaper than the FZ1000. The RX10 in the meantime received a new firmware with XAVC-S. The built-in ND filter, the professional-grade (parfocal) zoom lens, excellent XAVC-S codec, professional weather sealed body, cheaper price today makes my decision much harder. My problem with 4K is that to exploit its (great) advantages it requires a huge amount of disk space, and more importantly an enormous amount of post processing time. Decent FullHD video footage is all I'd need. Image stabilization efficiency is another big question. Hmm.

Dec 9, 2014permalink

I like LZ1000's Drive mode dial, Fully articulated LCD, 400mm, (and 400mm).

Personally, I prefer Sony as "Weather sealed body" is essential for a travel cam, as well as low-light performance (Sony almost one stop faster after 110mm), and the metal body.

Dec 12, 2014*permalink

The Sony RX10 is a nice example how meaningless to build high quality body and lenses into this type of camera. Shortly the RX10 was announced the FZ1000 came with higher specifications in a cheap plastic body, and the efforts and energy invested into building the RX10 had been a total waste from Sony. I guess, this is how consumer electronics business works. What a sad story.

Dec 12, 2014permalink

Miki, I guess you are saying that any manufacturer that builds better and more robust cameras than the competition does s stupid?

Dec 26, 2014*permalink

Miki Nemeth,

It is interesting to see your thought from your OWN words:

"The RX10 [has] The built-in ND filter, the professional-grade ...zoom lens, excellent XAVC-S codec, professional weather sealed body"

BUT after FINALLY finding out RX10''s "One excellent" + "Two professional" + "built-in ND filter" over LZ1000 then:

"the efforts and energy invested into building the RX10 had been a total waste from Sony"

Dec 26, 2014*permalink

Hey Francis, the lesson Sony should learn that not including 4K internal recording may render all their efforts meaningless, since the market, the reviewers all are evaluating a non 4K (professional) camera inferior to a 4K (plastic) gizmo.
Hi Mike, I think that Sony simply missed to "play the 4K card" and let Panasonic (and now Samsung) apply the 4K-trick against superior Sony products and they have been taking a huge/significant market share from the advanced enthusiast market during the past months. Sony simply cannot reply to Panasonic/Samsung with a competitive 4K product in this price range. At least Sony should have promised a free 4K upgrade to stay competitive.
I absolutely feel respected that you, Mike and Francis have read and commented my messages, and words; thank you so much to help thinking together and understanding/evaluating the events/phenomenae in today's camera business.

Dec 26, 2014*permalink

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/search?Ntt=sony+xdcam+pxw-fs7&N=0&InitialSearch=yes&sts=ps

Mike, U R right about the Sony, however keep this fact in mind. Sony is now protecting their brand new 4K camcorder, the USD $8,000 NXCAM PXW-FS7, nem igaz?

It is so new, even B&H does not have them in stock, and the Sony servo zoom lens 28-135mm/F4 is months behind schedule as well.

So, they do have 4K video in a camera, just not for $1,000 or $2,000, but for $8,000.

However, unless the A7S Mark II will be recording 4K internally in at least XAVC S quality, Sony is going to be sorry and losing 4K biz to others. Eight thousand dollars or not.

Jan 5, 2015permalink

Rdmkr

The 4K video is not all it's hyped up to be. This mode crops the sensor to 8MP in its center, meaning you lose full wide angle capability and get the image quality of a sensor much smaller than 1". Only slightly bigger than a smartphone's. Thinking about it, all that processing, all that storage space, to get the image quality of a sensor that small.

It's a red herring as far as video quality is concerned, so on video the RX10 is imo the stronger contender.

Jan 12, 2015permalink

+1 for "meaning you lose full wide angle capability".

For LX100, 4K is 37mm down from 24mm.

Jan 12, 2015permalink

Hey Mike FL, Are you sure about this 24mm to 37mm crop of the LX100? On this page http://www.eoshd.com/2014/11/shooting-4k-pocket-camera-exceptional-panasonic-lx100/ the reviewer states that "The end results are a 2.4x crop in 4K video mode compared... In stills mode it is a 2.2x crop ... the lens is 10.9mm at the wide end which means you maintain a nice wide 24mm field of view equivalent to full frame in stills mode and 26mm in 4K mode. With the FZ1000 you lose the wide end altogether in 4K mode." I think you meant the 24 to 37 crop for the FZ1000.

Jan 12, 2015*permalink

http://www.panasonic.com/africa/consumer/cameras-camcorders/lumix-digital-cameras-point-shoot/dmc-fz1000.specs.html

Miki Nemeth

"Focal Length (37 - 592mm in 35mm equiv. in 4K video recording)" per spec as below:

About FLs:

Focal Length f = 9.12 - 146mm

Focal Length (27 - 432mm in 35mm equiv. in 4:3)

Focal Length (25 - 400mm in 35mm equiv. in 3:2)

Focal Length (26 - 416mm in 35mm equiv. in 16:9)

Focal Length (32 - 512mm in 35mm equiv. in 1:1)

Focal Length (26 - 416mm in 35mm equiv. in 16:9 video recording / O.I.S. Off / Level Shot function Off)

Focal Length (28 - 448mm in 35mm equiv. in 16:9 video recording / O.I.S. On / Level Shot function Off)

Focal Length (31 - 496mm in 35mm equiv. in 16:9 video recording / O.I.S. On / Level Shot function On)

Focal Length (37 - 592mm in 35mm equiv. in 4K video recording)

Jan 12, 2015*permalink

"Are you sure about this 24mm to 37mm crop of the LX100? The end results are a 2.4x crop in 4K video mode compared to.... in stills mode it is a 2.2x crop."

Yeah, that is why it is ONLY 37mm.... and not 40 or 42mm, you see.

If you want a little processing power inside your camera, you need to move out of Panasonic and into a Samsung NX1. That one does not do any image cropping or other low-CPU capability trickery.

Jan 24, 2015permalink

Just shooting stills and have an RX10 at the office for a while, the FZ1000 is a superior camera in almost every aspect (unless you really need weather sealing). The f-stop drop at the longer FL is not really a big deal and easily compensated by the longer reach. The lens produces better bokeh, the camera is a noticeable faster in use, better controls and far more customisable so there's less diving into the menus. The EVF is better and the LCD is fully articulating. It weight the same and although larger, in the hand the difference is negligible and neither is small enough to fit in a pocket so no advantage there for the Sony. Build quality does not bother me as I'll most likely replace this within two years and I doubt it will give up on me before then (I shoot A LOT). The Sony just seems clunky to me in stills mode and if shooting RAW the IQ is basically the same (Sony over sharpens their JPGs). Focusing is also far better on the FZ.

Apr 16, 2015permalink

Hello,

Shot for years with a Panny FZ35. After seeing the initial issues with the FujiFilm X-S1 had been fixed I bought one. Seemed like a HUGE step up, going from the 1/2.33" Panny sensor to the 2/3" sensor in the X-S1. Along with all the other "modern" features and the price drop it was a no-brainer for me.
I shoot primarily in Aperature Priority mode, going back to my Canon SLR days and have... not... been able to get routinely decent shots with my X-S1. I get noise at 100 ISO. It's crazy. Lot of other issues as well but I'll get to the point - I've been looking into moving up to a DSLR - even the "entry level full frame" Nikon D610 is tough $$-wise when you add in suitable lenses - but the lady at Pro Photo Supply here in Portland showed me the FZ1000. WOW. I was thisclose to buying it right then and there but thought I'd research entirely too much first. ;-) So, question - are you satisfied with your results? Noise? DR? High contrast shots? Would you buy the FZ1000 again? Thanks!

Dec 4, 2014*permalink

I had a an X-S1, it was a lovely looking camera with that SLR look, superb features at the time also, but! the picture quality was to be polite, `not very nice` very soft, trouble with color white- in loads of cases having a red cast, also whites in many would blow out in decent light, not a very good D/range whatsoever, tried correcting this with its excellent color controls, but still had problems) was never happy with it especially when a friend showed me some pictures from his Canon Sx40 which was far superior, that was enough for me, after 18 days i sold it, bought an Sx40, then later purchased the superb Panasonic FZ200, i have recently sold it and purchased an FZ1000, wow! do i like it? you bet, it is totally superb, the first (for me) perfect bridge camera i have ever owned, the features, the lens, and above all, picture quality and Video especially 4k are all superb, to conclude, as i said earlier, for me, its all the camera i could ever want, all in one!

Dec 7, 2014permalink

I meant to add that the FZ1000`S viewfinder is astonishing, i believe its the same one that is on the GH4, clarity is superb, you could forgive yourself for thinking you were looking through an optical one, no eyestrain, much, much better size when viewing through it, unlike the small cramped view you get with most DSLR`s, i love that what you see is what you get with all camera parameters in clear view aiding quick adjuustments, far more chance of getting that all important shot correct with 1 shot before its gone, and with near perfect 100% view in the viewfinder and rear LCD!

Dec 7, 2014permalink

Yup, whites are horrible with the X-S1. Shouldn't have to stop down whenever I'm shooting outdoors during the day. Ridiculous and oh so frustrating. Shooting Multnomah Falls I couldn't get around ending up with a long, blown-out verticle white stripe. I understand the obvious benefits of APS-C and FF, but I don't routinely print 24"x36", ya know? And I don't really need the crazy depth of field of the FF. I've been shooting long enough I know how to get the result I want - most likely like most of you - and the past year has been sooo frustrating with the X-S1. The noise drives me nuts! Should not have to spend time in PP. The viewfinder on the X-S1 is massive so I love that the FZ1000 has a great one too.
XVOYAGERX - Hey, I really appreciate the response. Thank you. Going to put my X-S1 up for sale after Christmas and "step up" to the FZ1000. Sounds ludicrous to say, but in all my years shooting digital, the Panny has given me the most consistent, quality, usable results.

Dec 7, 2014permalink

I uploaded a small sampling of my photos if you'd like to check them out - https://500px.com/manage#profile
Yes, I have a little fun with PP. ;-)

Dec 7, 2014permalink

The FZ200 is one that keeps coming up due to the 2.8.

Dec 7, 2014permalink

Hi Fish Lips, Hey my friend, nice to hear from you, Well i hope you sell your XS-1 after Xmas, i just did not like it and i paid nearly £500 for it which thinking back was rather expensive really for what it was, nice looking camera and very well built, but awful picture, however, i think like me you will love the FZ1000, it is a far superior camera and simply blows the XS-1 out of the water both in features and most importantly picture quality, ok its poly carbonite build, but hey it looks good it feels good and most importantly it deliveres the goods, i take care of my equipment, (always have) and it takes care of me, i love this camera, its incredible, if u do purchase one, let me know what u think, cheers for now my friend and good luck over Xmas, new year period.

Dec 10, 2014permalink

User8058454783

Hey Fish Lips, I tried to check out your link to photos at 500px, but it only took me to a sign up page. Anyway, seriously thinking about this FZ1000, if image quality and auto focus is better. My Canon SX510 dose not focus well toward infinity, and it's manual focus is tedious. Also, it's picked up some internal dust or maybe moisture evaporation that causes a small light grey blotch. It can be seen on the LCD, and I have to PP it out of the final image by cropping or cloning.

Jan 19, 2015*permalink

PeterBM

"Sadly, the FZ1000 doesn't offer a touch screen."
I disagree. I wouldn't buy it if it has a touch screen.
All photographers are not working in studio or preparing photos for hours.
When travelling, walking, hiking, you often cannot keep your hands clean enough for a good use of touch screen.

Nov 24, 2014*permalink

cainn24

I don't really understand the whole "I wouldn't by camera X if it had feature Y" sentiment in cases where you can turn feature Y off.

My GM5 has a touch screen. I don't really like touch screens. So I turned it off. Done. Same with every other camera I've owned that has had a touch screen. Of course some cameras have touch screens that you can't turn off [completely] but Panasonic seem to be a bit smarter than that these days, at least with the enthusiast models.

Nov 25, 2014permalink

PeterBM

There are as many ways of using a camera as there are photographers.

Nov 28, 2014permalink

My concern would be accidentally touching the screen. My daughter cracks up at me using my iPad - "Dad, you need to learn to internet better. Oh, and try not to keep touching, brushing and tapping the screen."

Dec 7, 2014permalink

xsamie

Word! I think if this camera cost anymore, people would not buy it. It's already way too close to the GH4. It's a clear case of eating Sony's market share. Connect your smartphone and you have your touch screen.

Jan 15, 2015permalink

ARCUS1200

I am happy the FZ1000 does not have a touchscreen as well, I would not use it really and it would add up to the price of the camera unnessesary. I really would be mad if I had invested in a very expensive GH4 for 4K video only and see the FZ1000 is way cheaper shortly after lol....it's a bit like buying a Canon Eos 5D MKIII for photographs only and see the Canon 6D is launched shortly after which was almost half the price.

Jan 22, 2015permalink

Artistico

I wasn't planning to get any new cameras these days, but when the review of the FZ1000 came out, I just realised that this might just be the camera I've been waiting for since I got a Canon 350D over a Panasonic FZ30 - mostly due to concerns over base ISO noise with the small 1/1.7 sensor.

So far, I am impressed. The lens is sharper than I'd have expected at the long range, a bit mushy in the corners at the wide end, as I'd have thought, but not enough to be any cause for concern.

Stabiliser works a dream, and the programming of the camera is done right. It seems to go to 1/60s exposure at full zoom before increasing the ISO. This gives me sharp pictures every time the way I hold my camera. I've also had sharp ones down to 1/4 leaning against a door frame.

Though zooming with a mechanically coupled lens is always preferable, I found myself quickly adjusting to the power zoom, using the ring around the shutter, using the ring on the lens for manual focus assist.

Nov 24, 2014permalink

Artistico

I read a review complaining that you needed to move the focus ring a certain speed before it registered and moved focus. It would have been nice to adjust this feature. It's obviously there to prevent focus creep, but people might have different preferences. Even the first time I used the ring, though, I had no problem getting good manual focus.

ISO up to 1600 is as clean as I'd want it. 1600 already has some noise, but it's nice noise that I actually like as it adds a bit of life and texture to my photos. 3200 is okay, but 6400 I'd avoid.

My old M43 system has a one stop advantage noise-wise - as is to be expected, but for most uses, the stabiliser's effectiveness will actually make up for any shortcomings in ISO noise performance for my use of the camera.

Nov 24, 2014permalink

Artistico

For the way I shoot, this camera, its zoom range, its controls, the lens and image quality - it's a one-stop shop covering all the bases I need covered, and I will only need to keep a tiny compact camera as well for the days I want to travel light, and I've got everything I need.

Well done, Panasonic. I knew you had it in you when I looked at the FZ30 all those years ago and felt it wasn't quite there yet.

Nov 24, 2014permalink