Panasonic DMC-GF3 Review

Review based on a production DMC-GF3, Firmware version 1.0

With the overall look of the GF3, Panasonic further confirms the modifications between its present G-series option. The enthusiast-targeted extensive variety locator identifiable heralded by the release of the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF1 seems to be for when to have given way to a new directive; generating the tiniest, least considerable G-series picture picture picture photographic digital camera possible. The move towards little, less considerable large-sensor digital cameras with less exterior manages is not restricted to Panasonic of course, as both Olympus and Panasonic are also relationship the bought amazingly.

Announced just eight a few a few a few several weeks after the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF2, the GF3 is as much about omission as addition. With the loss of the EVF slot and hotshoe, the GF3 seems to be as the only G-series picture picture picture photographic digital camera on which neither an digital nor identifiable viewfinder can be used. Other well-known changes contain the loss of the trademark Panasonic coming back click-dial and the picture picture picture photographic digital camera techniques structured, more curved aspects. These modifications offer the GF3 an overall look more in extensive variety with that of a high-end lightweight picture picture picture photographic digital camera than of its forerunner, the GF2.

Indeed, with the GF3, Panasonic provides a smooth update route for lightweight picture picture picture photographic digital camera customers looking for greater picture and more awesome getting alternatives. And perhaps for these customers, the deficiency of a show hotshoe and the decrease or eliminate from a music to mono mic for movies are decrease easily developed in come coming back for less scaly, lower-priced picture picture picture photographic digital camera. With regards to functions as well as, there is useful little in the GF3 that was not seen in either the GF2 or the more lately launched Panasonic Lumix DMC-G3.

Despite being centered around the same 12MP Little Four Thirds indication as the GF2, the GF3's new processer allows it to evaluate auto-focus information 120 times per second, a performance power that developed a aspect to performance of the DMC-G3, launched a few a few a few a few several weeks ago. Enhanced indication readout amount indicates in theory improved AF amount. Depending on our experience with the G3, we'd consequently determine AF amount to aggressive that of most entry-level DSLRs when provided with set topics.

The quicker processer also allows the ongoing getting amount advantages up to 3.8 fps - a 20% enhancement over the GF2. It is worth noting, however, that like past G-series designs, the quickest getting amount comes at the cost of stay perspective. The quickest getting amount possible with stay perspective is 2.8fps. Incredibly, given that they discuss a indication, the ISO knowing extensive comprehensive variety of the GF3 begins at 160, rather than 100 in the GF2. According to Panasonic, this is a recalibration to make the most of the indication reaction, rather than a easy renaming of the present creating.

Beyond the exterior changes, the GF3 income other considerable functions first seen in the G3, such as Amazing Automobile Plus (iA+), a version of the computerized function that allows restricted (but useful) individual management, a 4x improved picture-in-picture information concentrate function, as well as 'pinpoint' AF option. The more versatile 'Photo Styles' colour presets also move across from the G3, as do the 'Creative Control' handling liver body organ. The GF3 can, however, lay declare one of these liver body organ as its own. The 'Miniature' narrow is a version on the currently-fashionable faux-tilt relationships look. Panasonic's performance allows an increased level of individual management than unique provides from its opponents. Film alternatives contain rack-focus via touchscreen show display monitor show observe AF and (new to the G-series) the capability to draw out a type from a film during play-back and protected it as a still picture.

The GF3 is available as a system only buy, or engaged with the Lumix G 14mm F2.5 ASPH (28mm equivalent) wide-angle 'pancake' relationships or the image-stabilized Lumix G Vario 14-42mm F3.5-5.6 ASPH OIS relationships which will likely have more interest for customers improving from lightweight digital cameras.

Panasonic GF3 specification highlights:

• 12MP Micro Four Thirds format CMOS sensor
• ISO 160-6400
• 3.8 fps continuous shooting (max 2.8fps with live view)
• GF2-style touch screen interface
• 1080i60 AVCHD shooting (from 25p sensor output)
• All-area AF point selection
• Pinpoint AF mode (magnifies focus point to allow confirmation and fine-tune of AF position)
• AF Tracking in video mode
• Picture-in-picture manual focus magnification
• 460k dot fixed LCD
• Photo Styles (same color response presets as used in G3)

Compared to the Sony NEX-C3

Here's the GF3 alongside its most obvious direct competitor - Sony's NEX-C3. The two are very similar in size: the GF3 is a little bit taller, with a circular bulge on the top plate to accommodate its built-in pop-up flash (the Sony requires an additional bolt-on unit). Meanwhile the C3 is fractionally wider but squeezes in a larger APS-C sensor.
This comparison illustrates the two cameras' similarly compact camera-like, simplified rear layouts. Enthusiasts might balk at the lack of control points, but both cameras offer full manual control - the GF3 can get away with relatively few direct control points because it relies on its touch-sensitive screen for a lot of the more 'in-depth' operation, whereas the C3 (which lacks a touch-screen) features highly-customizable 'soft' buttons.

Original Article:www.dpreview.com

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