Panasonic has officially launched the Lumix GF2, which is the smallest and lightest interchangeable lens snapper in its range – measuring in at 19 per cent smaller, and 7 per cent lighter than the GF1.
Few surprises in this November when Panasonic launched a pocket camera format called Micro Four Thirds Lumix DMC-GF1 GF2 as a successor, introduced a year ago. Camera with large sensor and lens that can be released is more alluring with a touch screen, Resolution and Intelligent technology iA button of its own. Uniquely, this GF1 successor was more petite than before and its size is getting closer to a pocket camera like the Lumix LX5 premium.
Although the Panasonic does not change the specification of sensors used in GF2 (12 MP Live MOS), but the processor performance Venus FHD on GF2 Lumix cameras, more powerful and supports HD video in 1080 with 60 fps. Remain in manual mode while the mode dial GF2 physically removed and transferred to a menu that is accessed through 3 inch touch screen (resistive type, not capasitive). With a touch screen, we not only can access the menu but also to determine the point of focus, manual focus, and photo playback.
As the camera is almost similar in size with a DSLR, GF2 camera also has features like RAW, ISO 6400, shutter 60-1/4000 seconds and an external flash lamp holder. Especially for the video mode, now GF2 support stereo audio (Dolby Digital) and able to continue to focus when recording video. GF2 camera will be launched in January 2011 with an option package 14mm f/2.5 prime lens (28mm equivalent) or zoom lens with f/3.5-5.6 IS 14-42mm (equivalent 28-84mm).
Specification Panasonic Lumix GF2
* 12 MP RMOS (Rangefinder MOS)
* Titanium battery compartment door
* Video wise it will feature 640×480 Flash recording format, so as not to compete with the forthcoming GH2.
* ISO goes all the way to ISO 409,600 (however at the extended ISO the camera will display a blank image)
* There will be no pop up flash as people complained of eye injuries from it whilst using the add on EVF
* The LCD will be an AMOLED model, badged Samsung (due to patent reasons)
* The camera will come with an instructional video by Philip Bloom
* Comes with an optional replacement badge stating ‘GL2′ (L for Leica). This move was done in response to a focus group finding that regular GF model users were labeled as having a ‘Girl Friend’, and Panasonic did not want to risk a Girl Friend 2.
* It features a greatly more complicated layout than the GF1
* Ken Rockwell will feature in a launch presentation, with live music by Lady Ga Ga, who will be renamed for the day ‘Lady GF’
