You can say a lot of things about me - I am biased, I am a bad photographer/my photography sucks, my reviews are not good, I don't know how to use a camera (yes these things have been said about me multiple times) I don't care really. You are entitled to your own opinion. However, to go that one step further and say I have forgotten how to have fun shooting, or don't know how to enjoy photography, that, I think is quite unforgiveable.
Hmm... I am sure a lot of things _can_ be said about Robin Wong; however, after watching many of his videos, NONE of those things (^^^) can be said about him.
If I rremember You put a little fun in my life by showing the Nikon 1 Mirrorless Camera. So now I have the J5 and V3 with all lenses except for 11-27mm, but I have four batteries for each and dummy batteries also. Cheers!
I don't really understand the the S9, if the target audience doesn't care about specs why make it full frame? I think the smaller more affordable micro four thirds lenses would be appreciated by the end user! I agree the camera would have made sense being a compact, affordable hybrid with a micro four thirds sensor. Keep having fun Robin!
@robinwong Robin you're so correct. M43 would have solved all the problems of the s9! I actually have a GM5 review coming up (filmed before I saw your video!) And I say exactly the same thing 😂 I absolutely love your passion and enthusiasm and FUN in photography- I think it's something we share - and what that Lumix rep said was very wrong
Dear Lumix USA, I propose that you send Robin a FUN S9 package - complete with the S9 camera and perhaps a fun lens. By doing so, Robin can provide an honest opinion based on hands-on experience. Rather than relying solely on so-called “influencers” who may lack genuine camera expertise, let’s appreciate Robin’s dedication to photography. If you agree, give it a thumbs up!
Thanks for the show of faith. However, the S9 was created for content creators/influencers, so they did get their target right the first round. It was not designed for photographers, so I am not the right fit honestly, and that is fine. What was not fine, was people telling me I don't know how to have fun. Hence this video.
@@robinwong Where Lumix ditched the hot shoe, the EM10 mark iv ditched the dedicated mic port. It all evens out. OMD is for photography, Panasonic is for video.
Why are we talking about Olympus? This has nothing to do with the topic of this video. If we keep getting out of topic soon we will be discussing how to genetically modify rats to produce coffee beans.
@@robinwong my point is that both companies are branching off in their separate directions. Olympus is going the photography route, while Panasonic is taking the video route. This would explain why the S9's photo capabilities were limited
I cannot believe they questioned if you can just have "fun" anymore? 💀 That's incredibly petty. The recap of this email seems like Lumix is panicking about this launch. I bought the s9 and while I do enjoy it, having no EVF is just not fun. Especially now in the summer. They could of fit it in and left the rest of the comprises as is and it would of been a huge hit. I'll be returning mine for this reason and seeing this video solidifies that. Earned a sub and keep up your great attitude brother 🫡🍻
Had to smile at your video. Calling a guy that starts every video with a giant smile and says “Lets Do This.” Someone that doesn’t understand fun is missing something.
Amazing. You DID IT ! This one of the most enjoyable video of yours. Great reply to the Panasonic email. You really told the story of FUN in photography.
Thank you very much for 12 minutes of real fun, especially when you try to put your camera in your pocket 😅Panasonic has a long history of excellent products but has forgotten the joy of having a camera like the GM1. Dear Panasonic, release the desired product at once, listen to customers and do not waste time in meaningless confrontations.
We are living in a world where constructive criticism is not acceptable? Sad state! If Panasonic needs to justify their design and lack of features by gaslighting people, they need to reconsider their marketing. When the S9 came out, it was a disaster. from the people they invited out to Japan to promote the camera to the actual camera. If they are worried of about people having fun and telling people that features don't matter, they should have just released a smartphone. Only thing we can do is not buy the S9. Nothing wrong with walking away, there are so many better cameras out there! Sorry Robin they treated you like that. Keep smiling and having fun! "LETS DO THIS!"
I think Panasonic was genuinely bamboozled by the avalanche of criticism over the S9 and now they're getting desperate/defensive. Their definition of "fun" appears to be: "Look, it comes in five different colors!". 🙄
I can’t imagine how anyone can accuse you of not knowing how to have fun in photography. Your channel is the most fun photography channel I’ve come across. Keep doing it your way! 🙌🏼
XZ-1 has surprisingly good output with ISO100-200 in RAW. JPGs are really ugly unfortunately and video is disgusting. XZ-2 improved that a lot although on paper they are similar.
@@xmeda I have only shot JPEGs. But choosing L Fine, Natural colour profile, restricting ISO to a maximum of 200 ISO, and setting an aperture of f4--f5.6 I have been obtaining impressive images.
In GM1, I use a silent shutter, I don't use a flash, I don't need a viewfinder. Therefore, the S9 has a lot of interest for me in a pair with GM1. Thanks for this video!
@@And_Sun_Yk I hope Lumix will create a line of small lenses for this series of cameras. The main thing is not to nip this idea in the bud with too much aggression in the reviews.
I guess I'm waiting for their new compact lenses. MFT has so many compact pancakes that would pair nicely with this. Maybe OM will capitalize and I'll switch brands.... Heck even the old Kodaks are selling like hot cakes
Hi Robin....Liverpool Kev here from UK....Great video...How dare someone say about one of the most fun photographers on the whole internet that he's no fun!....I have a number of cameras including the GM1 and must agree with you totally...I love my GM1...Keep at it Robin...Love your videos...I learn and have a smile on my face watching your videos and look forward to all of them...Take care...Liverpool Kev
I am from China and living in Europe and have been wathcing your videos for several years and I totally agree your points and the Panasonic guys rellay do not get the point, What a shame.After using full frame , APSC and MFT and now really satisfied with my Panasonic GM1, GM5 and a bunch of quality MFT lens. It just make sense for average amateurs. Maufactures want make profit by selling performance but in terms of general photo, MFT is enough , practical, and FUN！
I can fit my GM5 and a handful of tiny lenses for it in the same space that a single one of my full frame lenses takes up, and it will still weigh almost nothing. Now that's what I call fun.
I totally agree with everything you said. The S9 is just a weird concept and does have massive limitations..I just don't get why it even needs to be full frame. It's like someone had an idea and just thought it would be fun to make lol Anyway I love my gx85 because it's small compact and lost of all FUN!! 😊
I love this video. You totally get the point. Fun is fun. And limitations are not fun about the Lumix S9. My fun setup is the red PEN PM-2 pared with the 8-25 mm f/4. Not a small lens, but it is fun together with the small red camera. And it can take flash photos too. ❤ Robin, keep on having fun.
Robin I completely agree with all your points. Small cameras have that kind of "take everywhere" factor that induces fun. I have both the GM1 as well as a Pentax Q-S1 (aka the two smallest interchangeable lens cameras). The super tiny lenses in the Q system are spectacularly fun too. While I kind of have to force myself to carry 1 to 1.5kg of camera with me like with my Nikon Z6 (for some reason I even prefer carrying my E-M1 III every day over that) despite it objectively shooting better photos.
Love this video! I totally agree with you. I havent tried S9 but GM1 sure is a fun camera. I used to own one, but i sold it because i needed a camera with a viewfinder and a tilt screen, so i moved to Sony RX100. But if I find GM1 with a good reasonable price, i probably will get it again.
I also have a GM1 and find it super fun to use. Would have loved to see a new micro 4/3 body like an updated GM1, GM5 or GX9 (or even a LX100 iii) instead of this S9, and I think a lot of people were hoping for the same. I find the S9 cute, but once you look at the lenses, much bigger that the body (where will you find a comparable lens like the 35-100mm with variable aperture and so compact from Panasonic itself, for example?), you soon loose the interest. Also, good luck shooting comfortably if the sun is shining bright outside without an EVF. And that price… ouch. If I wanted a small full frame camera, I think I would pick the Sony A7C ii or R instead.
That is exactly what I did. Bought an used Sony A7C and 35/2.8. For a full frame body it is small and lightweight. The IBIS isn’t great like Olympus but the autofocus is super duper. The price was less than the S9. Mask On Nurse Marty (Ret)
I have the GM1... and for all the reasons you list, I haven't even looked at the S9 for a minute. If I want a good FF camera, I take my S5II (very good camera)! For fun? GM1!!!
Robin, whenever I watched your video. I felt the fun, enjoyment and therapeutic power of you, not only the camera you used. Fully support you. Indeed, negative sentiment on S9 are quite common in the internet review right now.
I agree with all of this. We need an updated GM1. The S9 would not work for me at all. It's obvious what people want that's why all the used small M43 cameras seem to be going up in price.
Totally agree with you Robin. Panasonic is only drinking their own Cool-aid. No matter how small a full-frame camera body is, once you attach a premium fast lens, the lens becomes bigger and heavier than the camera itself. If you are only using a pancake lens, what's the meaning of a full-frame sensor?
The funny thing is.. If people don't care about specs they don't bother with buying a camera at all.. Even less if it's m43 or FF!! If I had a dollar for every time I've heard "why do you use a camera? Just buy a better phone" I'd have many many dollars now 😂
Some of these marketing types have no clue. They think that everything now is all about the influencers and that opinions can be bought. I recently read a restaurant review by one of the most prominent food critics in the UK, and after he savaged one extortionately expensive place, the company whose restaurant it was got in touch to offer him a fully paid meal "in exchange for coverage". Like they think the guy will show up for a free meal but no fee to promote someone's business when he has his own newspaper column and appears on the television regularly!
You are fully right Robin.GM1 / GM5 are better than the S9" more fun".Also quality magnesium housing and a flash or hotshoe GM5.And i need the mecanical shutter. When i go on tour i need a little tiny cam. That is not the S9.
Well said Robin. Very disappointing that Panasonic should effectively trash one of their seminal and trailblazing models to defend the functionally limited S9. As mentioned before I have the related GM5 and coupled with something like the 14mm 2.5 or 40mm 1.7 it's the same footprint as the super compact point and shoot LX10/15. I'd argue 16mpx is plenty enough for most people and especially street photography. People get so hung up on megapixel count when some of the world's most loved images were taken on
I know right? That's why in my response I use their own camera as an example. GM1 is such an amazing fun camera, and I have had sooooooo much fun with it.
Yep, and with the prices GM1 and GM5 are commanding now, you could even use a GF7/GF9/GF10 for little money and have almost as much fun (And a swivel screen for vlogging to boot)
that's a very weird way to defend your new product - "look how much worse our old products are, especially this one that's selling used for way more than it was new". Lumix IMHO should stop being defensive about their S9. Build the best cameras they can and then show people what they can do.
I am the target audience for the S9. I'm looking for a camera that is the spiritual successor to my GX1 and Pen Lite and Pen Mini cameras in terms of size, performance and fun. The S9 isn't that camera. I have significant investment in m4/3 cameras and kit and want continuity with that. The lack of an EVF is also a deal-breaker - I can't use a back display without wearing glasses but can use an EVF (I have the GX1 EVF) or the OVF on my DSLR. Really disappointed with the S9. My photography is all about enjoying the process, can't see that happening with the (also expensive) S9. A new m4/3 body in the form factor of the GM1/5 would be me.
Great video and timely for my question. I’m heading to Europe next month with my GM5. What are your favorite lenses for this small, FUN camera for travel? Thanks!
LUMIX USA really shot themselves in the f/8 foot for emailing that to you lmao. mans the epitome of a happy photographer. the most fun i had while shooting pics was with small and/or cheap cameras (Ricoh GRii, Sony ZV1, Canonet QL17, Sony A7s), just easier to carry around and i wont be as heartbroken if it breaks lol.
It's a great shame that tiny M4/3 cameras have been abandoned. Panasonic, once an innovator, are now just pandering to the social media crowd. Seriously, who asked for this bizarre product?
Panasonic is being way too defensive because they know they've made a mistake with the S9. Also, I'm shocked that anyone speaking for Panasonic could be so rude to someone like you Robin given that you have such an excellent ambassador for the Lumix range of cameras over many years.
As some one that truly loves photography, using a phone to take photos sucks, for me there is nothing fun or inspiring about using a phone to take photos. Many of the subjects I have photographed over the years would not be possible with a phone so in closing my cameras don't limit my ability to photograph the subjects that I enjoy photographing. Your so spot on with your video.
I am having fun having Nikon 1 Mirrorless J5 & V3 weighing 10lbs total with lenses and accessories. All due a Guy picked up a small camera and walked around and was having fun. Cheers!
I think hot shoe mount and maybe evf were the 2 main missing features. being able to transfer quick videos to your phone in a small factor seems to be the best benefit of this one!
My first thought when I saw this was that this looks like a camera designed by a panel. They tried to do everything and ended up making Homer Simpson's dream car. Sony already made FF about as small as it can be. Who buys this over a similarly priced A7 model? A lot of people, it turns out! lmao. Maybe they know something. But I digress. This should be MFT. Everybody already said it. If they actually made this INSTEAD of a GX10, I'll be upset, but I'm sure a small MFT camera is in the works... along with a wildlife prime! HELLO PANASONIC ARE YOU READING THIS? 300mm-400mm prime! GET ON IT!
Your videos are so relaxing, my heartbeat goes to 59 instead of 75. Lumix send you a defensive mail but here no problem, no hating, just fun and happyness!
Robin, I agree GM1 is fun. The Sigma FP is better than the S9 for some of the aspects that you explored, just without the stabilisation. In a way, M43 is much more fun than L-mount and I do use both systems for different purposes.
It's annoying when the fun police don't actually understand what fun is, no real surprise there though 🙄 Keep doing you Robin, I always have fun watching your channel
Your videos are always a joy to watch. The enthusiasm and passion from your reviews cannot be matched. I was curious about the S9, but it seems that Pana has kinda lost the plot with this one. M4/3 will always be unique because of it's size, and as far as I am concerned leaps better than phone cameras.
I bought second hand GM1, GF2, GX1 and several prime lenses (14 2.5, 25 1.7, 42.5 1.7) this year, I can bring all 3 set camera combos out for shooting for ease of changing lenses, and still lighter than my previous full frame camera plus 3 heavy primes. I can hang one camera on neck and one hand holding second camera for shooting. Still, I am looking for a good GM5 in order to further reduce the weight!
I agreed with your first video and I agree with everything you said here, Robin. I think Panasonic is getting stung by all the criticisms over the S9, and now they're getting snarky. In their desperate bid to get the price of the S9 down, they jettisoned all the useful features, keeping only IBIS and phase detect as the desirable photographic features. But even after all this, the S9 is still with $300 of the S5 Mk II!
When people criticise what I say without understanding, I thank them for their comments, and suggest that they have missed the point I was making. With this fellow from Panasonic, I would probably add that you had actually been talking about which would be more fun for a photographer rather than a content creator. You could also comment that there has been a fairly widespread negative response among photographers to the S9, and, as a couple of charming ladies told me many years ago about apologising too much, "When everyone is telling you something, maybe you should pay attention." He must just have a niche sense of fun. Thanks for the enthusiasm of your video reviews.
Hi Robin, I disagree with those Fun comments made from Panasonic. You are a gentle Giant Robin and you have the right to say what you like. We the viewer know you are all about fun. I found this video lots of FUN, FUN, FUN, FUN, FUN, FUN and more FUN. have a great day Robin 😊.
Ayy, for hobbyists or amateur photographers, like me, a FUN camera (and lens) is more important than any modern technical advantages. It forces me to be creative by overcoming the limitations of the camera (and the lens). Also, it helps that older camera cost is (relatively) cheaper, so no worries if that camera was stolen or broken while walking around the street or while travelling. In fact, I can just throw them in my daily bag and have them with me while commuting to and back from work ... which I did with my OMDs (or a battered Leica X1, yes, the ancient one). That being said, if I get hired for commercial shooting, between GM1 or S9, I probably I will choose S9 ... only if we are shooting outdoors, not using flash or not under in artificial light (banding is the problem with no mechanical shutter) ... or better yet, grab their S5 series instead. The fact Panasonic decided to release a new camera in 2024 that has no hotshoe, no mechanical shutter, no headphone jack, and a limited 15-minute 4K video is indeed a baffling decision ...
Here is my take, if the camera is too similar to smartphone, there is no reason to get a camera Panasonic, just make a GM5 with m43 with manual control, it will sell like hot cake
I completely agree. I thought the gm1 is neat because of its size. The S9 no longer has the form factor and I feel it should have a viewfinder. The electronic shutter has issues with fast moving object, some artificial lighting and issues with bokeh at faster shutter speeds. The cold shoe was also a head scratcher for me. My X-e2 and X-h1 cover my needs, but the gm1 and gx-9 have always interested me. The only deterrent for me is the money to invest in a second system.
Recent inductee to photography hobby and I chose Micro 4/3 system for the "fun factor!" With you 1000%. Lumix marketing sounds like they are too busy having "fun" up their rears.
Well if you ever had any questions Robin about how influential your channel might be.. well you poked the bear,, and it sounds like the bear growled back! This is a great comparison that shows that the people who originally bought into MFT did so because of the compact size and the great quality they could get from those small cameras and lenses. I do love that both Panasonic and OM System are pushing the envelope with these MAX cameras.. that's how new features and hardware gets invented.. now they need to figure out how to trickle those incredible features into a more compact body fitting the lens profiles.. not every camera released has to be a cutting edge product.
You can say a lot of things about me - I am biased, I am a bad photographer/my photography sucks, my reviews are not good, I don't know how to use a camera (yes these things have been said about me multiple times) I don't care really. You are entitled to your own opinion.
However, to go that one step further and say I have forgotten how to have fun shooting, or don't know how to enjoy photography, that, I think is quite unforgiveable.
Hmm... I am sure a lot of things _can_ be said about Robin Wong; however, after watching many of his videos, NONE of those things (^^^) can be said about him.
@@Gregory_Laborde hah, you are too kind! Thanks!
If I rremember You put a little fun in my life by showing the Nikon 1 Mirrorless Camera. So now I have the J5 and V3 with all lenses except for 11-27mm, but I have four batteries for each and dummy batteries also. Cheers!
I bought an Olympus E-PL3 two years ago based on your videos. It is not objectively the "best" camera I own, but it is the most fun!
I don't really understand the the S9, if the target audience doesn't care about specs why make it full frame? I think the smaller more affordable micro four thirds lenses would be appreciated by the end user! I agree the camera would have made sense being a compact, affordable hybrid with a micro four thirds sensor. Keep having fun Robin!
Robin you hit the nail right on the head when you said “Don’t let anyone tell you how to have fun. Do it your way.”
Sounds like a person at Panasonic doesn't know how to have fun or what fun looks like. Stay as you are Robin.
I think you are getting onto something here!
Seems like that was the AI generated letter. Now we got into debate with a machine.
GM1 is sure fun, but GM1 + 20mm f1,7 Pancake Is definitely a wild mix of fun, small size and superb quality.
What could have been if this was micro four thirds 🥲
since you're in contact with Lumix and get to experience all their new toys, please put in the word from all the fans !
And I get accused of not knowing how to have fun by saying that!
@robinwong Robin you're so correct. M43 would have solved all the problems of the s9! I actually have a GM5 review coming up (filmed before I saw your video!) And I say exactly the same thing 😂 I absolutely love your passion and enthusiasm and FUN in photography- I think it's something we share - and what that Lumix rep said was very wrong
Oh no, Emily will get the strong email next !
They just need to bring the fun back in m43! I miss the good old GMs, GXs, Pen series and OM-5 series..
At Lumix they must very much regret their last comment about fun...
I really enjoyed watching your video!
Lets have FUN!!
Dear Lumix USA,
I propose that you send Robin a FUN S9 package - complete with the S9 camera and perhaps a fun lens. By doing so, Robin can provide an honest opinion based on hands-on experience. Rather than relying solely on so-called “influencers” who may lack genuine camera expertise, let’s appreciate Robin’s dedication to photography.
If you agree, give it a thumbs up!
Thanks for the show of faith. However, the S9 was created for content creators/influencers, so they did get their target right the first round. It was not designed for photographers, so I am not the right fit honestly, and that is fine. What was not fine, was people telling me I don't know how to have fun. Hence this video.
@@robinwong Where Lumix ditched the hot shoe, the EM10 mark iv ditched the dedicated mic port. It all evens out. OMD is for photography, Panasonic is for video.
Why are we talking about Olympus? This has nothing to do with the topic of this video. If we keep getting out of topic soon we will be discussing how to genetically modify rats to produce coffee beans.
@@robinwong my point is that both companies are branching off in their separate directions. Olympus is going the photography route, while Panasonic is taking the video route. This would explain why the S9's photo capabilities were limited
I think someone at Lumix USA is going to receive a stern talking to...
Well, looking at their various actions and misadventures recently, this is just a small miss-step honestly. They had bigger issues to look into.
I must say that i agree with Robin! mechanical shutter and viewfinder is important for Photography! 😂
I cannot believe they questioned if you can just have "fun" anymore? 💀 That's incredibly petty. The recap of this email seems like Lumix is panicking about this launch. I bought the s9 and while I do enjoy it, having no EVF is just not fun. Especially now in the summer. They could of fit it in and left the rest of the comprises as is and it would of been a huge hit. I'll be returning mine for this reason and seeing this video solidifies that. Earned a sub and keep up your great attitude brother 🫡🍻
Duh! I watch your channel because it is fun & I see you out having fun. It shows in your photographs. They have life to them!!
Had to smile at your video. Calling a guy that starts every video with a giant smile and says “Lets Do This.” Someone that doesn’t understand fun is missing something.
Amazing. You DID IT ! This one of the most enjoyable video of yours. Great reply to the Panasonic email. You really told the story of FUN in photography.
Thank you very much for 12 minutes of real fun, especially when you try to put your camera in your pocket 😅Panasonic has a long history of excellent products but has forgotten the joy of having a camera like the GM1. Dear Panasonic, release the desired product at once, listen to customers and do not waste time in meaningless confrontations.
We are living in a world where constructive criticism is not acceptable? Sad state! If Panasonic needs to justify their design and lack of features by gaslighting people, they need to reconsider their marketing. When the S9 came out, it was a disaster. from the people they invited out to Japan to promote the camera to the actual camera. If they are worried of about people having fun and telling people that features don't matter, they should have just released a smartphone. Only thing we can do is not buy the S9. Nothing wrong with walking away, there are so many better cameras out there! Sorry Robin they treated you like that. Keep smiling and having fun! "LETS DO THIS!"
Absence/sick logic is a bad trend in the modern “civilized world”.
I think Panasonic was genuinely bamboozled by the avalanche of criticism over the S9 and now they're getting desperate/defensive. Their definition of "fun" appears to be: "Look, it comes in five different colors!". 🙄
Gm5 with the lumix Leica 15mm … oh those were the days ! Totally agree
I can’t imagine how anyone can accuse you of not knowing how to have fun in photography. Your channel is the most fun photography channel I’ve come across. Keep doing it your way! 🙌🏼
Agree with you, I would love to have modern 4/3 small camera with modern sensor from g9-II.
I use LX100 as everyday camera.
I bought a GF10 (GX880) after seeing you having so much fun with the M43. And i really like taking it wherever I go.
Same here! I couldn't find a used GM1 at a reasonable price, so I picked up a GX850. Now that camera is fun!
Before seeing this video I hadn't realised that having FUN was such a serious endeavour.
I'm having fun using a recently purchased Olympus XZ-1.
XZ-1 has surprisingly good output with ISO100-200 in RAW. JPGs are really ugly unfortunately and video is disgusting. XZ-2 improved that a lot although on paper they are similar.
@@xmeda I have only shot JPEGs.
But choosing L Fine, Natural colour profile, restricting ISO to a maximum of 200 ISO, and setting an aperture of f4--f5.6 I have been obtaining impressive images.
You are Mr. Happy. You know how to have fun. You are contagious with your enthusiasm.
In GM1, I use a silent shutter, I don't use a flash, I don't need a viewfinder. Therefore, the S9 has a lot of interest for me in a pair with GM1. Thanks for this video!
Yes, but if the camera doesn't get you, the fixed aperture, manual focus 26mm f8 might? Is there any pancake alternative for this camera yet?
@@And_Sun_Yk I hope Lumix will create a line of small lenses for this series of cameras. The main thing is not to nip this idea in the bud with too much aggression in the reviews.
I guess I'm waiting for their new compact lenses.
MFT has so many compact pancakes that would pair nicely with this.
Maybe OM will capitalize and I'll switch brands....
Heck even the old Kodaks are selling like hot cakes
I really feel the same way about S9 !
I enjoy photo shooting with GM1, GM5, GF9, G9X mk3 every day.
Hi Robin....Liverpool Kev here from UK....Great video...How dare someone say about one of the most fun photographers on the whole internet that he's no fun!....I have a number of cameras including the GM1 and must agree with you totally...I love my GM1...Keep at it Robin...Love your videos...I learn and have a smile on my face watching your videos and look forward to all of them...Take care...Liverpool Kev
This was good fun without a doubt! My favorite small camera of all time is the GM5.
I am from China and living in Europe and have been wathcing your videos for several years and I totally agree your points and the Panasonic guys rellay do not get the point, What a shame.After using full frame , APSC and MFT and now really satisfied with my Panasonic GM1, GM5 and a bunch of quality MFT lens. It just make sense for average amateurs. Maufactures want make profit by selling performance but in terms of general photo, MFT is enough , practical, and FUN！
I can fit my GM5 and a handful of tiny lenses for it in the same space that a single one of my full frame lenses takes up, and it will still weigh almost nothing. Now that's what I call fun.
I totally agree with everything you said. The S9 is just a weird concept and does have massive limitations..I just don't get why it even needs to be full frame. It's like someone had an idea and just thought it would be fun to make lol
Anyway I love my gx85 because it's small compact and lost of all FUN!! 😊
I love this video. You totally get the point. Fun is fun. And limitations are not fun about the Lumix S9.
My fun setup is the red PEN PM-2 pared with the 8-25 mm f/4. Not a small lens, but it is fun together with the small red camera. And it can take flash photos too. ❤ Robin, keep on having fun.
Having a GM5 the only thing I can say is… that was a FUN video! Thanks for your content Robin! 😊
Your S9 review was spot on Robin It’s not fun it’s designed for bloggers. Keep on smiling Robin happiest guy in KL
I like this kind of honest and straight forward saying. Good saying robin.
Robin I completely agree with all your points. Small cameras have that kind of "take everywhere" factor that induces fun. I have both the GM1 as well as a Pentax Q-S1 (aka the two smallest interchangeable lens cameras). The super tiny lenses in the Q system are spectacularly fun too. While I kind of have to force myself to carry 1 to 1.5kg of camera with me like with my Nikon Z6 (for some reason I even prefer carrying my E-M1 III every day over that) despite it objectively shooting better photos.
We need new GM1
Love this video! I totally agree with you. I havent tried S9 but GM1 sure is a fun camera. I used to own one, but i sold it because i needed a camera with a viewfinder and a tilt screen, so i moved to Sony RX100. But if I find GM1 with a good reasonable price, i probably will get it again.
I also have a GM1 and find it super fun to use. Would have loved to see a new micro 4/3 body like an updated GM1, GM5 or GX9 (or even a LX100 iii) instead of this S9, and I think a lot of people were hoping for the same. I find the S9 cute, but once you look at the lenses, much bigger that the body (where will you find a comparable lens like the 35-100mm with variable aperture and so compact from Panasonic itself, for example?), you soon loose the interest. Also, good luck shooting comfortably if the sun is shining bright outside without an EVF. And that price… ouch. If I wanted a small full frame camera, I think I would pick the Sony A7C ii or R instead.
That is exactly what I did. Bought an used Sony A7C and 35/2.8. For a full frame body it is small and lightweight. The IBIS isn’t great like Olympus but the autofocus is super duper. The price was less than the S9.
Mask On Nurse Marty (Ret)
I have the GM1... and for all the reasons you list, I haven't even looked at the S9 for a minute. If I want a good FF camera, I take my S5II (very good camera)! For fun? GM1!!!
Robin, whenever I watched your video. I felt the fun, enjoyment and therapeutic power of you, not only the camera you used. Fully support you. Indeed, negative sentiment on S9 are quite common in the internet review right now.
I enjoy this video immensely! haha Thanks for making this Robin!
Thanks! Appreciate that
I agree with all of this. We need an updated GM1. The S9 would not work for me at all. It's obvious what people want that's why all the used small M43 cameras seem to be going up in price.
Totally agree with you Robin. Panasonic is only drinking their own Cool-aid.
No matter how small a full-frame camera body is, once you attach a premium fast lens, the lens becomes bigger and heavier than the camera itself.
If you are only using a pancake lens, what's the meaning of a full-frame sensor?
The funny thing is.. If people don't care about specs they don't bother with buying a camera at all.. Even less if it's m43 or FF!! If I had a dollar for every time I've heard "why do you use a camera? Just buy a better phone" I'd have many many dollars now 😂
I’m searching for GM1 as we speak! Thank you for the FUN advice Robin! Keep smiling!
Sounds to me as though some marketing director is going to regret being that snippy and unprofessional.
They do need to improve their PR and marketing, that is true
Some of these marketing types have no clue. They think that everything now is all about the influencers and that opinions can be bought.
I recently read a restaurant review by one of the most prominent food critics in the UK, and after he savaged one extortionately expensive place, the company whose restaurant it was got in touch to offer him a fully paid meal "in exchange for coverage". Like they think the guy will show up for a free meal but no fee to promote someone's business when he has his own newspaper column and appears on the television regularly!
this definitely sounds like you needed to have fun after that last email. I'm glad that you were able to share the joy of the
GM1
Just bought a GM1 off of Ebay a couple of day's ago, can't wait to get it.
You are fully right Robin.GM1 / GM5 are better than the S9" more fun".Also quality magnesium housing and a flash or hotshoe GM5.And i need the mecanical shutter.
When i go on tour i need a little tiny cam.
That is not the S9.
Well said Robin.
Very disappointing that Panasonic should effectively trash one of their seminal and trailblazing models to defend the functionally limited S9.
As mentioned before I have the related GM5 and coupled with something like the 14mm 2.5 or 40mm 1.7 it's the same footprint as the super compact point and shoot LX10/15.
I'd argue 16mpx is plenty enough for most people and especially street photography. People get so hung up on megapixel count when some of the world's most loved images were taken on
I know right? That's why in my response I use their own camera as an example. GM1 is such an amazing fun camera, and I have had sooooooo much fun with it.
Yep, and with the prices GM1 and GM5 are commanding now, you could even use a GF7/GF9/GF10 for little money and have almost as much fun (And a swivel screen for vlogging to boot)
that's a very weird way to defend your new product - "look how much worse our old products are, especially this one that's selling used for way more than it was new". Lumix IMHO should stop being defensive about their S9. Build the best cameras they can and then show people what they can do.
I am the target audience for the S9. I'm looking for a camera that is the spiritual successor to my GX1 and Pen Lite and Pen Mini cameras in terms of size, performance and fun. The S9 isn't that camera. I have significant investment in m4/3 cameras and kit and want continuity with that. The lack of an EVF is also a deal-breaker - I can't use a back display without wearing glasses but can use an EVF (I have the GX1 EVF) or the OVF on my DSLR. Really disappointed with the S9. My photography is all about enjoying the process, can't see that happening with the (also expensive) S9. A new m4/3 body in the form factor of the GM1/5 would be me.
Great video and timely for my question. I’m heading to Europe next month with my GM5. What are your favorite lenses for this small, FUN camera for travel? Thanks!
Finally, the right question with the right person. Awesome
😂😂😂 🎉🎉🎉 I'm gonna wait for another 2 days to hear latest response from Lumix
I fully support Robin's "how to enjoy."
LUMIX USA really shot themselves in the f/8 foot for emailing that to you lmao. mans the epitome of a happy photographer. the most fun i had while shooting pics was with small and/or cheap cameras (Ricoh GRii, Sony ZV1, Canonet QL17, Sony A7s), just easier to carry around and i wont be as heartbroken if it breaks lol.
Lumix USA is just poor in their response.
It's a great shame that tiny M4/3 cameras have been abandoned. Panasonic, once an innovator, are now just pandering to the social media crowd. Seriously, who asked for this bizarre product?
Totally agree, no viewfinder, no flash and no mechanical shutter is a sin!
Glad this video came out! Who are they to define what fun is for you? Gm1 ftw!
Panasonic is being way too defensive because they know they've made a mistake with the S9. Also, I'm shocked that anyone speaking for Panasonic could be so rude to someone like you Robin given that you have such an excellent ambassador for the Lumix range of cameras over many years.
As some one that truly loves photography, using a phone to take photos sucks, for me there is nothing fun or inspiring about using a phone to take photos. Many of the subjects I have photographed over the years would not be possible with a phone so in closing my cameras don't limit my ability to photograph the subjects that I enjoy photographing. Your so spot on with your video.
I am having fun having Nikon 1 Mirrorless J5 & V3 weighing 10lbs total with lenses and accessories. All due a Guy picked up a small camera and walked around and was having fun. Cheers!
This video is EPIC. I love it. You got a new subscriber just for how fun this one video was. Great stuff. Thanks, Robin. Keep being you!
I think hot shoe mount and maybe evf were the 2 main missing features. being able to transfer quick videos to your phone in a small factor seems to be the best benefit of this one!
There's a Lumix USA Live this week ?
Let's support Robin Wong !
you can insult my ideas. you can insult my art. you can insult my dog. but you can never insult my FUN!!!!!
My first thought when I saw this was that this looks like a camera designed by a panel. They tried to do everything and ended up making Homer Simpson's dream car. Sony already made FF about as small as it can be. Who buys this over a similarly priced A7 model? A lot of people, it turns out! lmao. Maybe they know something. But I digress. This should be MFT. Everybody already said it. If they actually made this INSTEAD of a GX10, I'll be upset, but I'm sure a small MFT camera is in the works... along with a wildlife prime!
HELLO PANASONIC ARE YOU READING THIS? 300mm-400mm prime! GET ON IT!
The most fun photographer is being questioned about being fun!😂😂
Good one Robin...👍😁
Your videos are so relaxing, my heartbeat goes to 59 instead of 75. Lumix send you a defensive mail but here no problem, no hating, just fun and happyness!
Robin, I agree GM1 is fun. The Sigma FP is better than the S9 for some of the aspects that you explored, just without the stabilisation. In a way, M43 is much more fun than L-mount and I do use both systems for different purposes.
Panasonic dont want you to criticize the lack of EVF, because next year they will release S9 "PRO" with EVF !
I wonder what else they will remove from the S9 PRO. Maybe it will be a full manual focus camera
Got to learn from fruit company, remove features so you can sell it back later.
Love your videos and your channel! Can’t believe Lumix sent you such an email. I agree with everything you said 👍
They crippled it for a reason...now they are trying to justify it....good response to Lumix USA...your review nailed it
Great video Robin :) Loved it :)
What idiots! They just don't get it. Great response, Robin.
Good response from Robin
This might be the most epic response video ever - and so much fun! Thanks Robin :)
It's annoying when the fun police don't actually understand what fun is, no real surprise there though 🙄 Keep doing you Robin, I always have fun watching your channel
Not only is flash photography fun, smartphones that they mentioned have a flash! 🤣
Your videos are always a joy to watch. The enthusiasm and passion from your reviews cannot be matched. I was curious about the S9, but it seems that Pana has kinda lost the plot with this one. M4/3 will always be unique because of it's size, and as far as I am concerned leaps better than phone cameras.
Fun Fun Fun that what we want, Robyn 100% with you.
I bought second hand GM1, GF2, GX1 and several prime lenses (14 2.5, 25 1.7, 42.5 1.7) this year, I can bring all 3 set camera combos out for shooting for ease of changing lenses, and still lighter than my previous full frame camera plus 3 heavy primes. I can hang one camera on neck and one hand holding second camera for shooting. Still, I am looking for a good GM5 in order to further reduce the weight!
I agreed with your first video and I agree with everything you said here, Robin. I think Panasonic is getting stung by all the criticisms over the S9, and now they're getting snarky. In their desperate bid to get the price of the S9 down, they jettisoned all the useful features, keeping only IBIS and phase detect as the desirable photographic features. But even after all this, the S9 is still with $300 of the S5 Mk II!
I agree with Robin.
This video is what you call Massive Retaliation! And very fun.
When people criticise what I say without understanding, I thank them for their comments, and suggest that they have missed the point I was making.
With this fellow from Panasonic, I would probably add that you had actually been talking about which would be more fun for a photographer rather than a content creator.
You could also comment that there has been a fairly widespread negative response among photographers to the S9, and, as a couple of charming ladies told me many years ago about apologising too much, "When everyone is telling you something, maybe you should pay attention."
He must just have a niche sense of fun.
Thanks for the enthusiasm of your video reviews.
Hi Robin, I disagree with those Fun comments made from Panasonic. You are a gentle Giant Robin and you have the right to say what you like. We the viewer know you are all about fun. I found this video lots of FUN, FUN, FUN, FUN, FUN, FUN and more FUN. have a great day Robin 😊.
Ayy, for hobbyists or amateur photographers, like me, a FUN camera (and lens) is more important than any modern technical advantages. It forces me to be creative by overcoming the limitations of the camera (and the lens).
Also, it helps that older camera cost is (relatively) cheaper, so no worries if that camera was stolen or broken while walking around the street or while travelling. In fact, I can just throw them in my daily bag and have them with me while commuting to and back from work ... which I did with my OMDs (or a battered Leica X1, yes, the ancient one).
That being said, if I get hired for commercial shooting, between GM1 or S9, I probably I will choose S9 ... only if we are shooting outdoors, not using flash or not under in artificial light (banding is the problem with no mechanical shutter) ... or better yet, grab their S5 series instead.
The fact Panasonic decided to release a new camera in 2024 that has no hotshoe, no mechanical shutter, no headphone jack, and a limited 15-minute 4K video is indeed a baffling decision ...
Here is my take, if the camera is too similar to smartphone, there is no reason to get a camera
Panasonic, just make a GM5 with m43 with manual control, it will sell like hot cake
Fantastic response Robin. You keep on keeping on brother
I completely agree. I thought the gm1 is neat because of its size. The S9 no longer has the form factor and I feel it should have a viewfinder. The electronic shutter has issues with fast moving object, some artificial lighting and issues with bokeh at faster shutter speeds. The cold shoe was also a head scratcher for me. My X-e2 and X-h1 cover my needs, but the gm1 and gx-9 have always interested me. The only deterrent for me is the money to invest in a second system.
Recent inductee to photography hobby and I chose Micro 4/3 system for the "fun factor!" With you 1000%. Lumix marketing sounds like they are too busy having "fun" up their rears.
you are right as always robin! having said that i'd buy it if was was ip67 rated like $300 phones :-)
We definitely need GM1ii.
Ive never seen Robin like this. Pay attention Panasonic...
I use a gx80 as it fits in my pocket and comes every where with me and I have more fun than when using my canon
Lumix calling out "fun" was a wrong move looool
Sounds like you pissed off the guy who designed the S9. I enjoyed watching your ranting and agree with your opinions. Great video!
Great ending! We do it our way 😊
The GM1 is a gem. That's why "GM" is pronounced almost like "gem".
Well if you ever had any questions Robin about how influential your channel might be.. well you poked the bear,, and it sounds like the bear growled back! This is a great comparison that shows that the people who originally bought into MFT did so because of the compact size and the great quality they could get from those small cameras and lenses. I do love that both Panasonic and OM System are pushing the envelope with these MAX cameras.. that's how new features and hardware gets invented.. now they need to figure out how to trickle those incredible features into a more compact body fitting the lens profiles.. not every camera released has to be a cutting edge product.
before i planed to by a s9 but after many search i still like my om1 Olympus