The Panasonic Lumix GF3
Panasonic today unveiled the Lumix GF3, compact camera with interchangeable lenses, the world’s smallest. Panasonic remains committed as well to reduce the size of their devices, without sacrificing the quality of the image, that can turn into a juicy amateur camera, but also an interesting possibility as a second camera for professionals. Its lower cost makes it particularly tempting to other models with similar features, such as the Leica V-Lux 30.
Panasonic is committed to the lightest cameras on the market
Those who already know the Lumix GF2 will not be many surprises about the performance of the GF3, since the sensor, 12-megapixel Live MOS is the same. Both work well with the Micro Four Thirds system, ie do not use mirror but allow interchangeable lenses.
This system, named after the sensor they use a size 4 / 3 inches, allowing cameras and lenses smaller and eliminates the vibration caused by the mirror. Panasonic pioneered this technology with GF3′s younger sister, the GF1. And that is one of the bets of the brand is to reduce the size of their devices while maintaining the quality of the images. In this sense, the Lumix GF3 is a step further by providing a device of only 222 grams which makes impeccable photographs.
The GF3 thus becomes a camera with interchangeable lenses smallest and lightest in the market, a niche that is giving very good results for Panasonic sales.
Main features of the Lumix GF3
Besides its size, the Lumix GF3 has many other interesting features. The first is the sensor, as mentioned, 12 megapixels, which has included a processing system for high sensitivity, called Venus Engine FHD, which allows a significant reduction of noise in the pictures.
Thus, taking pictures in low light and high ISO sensitivity is improved to obtain a clear result, without the grain that may appear on other devices.
The GF3 allows recording video in high resolution Full HD 1920 x 1080 60i and also has a touch screen that aims to facilitate image viewing and navigation through the different functions of the camera.
The system approach is also interesting contrast. This system controls the focus by using the image sensor, for optimum results even with very bright object and also minimizing the distortions caused by the change of light during video recording.
Panasonic also ensures that its Light Speed AF is the fastest approach the world with 0.1 seconds on average. This approach can also be given through the touch screen itself, improving the traditional point system approach.
Do the benefits of an SLR in a compact?
A compact camera, by definition can never emulate the performance of an SLR, the possibilities of adjustment are much higher. But Parasonic are thinking in those professional photographers who want to see, however, high-quality images.
They can also be a good solution as handheld camera for professional photographers who always want to have units on top, but can not carry around a large-format SLR. The GF3 is a good option because it allows taking pictures in RAW format, multiplying the possibilities for further processing.
The Lumix GF3 is undoubtedly a high-performance camera with a modern and practical design that can be very appealing to amateur photographers with a medium-high purchasing power.