One of the best cameras I've owned

[Captured Video Photo]

After much research here and on other sites for a safari suitable travel camera, I purchased the FZ1000. Actually took a risk on an Amazon open box deal for several hundred dollars off.

Absolutely LOVE this camera. The reach of the f4.0/400mm lens, the speed of the f2.8/25mm wide angle, the completely silent operation along with the ability to shoot 4K video (while looking through the EVF instead of the LCD) and pull 8MP stills off the video made this an amazing tool for both street photography and wildlife.

I'm sure I've only scratched the surface when it comes to features, but thus far it's been amazing. I typically shoot with Canon 7Ds and the 24-70mm/f2.8L and 70-200mm/F2.8L lenses and this one camera has effectively replaced that whole kit.

While it could use some weather, water and dust proofing, I took care to keep it cased or covered while in transit and had no issues. The rest of my team were constantly impressed with both the function and the resulting photos from the trip.

The wi-fi function allowed me to quickly mark favorites and upload them to my iPhone for sharing.

I could write tons more on my experience and what I see in my future with this camera, but I will refrain at this time.

Also, excellent at my kids swim meets for grabbing stop motion action shots

Would rate it 5 stars if it were more weather and dust tolerant. Other than that, a perfect and versatile photography tool.

 

[GeraldW]

Glad you're enjoying yours. Mine replaced my 70D, lenses and flash. For portraits and group shots, I use the FZ1000 with a pair of Olympus FL36R flashes with diffusers and control them wirelessly with the FZ1000's built in flash - works just as well as my 70D did in that mode with the Canon flashes.

Unlike the 70D kit, the FZ1000 is light and compact enough for light travel. With the fast lens, low noise, and fast AF, the FZ1000 is also excellent for ice hockey; which is very difficult to shoot.

 

[bill hansen]

Congratulations on your camera. You already love it, and you're going to love it more and more. I agree that the FZ1000 is one of the best cameras I've owned. No other camera could have convinced me to sell off all my DSLR gear, but I did just that.

 

[LesGarten]

Replaced all my gear as well. First time I have not used the Top of the line Nikon since 1973.

Using LX7/FZ1000 combo

 

[Timj351]

Congrats on the new camera. I really enjoy using mine, so much so that I even want to use it for street shooting which was mainly left to the LX7. I think I could happily use the FZ1000 for just about everything for years to come. That's why I'm a little surprised you marked studio / still life as just 'ok'. Could you comment a little more on this aspect please? I haven't shot much studio / still life with this camera yet but I can't imagine why there would be any issues. Thanks. I hope you continue to enjoy the camera.

-Tim

 

[axlotl]

HI, In fact the FZ1000 is quite decently tolerant of dust, sand and water splashes. I have just returned from travelling in several situations where two FZ1000s were exposed to quite high levels of dust followed by salt and fresh water splashing and extremes of temperature, +45 to -5 degrees Celsius. Both continued working normally, with reduced battery life in the colder conditions as expected.

Andrew

 

[opticsguy]

How much is Panasonic paying you guys??

 

[Captured Video Photo]

How much is Panasonic paying you guys??

Nothing yet, but I'm working on it. I wish I could round up two dozen of my pro and amateur photog friends along with two dozen of these FZ1000's. I guarantee I could make some sales. I have consulted dozens of my friends on equipment purchases and strategies, now I can make just one pitch.

 

[Captured Video Photo]

Thanks, that's good to know moving forward.

 

[Captured Video Photo]

I'm a little surprised you marked studio / still life as just 'ok'. Could you comment a little more on this aspect please?

-Tim

Tim,

It's partly because I haven't used it in that setting yet and my own assumptions based on the aperture limits at 100mm. Candids are amazing because you can shoot from a distance and in complete silence.

 

[Bob Myers1]

I agree with all....

 

[PerH]

I agree too

 

[Jay Rowland]

I totally agree with all the comments about the FZ1000 being a fabulous camera. I have had it for 11 months and it is my go to camera in any circumstance. The FZ1000 performed flawlessly on my Africa safari and every other use: photo shoot, travel, macro, scenics and produces superb 4k videos.

I guess the weather sealing would make it near perfect, but then who knows what improvements Panasonic could fit into an FZ2000.

I haven't touched my full frame Nikon system since and should sell it before the value goes down as photographers discover what a pleasure the FZ1000 is to shoot.

 

[Jay Rowland]

Regarding the capabilities of the FZ1000 while on safari, I did a comprehensive review of my impressions and sample photos in a DPReview post last year. For those who are interested and may not have seen it, here is the link:

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www.dpreview.com

I just love this camera!