Pen F vs GX9

Keithpictures wrote:

I shoot mostly street and travel photography. I shoot lots of architecture and some landscapes. I prefer wide angles. I occasionally want to shoot birds in flight. Mostly, I make minimalist, colorful compositions.

Functionally, either of your options will work well in that role.

instagram.com/keithpictures

Lovely stuff with a very distinct look.

Both of these cameras have bad press. Neither have weather sealing, which is too bad.

I think the _need_ for weather sealing is greatly overestimated. All else being equal, I'd choose the camera with weather sealing, but aside from that, it wouldn't be a make or break issue for me. Sure, there are people who truly do need it, but I think the majority of photographers can do without it quite easily.

I've been leaning toward the GX9 because it does speak to me. No one seems to sing its praises, though, and it seems like Panasonic in general is not well regarded. I can't figure out why - all the reviewers complain about the EVF, but that's it. Everyone loves the earlier model, the GX7 mark II ( GX85 ), but no one gushes about the GX9. Am I missing something?

If I had to choose between the GX85 and the GX9, I'd definitely take the 9. I have a GX7 and since I also have a G85, I haven't bothered upgrading to the latest GX body. It does seem a shame that Panasonic didn't upgrade the GX9's EVF. I'm also not a fan of dedicated exposure compensation dials. So it was compelling enough for me to upgrade from my GX7. But if I didn't already have a GX7, I'd have no problems buying the GX9. I like the GX's minimalist style and practical ergonomics over the PEN-F's retro looks.

My GX7 is 5 yrs old now and I still enjoy shooting with my GX7. It's a wonderful street camera and I really enjoy its tilting EVF.

The point is to get out and take pictures, so I'm wondering if the Pen F will encourage me to use my iPhone less or not. None of my local stores carry it, so I haven't been able to try it out.

All thoughts appreciated!

I'd buy the camera that you like the most since it will encourage you to shoot more often.