PANASONIC ANNOUNCES NEWEST COMPACT SYSTEM CAMERA, LUMIX GX1 EXCELS IN SPEED, IMAGE QUALITY AND SIZE
The LUMIX GX1 Finds the Perfect Balance of Size and Performance – Making it the Ideal ‘Everyday’ Digital Camera for Professionals and Photo Enthusiasts Alike
SECAUCUS, NJ (November 7, 2011) – Panasonic today announces its latest Compact System Camera (CSC), the LUMIX DMC-GX1, which joins Panasonic’s award-winning LUMIX G Series of digital cameras, which are acclaimed for their high image quality with small and compact body and lenses. The new LUMIX GX1 features a 16.01-megapixel Live MOS sensor and Venus Engine, helping to ensure real-to-life images through excellent resolution, image rendering and color reproduction. Even in low-light situations and at maximum 12800 high ISO sensitivity, the LUMIX GX1 can produce stunning photos and videos, and because of its compact size it can be easily carried for daily use.
“Panasonic expects the LUMIX GX1 to please a lot of photo enthusiasts who have been eager for a technology upgrade comparable to the LUMIX DMC-GF1, which continues to be a very popular digital camera with dedicated followers who appreciate the compact size, yet high quality of photos and video,” said Darin Pepple, Senior Product Manager, Imaging, Panasonic Consumer Electronics Company. “The LUMIX GX1 is an extremely flexible and capable digital camera with fast AF speeds and outstanding image quality. Plus with a built-in flash and a hot shoe allowing for accessories like an external view finder, the GX1 is a powerful compact system camera that is small enough to be a photographer’s everyday camera choice.”
The LUMIX GX1, like all the models in Panasonic’s LUMIX G Series of CSC, adopts Contrast AF for its focus system, so focusing is controlled by the image sensor. When compared with the Phase difference system AF, Contrast AF achieves higher accuracy especially when shooting with a bright lens with small F value. For instance, the accuracy of Contrast AF is approximately 90% while Phase difference AF is approximately 60% at F1.4. Additionally, with the precise Contrast AF system, the LUMIX GX1 achieves high resolution through an optimal balance of resolution and noise reduction, thus producing lifelike image rendering and highly precise Auto Exposure and white balance. To further advance the Contrast AF, the LUMIX GX1 incorporates full-area focusing, making it possible to set focus on any point in the field of view. With the LUMIX GX1’s 3.0-inch touch LCD screen, frame composition is intuitive and easy.
The LUMIX GX1 features an ultra high-speed Light Speed AF*, which means it can Auto Focus in approximately 0.09 second. This is achieved by reducing the detection time for focusing by the synchronizing the lens and sensor at 120 fps. Plus, the newly-added focus mode AFF (AF Flexible) locks on the focus when the shutter button is half-pressed, however, if the subject moves, the focusing is reset to get the best results. Combined with the Touch AF control, setting and focusing on the subject is incredibly easy and quick.
The touch-control system of the LUMIX GX1 lets users set the focus on the subject by simply touching it on the large, 460,000-dot wide-viewing angle LCD. Users can even release the shutter by touching the screen. Once locked on the subject with a touch, the LUMIX GX1 tracks the subject, even when it moves, using the AF tracking function. With a touch on the screen, users can select the part and the size of the AF area, choosing from 1-area AF, Multi-area AF with 23 AF areas and Pinpoint AF, which allows extremely precise focus setting.
Despite its compact size, the LUMIX GX1 is extremely intuitive to operate, with an optimized layout of control buttons, a mode dial and dedicated function buttons. Users can customize the two external buttons and two menus tabs to settings they most frequently use so they are easily accessible. In addition, a total of four custom setting patterns can be stored to the camera’s model dial – one on ‘C1’ and three on ‘C2.’ Furthermore, the LUMIX GX1 was designed to enhance its ergonomics, with a grip that fits naturally and comfortably in the hand, despite its flat profile and compact design. Plus, the LUMIX GX1 has a more tactile texture and the mode dial is easy to turn and features print that is easy to read and won’t easily wear.
The LUMIX GX1 can record 1920 x 1080 at 60i, with sensor output of 30p, full-High Definition videos in the AVCHD format which excels in both compression efficiency and compatibility with AV equipment for playback. In addition to the practical full-time AF, the Touch AF in video recording also lets users enjoy professional-like rack focusing. Just by pointing at the subject, the focus is shifted so it stands out. With a dedicated video record button on the top, users can instantly start recording videos while shooting photos without any having to make any extra setting adjustments. Along with the full-HD video capabilities, the LUMIX GX1 also features high-quality sound, recorded with Dolby® Digital Stereo Creator. Videos can also be recorded in MP4 format for playback on a PC or other portable electronic devices without having to convert the files.
Other features of the new Panasonic LUMIX GX1 compact system camera include:
- A new Level Gauge, which lets the camera detect the horizontal/vertical angle of view with its internal level working with the sensor. In addition, photos shot in portrait aspect will be automatically displayed vertically, regardless of which lens is used.
- One Push AE adjusts exposure with a single press of the “Fn” (Function) button when it is over/under exposed, which is especially useful when shooting outdoors with open aperture or indoors with fast shutter speed.
- Dust Reduction System helps to eliminate dust or foreign matter getting inside the LUMIX GX1 when lenses are being changed. By placing a supersonic wave filter in front of the Live MOS sensor that vibrates vertically around 50,000 times per second, the filter repels dust and other particles effectively.
- Zoom operation can be controlled with touch control when either of Panasonic’s new LUMIX X Power Zoom lenses are attached. And the zoom speed can also be adjusted in two steps for more precise control.
- Popular iA and iA Plus modes for beginners looking for automatic shooting in both still and video modes.
- Increased energy consumption and an approximately 11%** longer battery life when compared to the LUMIX DMC-G3, which also uses the same battery pack DMW-BLD10.
The LUMIX G Series is a robust system of bodies and lenses, featuring a total of 14 Micro Four Thirds lenses including the new power zoom X lens – standard zoom lens, telephoto zoom lens, single focal length lens, wide-angle lens, fish-eye lens, macro lens, and even a 3D lens – to fit a variety of shooting scenarios and occasions.
The Micro Four Thirds System products are joining today’s Four Thirds System products to provide customers with even higher levels of performance in a digital interchangeable lens camera. In addition to LUMIX G lenses, the LUMIX DMC-GX1 can use any interchangeable lens that complies with the Four Thirds System standard via an optional mount adapter for the unlimited number of lens properties. The LUMIX GX1 system camera offers a wide variety of options to choose from to match every shooting situation and shooting style, including: external flashes, PL filters, ND filters, MC protectors, remote shutter, zoom level, battery packs, AC adaptor, DC coupler, straps, cases, bags and more. Plus, with the LUMIX GX1’s hot shoe on the top, users can attach the optional tilt-shift Live View Finder (DMW-LVF2), with approximately 1.4x and 1,440,000-dot equivalent, 100% field of view.
The Panasonic LUMIX DMC-GX1 will be available in black and silver bodies in mid-December and in the following kit options: DMC-GX1-X with the LUMIX G X VARIO PZ 14-42mm / F3.5-5.6 ASPH. / POWER O.I.S (H-PS14042) lens will have a suggested retail price (SRP) of $949.99; the DMC-GX1-K with the 14-42 standard zoom for an SRP of $799.99; and the DMC-GX1, body only for an SRP of $699.99.
* The time for focusing on the subject is measured with LUMIX G X VARIO PZ 14-42mm / F3.5-5.6 ASPH. / POWER O.I.S (H-PS14042) to move the lens position to “2m” from the “infinity” position. The zoom is positioned at its widest end. Panasonic measurement method
**Based on a CIPA Standard.
About Panasonic Consumer Electronics Company
Based in Secaucus, N.J., Panasonic Consumer Electronics Company, is a Division of Panasonic Corporation of North America, the principal North American subsidiary of Panasonic Corporation (NYSE: PC) and the hub of Panasonic’s U.S. marketing, sales, service and R&D operations. Panasonic is pledged to practice prudent, sustainable use of the earth’s natural resources and protect our environment through the company’s Eco Ideas programs. Panasonic was the only Consumer Electronics company to be listed in the top ten brands on the Interbrand Best Global Green Brands 2011 ranking (http://www.interbrand.com/en/best-global-brands/Best-Global-Green-Brands/2011-Report/BestGlobalGreenBrandsTable-2011.aspx).
Superb Image Quality and Performance Combined with a Premium Design For the Joy of Both Shooting and Ownership
The New Digital Interchangeable Lens System Camera DMC-GX1
Panasonic is pleased to announce a new addition of interchangeable lens system camera for LUMIX G Micro System to the new premium mirror-less line up – DMC-GX1 featuring high image quality and stunning performance in both response and function.
LUMIX G Micro System realizes high-quality photo images with real-to-life details through excellent resolution, image rendering and color reproduction. Taking full advantage of the 16.0-megapixel Live MOS sensor and Venus Engine, images to be shot in low-lit situations at max. 12800 high ISO sensitivity setting is stunningly clear with highly sharp resolution.
Precision Contrast AF system of LUMIX G Micro System gains even higher speed realizing approx. 0.09 second of Light Speed AF.* Consecutive shooting is also improved for 4.2 fps in 16.0-megapixel full resolution.
The DMC-GX1 records 1920 x 1080 full-HD video with stereo sound in AVCHD format which is superior in both compression efficiency and friendliness with AV equipment for playback. Advanced AF system including practical full-time AF and tracking AF is available in video recording so that every photographer can enjoy high quality video recording with minimum ease.
As a camera from the new premium line of LUMIX G Micro System, the external design of the camera has been developed with no compromising on grip, dial, coating – everything to detail. The hot shoe on the top lets you attach the optional tilt-shift Live View Finder (DMW-LVF2) of approx. 1.4x (approx. 0.7x**), 1,440,000-dot equivalent, 100% field of view. It is now compatible with UHS-I standard for the SDXC/SDHC Memory Card taking its advantage to extend performance.
Available in silver and black, the DMC-GX1 offers luxurious comfort in shooting experience with a stunning performance and a host of functions, to be a great partner that is always in your sight, in your mind.
* The time for focusing on the subject is measured with LUMIX G X VARIO PZ 14-42mm / F3.5-5.6 ASPH. / POWER O.I.S (H-PS14042) to move the lens position to “2m” from “infinity” position. The zoom position is in wide end. Panasonic measurement method.
** 35mm camera equivalent.
1. High Image Quality for an Interchangeable Lens System Camera
LUMIX G Micro System realizes high-quality photo images with real-to-life details through excellent resolution, image rendering and color reproduction; high-grade lens and precision AF achieves high resolution, optimal balance of resolution and noise reduction achieves lifelike image rendering and high precision auto exposure and white balance with live light metering results in the faithful color reproduction.
The 16.0-megapixel Live MOS sensor plays a big role in high quality image rendering. With the dedicated circuit which reads out signals with minimum noise, the level of noise is significantly suppressed by more than 66%. Notably max. ISO12800 is available with DMC-GX1. In shooting at high ISO setting, S/N value is improved by approx. 200% compared with the conventional 12.1-megapixel sensor. The sensor performance improves by 6db at ISO 3200 and max. 9db at ISO6400, resulting in the dramatically flawless picture without noise.
In addition to the high-speed signal processing with its 3 CPUs, the image processor Venus Engine boasts its excellent performance with an adoption of noise reduction technology for even higher quality of image. By separating chromatic noise from luminance noise even more accurately by applying the optimal noise reduction to each, you can capture clear and beautiful images even when shooting at high ISO sensitivity levels. By preventing the color mixture which tended to occur around the edges, any chromatic noise, not only in the gradation part but also in the edge part, are described clearly. The engine also provides selective noise reduction to the outline part to let it have more naturally-balanced curve without deterioration of the resolution. In addition, the spot-type noise which can be often seen in the dark area of the picture taken in low light situation or color bleeding on high luminance area generated by the chromatic aberration. Details are kept by optimum synthesizing of the data which is processed with resolution-priority for edge part and NR-priority for smooth part of a picture*. The result is a picture with stunning clarity if shot in low-lit situations. Furthermore, optimization of the parameter contributes to the increase of resolution.
The LUMIX G Micro System offers a total of 14 interchangeable lenses including the new power zoom X lens – standard zoom lens, telephoto zoom lens, single focal length lens, wide-angle lens, fish-eye lens, macro lens – to fit any scenes and occasions.
* In a single shot at ISO3200 or higher. Not available with iA and iA Plus mode.
2. Advanced AF System
All cameras of LUMIX G Micro System adopt Contrast AF for its focus system. The Phase-difference AF system is susceptible to mechanical margin of error. However, in Contrast AF system, focusing is controlled by the image sensor so that no mechanical margin of error occurs to achieve precise focusing. Compared with the Phase difference system AF, the Contrast AF boasts higher accuracy especially in shooting with bright lens with small F value. (e.g. the accuracy of Contrast AF is approx. 90% while Phase difference AF is approx. 60% at F1.4.)
The DMC-GX1 features the approx. 0.09 second of ultra high-speed Light Speed AF* which is achieved by reducing the detection time for focusing by the synchronization of the lens and the sensor at 120 fps. Not only the accuracy but also the speed excels by far than the high-end DSLRs with Phase difference AF with the advanced Contrast AF system in DMC-GX1.
The newly added focus mode AFF (AF Flexible) locks on the focus when shutter button is half-pressed, however, if the subject moves, the focusing is reset to get the best results.
Combined with the Touch AF control, setting and focusing at the subject is incredibly easy and quick, never missing the spur-of-the-moment. Taking further advantage of Contrast AF, the DMC-GX1 incorporates Full-area focusing which makes it possible to set focus on any point in the field of view. Frame composition is free and intuitive combining the touch-screen operation.
The touch-control system of DMC-GX1 immediately lets users to set focus to the subject by just touching it on the large, 460,000-dot wide-viewing angle LCD and you can even release the shutter. Once you lock on the subject by a touch, the camera tracks the subject with the AF tracking function even if it moves. Just a touch on the screen lets you select the part and the size of AF area with the 1-area AF. The 1-area AF in Face Detection even allows you to set finer focus on the eyes while capturing human face bright and clear. The Multi-area AF with 23 AF areas allows to set a group of AF point according to the composition. In addition, Pinpoint AF function is incorporated in DMC-GX1 allowing more precise focus setting by further enlarging the focusing area. It assists, for example, setting focus right on the pupil in an eye.
In the MF assist mode, you can enlarge the part by just a touch to select 1x, 4x, 5x or 10x and smoothly move the part by dragging it on the screen. The 4x enlarged view is displayed on the framing screen making it possible to setting fine focus while composing the whole picture at the same time.
* The time for focusing on the subject is measured with LUMIX G X VARIO PZ 14-42mm / F3.5-5.6 ASPH. / POWER O.I.S (H-PS14042) to move the lens position to “2m” from “infinity” position. The zoom position is in wide end. Panasonic measurement method.
3. Easy Manual Control with a Variety of Shooting Assist Functions
Despite its outstanding compactness, the operation on DMC-GX1 is smooth and easy with optimum layout of control buttons and the mode dial, turn-and-press dial and dedicated function buttons. The function the user changes its setting can be assigned to the 2 external buttons and 2 menus in the software tab for direct reach. In addition, a total of 4 custom setting patterns can be memorized to the camera (1 on C1 for direct switch and 3 on C2).
Now the DMC-GX1 comes with Level Gauge which lets the camera detect the horizontal/vertical angle of view with its internal level working with the acceleration sensor. Photos shot in a portrait aspect will be automatically displayed vertically whatever lens is used.
The newly incorporated One Push AE adjusts exposure with a single press of Fn (Function) button when it is over/under exposure. It is especially useful in shoot in outdoor with open aperture or indoor with fast shutter speed.
Zoom operation can be controlled with touch control when the Power Zoom lens of LUMIX G Micro System is attached. Speed of zooming can be adjusted in 2 steps.
Even though the DMC-GX1 pursued the ultimate compactness, Panasonic did not compromise in the equipment of camera such as built-in flash (GN7.6, ISO160).
4. Finest Tuning in Every Part of the Camera
As a camera from the new premium GX line of LUMIX G Micro System, the external design of the camera has been developed with no compromising in every detail. The ergonomically designed grip fits the DMC-GX1’s flat profile yet easy to hold. Its tactile feeling offers more comfort thanks to the casting material resin and elastomer. The mode dial is machined with finest tuning on its pitch of spin, form of plate and shininess. Characters are sharply printed by laser so that they are easy to see and they last long. The buttons on the back also have style in the coating, spin, stamp and color.
The DMC-GX1 comes with a hot shoe for the external flash or for the new Live View Finder DMW-LVF2, which are the optional accessory.
5. 1920 x 1080 Full-HD High Quality Video Recording
LUMIX G Micro System is the camera that records not only high quality photo but also stunning video. The AVCHD format features almost twice the recording time in HD quality than the conventional Motion JPEG. A special, dedicated button on the top lets the user instantly start recording videos while shooting photos without any having to make any extra settings. Now the DMC-GX1 can record high-resolution full-HD videos 1920 x 1080 at 60i (NTSC) / 50i (PAL) in AVCHD (Sensor output is 30p [NTSC] / 25p [PAL])*. Image recording is more flexible fun with the DMC-GX1. In addition to the practical full-time AF, the Touch AF in video recording also lets users enjoy professional-like rack focusing. Just by pointing the subject, the focus is shifted to it and let it stand out to attract attention.
The Extra Tele Conversion function virtually extends the zoom range Max.4.8x without deterioration of image quality in smaller resolution.
Even video beginners can record excellent video with the DMC-GX1 because the popular iA and iA Plus modes are also available in video recording. Optical Image Stabilizer (O.I.S.) helps prevent handshake when using high-powered zoom. AF Tracking locks on the subject with focus even it moves. Face Detection automatically detects a face in the frame and adjusts focus, exposure, contrast, and skin complexion on it, so it always turns out beautiful. The Intelligent D-range Control offers natural looking by optimizing the exposure for each part of an image, preventing blocked shadows and blown highlights and helping ensure that gradation and details are reproduced beautifully including the blue color of the sky. And Intelligent Scene Selector automatically switches between Portrait, Scenery, Close-up and Low Light modes according to the situation to optimize various parameters for higher visual quality.
High quality sound can be recorded with Dolby® Digital Stereo Creator. A Wind Cut function is also available to block out most of the noise from background wind. The DMC-GX1 can take a photo while recording video by just pressing a shutter button. Also, photos can be cropped out from the video and the unwanted part of the video can be removed with a video divide function.
Videos can be recorded in MP4 format to play it back directly on the PC or other portable electronic devices without a need of conversion.
* Full HD (1920 x 1080) videos are output by the image sensor at 30p (NTSC) / 25p (PAL), and recorded at 60i (NTSC) / 50i (PAL). HD (1280 x 720) videos are output by the image sensor at 30p (NTSC) / 25p (PAL), and recorded at 60p (NTSC) / 50p (PAL).
• Motion images can be recorded continuously for up to 29 min 59 sec in European PAL areas.
• Continuous recording exceeding 4GB or 29 minutes 59 seconds is not possible when recording MP4. Remaining time for continuous recording is displayed on the screen.
• Use a card with SD Speed Class with “Class 4” or higher when recording motion pictures.
* SD Speed Class is the speed standard regarding continuous writing.
6. Outstanding Performance in Power, Speed and Image Processing
With further optimization and rationalization in electric design, the DMC-GX1 excels in energy consumption and features approx. 11%* longer battery life than the DMC-G3 which complies with the same battery pack DMW-BLD10. The DMC-GX1 is now capable of 4.2 fps consecutive shooting in 16.0-megapixel full resolution with mechanical shutter. High speed burst shooting at 20 fps with electronic shutter is also selectable according to the shooting fast-moving subject and it is possible to select the best shot later**.
The Intelligent D-range Control offers even more natural looking by optimizing the exposure for each part of an image, preventing blocked shadows and blown highlights and helping ensure that gradation and details are reproduced beautifully including the blue color of the sky.
DMC-GX1 compiles the Intelligent Resolution technology to perform the optimum signal processing depending on the part of a picture to give a whole image outstandingly natural clearness with fine details.
Cameras of LUMIX G Micro System are equipped with highly efficient Dust Reduction System. If dust or other foreign matter gets inside the camera when you’re changing lenses, it could cling to the image sensor and show up as a spot in your photos. The Dust Reduction System in the DMC-GX1 helps eliminate this possibility by placing a supersonic wave filter in front of the Live MOS sensor. Vibrating vertically around 50,000 times per second, the filter repels dust and other particles effectively.
The DMC-GX1 is compatible with UHS-I standard for the SDXC/SDHC Memory Card taking its advantage of high-speed data transmission.
* Based on a CIPA Standard.
** In the high speed burst shooting at 20 fps, the picture size is fixed to S-size in all aspects.
7. Artistic Color Control Functions and iA (Intelligent Auto) Plus mode
The DMC-GX1 is artistic not only in form, but also in function. It provides an array of features that let users capture precisely true-to-life images and create their own beautifully expressive images. The Creative Control offers a variety of color modes; Expressive, Retro, High Key, Sepia, High Dynamic, Miniature Effect* and newly added Low Key and Toy Effect mode. Effect parameter of each mode is also adjustable.
The Photo Style is another option to look photos more true to your artistic intention. It has Standard, Vivid, Natural, Monochrome, Scenery, Portrait presets while enabling finer adjustment of contrast, sharpness, saturation and noise reduction by each. It is possible to fully customize those settings to make user’s own color effect manually in Custom mode.
These two modes – Creative Control and Photo Style – let users at any level of skill enjoy giving photographers’ intention to make the picture even more impressive and fun.
The DMC-GX1 has advanced functions that will satisfy experienced photographers, yet is easy enough for beginners of interchangeable lens camera to use comfortably in both photo and video recording with the iA (Intelligent Auto) Plus. In addition to the popular iA functions – AF Tracking, Intelligent D-range Control, Intelligent Scene Selector, Face Recognition and Intelligent ISO Control –, the iA Plus mode lets users adjust defocusing area in the background, exposure compensation and white balance for more flexible control.
* Sound will not be recorded with [MINIATURE EFFECT] in Creative Control Mode and approximately 1/10 of the time period is recorded. (If you record for 10 minutes, the resulting motion picture recording will be approximately 1 minute long)
8. Enjoy Watching High Quality Photos and Videos on Large HDTV – VIERA Link Networking Even in 3D
With the world’s first* introduction of digital interchangeable lens to make 3D photo shooting possible with an interchangeable lens system camera, Panasonic proposes to enjoy high-quality shooting in 3D with DMC-GX1.
Both photo and AVCHD video recorded on SD Memory Cards are easy to view on a Panasonic VIERA TV with dynamic HD resolution. The user simply inserts the card into the VIERA Image Viewer (SD Memory Card slot) on a VIERA TV or DIGA Blu-ray Disc Player** to play the content. Alternatively, an optional HDMI mini cable can be used to output still and motion images recorded with the DMC-GX1 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.
* For a digital interchangeable lens as of September 21, 2010.
** AVCHD motion images recorded onto an SD Memory Card or a DVD cannot be played on a device that does not support the AVCHD standard.
9. Rich Options for Further Expandability
The Micro Four Thirds System products are joining today’s Four Thirds System products to provide customers with even higher levels of performance in a digital interchangeable lens camera. In addition to LUMIX G lenses, the LUMIX DMC-GX1 can use any interchangeable lens that complies with the Four Thirds System standard via an optional Mount Adaptor for the unlimited number of lens properties.
The hot shoe on the top lets you attach the optional tilt-shift Live View Finder (DMW-LVF2) of approx. 1.4x (approx. 0.7x*), 1,440,000-dot equivalent, 100% field of view.
The LUMIX DMC-GX1 system camera offers a wide variety of options to choose from to match every shooting situation and shooting style – External Flashes, PL Filters, ND Filters, MC Protectors, Remote Shutter, Zoom Lever, Battery Pack, AC Adaptor, DC Coupler, Lens Caps, Straps, Cases and Bags.
PHOTOfunSTUDIO 7.0 HD Edition, SILKYPIX® Developer Studio 3.1 SE and LoiLoScope are bundled for organizing the images, developing the photo shot in RAW or for editing videos.
* 35mm camera equivalent.
From 43rumors
Related Link: