Pansonic Lumix GF1

So yesterday Panasonic officially announces the GF1, their answer to the “why does that micro four thirds look like a D-SLR?” query that the GH1 brought up. It looks a bit like a larger LX3 (for anyone who can find one) with swappable lenses. On the subject of lenses -it doesn’t support every FT and M/FT lens that the E-P1 does (Panasonic’s website has a comprehensive list here). They did, however generate a pretty thrilling 21mm 1.7 pancake -being only 23mm (plus mount) long. Hot diggity.

While there’s no in-body IS, there is a pop-up flash and there just isn’t a reason to hate on a feature like that. <*link derek’s value-added analysis*> It also comes in a pretty black matte finish -again keeping in astetic similarity to the LX3. The GF1 can use the AVCHD Lite codec for high-compatibility HD recording.

Since the GF1 is nominally smaller than The Olympus E-P1, it touts the title of smallest and lightest interchangeable lens digital compact. Accessories will include a hotshoe mounted electronic viewfinder (DMW-LVF1), a Panasonic branded polarizer, ND, and protector filter, and an external flash unit (DMW-FL220 with a GN22).

Add to all this the various intelligent auto and scene mode features and we have an exciting addition to the trailblazing in the MFT wilderness. I’m curious about whether it’ll be has hard to get ahold of as the LX3, and where the price-point will start.

About Nick

Nicholas completed a BA in Classical Latin at Ball State in December 2006. He came to Roberts at the end of October 2008 and hasn't looked back.