The G9 was the first professional camera I ever bought in 2018. Hours of research and thought. I have since bought many other cameras but I can't let go of the G9. I still use it. There is a certain look in my animal photos that are just gold with a 50 1.8 Thank you for the video.
Hello I decided to follow you. I am 74 years old and love this camera that I own for its ergonomics and image quality. I have had many years experience like you and was pleased to find an older photographer with plenty of experience. I have some Panasonic pro lenses to go with it as well. A great commentary on this camera and you describe well why I like this camera and lenses so well.
The autofocus is no problem for me and I do not use it for fast moving birding or action. I have a Canon camera for action and wildlife photography with a canon pro lens that I use for that.
To make it clear with the focus issues on that camera, and Panasonic cameras in general prior to the G9 II: this is only related to video mode. There is no focus problem in photography mode. On the contrary the G9 has some unique focus assist tools that makes it very fast to acquire on a subject. It is called FarShift and NearShift focus. With the shutter half pressed you engage NearShift focus and the camera will focus on the nearest object in the focus area. You have to set a dedicated button for this but the G9 has lots of buttons and even digital ones. As for digital buttons the LCD screen is full touch and the menu is comprehensive. Panasonic cameras are easy and enjoyable to operate.
I use both, G9 and G9ii. And the human/animal body or eye detection of the new one creates significantly better outcomes. The question is if you really need this for your photography. To me it‘s a big advantage for sports (my son‘s soccer team) and for animal (birds,..) for which I use the 50-200mm. Not absolutely necessary but a huge help is when shooting / filming portrait / talking head. You can fully concentrate on all other aspects but the focus. But beside this there so many scenarios I still use my old G9 or my small GX9: Landscape, street,…
indeed this is a very useful feature, and few people know about it, you really neeed to dig in the menus to discover it, but once you do its easy as pie to configure and use.
Found you recently by chance. It's a pleasant experience to watch someone with a down to earth attitude, and without the 'bells and whistles' that distract what other folks think to be necessary, or 'cool', to attract an audience. I owned the G9 a few years back, but then decided to play the 'chase the better, stronger, greater' camera game. Prior to watching your video, I acquired the G9, again, for £350 on eBay (UK). The love affair begins, again. Thank you for sharing your thoughts. Liked, and subscribed.
I just shot with a Nikon D300. I bought the body for $150 and a couple of lenses for under $100 each. It is "only" a 12 megapixel sensor, but the images come out great shooting raw then running them through my post production workflow. The camera was $1800 new and is still serviceable for much of photography. I will do a video on it at some point.
Got one yesterday on ebay for £395 in mint condition and 10k count. In my opinion the Lumix G9 is a legendary camera. Successful because of this outstanding tool.
Just bought used g9 yesterday for gbp 485 in mint condition with 2k shutter count.. really enjoy the camera although bigger body compare to my em10mkiii 😊
It is hard to find a G9 user that doesn't love it. Great camera. Ergonomically perfect. I bought mine as a Pro kit, with the 12-35mm f2.8, and was able to do a deal on the 35-100/2.8. Best deal I ever made. Brilliant camera. I never have any real focus problems. As with any camera, you work with its limitations, and get the most from the camera.
Regardless of which camera you end up with, if you want a telephoto zoom, I highly recommend the Lumix 45-150 f4/5.6. You can buy it for under $100 and it is compact and light. I just tested it against the newer Olympus 40-150 which is on sale for $799 (msrp $999) and the Lumix out performed it. I will definitely be selling the Olympus lens. www.ebay.com/sch/i.html?_from=R40&_trksid=p4432023.m570.l1311&_nkw=lumix+45-150mm&_sacat=0
I find the CDAF on the G9 excellent, especially with the latest firmware updates, it is super fast and very accurate. It can get lost in scenes with little contrast of course and I get it that the PDAF is the setup you want for tracking fast moving subjects. I have an Olympus camera with PDAF and it doesn't always nail the focus as accurately as the G9 does. The G9 is a great camera to use manual lenses, big viewfinder, peaking is there straight off when the MF lens is detected (Olympus you have to program it to a button, an extra step in the workflow), and it throws up the focal length setting screen on start up when you have a manual lens on it (Olympus you have to remember to do a menu dive). The G9 is a winner, they got so much right on the first release and what little they didn't has largely been fixed in firmware. You cap that off with the insanely low prices you can get mint copies second hand and it's probably the no-brainer of the century.
Nice video. I just picked up this camera used off of eBay for a great price. Took it out today for the first time to get some fall color. Yea.. the shutter is super sensitive.
I started digital photography 16 years ago with a Pentax K100D super and many other Pentax models over the years I have added Panasonic,Olympus, Fujifilm, Nikon and one Sony A7 ii, i have a Panasonic S5, S5 MKII, G9 and G95. The G9 is a well made camera and the lens selection for the 4/3 cameras is amazing and the lens are very compact, the Panasonic 9mm f1.7 is such a small lens for a fast aperture lens. I also have the Olympus OMD Em1 MKII AND MKIII along with the EM5 MKIII. The 12-40 f2.8 Olympus lens is a great all around lens and my next favorite lens is the 40-150 F2.8, i also have many different Panasonic and Olympus zoom and prime lenses that I use as my travel camera setup.
I’ve seen this camera for $500 too. Unbelievable. The G9 was marketed as the Panasonic flagship photography camera. Being a Panasonic there are a lot of video features. The depth from defocus (DFD) is very good for photography. The camera locks onto the subject quickly and accurately. DFD isn’t so sticky for video. The focus sometimes looses lock and then drifts. The IBIS feels like it is more than five stops of stabilization . II easily can hand hold and capture an image at 1/2”. Add an OIS lens and you get dual stabilization for about seven stops. This is unbelievable. The lens choice is quite large. Panasonic and Zuiko lens are interchangeable but only the camera’s brand lens has full functionality. There are also third party lenses worth looking at. Two lenses in particular are worth note. The 12-35 & 35-50 f2.8 lenses are all you really need. Small. Lightweight. Sharp. Fast. Reasonable price. Yes the Panasonic-Leica 12-60 is a very good lens. It starts out fast at f2.8 but quickly stops down to f4. I love the Panasonic primes. The Panasonic-Leica lives on my GX9 for street photography. The Panasonic G9 is a true bargain for photography and/or videography. It is inexpensive and a powerful tool. The choice of glass is very good. The DFD is more than adequate for everyday use. A minor negative for some is that the body is somewhat large for a M43 body. This doesn’t translate to a heavy body. I purchased this body new when first released and have used it a lot. I wish I could have purchased the body at current prices. I love this body and wholeheartedly recommend it for any video or photography user. Mask On Nurse Marty (Ret)
Thanks for the tip on the back focus lock. Interestingly, much of pro video is shot with manual focus lenses. Auto focus speed and locking capability is a big talking point that really only matters to certain people. For those who can live with the G9's autofocus will get an incredible camera for the price.
I have one and I use the 12-35mm f2.8 (brilliant lens, so sharp) I also use the 45-150 like you, a decent zoom for telephoto I use the Laowa 7.5 for wide angle, the zooms here are too expensive for the use I'd give them I personally find primes a waste of money except for the Laowa. The zooms are just as good Thanks for highlighting this brilliant camera and finally I, like many photographers don't need phase detect auto focus for what we do 📷👍
I am thinking about getting one purely for the weather sealing. I have two M4/3 bodies, but they don't have this feature and there have been two times where I was out and it began raining, so I had to quickly hide my camera under my coat, it was ok. But, that got me thinking that it would be nice to have a body where I wouldn't have to stress so much about the weather suddenly shifting. I had considered a G80/85, but for the same price can get a used G9. I can't justify a G9ii at 2000€!!!
I am on a trip in Europe at the moment and I am using my OM Systems OM1 which is also weather sealed. I shot with the Oly 12-40 which is weather sealed on a rainy morning in a French village and got great results. I could have done the same with the G9. I think weather sealing is a huge selling point.
@@uncunvenchunalwisdom Yes, depending on where you are, France can be rainy and damp. I don't know anything about OM cameras. But generally, I think more expensive than panasonic ?
It may sound a bit silly, but I use the G9 with my 50mm Summilux-M that’s normally on my M11. The M is my main camera for personal work, but it has its limitations, so I took a G9 that was still lying around in our studio together with the gorgeous Leica 12-60 and I can use it for videos and whenever I need a more flexible platform than the full manual M. With the adapted 50 Summilux (100mm equiv.) I also have an awesome portrait setup. It’s a $4500 lens on a $500 camera and yet it feels totally perfect. The G9 is still amazing…
I'm looking to get the 14-140 lens to start with. Not a wide aperture but has a good reputation. (I have a bunch of m43 lenses but they not weather sealed.). But haven't decided whether this or GX8 (because smaller).
I picked one up a few months ago for 600€ boxed with everything as new condition. Had fewer than 4k clicks. We spent the day together today. I thought that it was going to be too heavy. But, it balances so well. I carried it around all day with little if any effort. I have a couple of day trips planned in the next weeks. Then sitting down and playing with them in Affinity 2. It's a bargain and I'm glad I have it. Yes, the G9ii is newer and superior. But, would I notice it and would the difference in price justify it? I don't think so.
I enjoy your passion for panasonic....I will agree with you that they are top notch video cameras but the autofocus issues and the crop factor just drove me back to canon
I haven't had an issue with the autofocus for the type of shooting I do. I realize it may be a significant problem for others. My post production workflow with DXO Photolab and some Topaz Photo AI (shooting in RAW) pretty much renders sensor size and lens quality as meaningless for me. I do like a good value proposition :)
Going back to my film days, I enjoy a good manual focus experience more than autofocus. Give me a great viewfinder and a lens with excellent manual focus dampening, and I am in my happy place.
Hi! Thank you for your great review. The Brightstar lens, is a great recommendation! I have a question regarding my next camera purchase, because you have reviewed both of them: G9 and Canon M6 II. I own cameras from both brands, original Canon eos M with magic lantern and Lumix GX80/85 and G100. Have some primes and kit lenses for both. I want to upgrade but I can't decide. Both are in the same price range. I have seen many reviews but I would like to hear your opinion as you've used both. Mostly, I use my cameras for photography: portraits, street and landscapes. But I'm more and more interested in video. Mostly I'm familiar with their strength and weaknesses, but what I don't know how the two sensors compare. Is the mft 20 mp sensor a match for the larger 32 mp sensor? Is there a difference in IQ and dynamic range in photos? Thank you in advance for your answer.
The short answer for me is if I could only have one, it would be the G9. It is weather sealed and has fantastic image stabilization and the Canon has neither. There are way more lenses available for the G9 at all price levels, sizes, etc. With my post production work flow (I shoot raw) the sensor size really doesn't matter. The G9 is also a better video camera. If you need a bigger sensor for some reason and you want a big sensor and a tiny body with Canon's in camera JPEG, then go for the Canon, otherwise, I would go for the G9.
@@uncunvenchunalwisdom Thank you for the quick response. I do lean towards the G9. I think it would give me possibly everything I need from a camera for a long time. Just saw one used, in excellent condition bundled with the Leica 12-60mm for $1000. As an EDC I'll keep my GX80/85 or the G100. Thank you for your help. All the best!
Hi, thank you for your informative video. This may sound as a silly question. Can I install a later update without the previous ones or do I have to go one by one?
I really appreciate this video, I am thinking of buying an old G9 and the PanaLeica 12-60. I had a question about the high res capture. I've heard that the IBIS does not work with this mode and I was wondering if the OIS in the lens would help with stability when using that mode. Not sure if you have any insight but I'd appreciate your input. Thanks
Hi JB, thank you for the information, really interesting perspective and appreciate you taking the time. What are your thoughts on the G9, G95, or EOS R50? I saw your prior videos and it sounds like the R50 is also an excellent camera. Seems like it’s possible to get the G95 and R50 for around 700 new with their kit lenses so price is pretty similar - I’m looking to buy a separate camera for basic travel and family photography (so I can put my phone away and avoid the distractions and battery drain associated with using that as my main camera) and it feels like there’s too many good choices so I’m struggling with comparing them. Appreciate your videos, thanks again.
Some quick questions for you. 1. Do you care about video or just photography? 2. Do you care about shooting in rain, snow, dust, etc.? 3. Do you care about shooting at really slow shutter speeds without a tripod? 4. Are you interested in manual focusing or do you just expect to do autofocus? 5. Do you shoot fast action where really good autofocus is important?
1. Just photography - when I take videos they will be clips of myself or my family goofing around, nothing serious and I’m sure any camera will provide enough video capabilities for those needs (I’m not going to do any color grading for example, I’ll just take whatever is coming straight out of camera) 2. I might shoot in some light rain but if it’s really bad weather I would just use my phone or a GoPro, same thing with dust if I’m at the beach I’d probably use a GoPro instead 3. No, not really 4. Expect to stick with autofocus 5. No, the fastest action I expect to shoot is toddlers running around Thanks, Sharad
I would look at the Lumix G85 kit which is on sale for $650 with two lenses. I think it meets all of your needs and is a great combo with the GoPro. The biggest drawback is that it doesn't have a microphone jack for an external microphone, for video which doesn't seem important for you. If you use Rakuten you can buy it through Walmart and get another 6% cash back. Either the G95 or the R50 would be great as well, but not as much value for the money. The G9 likely exceeds your needs and even though the price has come down, it would cost even more with an appropriate lens to match it's capabilities. www.amazon.com/PANASONIC-12-32mm-45-150mm-Stabilization-DMC-GX85WK/dp/B079VDF7ZG/ref=sr_1_1_sspa?crid=1ZO9O0FB47Y1T&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.HjDeEduC2Q1n3bLklUwkkkvaLVrM58WedY7wXGu7l0vG5s-f84qX_JoMjzx7xHBVQdKvbXE_UkmONwQlF7S0aPIwT5ASc1KLa1JSE7oL-4M5_qBI8Zd0-RqF9SjAaDgBERKYuRQMmh3Fho9nHx1UH6a3V_m0QRuDytqKoFXKUidIgdIDSoSd1sImHWqfvL6EDbQeZG7K8DdwYcoNJ6s0wpGmLHh_rdAG_SJek3Q-hFs.eElw2oLh8o_oyZngf9m3qs1CCU294XQzsfBbPfr_z6w&dib_tag=se&keywords=lumix%2Bgx85&qid=1709989899&sprefix=lumix%2Caps%2C127&sr=8-1-spons&sp_csd=d2lkZ2V0TmFtZT1zcF9hdGY&th=1 Here is a review: www.pcmag.com/reviews/panasonic-lumix-dmc-gx85
Enjoying your recent micro four thirds content. Thanks for the info on the G9, interesting camera. Would you still recommend the G9 to a hobbyist over one of the more mid-range bodies like the G95? This would be mainly for photography and not video. What would be your recommendation for the most best around most versatile micro four thirds lens?
The G95 is on sale and this is an amazing amount of camera for the money with the lens. www.adorama.com/ipcg95dmk.html?msclkid=c14bd611a88c14877acdb3f6f8e577ec&Adorama.com%20-%20US%20-%20SP%20-%20Categories%20-%20All%20-%20(Multiple%20Audiences)&SP%20-%20Categories%20-%20All%20-%20(Multiple%20Audiences)&gclid=c14bd611a88c14877acdb3f6f8e577ec&gclsrc=3p.ds& The main advantage I can see for the G9 is a much higher resolution viewfinder, but that may or may not matter to you. I would recommend the 12-60 whether the Lumix f3.5/5.6 or the Leica f2.8/4. The G95 kit includes the first lens which retails by itself for $499 making the $699 kit even more incredible. www.adorama.com/ipc1260.html
You may want to watch my G6 video. If you don't need sensor base image stabilization, you can get a very competent and compact camera with a good kit zoom for under $300.
If you enjoy good manual focusing as much as I do, I would go with the G9 for the incredible viewfinder and I would definitely have the Brightinstar 35mm .95 as part of my kit. brightinstar.com/products/brightin-star-35mm-f0-95-night-god-portrait-star-lens-suitable-for-m43-mount This is probably my favorite lens for the money of all time, but I love doing BOKEH shots.
I wouldn't hesitate a second getting the G9. It is a much more powerful camera. The G9 has photography tools the G90/G95 doesn't have: a joystick, 2 buttons and one lever on the front, focus assist tools like NearShift and FarShift focus which is so handy to nail focus. As for the lens the Panasonic 14-140 is a greal all around lens (excellent for travel), or the 12-60 Leica if you prefer a faster lens.
@@uncunvenchunalwisdom For a couple hundred dollars more I’d buy the G9. The G9 is a wonderful body. As I mentioned above, be prepared for a large body but it is still lightweight. As you mentioned, the EVF is a lovely one to use. Mask On Nurse Marty (Ret)
you might want to check....it is likely that it is the F3.5-5.6...which is a very good lens and a great deal. If it is the f2.8-4 then it is a crazy deal.
Yes and no. When it works, it’s a wonderful. But the problem is, it often does not. We are peers but you don’t seem to use your camera for more than stills and static objects. The AF performance alone makes me regret settling on this system. Also in photo mode. It has been a source of ongoing frustration and lost opportunities for years now. The only way to go serious with video using the G9 is to focus manually. The small 20mm f1.7 lens is wonderful as to character and sharpness, but the AF is slow.
Everything you wrote above is correct. Given the choice and my typical subject matter I would prefer a great manual focus camera whether film or mirrorless digital. I would also prefer well dampened manual focus lenses. Just my preference for the way I enjoy photography the most. It is possible, however to have both in one camera. This just isn't that camera.
I am trading my used Lumix GX80 + Lumix G 12-32 f3.5-5.6 Kit Lens + Voigtlander Color-Skopar 35mm f2.5 + Adapter for a mint condition Lumix G9 + Panasonic-Leica DG 12-60 f2.8-4 and need to add extra €329. My reason is Fully Weather Sealed Set-up, Hi-Res Mode, Leica DG Lens quality. It is being sold as set for €930. I will loose a bit in the process but I believe the upgrades from my GX80 to G9 is worth it.
Understood. If the camera was used before, how did Amazon get them and what did they do to them? My guess is that they are new, excess inventory, repackaged to be sold at a lower price.
I shoot RAW and process my images with DXO Photo Lab. It has insanely good grain removal. Given that, it really doesn't matter what camera I use as far as grain goes. The grain reduction feature in Topaz labs is also incredible. I can shoot grainy film and remove all the grain if I don't want that look. So it works for me, but may not for you.
@ for photos Topaz isn’t awful But for the price this is madness It is more sensible to dray pictures and write books Thanks for the response. I do use Topas but again that is madness for the prices camera, my iPhone looks nearly the same
The G9 was the first professional camera I ever bought in 2018. Hours of research and thought. I have since bought many other cameras but I can't let go of the G9. I still use it. There is a certain look in my animal photos that are just gold with a 50 1.8
Thank you for the video.
You are very welcome.
Hello I decided to follow you. I am 74 years old and love this camera that I own for its ergonomics and image quality. I have had many years experience like you and was pleased to find an older photographer with plenty of experience. I have some Panasonic pro lenses to go with it as well. A great commentary on this camera and you describe well why I like this camera and lenses so well.
If you can live with the autofocus, this is an amazing camera for the money. I don't shoot much fast action, so it isn't a problem for me.
The autofocus is no problem for me and I do not use it for fast moving birding or action. I have a Canon camera for action and wildlife photography with a canon pro lens that I use for that.
To make it clear with the focus issues on that camera, and Panasonic cameras in general prior to the G9 II: this is only related to video mode. There is no focus problem in photography mode.
On the contrary the G9 has some unique focus assist tools that makes it very fast to acquire on a subject. It is called FarShift and NearShift focus. With the shutter half pressed you engage NearShift focus and the camera will focus on the nearest object in the focus area. You have to set a dedicated button for this but the G9 has lots of buttons and even digital ones.
As for digital buttons the LCD screen is full touch and the menu is comprehensive. Panasonic cameras are easy and enjoyable to operate.
Thank you very much. I wasn't aware of this.
I use back button focus on my g9 its ok.
I use both, G9 and G9ii. And the human/animal body or eye detection of the new one creates significantly better outcomes. The question is if you really need this for your photography.
To me it‘s a big advantage for sports (my son‘s soccer team) and for animal (birds,..) for which I use the 50-200mm. Not absolutely necessary but a huge help is when shooting / filming portrait / talking head. You can fully concentrate on all other aspects but the focus.
But beside this there so many scenarios I still use my old G9 or my small GX9: Landscape, street,…
indeed this is a very useful feature, and few people know about it, you really neeed to dig in the menus to discover it, but once you do its easy as pie to configure and use.
Found you recently by chance. It's a pleasant experience to watch someone with a down to earth attitude, and without the 'bells and whistles' that distract what other folks think to be necessary, or 'cool', to attract an audience. I owned the G9 a few years back, but then decided to play the 'chase the better, stronger, greater' camera game. Prior to watching your video, I acquired the G9, again, for £350 on eBay (UK). The love affair begins, again. Thank you for sharing your thoughts. Liked, and subscribed.
I just shot with a Nikon D300. I bought the body for $150 and a couple of lenses for under $100 each. It is "only" a 12 megapixel sensor, but the images come out great shooting raw then running them through my post production workflow. The camera was $1800 new and is still serviceable for much of photography. I will do a video on it at some point.
I use back button ato focus that solves the shutter sensitivity and I prefer to use back button autofocus anyway.
Thanks. I am going to give that a try.
There is a 9mm F1.7 lens too, super build and weather sealed
Thanks. I wasn't familiar with that lens.
Got one yesterday on ebay for £395 in mint condition and 10k count. In my opinion the Lumix G9 is a legendary camera. Successful because of this outstanding tool.
That is an incredible value. Enjoy.
Absolutely!... it was even that price or nearest offer. Very happy to pay the full
Just bought used g9 yesterday for gbp 485 in mint condition with 2k shutter count.. really enjoy the camera although bigger body compare to my em10mkiii 😊
Really appreciate you taking the time to put this together and share. So many great insights!
Glad it was helpful!
I just picked up a lightly used G9 with the PL 12-60 for $850. I love it so far!
The lens is worth that by itself. Nice job.
It is hard to find a G9 user that doesn't love it. Great camera. Ergonomically perfect. I bought mine as a Pro kit, with the 12-35mm f2.8, and was able to do a deal on the 35-100/2.8. Best deal I ever made. Brilliant camera. I never have any real focus problems. As with any camera, you work with its limitations, and get the most from the camera.
I agree. It is an incredible value right now.
Thank you for the feedback and recommendations, much appreciated!
Any time!
Regardless of which camera you end up with, if you want a telephoto zoom, I highly recommend the Lumix 45-150 f4/5.6. You can buy it for under $100 and it is compact and light. I just tested it against the newer Olympus 40-150 which is on sale for $799 (msrp $999) and the Lumix out performed it. I will definitely be selling the Olympus lens. www.ebay.com/sch/i.html?_from=R40&_trksid=p4432023.m570.l1311&_nkw=lumix+45-150mm&_sacat=0
My Olympus the Pro f4.0 version
I find the CDAF on the G9 excellent, especially with the latest firmware updates, it is super fast and very accurate. It can get lost in scenes with little contrast of course and I get it that the PDAF is the setup you want for tracking fast moving subjects. I have an Olympus camera with PDAF and it doesn't always nail the focus as accurately as the G9 does. The G9 is a great camera to use manual lenses, big viewfinder, peaking is there straight off when the MF lens is detected (Olympus you have to program it to a button, an extra step in the workflow), and it throws up the focal length setting screen on start up when you have a manual lens on it (Olympus you have to remember to do a menu dive). The G9 is a winner, they got so much right on the first release and what little they didn't has largely been fixed in firmware. You cap that off with the insanely low prices you can get mint copies second hand and it's probably the no-brainer of the century.
I agree completely.
Nice video. I just picked up this camera used off of eBay for a great price. Took it out today for the first time to get some fall color. Yea.. the shutter is super sensitive.
I have no idea why they mad the shutter that sensitive. I use lots of cameras and when I switch to the G9 there is always an adjustment period.
I started digital photography 16 years ago with a Pentax K100D super and many other Pentax models over the years I have added Panasonic,Olympus, Fujifilm, Nikon and one Sony A7 ii, i have a Panasonic S5, S5 MKII, G9 and G95. The G9 is a well made camera and the lens selection for the 4/3 cameras is amazing and the lens are very compact, the Panasonic 9mm f1.7 is such a small lens for a fast aperture lens. I also have the Olympus OMD Em1 MKII AND MKIII along with the EM5 MKIII. The 12-40 f2.8 Olympus lens is a great all around lens and my next favorite lens is the 40-150 F2.8, i also have many different Panasonic and Olympus zoom and prime lenses that I use as my travel camera setup.
I’ve seen this camera for $500 too. Unbelievable. The G9 was marketed as the Panasonic flagship photography camera. Being a Panasonic there are a lot of video features. The depth from defocus (DFD) is very good for photography. The camera locks onto the subject quickly and accurately. DFD isn’t so sticky for video. The focus sometimes looses lock and then drifts.
The IBIS feels like it is more than five stops of stabilization . II easily can hand hold and capture an image at 1/2”. Add an OIS lens and you get dual stabilization for about seven stops. This is unbelievable.
The lens choice is quite large. Panasonic and Zuiko lens are interchangeable but only the camera’s brand lens has full functionality. There are also third party lenses worth looking at. Two lenses in particular are worth note. The 12-35 & 35-50 f2.8 lenses are all you really need. Small. Lightweight. Sharp. Fast. Reasonable price. Yes the Panasonic-Leica 12-60 is a very good lens. It starts out fast at f2.8 but quickly stops down to f4. I love the Panasonic primes. The Panasonic-Leica lives on my GX9 for street photography.
The Panasonic G9 is a true bargain for photography and/or videography. It is inexpensive and a powerful tool. The choice of glass is very good. The DFD is more than adequate for everyday use. A minor negative for some is that the body is somewhat large for a M43 body. This doesn’t translate to a heavy body. I purchased this body new when first released and have used it a lot. I wish I could have purchased the body at current prices. I love this body and wholeheartedly recommend it for any video or photography user.
Mask On Nurse Marty (Ret)
Thanks for the tip on the back focus lock. Interestingly, much of pro video is shot with manual focus lenses. Auto focus speed and locking capability is a big talking point that really only matters to certain people. For those who can live with the G9's autofocus will get an incredible camera for the price.
I have one and I use the 12-35mm f2.8 (brilliant lens, so sharp)
I also use the 45-150 like you, a decent zoom for telephoto
I use the Laowa 7.5 for wide angle, the zooms here are too expensive for the use I'd give them
I personally find primes a waste of money except for the Laowa. The zooms are just as good
Thanks for highlighting this brilliant camera and finally I, like many photographers don't need phase detect auto focus for what we do 📷👍
I agree with all you points.
Thanks! Most of my gear is MFT but I don't have any G series cameras - yet.
I am thinking about getting one purely for the weather sealing. I have two M4/3 bodies, but they don't have this feature and there have been two times where I was out and it began raining, so I had to quickly hide my camera under my coat, it was ok. But, that got me thinking that it would be nice to have a body where I wouldn't have to stress so much about the weather suddenly shifting. I had considered a G80/85, but for the same price can get a used G9. I can't justify a G9ii at 2000€!!!
I am on a trip in Europe at the moment and I am using my OM Systems OM1 which is also weather sealed. I shot with the Oly 12-40 which is weather sealed on a rainy morning in a French village and got great results. I could have done the same with the G9. I think weather sealing is a huge selling point.
@@uncunvenchunalwisdom Yes, depending on where you are, France can be rainy and damp. I don't know anything about OM cameras. But generally, I think more expensive than panasonic ?
It may sound a bit silly, but I use the G9 with my 50mm Summilux-M that’s normally on my M11. The M is my main camera for personal work, but it has its limitations, so I took a G9 that was still lying around in our studio together with the gorgeous Leica 12-60 and I can use it for videos and whenever I need a more flexible platform than the full manual M. With the adapted 50 Summilux (100mm equiv.) I also have an awesome portrait setup. It’s a $4500 lens on a $500 camera and yet it feels totally perfect. The G9 is still amazing…
It is an amazingly good camera at the current price.
I'm looking to get the 14-140 lens to start with. Not a wide aperture but has a good reputation. (I have a bunch of m43 lenses but they not weather sealed.). But haven't decided whether this or GX8 (because smaller).
Good luck with your decision.
14-140 not sharp wider than 30mm, the longer end is great
Big difference between GX8 and G9, you should know what you use your camera for!
I picked one up a few months ago for 600€ boxed with everything as new condition. Had fewer than 4k clicks. We spent the day together today. I thought that it was going to be too heavy. But, it balances so well. I carried it around all day with little if any effort. I have a couple of day trips planned in the next weeks. Then sitting down and playing with them in Affinity 2. It's a bargain and I'm glad I have it. Yes, the G9ii is newer and superior. But, would I notice it and would the difference in price justify it? I don't think so.
Glad you like it. There are many excellent lightweight lenses available.
I enjoy your passion for panasonic....I will agree with you that they are top notch video cameras but the autofocus issues and the crop factor just drove me back to canon
I haven't had an issue with the autofocus for the type of shooting I do. I realize it may be a significant problem for others. My post production workflow with DXO Photolab and some Topaz Photo AI (shooting in RAW) pretty much renders sensor size and lens quality as meaningless for me. I do like a good value proposition :)
Going back to my film days, I enjoy a good manual focus experience more than autofocus. Give me a great viewfinder and a lens with excellent manual focus dampening, and I am in my happy place.
Hi! Thank you for your great review. The Brightstar lens, is a great recommendation!
I have a question regarding my next camera purchase, because you have reviewed both of them: G9 and Canon M6 II.
I own cameras from both brands, original Canon eos M with magic lantern and Lumix GX80/85 and G100. Have some primes and kit lenses for both. I want to upgrade but I can't decide. Both are in the same price range. I have seen many reviews but I would like to hear your opinion as you've used both. Mostly, I use my cameras for photography: portraits, street and landscapes. But I'm more and more interested in video. Mostly I'm familiar with their strength and weaknesses, but what I don't know how the two sensors compare. Is the mft 20 mp sensor a match for the larger 32 mp sensor? Is there a difference in IQ and dynamic range in photos?
Thank you in advance for your answer.
The short answer for me is if I could only have one, it would be the G9. It is weather sealed and has fantastic image stabilization and the Canon has neither. There are way more lenses available for the G9 at all price levels, sizes, etc. With my post production work flow (I shoot raw) the sensor size really doesn't matter. The G9 is also a better video camera. If you need a bigger sensor for some reason and you want a big sensor and a tiny body with Canon's in camera JPEG, then go for the Canon, otherwise, I would go for the G9.
@@uncunvenchunalwisdom Thank you for the quick response. I do lean towards the G9. I think it would give me possibly everything I need from a camera for a long time. Just saw one used, in excellent condition bundled with the Leica 12-60mm for $1000. As an EDC I'll keep my GX80/85 or the G100.
Thank you for your help. All the best!
Hi, thank you for your informative video. This may sound as a silly question. Can I install a later update without the previous ones or do I have to go one by one?
Good question. I believe you can install the latest update regardless of your current version. I am not positive, but that is my belief.
I was wondering the same thing.
Have you tried the Olympus Em1 Mark ii? Debating between picking up the E9 or the Mark ii.
Based on EBAY listings, it appears the Olympus is much more expensive than the G9. Not sure it is an apples to apples comparison.
I have the newer OM-1. It is a great camera.
@@uncunvenchunalwisdomNot sure I need all the Om1’s power.
Here in Japan the em1 mark ii is actually cheaper than the G9
How is the high res mode
To be honest with you, when shooting RAW and processing in DXO Photolab (and sometimes Topaz AI), I haven't ever had the need to use the hi res mode.
I really appreciate this video, I am thinking of buying an old G9 and the PanaLeica 12-60. I had a question about the high res capture. I've heard that the IBIS does not work with this mode and I was wondering if the OIS in the lens would help with stability when using that mode. Not sure if you have any insight but I'd appreciate your input. Thanks
I haven't ever used the hires mode, so I don't know the answer to your question. Sorry.
Hi JB, thank you for the information, really interesting perspective and appreciate you taking the time. What are your thoughts on the G9, G95, or EOS R50? I saw your prior videos and it sounds like the R50 is also an excellent camera. Seems like it’s possible to get the G95 and R50 for around 700 new with their kit lenses so price is pretty similar - I’m looking to buy a separate camera for basic travel and family photography (so I can put my phone away and avoid the distractions and battery drain associated with using that as my main camera) and it feels like there’s too many good choices so I’m struggling with comparing them. Appreciate your videos, thanks again.
Some quick questions for you. 1. Do you care about video or just photography? 2. Do you care about shooting in rain, snow, dust, etc.? 3. Do you care about shooting at really slow shutter speeds without a tripod? 4. Are you interested in manual focusing or do you just expect to do autofocus? 5. Do you shoot fast action where really good autofocus is important?
1. Just photography - when I take videos they will be clips of myself or my family goofing around, nothing serious and I’m sure any camera will provide enough video capabilities for those needs (I’m not going to do any color grading for example, I’ll just take whatever is coming straight out of camera)
2. I might shoot in some light rain but if it’s really bad weather I would just use my phone or a GoPro, same thing with dust if I’m at the beach I’d probably use a GoPro instead
3. No, not really
4. Expect to stick with autofocus
5. No, the fastest action I expect to shoot is toddlers running around
Thanks, Sharad
I would look at the Lumix G85 kit which is on sale for $650 with two lenses. I think it meets all of your needs and is a great combo with the GoPro. The biggest drawback is that it doesn't have a microphone jack for an external microphone, for video which doesn't seem important for you. If you use Rakuten you can buy it through Walmart and get another 6% cash back. Either the G95 or the R50 would be great as well, but not as much value for the money. The G9 likely exceeds your needs and even though the price has come down, it would cost even more with an appropriate lens to match it's capabilities.
www.amazon.com/PANASONIC-12-32mm-45-150mm-Stabilization-DMC-GX85WK/dp/B079VDF7ZG/ref=sr_1_1_sspa?crid=1ZO9O0FB47Y1T&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.HjDeEduC2Q1n3bLklUwkkkvaLVrM58WedY7wXGu7l0vG5s-f84qX_JoMjzx7xHBVQdKvbXE_UkmONwQlF7S0aPIwT5ASc1KLa1JSE7oL-4M5_qBI8Zd0-RqF9SjAaDgBERKYuRQMmh3Fho9nHx1UH6a3V_m0QRuDytqKoFXKUidIgdIDSoSd1sImHWqfvL6EDbQeZG7K8DdwYcoNJ6s0wpGmLHh_rdAG_SJek3Q-hFs.eElw2oLh8o_oyZngf9m3qs1CCU294XQzsfBbPfr_z6w&dib_tag=se&keywords=lumix%2Bgx85&qid=1709989899&sprefix=lumix%2Caps%2C127&sr=8-1-spons&sp_csd=d2lkZ2V0TmFtZT1zcF9hdGY&th=1
Here is a review: www.pcmag.com/reviews/panasonic-lumix-dmc-gx85
Enjoying your recent micro four thirds content. Thanks for the info on the G9, interesting camera. Would you still recommend the G9 to a hobbyist over one of the more mid-range bodies like the G95? This would be mainly for photography and not video. What would be your recommendation for the most best around most versatile micro four thirds lens?
The G95 is on sale and this is an amazing amount of camera for the money with the lens. www.adorama.com/ipcg95dmk.html?msclkid=c14bd611a88c14877acdb3f6f8e577ec&Adorama.com%20-%20US%20-%20SP%20-%20Categories%20-%20All%20-%20(Multiple%20Audiences)&SP%20-%20Categories%20-%20All%20-%20(Multiple%20Audiences)&gclid=c14bd611a88c14877acdb3f6f8e577ec&gclsrc=3p.ds&
The main advantage I can see for the G9 is a much higher resolution viewfinder, but that may or may not matter to you.
I would recommend the 12-60 whether the Lumix f3.5/5.6 or the Leica f2.8/4. The G95 kit includes the first lens which retails by itself for $499 making the $699 kit even more incredible. www.adorama.com/ipc1260.html
You may want to watch my G6 video. If you don't need sensor base image stabilization, you can get a very competent and compact camera with a good kit zoom for under $300.
If you enjoy good manual focusing as much as I do, I would go with the G9 for the incredible viewfinder and I would definitely have the Brightinstar 35mm .95 as part of my kit. brightinstar.com/products/brightin-star-35mm-f0-95-night-god-portrait-star-lens-suitable-for-m43-mount This is probably my favorite lens for the money of all time, but I love doing BOKEH shots.
I wouldn't hesitate a second getting the G9. It is a much more powerful camera. The G9 has photography tools the G90/G95 doesn't have: a joystick, 2 buttons and one lever on the front, focus assist tools like NearShift and FarShift focus which is so handy to nail focus.
As for the lens the Panasonic 14-140 is a greal all around lens (excellent for travel), or the 12-60 Leica if you prefer a faster lens.
@@uncunvenchunalwisdom For a couple hundred dollars more I’d buy the G9. The G9 is a wonderful body. As I mentioned above, be prepared for a large body but it is still lightweight. As you mentioned, the EVF is a lovely one to use.
Mask On Nurse Marty (Ret)
Yep, I got the body and 12-60 f2.8 for $689
wow...fantastic
you might want to check....it is likely that it is the F3.5-5.6...which is a very good lens and a great deal. If it is the f2.8-4 then it is a crazy deal.
Incredible
Yes and no. When it works, it’s a wonderful. But the problem is, it often does not.
We are peers but you don’t seem to use your camera for more than stills and static objects. The AF performance alone makes me regret settling on this system. Also in photo mode. It has been a source of ongoing frustration and lost opportunities for years now.
The only way to go serious with video using the G9 is to focus manually.
The small 20mm f1.7 lens is wonderful as to character and sharpness, but the AF is slow.
Everything you wrote above is correct. Given the choice and my typical subject matter I would prefer a great manual focus camera whether film or mirrorless digital. I would also prefer well dampened manual focus lenses. Just my preference for the way I enjoy photography the most. It is possible, however to have both in one camera. This just isn't that camera.
I am trading my used Lumix GX80 + Lumix G 12-32 f3.5-5.6 Kit Lens + Voigtlander Color-Skopar 35mm f2.5 + Adapter for a mint condition Lumix G9 + Panasonic-Leica DG 12-60 f2.8-4 and need to add extra €329. My reason is Fully Weather Sealed Set-up, Hi-Res Mode, Leica DG Lens quality. It is being sold as set for €930. I will loose a bit in the process but I believe the upgrades from my GX80 to G9 is worth it.
I agree.
I just got an open box with 12-60 on Amazon for under $600
Kit lens
That is amazing. Way to go.
Renewed is Amazon's version of refurbished, more or less.
Understood. If the camera was used before, how did Amazon get them and what did they do to them? My guess is that they are new, excess inventory, repackaged to be sold at a lower price.
Can i please make you a logo!
Thanks, but I don't want a logo.
@@uncunvenchunalwisdomit is refreshing to find someone who doesn’t care about likes, subscriptions and all that stuff. More power to you sir.
this camera is awful and grainy
I shoot RAW and process my images with DXO Photo Lab. It has insanely good grain removal. Given that, it really doesn't matter what camera I use as far as grain goes. The grain reduction feature in Topaz labs is also incredible. I can shoot grainy film and remove all the grain if I don't want that look. So it works for me, but may not for you.
@ for photos Topaz isn’t awful
But for the price this is madness
It is more sensible to dray pictures and write books
Thanks for the response. I do use Topas but again that is madness for the prices camera, my iPhone looks nearly the same