subject: Review Panasonic DMC GF1C K [print this page] I have this camera and 1 lens the Panasonic Lumix 20mm f/1.7 Aspheric G- Series Lens and what a great combo. The camera is very responsive, AF is very fast (get the latest FW update from website), Images are clean at higher ISO and the built in Flash actually works! Intelligent Auto is really Intelligent and produces well exposed images. While this camera does not take the place of my DLSR, it produces wonderful images for the size. I find the Lumix 20mm f/1.7 to be very sharp wide open and produces nice creamy bokeh. You can hear the lens motor when it focuses, other lenses they sell are larger and will make this tiny camera much bigger and heavy but at that point why not just get a DSLR. The camera user interface has lots of menu options (too much for me) but that is excellent if you only shoot jpg. I really like the quality of the HD video but i wish audio was stereo. Despite these small complaints this camera and lens are now in my bag at all times..
Just upgraded the GF1 from LX3, no doubt!!! worth every penny spent.
Everything the LX3 can do, the GF1 does it better. Most importantly is the size just a little bigger with the 20mm.
I love this camera...it is the best balance of size/weight/performance you could ask for.
It is well made, has good image quality, and is very versatile. I am debating selling my full size DSLR and keeping this little gem. Really a lot of fun to shoot with...
Low light noise is a little high. That's the only fault I can really come up with. The interface is intuitive and easy to use. I am really hoping this micro-four thirds format continues to grow in popularity. It seems to be doing well thus far.
First, you should know that I use this camera primarily to take pictures of my 4 year old and it is primarily for travel and days where I don't want to carry the DSLR (D300) and associated lenses. I use this camera only with the 20mm lens. The camera is capable of taking great photos if time is taken to compose the shots. My main issue is that the camera's ability to focus on the face of the subject during quick snaps is less than perfect. I've had a number of photos where the camera focuses on the shoulder, arm, or some background item instead of the face of the subject. When taking photos of a fast moving 4 year old, you don't always have the time to correct the focus.
My Pros:
- Fast focus; good burst rate (much better than a point and shoot)
- Size almost as small as a point and shoot. Great for travel
- 20mm lens is sharp with nice bokeh. Really nice photos.
My Cons:
- Often does not focus on the face and because of the shallow depth of field, the face is out of focus in the photos
- Focus motor can be heard when taking movies
Bottom line: For my purposes, I'm not sure if I would purchase this camera again, but its probably the best option on the market right now that's not a point and shoot.
