Panasonic Lumix DMC-G5

Category:	Type:	Image Sensor	:
Point-and-Shoot	Compact	EVF	:
Beginner	Ultra Compact	Image Stabilization	:
Serious	Ultra Zoom	Display	:
Advanced	DSLR	Shooting Mode	:
Pro	DIL	Shutter Speed	:
		Burst	:
		Movie	:
		Price check…	:

The Panasonic Lumix DMC-G5 updates the G3 with some significant improvements that keeps it as one of the best mirrorless DSLRs available.

The Lumix G5 features 16.05MP resolution on a Four Thirds Live MOS sensor. It is compact and light, with all smooth curves. The body feels solidly constructed. The molded handgrip is larger than on the G3 for a more comfortable hold, and the Shutter Release Button is now in a more natural angled position. This is easily one of the most beautiful DSLM (Digital Single Lens Mirrorless).

There is a new Function Lever that functions like a top dial. It can be customized a number of ways: to act as a Zoom Lever when using Power Zoom lenses, thus allowing one handed operation of the G5; to control exposure or aperture in Manual mode; to magnify images in Playback mode; and, to page flip in Menu mode.

A large, bright 1,440,000-dot equivalent LVF (Live View Finder) integrates an eye sensor to automatically switch the image from the LCD to the LVF when you bring the camera to your eye. Additionally, Eye Sensor AF (Auto Focus) automatically starts focusing when the photographer looks into the LVF. A Diopter Adjustment Dial on the left side of the LVF is easy to set.

The Panasonic G5 has a large 3.0-inch LCD screen with a high 920k-dot resolution for a bright, clear and impressively sharp display. The LCD is of the rotating type so that you can protect it when not in use or turn it all the way to face the front. Touch-control shooting lets photographers focus on the subject by simply touching it on the screen. Pinpoint AF allows extremely precise near–pixel-level focus point setting at the touch of a finger. For those who prefer it, there is also manual focus.

An innovation here allows the touch AF feature to still work even when you are looking through the LVF. Even when there is no image displayed on the LCD (since the eye sensor has switched it to the LVF), you can move your thumb on the LCD (of course, the LCD would be opened wide as in the picture above) to set the AF point.

A practical addition is the new Electronic Level Gauge that is one of the easier implementations I’ve used.

Image quality is preserved at high ISOs: selective noise reduction creates a more naturally-balanced curve without deterioration of the image.

Those upgrading from a point-and-shoot digital camera will love the iA (Intelligent AUTO) and scene modes; the more advanced users has PASM shooting modes for complete control.

The Panasonic G5 uses the SD / SDHC / SDXC memory card.

The Panasonic Lumix DMC-G5 is a compact, elegant and powerful DSLM for those serious about their photography but do not want the bulk and weight of a traditional mirrored DSLR.

Editor’s Note: We have a Hands-on preview of the Lumix G5. Only the Handling & Feel and Photo Gallery sections are currently available. We will complete it with more detail when we get a camera for review.

Executive SummaryImage QualityPhoto GalleryHandling & FeelUser’s ExperienceQuickFact Sheet / Buy