Panasonic GX1 Hands-On Field Test

On a frigid Calgary day, Panasonic let us try out a pre-release GX1. The Camera Store's Chris Niccolls walks you through the features of the GX1, while attempting to stay warm and not get kicked out of the mall.

Shot and Edited by Jordan Drake
Shot on the Panasonic AF100

Category:

Science & Technology

Tags:

• Panasonic GX1
• GX1
• mirrorless
• micro 4/3
• four thirds
• Chris Niccolls
• GF1
• test
• sample footage
• Jordan Drake
• The Camera Store
• The Camera Store TV

[desmoface]

Now that you've handled the gx1 and Nex-7, which do you prefer? It seems that you buy a camera for it's lenses and the GX1 appears to have a better lens selection. But, when you figure the cost of the GX1 and LVF2, the NEX-7 appears to be a good value..What do you think? Thanks in advance.

[TheCameraStoreTV]

@desmoface If I was just picking a camera, I'd say the NEX-7 is the better camera (our pick for Camera Of The Year). But the GX1 is part of a much more complete system, and the lenses are noticeably smaller. Right now, I'd go Panasonic, but that might change when Sony launches a few more primes.

Jordan @ The Camera Store TV

[xxbluejay21]

What do you mean when you say it has no manual control in video???

[TheCameraStoreTV]

@xxbluejay21 There is no shutter, aperture or ISO control in video mode. Only with stills.

Jordan @ The Camera Store TV

[BoxxyFan]

Sorry, but the GX1 is a joke. The Sony NEX-7 outclasses this in every possible way.

[TheCameraStoreTV]

@BoxxyFan It's also much more expensive and has a more limited lens lineup. I love the NEX-7, but the GX1 certainly has its place.

Jordan @ The Camera Store TV

[Fedorsha]

Hey thanks for the very professional review... Which do you like better this gx1 or the G3?

[thesabrinahill]

You're totally right about the Panasonic JPG's ~ The RAW's are awesome. I am a pro photog and I use the GF1 camera all the time. I have had gallery showings featuring images that were only shot using the GF1.

[Esrhan]

Now if it only came in red and had manual controls for video... But since they are missing, I'm going to be content with my GF1, waiting for the perfect chance to get exactly what I want.

I do have a question though. The GX1 shoots both 1080 and 720 resolution video at 17Mbps. Does it not make more sense to shoot at 720 and retain more detail than increase your resolution, but keep the same bitrate? I think I would definitely want more detail and relatively less compression.

[1440hk]

Its amazed, camera makers today insist on making enthusiast cameras without viewfinders. They recognise the need, or they wouldnt supply an add on viewfinder. There are some p & s photographers out there, but any serious photographer with an SLR camera who wants a backup would prefer a viewfinder. For me if it has not got a built in viewfinder, (not an 80% view as seen on the canon G series) it is really not worth it, especially if you have to go and buy a viewfinder after purchasing the camera

[xuebaihuli]

Hi guys~ Just got my GX-1 with Panasonic Leica 25mm f/1.4~ Brilliant~ Bravo!~

[Pancholo62]

DUDE GROSE Looose the freaking buble gum... you have done tons of videos with the freaking thing in your mouth ...jeeeezzzz.

[bradleyg5]

Best thing about the Panasonic GX1? Everybody is selling their GF1's and GF2's on ebay for cheap!

[WeirdyIsHere]

About the video mode, can you use the filters and manual focus while shooting?

[goldenboi24k]

The reason you are cold, is because you are wearing a light jacket. You live in Canada, you would know how to dress properly for the winter.