Panasonic Lumix G1 Review
Key features / what's new / technology
Obviously the G1, as the first camera in an entirely new category, is all 'new' - so here's a few of the important highlights before we get going.
The big news of course is that there's no mirror, so the entire camera can be smaller, and the internal construction is actually considerably less complex.
 |
 |
| New 12.1 megapixel (effective) Four Thirds format CMOS sensor with SSWF dust reduction system. Panasonic is claiming improved dynamic range as well as increased resolution. As there is no mirror and the camera works in live view mode full time, the G1 features a newly-designed focal plane shutter that stays open when powered down (conventional shutters are closed when powered down). This makes the G1 rather unusual in exposing its sensor when the lens is removed. Those with clumsy fingers are advised to buy a pair of white cotton gloves. |
The new smaller lens mount and reduced flange back distance means that Micro Four Thirds lenses are noticeable smaller than their conventional SLR counterparts - even the already diminutive 14-42mm Olympus kit lens. |
 |
 |
 |
| High resolution (460,000 pixel) wide viewing angle articulated LCD screen. Interestingly the screen and viewfinder are both 3:2 aspect ratio (the G1 offers 4:3, 3:2 and 16:9 shooting options). Both the screen and viewfinder also offer 60 fps live view. The screen and viewfinder switch automatically using an eye-detect sensor. |
Large, bright electronic viewfinder (1.4x magnification, 0.7x FF equiv). The viewfinder uses a field sequential system that mixes red, green and blue images shown sequentially at 60fps, giving an effective viewfinder resolution of 1.4 million dots at 180 fps. |
|
 |
 |
| New user interface with SLR-style status panel |
Unique features including Intelligent Auto, Subject Tracking and this - shutter speed effect simulation. |
|
 |
 |
| HDMI output |
Quick Menu, Film mode and extensive photographic controls |
|
 |
 |
| Push and turn front control dial |
Advanced, fast new contrast-detect autofocus system offering 1-area, 23-area, face detection and AF tracking modes. |
![Just posted! Panasonic G1 review]()
|
![Exclusive: Panasonic Lumix G1 previewed]()
|
![Panasonic updates firmware for GX1 and 100-300mm F4.0-5.6 Mega OIS]()
|
![CES 2012: Panasonic stand report]()
|
|
Jan 19, 2009
|
Sep 12, 2008
|
Jan 18, 2012
|
Jan 12, 2012
|
It's not just the Seattle team celebrating ten years since the announcement of the first mirrorless system. Chris and Jordan have also been looking back at the camera that started it all: the Panasonic Lumix DMC G1.
Every two years, all eyes in the photography world are focused on Cologne, Germany for the biennial Photokina tradeshow. DPReview has been attending the show since 2000. Join us as we look back
You might already know the work of photographer and urban explorer Ralph Mirebs - his series of photos of abandoned Soviet spacecraft went viral earlier this year. His fascination with science and technology have fueled his photography, and he's passionate about documenting abandoned industrial spaces striving to always answer the question 'What was this used for?' See his work and find out more in our Q&A. Read more
There are so many Thunderbolt Docks on the market at the moment that it can be overwhelming to find the right one for you. We took a look at five different options to see how they might fit into your workflow.
Nik Collection from DxO is a suite of eight image processing tools that can be used either as standalone apps or plug-ins for third-party software like Adobe Photoshop and Lightroom Classic. We've taken a look at the latest version – click through to read our overview of Nik Collection 4.
The Panasonic GH5M2 is a refresh, rather than complete reworking, of the company's image-stabilized, video focused GH5. A new processor boosts its capabilities. We lookat whether this is enough to keep it competitive.
The Fujifilm Fujinon XF 18mm F1.4 R LM WR is a bright, fast walkaround prime lens that's particularly well-suited to landscape and street photography. If you're a Fujifilm X-mount shooter, read our review to find out whether it deserves to be in your collection.
The Kensington StudioDock isn’t for everyone, but for those who want a desktop-like experience on their iPad, you won’t find another product like it.
If you're looking for a high-quality camera, you don't need to spend a ton of cash, nor do you need to buy the latest and greatest new product on the market. In our latest buying guide we've selected some cameras that might be a bit older but still offer a lot of bang for the buck.
What's the best camera for shooting landscapes? High resolution, weather-sealed bodies and wide dynamic range are all important. In this buying guide we've rounded-up several great cameras for shooting landscapes, and recommended the best.
What’s the best camera for less than $1000? The best cameras for under $1000 should have good ergonomics and controls, great image quality and be capture high-quality video. In this buying guide we’ve rounded up all the current interchangeable lens cameras costing under $1000 and recommended the best.
Although a lot of people only upload images to Instagram from their smartphones, the app is much more than just a mobile photography platform. In this guide we've chosen a selection of cameras that make it easy to shoot compelling lifestyle images, ideal for sharing on social media.
What's the best camera for travel? Good travel cameras should be small, versatile, and offer good image quality. In this buying guide we've rounded-up several great cameras for travel and recommended the best.
Comments