Not sure if any of you have seen the release info for this, but it is causing a huge stir over at dpreview. In short, this is a DSLR based on the micro 4/3rds spec that was designed with HD video as the chief selling point.

http://panasonic.net/avc/lumix/systemcamera/gms/gh1/movie.html

Any thoughts?

March 3, 2009: Panasonic today introduced the LUMIX DMC-GH1 as a new member of the LUMIX G Micro System of interchangeable lens cameras. Fully compliant with the Micro Four Thirds System standard, the LUMIX G Micro System combines a downsized body with advanced functions that achieve both easy operation and high quality.

The new DMC-GH1 is called a CREATIVE HD HYBRID because it records not only high-quality photos but also high definition 1080/24p or smooth 720/60p HD (High Definition) movies in AVCHD* format. Continuous AF can be used while recording movies, to further boost operating ease.

Taking advantage of its system camera design, the DMC-GH1 features the potential for unlimited photo expression by allowing the use of different lenses for specific shooting situations and subjects. High-quality sound recording with Dolby® Digital Stereo Creator and a host of other creative options, including manual settings, giving the DMC-GH1 even greater versatility.

Supporting the DMC-GH1's powerful full-HD movie recording function is a newly developed 12.1-megapixel high-speed Live MOS sensor and the Venus Engine HD image processor, which features two CPUs for outstanding processing capability. The new LUMIX G VARIO HD 14-140mm/F4.0-5.8 ASPH./MEGA O.I.S., which is a versatile 10x zoom interchangeable lens, was designed for movie recording by including a silent and continuous auto focusing function and seamless aperture adjustment.

The DMC-GH1 also features D-SLR photo quality. Its newly developed Live MOS sensor renders images with minimal noise even when using high ISO sensitivity. The multi-aspect ratio function of the sensor allows photos to be taken using a 4:3, 3:2 or 16:9 aspect ratio, all with the same angle of view.

In addition to its high levels of performance for both photos and movies, the DMC-GH1 incorporates the iA (Intelligent Auto) mode,** a hallmark of LUMIX cameras that now includes Face Recognition,*** a function that "remembers" faces once the faces are registered.

When a familiar face appears in the frame, the camera will prioritize the focus and exposure to capture it beautifully. This clever function makes it easy to get sharp and clear photos of special subjects in a group of people. iA mode is also available in movie recording. It automatically selects the most suitable scene mode and helps to correct hand-shake, focus and brightness problems -- making it a one-stop solution for capturing beautiful photos and movies.*

Operating ease is an important element of the LUMIX G Micro System identity, and it is highly evident in the DMC-GH1. For example, the clever design of the DMC-GH1 helps to prevent missed shooting opportunities for both photo and movie recording. To start recording a movie during shooting photos, the user simply presses a special, one-touch movie recording button. Most of the settings used for photo shooting carry over to movie recording without requiring any additional setting.

A choice of body colours also makes the DMC-GH1 highly attractive. Users can select authentic black or active red (which was very popular in the DMC-G1).

Panasonic hopes to bring the fun of both photos and movies to as many people as possible with the LUMIX DMC-GH1, an unprecedented system camera that satisfies even the needs of professionals and advanced amateurs while offering easy operation for entry-level users.

Technological advantages for 1080/24p full-HD movie recording in the AVCHD format
The LUMIX DMC-GH1 is an advanced photographic tool for recording not only great photos but also beautiful full-HD movies. In addition to Motion JPEG images, the DMC-GH1 can record high-resolution full-HD 1920 x 1080 movies at 24 fps (frames per second) or smooth HD 1280 x 720 movies at 60 fps in AVCHD (MPEG-4/H.264)* format.

The AVCHD format can record almost twice the footage in HD quality than the conventional Motion JPEG, using the same SD card. A special, separate button on the back lets the user instantly start recording movies while shooting photos without any having to make any extra settings. There are always two options to record spur-of-the-moment scenes -- high-quality photos or movies. The user can simply choose the one that saves precious memories most beautifully.

The LUMIX G VARIO HD 14-140mm/F4.0-5.8 ASPH./MEGA O.I.S. kit lens boasts a focal length of 28-280mm (35mm camera equivalent) and supports the continuous AF function of the contrast AF system for both photos and movies. Panasonic considers this function to be indispensable for movie recording from a practical point of view. This lens is also designed for movie recording use by minimizing the mechanical sound generated by the continuous AF/AE action.

The newly developed 12.1-megapixel 4/3-type Live MOS sensor is capable of high-speed 4-channel readout to support full-HD movie recording. This sensor is also advantageous for photo recording with a high signal to noise ratio thanks to a new circuit structure that is totally unaffected by the noise generated in each of the circuits. It results in clear pictures even when taken at high ISO sensitivity. The sensor also allows images to be taken at three aspect ratios – 4:3, 3:2 and 16:9 – with same angle of view.

The LUMIX DMC-GH1 also features the Venus Engine HD image processor. The two CPUs in this imaging engine dramatically speed up processing while achieving exceptional noise reduction performance. The Venus Engine HD's excellent energy efficiency supports long-time AVCHD movie recording, and allows the output of both images and sounds via HDMI.

In addition to recording HD movies– a host of options enhance creativity
The LUMIX DMC-GH1 concept goes much further than simply recording HD movies. Apart from the movie recording capability of conventional digital cameras, the DMC-GH1 also features a Creative Movie mode, which lets the user set the shutter speed and aperture manually to make even more impressive movies.

Changing the shutter speed brings special effects to movies, which is especially suitable for shooting fast-moving subject. The ability to control the aperture is convenient when there are several subjects at different distances and it is desired to have each of them stand out. Creative Movie mode gives the user a wider range of expressive possibilities to explore.

The movies also come with the high-quality stereo sound of Dolby® Digital Stereo Creator, the global standard for superior audio recording. For more creative sound recording, an optional stereo microphone (DMW-MS1) is available. A Wind Cut function blocks out most of the noise from background wind even on breezy days.

iA (Intelligent Auto) mode operates for both photos and movies
While featuring a host of creative options to enhance both photo and movie recording, the LUMIX DMC-GH1 also includes the iA (Intelligent Auto) mode that Panasonic developed to give LUMIX cameras the ultimate in operating ease and to reduce shooting mistakes. In iA mode the camera does all the work, leaving the user free to compose shots and capture the moment. All the user has to do is aim and shoot even in situations that normally require complicated settings.

For photo shooting, the DMC-GH1 further advances this mode with the inclusion of Face Recognition, an advanced Face Detection function that recognises faces that the user has registered prior to shooting. Once a face is registered, this function will recognize it whenever it appears in the frame. The camera will then display the name that was specified for the person and prioritize the focus and exposure so that the registered face is bright and in sharp focus.

In addition to the advanced functions mentioned above, the iA mode inherits the fundamental functions that users need in a good digital still camera. These include MEGA O.I.S., which helps prevent blurring from hand-shake, and Intelligent ISO Control, which reduces motion blur by adjusting the ISO sensitivity if the subject moves as the shot is taken. AF Tracking is also available, which lets the DMC-GH1 lock onto any subject and keep it in focus even if it moves - making it easy to get beautiful, clear shots when a great photo opportunity suddenly arises.

Intelligent Exposure optimizes the exposure for each part of an image, preventing blocked shadows and blown highlights and helping ensure that gradation and details are reproduced beautifully. Intelligent Scene Selector automatically detects the five most common shooting situations -- Portrait, Night Portrait, Scenery, Night Scenery and Close-up and switches to the appropriate Scene mode.

The LUMIX DMC-GH1 now makes the popular iA mode available for movie recording. The Optical Image Stabilizer (O.I.S.) helps prevent blurring from hand-shake when using the high-powered zoom. Face Detection automatically detects a face in the frame and adjusts the focus, exposure, contrast, and skin complexion to record it beautifully.

Intelligent Exposure continually checks the ambient light level and adjusts the exposure setting as conditions change, to prevent blown highlights and blocked shadows. Intelligent Scene Selector automatically switches between Normal, Portrait, Close-up, Scenery, and Low Light modes according to the situation to optimize visual quality.

The LUMIX G Micro System identity
With the LUMIX DMC-GH1, Panasonic has developed an entirely new concept in digital cameras that comply with the Micro Four Thirds System standard by taking even greater advantage of the compactness and light weight that are made possible by eliminating the mirror box. By increasing the number of electrical contacts between the camera body and the lens, the camera's expandability is also dramatically increased to maximize future potential.

The LUMIX G Micro System’s 1,440,000-dot equivalent Live View Finder retains the outstanding viewability of an optical viewfinder and can also display information about camera settings that the user can see without taking his or her eye from the subject. A clever built-in eye sensor automatically switches on the viewfinder when the user looks into it, then switches it off and turns on the free-angle 3.0-inch large 460,000-dot high-resolution LCD (which boasts a wide viewing angle) when the user looks away from the viewfinder.

The 60-frames-per-second Live View is made possible by the Live MOS sensor, which takes signals directly from the image sensor and sends them continuously to the LCD, in real time. Both the Live View Finder and LCD provide a 100% field of view. This allows the user, when composing a shot, to check the framing accurately from corner to corner.

The contrast AF system adopted by the LUMIX DMC-GH1 is not only accurate and easy to use, but also very fast. Users can choose from a wide range of AF modes, including multiple-area AF with up to 23 focus areas, 1-area AF with a selectable focus area, Face Detection, and AF Tracking.

To deal with dust and other foreign matter entering the body when changing lenses, a Supersonic Wave Filter is built in as part of a Dust Reduction System designed to prevent matter from adhering to the image sensor.

Other options to enhance the fun of photography
The wide range of options available for the LUMIX DMC-GH1 let users customise and personalise their camera. An option for photo shooting lets the DMC-GH1 reproduce a square image with a 1:1 aspect ratio in addition to the 4:3, 3:2 and 16:9 multi-aspect ratios.

My Colour mode, which was popular in the DMC-G1, is a special option that gives free reign to the user's creativity. In My Colour mode, the colour, brightness and saturation parameters can be freely adjusted while checking the Full-time Live View image to see how the adjustments affect the picture.

This makes it easier and more fun to create interesting, expressive images. The user can adjust the settings that best suit the shooting conditions and his or her expressive intent, for greater photographic control.

The DMC-GH1 also offers a Playback mode that allows the user to play 'only still images,' 'only motion images,' or 'both'. When choosing to play 'only motion images,' it is even possible to play AVCHD and Motion JPEG videos separately.

Photos and movies can also be played back together with an attractive seamless effect and background music in the LUMIX DMC-GH1's new Slideshow mode that takes advantage of its large, high-resolution LCD. Using an optional mini HDMI cable, slideshows can be shared in stunning HD video and audio quality on an HDTV with family and friends.

HD photos and HD movies with VIERA Link networking
Both still images and AVCHD-format motion images recorded on SD Memory Cards are easy to view on a Panasonic VIERA TV with dynamic full-HD resolution. The user simply inserts the card into the VIERA Image Viewer (SDHC/SD card slot) on a VIERA TV or DIGA Blu-ray Disc Player to play the content.

Alternatively, an optional mini HDMI cable can be used to output still and motion images recorded with the LUMIX DMC-GH1 directly to the TV for easy VIERA Link operation. This makes it possible to take maximum advantage of the camera's playback functions, including slideshows in which both still and motion images are played sequentially, or calendar displays and so on. Operation using only TV’s remote controller is super-easy.

Rich options for expandability
In addition to LUMIX G lenses, the LUMIX DMC-GH1 and LUMIX G Micro System can use any interchangeable lens that complies with the Four Thirds standard via an optional mount adapter.* This gives the user access to the entire range of Four Thirds lenses. And a stream of new Micro Four Thirds lenses will be announced in the future, providing a large, diverse line of high-performance lenses for the user's photographic toolbox. With the LUMIX G Micro System and the growing assortment of lenses becoming available, the expressive possibilities are unlimited.

The LUMIX DMC-GH1 system camera offers a wide variety of options to choose from to match every shooting situation and shooting style.

External Flash: DMW-FL220(GN22) / DMW-FL360(GN36) / DMW- FL500(GN50)
PL Filter: DMW-LPL62
ND Filter: DMW-LND62 NEW
MC Protector: DMW-LMCH62
Mount Adapter: DMW-MA1
Stereo Microphone: DMW-MS1 NEW
Battery Pack: DMW-BLB13
Soft Case: DMW-CG2 NEW
Soft Bag: DMW-BAG1
Shoulder Strap (Stylish) DMW-SSTG1-A/C/R/K* *NEW
Shoulder Strap (Woven) DMW-SSTG2-W
Shoulder Strap (Leather) DMW-SSTG3-T
Remote Shutter: DMW-RSL1
*Full-HD (1920 × 1080) movies are output by the image sensor at 24p (NTSC)/25p (PAL), and recorded at 60i (NTSC)/50i (PAL). HD (1280 × 720) movies are output and recorded by the image sensor at 60p (NTSC)/50p (PAL).
** Some functions in iA mode will not be available depending on the lens that is mounted.
***Turn the Face Recognition item ON from the shooting menu and register the person with a full-face portrait in advance. Recognition performance varies greatly depending on shooting conditions, i.e., according to factors such as angles, facial expression and lighting, so operation under all conditions cannot be guaranteed. Because the camera searches for faces that are similar to registered faces, there are cases where the faces are not correctly recognized when the registered image and the shooting image vary greatly. When facial characteristics are similar, particularly between parents and their children, or between brothers and sisters, the camera may not distinguish the faces.

Brief video with a Panasonic rep discussing the features:

http://www.imaging-resource.com/EVENTS/PMAS09/video/video_popup.php?url=beHVnyvF0fI

AVS doesn't have a dslr forum, does it?

AVS doesn't have a dslr forum, does it?

They don't. I've tried to sway a few of the mods here to include one (throughout the past few years), but it never happened.

BH says it's due out in June.

BTW this isn't a DSLR, well at least not technically.

delete

I'm very interested in this unit. I was just on a cruise and brought my Panasonic FZ30 and Sony SR11 to shoot both video and stills. Since I hate carrying both around all the time, I kept switching back and forth between the two. Unfortunately each time I had the camera, I wanted to shoot video and each time I had the camcorder I wanted to shoot some stills. While the SR11 can take still images, it's a big step down from the FZ30. And likewise the FZ30 can shoot video, but not HD and not nearly as well as the SR11. This GH1 looks like it might be the right compromise. I look forward to the reviews.

The GH1 is truly a marvel of a camera. I've had one now for about 3 weeks.

On the plus side, it takes truly outstanding still pictures. The sharpness, detail and color are beyond reproach.

On the video end, comparing it to my XR500, it's much better even at the 720p mode! There is more detail and the dynamic range of the GH1 simply blows the XR500 out of the water. This is yet another example of why it's important to not get too hung up in the #s game. Afterall, shouldn't a 1920X1080 camcorder be sharper and have more detail than a 1280X720p camera? Nope, not necessarily. The color of the GH1 is also superior. To be honest, the dynamic range of this camera also beats out my Sony Z5!

On the negative side, there is no power zoom, so zooming smoothly can be a challenge. The autofocus, while good, is not as good as the XR500.

But overall, I'd pick the GH1 as definitely having the superior picture to the XR500 and it's worth working around some of the GH1 obstacles to achieve that.

Thanks for the mini-review, Ken! I'm surprised this particular camera isn't getting more attention on AVS, as reviews have been very positive, and it's been praised as having one the best video implementations to date in a DSLR-like camera, surpassing even the popular Canon 5D MK II in some ways. Another review pointed out the size, weight and live view advantages of the GH1 over true DSLRs that are encumbered by having "one foot in the past" with traditional mirror and prism assemblies.

The GH1 has been on my shortlist for a while as an upgrade from a Sony DSC-F707 (an earlier DSLR-like camera). If you could PM me and let me know where you found the GH1 in stock, I'd appreciate it.

I received a GH1 two days ago and you’ll find native MJPEG HD clips here:
http://www.dvinfo.net/conf/panasonic-lumix-gh1/239050-best-gh1-videos-vimeo.html

DPreview.com has GH1 review up for a few days now. I'd say I'm not too impressed after reading the review. The biggest draw for me to pick a DSLR based camera over HD camcorder is the ability to control DOF. But according to the review, the tiny micro four-third sensor is too small to have noticeable DOF control.

Foxbat, if you saw the dynamic range and detail in the GH1 video, you'd be impressed in short order. It blows away my xr500 and is better than my z5 in some ways.

If I could get a traditional camcorder with this kind of picture, I'd buy it in a second. But no such cam exists.

I got mine from a Canadian dealer, Henrys, but I doubt they have stock now

Ken,

I know the PQ will be better than consumer camcorders. But I'm still torn between this and the bigger DSLRs like Canon, Nikon and Pentax that also offer HD video AND much better DOF control but no AF in video. So far the clips from those DSLRs impress me.

Foxbat, if you saw the dynamic range and detail in the GH1 video, you'd be impressed in short order. It blows away my xr500 and is better than my z5 in some ways.

If I could get a traditional camcorder with this kind of picture, I'd buy it in a second. But no such cam exists.

I got mine from a Canadian dealer, Henrys, but I doubt they have stock now

It should, at 60% or so more (excluding? lens).

Don, you could pay 60% more for a traditional camcorder and still not get this kind of picture quality.

Foxbat, the problem with the other DSLRs is that you won't get the range of manual controls in video or the recording time or the frame rates or autofocus.

I'm very interested in this unit. I was just on a cruise and brought my Panasonic FZ30 and Sony SR11 to shoot both video and stills. Since I hate carrying both around all the time, I kept switching back and forth between the two. Unfortunately each time I had the camera, I wanted to shoot video and each time I had the camcorder I wanted to shoot some stills. While the SR11 can take still images, it's a big step down from the FZ30. And likewise the FZ30 can shoot video, but not HD and not nearly as well as the SR11. This GH1 looks like it might be the right compromise. I look forward to the reviews.

In my recent visit to NY, I realized exactly the same that carrying two cameras is very unpractical and I'm looking for a good combo camera as well. That not only does HD video but also take great photos. From the initial reviews, it seems like GH1 might be the answer to my (our) problems.

Like I said in Dvinfo, some of you should ask a local dealer especially one that caries the older G1. You may be lucky just like I was.

Like I said in Dvinfo, some of you should ask a local dealer especially one that caries the older G1. You may be lucky just like I was.

if you don't mind, could you tell us how much you paid for it ?

It was an authorized dealer so I paid the retail price of $1,500, plus an extra battery, plus an extended warranty, plus Massachusetts taxes for around $1870 altogether. Then again, I didn’t pay anything yet since it was on the store’s credit card.
http://www.huntsphotoandvideo.com/

It was an authorized dealer so I paid the retail price of $1,500, plus an extra battery, plus an extended warranty, plus Massachusetts taxes for around $1870 altogether. Then again, I didn’t pay anything yet since it was on the store’s credit card.
http://www.huntsphotoandvideo.com/

damn, that's a lot of money. Too bad, out of my range :(

It might have been a little bit less since I don’t have the receipt in front of me but still, If I wanted to, I could have just gotten the camera and pay the $75 state tax for a total of $1,575.

Foxbat, if you saw the dynamic range and detail in the GH1 video, you'd be impressed in short order. It blows away my xr500 and is better than my z5 in some ways.

If I could get a traditional camcorder with this kind of picture, I'd buy it in a second. But no such cam exists.

I got mine from a Canadian dealer, Henrys, but I doubt they have stock now

Ken,

It would be great if you could upload a comparision video of XR500 and GH1.

Don, you could pay 60% more for a traditional camcorder and still not get this kind of picture quality.

Foxbat, the problem with the other DSLRs is that you won't get the range of manual controls in video or the recording time or the frame rates or autofocus.

Now if they could get wide aperature, large high pixel count sensor AND large depth of field in one camera... Together with with higher framerates.

Now if they could get wide aperature, large high pixel count sensor AND large depth of field in one camera... Together with with higher framerates.

That's called camcorder:)

Large depth of field is not useful. You want shalow depth of field.

No I don't! Perhaps great depth of field witth control to make it more shallow at will, but I definitely do want a large depth of field as well.

Definitely preferred the Sony HD (Broadcast) camera's with nice big Box lenses that had a narrower aperature and therefore greater depth of field, over the SD (and HD?) models that had a wider aperature and shallower depth of field, except for them being noticably darker than the SD models, in the same line up, when I perused the line of camera's at IBC some time ago. As long as the latitude suffices to get a good contrastrich image, to seperate the various planes of sharp content...

Camcorder with both large sensor and wide aperature (light) and great depth of field, I haven't seen or heard of anny, so suggestions, please?

No I don't! Perhaps great depth of field witth control to make it more shallow at will, but I definitely do want a large depth of field as well.

Definitely preferred the Sony HD (Broadcast) camera's with nice big Box lenses that had a narrower aperature and therefore greater depth of field, over the SD (and HD?) models that had a wider aperature and shallower depth of field, except for them being noticably darker than the SD models, in the same line up, when I perused the line of camera's at IBC some time ago. As long as the latitude suffices to get a good contrastrich image, to seperate the various planes of sharp content...

Camcorder with both large sensor and wide aperature (light) and great depth of field, I haven't seen or heard of anny, so suggestions, please?

You can get all bells and whistles but it all comes down to how much are you willing to spend. Not everybody can afford, $5K camera just to get better DOF.

Most people here aren't looking for broadcast quality camera, majority of people only use their cams for home vidoes and aren't willing to pay for features that they might never even use.

No I don't! Perhaps great depth of field witth control to make it more shallow at will, but I definitely do want a large depth of field as well.

All the consumer camcorders have great DOF due to their small sensors. That's not hard to achive.

If you carefully look at all the professional video programming (with the exception of some sports), no one really uses great DOF. Shallow DOF makes main subject stand out and more artistic. On the other hand, ameture videos are easy to spot because everthing is in focus.

Every broadcast camcorder has great depth of field as well, great for news and so on. News and sports some of the most prominent professional content, indeed. Greater depth of field than current dslr's would be welcome, retaining the large sensor. BTW, what is the sensor size on this Panasonic?

A great comparison that shows the difference clearly is when they switch between behind the scenes videofootage and the drama's production footage, shot at 35mm, greater realisme in the video footage, that works both ways, in drama, fiction, one doesn't wan't to great a visual realism.

Fieldproduction camera's with their nice box lenses can have good/great depth of field, but like I noticed earlier at the expense of sensitivity due to closed down iris.

Camcorders with large sensors (not 1/2, or 2/3 inch format, but even larger, though broadcast size is a nice size in its own right) and great depth of field, as suggested to exist, are something I have yet to encounter, was all I rebutted.

DOF control is good thing to have if you want to do more artistic stuff. Those Letus adapters seem very popular, among the more artistic videographers. Notice that the ultima produces nice shots featuring both shallow and larger depth of field.

A.J. I wholeheartedly agree, hence our compromise in buying the Canon HF11, price better than new models, resolution bettered in new model(s), but indoor recording and image noise is still better in last year's model. The last point is important in shooting home video's, the object of getting the camera.

The Panasonic discussed here seems to be well above the level of these little camcorders. Both in price and performance, bettering even the Canon HF-S series and the Sony 520/500, also topping those top consumer camcorders price. Here in Holland, when they finally start shipping the GH1, it will retail at more than twice what we paid for the Canon camcorder, around 1500 euro vs approximately 700 for the Canon. At some point one just has to say enough is enough I am not willing to spend more, and just live with all the good and the bad of what one's got.

Ken,

It would be great if you could upload a comparision video of XR500 and GH1.

We're on a trip to Alaska for the next two weeks, but when I get back I'll do my best

Sounds lovely Ken, great way to escape the N.Y. heat, and since it's a cruise no pesky mosquito's.

I know the PQ will be better than consumer camcorders.

Much better. The video from the GH1 and EP-1 is just insane IMO. Even at only 720p, the video looks better than 1080i/p from a camcorder. I'm going to wait for either the GH1 price to drop, or the introduction of the EP-2 which should be more in line with the GH1. I simply can't live with the video on my HF20, and from all the samples I've downloaded, nothing seems to be much better.

But I'm still torn between this and the bigger DSLRs like Canon, Nikon and Pentax that also offer HD video AND much better DOF control but no AF in video. So far the clips from those DSLRs impress me.

Yeah, there are certainly numerous negative points with the big DSLRs & their video implementation. No AF, laughable fps, etc. The well produced video samples I've seen from all of the DSLR options still look better than anything from a camcorder, but there are just too many caveats IMO. I think Panasonic & Olympus are producing better products for those with video in mind. At least for now.

I’m still trying to get used to holding the camera but it's auto focus held up pretty well for this clip.
http://vimeo.com/5666415

Yeah, there are certainly numerous negative points with the big DSLRs & their video implementation. No AF, laughable fps, etc. The well produced video samples I've seen from all of the DSLR options still look better than anything from a camcorder, but there are just too many caveats IMO. I think Panasonic & Olympus are producing better products for those with video in mind. At least for now.

The hesitation towards Panasonic, for me, is the lens. You don't buy a DSLR camera, you buy into a whole system including various lens collections which are more expensive than the camera itself. So far, the lens choice for micor four thirds are slim to none. And I'm not sure I'm going to buy into that format as oppose to Canon, Nikon or Pentax systems.

from all the videos that I've seen so far, GH1 seems to have amazing video quality that rivals even the best HD camcorders but the only thing that worries me is how does the shape of the camera effects in filming videos compared to a camcorder. Also, more interestingly, its not even available anywhere. Panasonic estimates that it will be available again in early September.

Zacuto makes shoulder brackets for DSLRs to be used as camcorders. Knobs that control zoom and focus from a more ergonomic position, added viewfinder accessories etc. Iris, white balance and audio is still not going to be as nice as a pro camcorder, but at least it helps.

Another option is to get a semi pro camcorder like an EX1 - actually I think many will call this a pro camcorder. At a semipro price. And get a DOF adaptor from Redrock or Letus for your 35mm lenses.

Zacuto makes shoulder brackets for DSLRs to be used as camcorders. Knobs that control zoom and focus from a more ergonomic position, added viewfinder accessories etc. Iris, white balance and audio is still not going to be as nice as a pro camcorder, but at least it helps.

Another option is to get a semi pro camcorder like an EX1 - actually I think many will call this a pro camcorder. At a semipro price. And get a DOF adaptor from Redrock or Letus for your 35mm lenses.

EX-1 is an option ?? You can get 4 GH1 for that price of one EX-1 :p

The hesitation towards Panasonic, for me, is the lens.

And mine is the simple fact that it is Panasonic. I despise them because of a few consumer related snafus I had with them.

You don't buy a DSLR camera, you buy into a whole system including various lens collections which are more expensive than the camera itself. So far, the lens choice for micor four thirds are slim to none. And I'm not sure I'm going to buy into that format as oppose to Canon, Nikon or Pentax systems.

That's the big question & best argument. Either buy into micro 4/3rds and accept the few 4/3-specific lenses (or the absolutely stellar 4/3rds lenses) with a smaller size overall, or go with one of the big boys (literally) from Canon et al.

I'd love to have something like a D300 that had all the video features of the Panasonic. I shoot Canon & Olympus now, more so with Olympus. If Oly manage to come out with their top of the line E-3 replacement that has similar video performance as the EP-1 and GH1, I'd be set. Should be interesting to see what all is introduced in the next year since video seems to be an almost mandatory inclusion with DSLRs now. However, I don't have much faith in Canon producing anything useful, or at least I believe they will be the last ones to produce something at the same level as the rest. They just have too much going for them & their camcorders.

Should be interesting to see what all is introduced in the next year since video seems to be an almost mandatory inclusion with DSLRs now. However, I don't have much faith in Canon producing anything useful, or at least I believe they will be the last ones to produce something at the same level as the rest. They just have too much going for them & their camcorders.

I agree, it will be VERY interesting. I can see all the players Sony and Canon included, battling it out. I picture body only camcorders for around $1000-$2500, that let you pick and choose lenses. Consumer level camcorders are a different market. It's the prosumer camcorder market that will be affected.

EX-1 is an option ?? You can get 4 GH1 for that price of one EX-1 :p

You can also get the rest of an EX1 for the price of a Zacuto kit $1500, decent microphone$600-1000, Beachtek XLR adaptor $400, decent lens to go with your GH1 $500-1000? - that's anywhere near as good as what the EX1 comes with? (which is a pretty nice Fujinon built-in). The Ex1 is great for videography right out of the box (priceless?). You can still add DOF adaptors and lenses if you want to, but you don't have to. I only suggest doing that for cutaway shots anyway. You don't want to watch the whole movie with an out-of-focus background.

You can also get the rest of an EX1 for the price of a Zacuto kit $1500, decent microphone$600-1000, Beachtek XLR adaptor $400, decent lens to go with your GH1 $500-1000? - that's anywhere near as good as what the EX1 comes with? (which is a pretty nice Fujinon built-in). The Ex1 is great for videography right out of the box (priceless?). You can still add DOF adaptors and lenses if you want to, but you don't have to. I only suggest doing that for cutaway shots anyway. You don't want to watch the whole movie with an out-of-focus background.

That's all well and good but the main question is, how many video enthusiast (not talking about professionals) have $5K laying around to spend on a camcorder? Sure, it might take outstanding Blu-ray quality videos but for average Joe GH1 does everything at a price that most people will be willing to pay.

For shallow DOF another big plus of the GH1 and DSLR's is the size. No adapter, no rail support system.

Have you guys ever tried to film video on a DSLR, trying to pull-focus while
zooming and panning at the same time, while keeping it smooth and always in focus? Very difficult thing to do. DSLRs are just not ergonomically
designed to do this, so even a pro has great difficulty. You really need to get a shoulder bracket. As I said, for a good one - which you will need, you are looking at a good $1500.
Now if I had the choice to watch
someones footage, and it was either smooth and nice to watch but didn't have quite as shallow DOF,
the other is not-so-smooth, not always follow focussing right, the panning is unstable because the camera is not balanced - heck the zooming is not even smooth. Just try zooming and focussing, without panning. But the DOF is shallow. I would rather watch the footage from the first example.
But good footage usually has zooms that hide the pans, and pans that hide the zooms. So you do need to be able to do both. And you have to keep it in focus the whole time. Also, good footage is not shot at eye-level 100% of the time. You need to be able to monitor what you are doing, while filming different angles. That's why you need adaptors to make DSLRs work. They are not an out-of-the-box substitute, and you will end up spending good money to make then work. I am not against that at all. I am even getting a 5D MK2, not primarily for video, but I will do some filming with it I am sure. I just want people to know the drawbacks, before getting one just for recording video. If you get to try one in a store, try the pan/tilt,zoom, pull-focus. Make sure the distance between what you start on and finish the shot on is far apart. One being really close, the other far away. Record it, and watch it back. Did everything look smooth and in focus the whole time? If it wasn't always in focus, was it quick and smooth? Or does my example not really apply? Are you just going to record pre-set up, static shots?
Oh, and I forgot about the microphone. You can't tell me the built-in mic on a DSLR is good for anything. Or do you think good footage has no nat sounds or dialog. Or will all your dialog be done in post (ADR). Or is every video you make going to be a music video - everything being silent, but a song is laid over the track. It's surprising that so many people think these sorts of videos are interesting when they make their short movies.

They were getting the H4N you suggested earlier anyway;-).

I agree I do miss natural sound in many clips, even many nicely done ones at vimeo do miss natural sound. Even if they have natural or ambient sound they could do with some in other parts of the video, perhaps even mixed in with the added score.

You bring up some good points that definitely need to be considered.

I don't do much zooming or panning while recording. Just me and the type of video I make. I also prefer not use the camcorder mic for audio. Usually use a portable recorder and then sync in post.

I would like to experiment using a normal camcorder for deep DOF shots and the DSLR for shallow DOF. Combining both into one finished video. Sounds like a nice theory, but will have to see if it works well.

I don't know if you guys have see this (http://www.vimeo.com/5981422). Its a comparison between GH1, Red One and 5D MK II. Its amazing how well GH1 holds up against such expensive cameras.

I don't know if you guys have see this (http://www.vimeo.com/5981422). Its a comparison between GH1, Red One and 5D MK II. Its amazing how well GH1 holds up against such expensive cameras.

The RED One does 4K and is actually made for doing video. Selectable frame rates etc. The APS sensor is larger than the GH1... Neither the GH1 or 5D2 will match it for video.
The 5D2 has the full frame sensor and those L series lenses. The GH1 can't touch any of that. As a video camera though, the 5D2 has been really limited. Understandably though, as everyone was screaming for no video when that and the D90 came out. Now everyone has to have it, and they want it to be done right. That part, the GH1 was able to get right. But the small sensor and lack of awesome lenses don't get me all that excited about it. Two extra things the Canon could do with are 24p and a headphone out for monitoring.

I don't know if you guys have see this (http://www.vimeo.com/5981422). Its a comparison between GH1, Red One and 5D MK II. Its amazing how well GH1 holds up against such expensive cameras.

its pictures look great on all the film i have seen ,value for performance its a winner.

its pictures look great on all the film i have seen ,value for performance its a winner.

Ya, seems to offer great features for the price. On thing that I don't understand is that how come GH1 videos at 720p look more like blu-ray quality than 1080i videos from best camcorders ??? I myself bought Panasonic TM300 and Sanyo FH1 and neither produced videos as good as GH1.

While Camcorderinfo does say both Panasonics offer the same resolution, with the TM-300 having the edge when it comes to autofocus and low-light!

Both are said to suffer from the 17 mbit/s max AVCHD profile/codec. Eventhough Panasonic does have 24Mbit/s in the AVCCAM camcorders, the HMC-40 list for only 700 USD more, so don't think it can be called justified market segmentation.

Chevypower, with adapters the GH1 can accomodate awesome lenses, like that $10K prime film lens Philip Bloom was using in the California dessert. So there are non-stock options. Or those impressively named lenses in this comparison video.

Ya, seems to offer great features for the price. On thing that I don't understand is that how come GH1 videos at 720p look more like blu-ray quality than 1080i videos from best camcorders ??? I myself bought Panasonic TM300 and Sanyo FH1 and neither produced videos as good as GH1.

Yup. Despite what some doubters here say, the GH1 takes absolutely superb videos and yes, at 720p it handily outperforms my XR500 and actually looks better at times than my Z5...both 1080i.

You simply can't take the resolution numbers too seriously. You can actually have better on-screen resolution with a larger imager @720p than with a smaller 1080 imager. Lens quality, electronics, imagers etc. all have a role in the final picture quality.

Ken,
Still waiting for your Xr500 and GH1 comparison videos :)

if anyone is interested, GH1 is currently available at B&H (http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/608940-REG/Panasonic_DMC_GH1K_Lumix_DMC_GH1_Digital_Camera.html)....... hurry before they are sold out again :)

if anyone is interested, GH1 is currently available at B&H (http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/608940-REG/Panasonic_DMC_GH1K_Lumix_DMC_GH1_Digital_Camera.html)....... hurry before they are sold out again :)

The GH1 won't be selling out any time soon now that the CANON 7D has been announced.

The GH1 won't be selling out any time soon now that the CANON 7D has been announced.

That's a joke right ? 12 minute recording limit, mono mic, no autofocus during videos, no flip out LCD. 7D might be a great still camera but when it comes to video, it still far behind than GH1 and not to mention, it cost a lot more than GH1.

Too expensive for my thoughts. Damn, but it looks really cool.

That's a joke right ? 12 minute recording limit, mono mic, no autofocus during videos, no flip out LCD. 7D might be a great still camera but when it comes to video, it still far behind than GH1 and not to mention, it cost a lot more than GH1.
Yes the 12 minute recording limit may a problem for some, but good movie making will require you to cut away well before the 12min mark.

Mono mike - who cares ? I mean, who uses on-board mikes any way (except to synch external audio recorders)? The 7D has stereo mike input.

Having watched hours of 5D2 footage, I have not been all that impressed with the image quality of the GH1 - especially the GH1s poor low light performance, and overall weak codec.

You could read Phill Bloom's opinion over on his blog "I carry the GH1 as back up and for the occasional slo-mo work, but use the 5D2 as the main camera as the GH1's codec is too weak.", or something similar.

The GH1 does this:
Sizes
• AVCHD :
1920 x 1080, 24fps (24 fps encapsulated in a 60i format)
1280 x 720, 60fps
• Motion JPEG:
1280 x 720, 30fps
848 x 480, 30fps
640 x 480, 30fps
320 x 240, 30fps
Audio Dolby Digital Stereo Creator format, wind-cut feature
Format AVCHD / QuickTime Motion JPEG
File size 2.8 MB/sec (1080p AVCHD), 4.3 MB/sec (720p Motion JPEG)
Max file size per clip 2.0 GB for Motion JPEG, card capacity for AVCHD
Running time 12 min for 1080P, 18 min for 720P, 24 min for VGA

ie no 1080P 30fps !!

The 7D does this:
Sizes
• 1920x1080: 30/24 fps (NTSC), 25/24 fps (PAL)
• 1280x720 (HD): 60 fps (NTSC), 50 fps (PAL)
• 640x480 (SD): 60 fps (NTSC), 50 fps (PAL)
Audio 44.1kHz Mono (Internal Mic), Linear PCM
Format .MOV MPEG-4 AVC, H.264
File size 5.5 MB/sec (1080P), 5.5 MB/sec (720P), 2.8 MB/sec (VGA)
Max file size per clip 4GB, max duration 29min 59sec,
Running time 12 min for 1080P, 12 min for 720P, 24 min for VGA

GH1 2.8MB/s H264 vs the 7D 5.5MB/s H264 - ie GH1 has half the data rate - hence to lower image quality.

The 7D is already listed at $1800, same as the GH1.

If auto focus is a problem, then you could may be prepared to trade of image quality for this feature - or you could learn how to focus.

In the US for example the GH1 retails for $1,500 with a 10x lens while the 7D is $1,700 without a lens and with a decent lens your talking at least around $400 or more.
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/647503-REG/Canon_3814B010_EOS_7D_SLR_Digital.html

In the US for example the GH1 retails for $1,500 with a 10x lens while the 7D is $1,700 without a lens and with a decent lens your talking at least around $400 or more.
http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/647503-REG/Canon_3814B010_EOS_7D_SLR_Digital.html

Yup, and for most of us non-professionals that price difference makes GH1 a much better choice than 7D.

Btw, if anybody is interested, I've uploaded some raw footage from my GH1. Nothing special just some random clips that I took. You can download them here (http://www.armjamil.com/gh1_videos/)

Just for the heck of it, I'd like to post some more videos that I've shot since I've got it.
http://www.vimeo.com/8497083
http://www.vimeo.com/6492800
http://www.vimeo.com/6272829
http://www.vimeo.com/6181883
http://www.vimeo.com/8373773
http://www.vimeo.com/8503838
http://www.vimeo.com/6256427
http://www.vimeo.com/5796341
http://www.vimeo.com/7468235
I understand it's a lot of links but I can't help my self.
I have multiple times more videos in my Vimeo account.

Here's a video of a pillow fight event in Massachusettsb that I took today.
http://vimeo.com/10662171
Their are a whole lot more videos than just that link.

The back and later sidelighting makes for unpleasant viewing as you go from the first group to the second group of fighters. Guess autoexposure could be better.

Well the sun was pretty worm on that day and the camera didn't have a filter on. That obviously could have helped as well as having some type of support but lest just say I did this for fun. Also everything was set to auto including the focusing.

I would have much rather used a traditional camcorder such as a TM700 if I had one. Never mind the fact that my shots could have been steadier but 1080 60p would have been a good shooting mode for this situation. Their were way too much motion.

What filter would you have used to shoot with both sunshine into the lens and away from the lens onto the subject, in the same scene/shoot?

This was shot yesterday just for fun.
http://vimeo.com/17741622
I'm still pissed off that I forgot to put the stabilizer on. I spent time updating the lens firmware that just came out before I wen't and that had to happen.

This was shot yesterday just for fun.
http://vimeo.com/17741622


nice work, Paulo :)

Thanks.


I had to re-edit part 2 since the original one seamed corrupted. It refused to be uploaded. I'm glad this one works.
http://vimeo.com/17825790

2 down, 2 more to go.

Final 2

http://vimeo.com/18684383
http://vimeo.com/18684383

Hi All,

This is Alana - social media editor at Panasonic. I run the official Facebook, Twitter, Flickr, YouTube and Ustream accounts.

I see some of you are having issues with our Facebook VIP store. First of all, the price should never be jumping back up. It should stay at the discounted rate. IF it IS jumping, it's probably because you have a REGULAR Panasonic.com account that you created a while back and that you are signing in as.

---> In this case you need to create a NEW Facebook account. <---

So, when you go to purchase, click SIGN UP instead of LOGIN and create a new account. Does that make sense? I apologize for the confusion.

There's a lot of demand for the GH1 & GH2 cameras, so we are doing our best to ship as quickly as possible, but do understand that every now and then we run into delays. (And remember, we only ship to US zip codes).

I try my best to keep up with the photography forums to answer any questions, but please do reach out via Facebook and/or Twitter. It's much quicker for you guys to get answers that way!

Thanks for being LUMIX customers

- Alana

alana.taylor@us.panasonic.com

http://www.facebook.com/panasonic
http://www.facebook.com/lumix
http://www.twitter.com/panasonicdirect
http://www.flickr.com/groups/lumixlovers
http://www.youtube.com/panasonicusvideos
http://www.ustream.com/channel/panasonic3D

http://www.dvxuser.com/V6/showthread.php?235385-375-for-GH1-with-LUMIX-G-VARIO-14-42mm-Lens-w-Panasonic-EPP-!&p=2231932&highlight=#post2231932

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Just a meet and greet piece I did for a couple of child musicians. This was during last summer. I probably could have added 1 more event to this piece for a total of 4 but it can sometimes be difficult going through every second of footage I got.

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For the first 2 events, I used the 14-140 lens and for the last event, I used the 20mm lens. Originally shot in 720 60p. I edited it in Premiere CS5. This actually started with me fooling around with the clips and then it was decided for me to keep on going and turn into a piece to put it on their YouTube channel like that. My original plan was to just do 1 clip at a time, not to make it look like this. Sometimes accidents happens in a good way. I almost thought about making it look much fancier but I figured it might look a bit too over the top and I should keep it looking simple.