A Review And Look At The Panasonic Lumix GX7 Micro Four thirds Camera
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- Опубликовано: 10 фев 2025
- A hands on review of the Panasonic GX7 micro four thirds camera, a rangefinder styled body with the unique selling point of a built in electronic viewfinder.
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I’m not sure if the relatives of David still check the notification bell of new comments, but David still is a solid part of my MFT journey. I like the older gear, for price and capabilities and always end up with David’s videos.
His legacy lives on. Thanks for keeping his channel online. It is an amazing source of information.
Just came back to this review. He is the reason I bought this camera and still have it. Just found out he passed in 2021. RIP.
Just bought a really nice example of one of these. It was so nice to find this video and hear your wonderful and humerus voice.
I miss your videos. Rest in peace mate.
RIP David Thorpe!!!! I still go back to your very pleasant informative helpful and humorous videos. They are all GEMS Every One or Them!!!!
I really enjoyed this review. RIP David, as someone who has found the channel since your passing, thank you!
Wait, what?
Your reviews are probably the best out there on the internet, often more informative than professionnal reviews. Keep the nice work coming! And thank you, too ;)
Thanks Jean, much appreciated.
Watching this video again David, we miss you. I ended up picking one of these up used and a GX9. Thanks again
Yet another detailed and elaborate review, well supported by terrific example photos and spiced up with lovely sense of humour.
Great job, David!
MrVoayer What a lovely comment - thanks you sir!
I have two of these, bought my most recent one just a few months ago. It may not be on par with modern cameras but it has lots character and is built like a small tank. It's a classic camera and a forgotten gem. A very fun everyday camera.
There's something about the GX7 that makes it a classic - it ought to be the case with the GX9 too if it is just the form but it is obviously more than that. Impossible to put your finger on what it is, something intangible. I love that there is something more than technical efficiency and capability that shapes our opinions. You can't design or quantify fun in use and that's very heartening.
Anybody can be a reviewer on RUclips. Few reviews are as tightly scripted and clearly narrated with well composed images. There are also entertaining references, ranging from Cartier-Bresson to Steely Dan. The packaging of the opinion complements the message. I rate yours highly.
It's a lot of time and work - which I enjoy - but knowing that it's appreciated is the best thing of all. Thanks Eric.
Eric Taada Amen! And kudos to David Thorpe on this one.
Love your reviews and the way you express it! Thank you for a quality video!
Dave, love your reviews. Very precise, structured and helpful! Even better is your sense of humour! Thanks for your diligence.
+atul dutta Thanks Atul, much appreciated!
Great review David, i just got my GX7 last month and amazed with the performance and really convenient to take it with you anywhere and don't miss any nice shots.
Exactly my thoughts.
I've got one . 2nd hand today. and it is a great camera
A classic! Enjoy it.
I've been after one of these for quite a while. Great review and I'm looking forward to receiving mine this up and coming week.
Howie Mudge Thanks Howie - you'll love the camera.
Nice run through of your GX7 experience, David. Thank you.
Just purchased a great GX7 second hand and i'm looking forward to using it frequently.
Best regards...
+...and cut Thanks - it's a camera that makes you want to pick it up, I bet you do use it frequently.
Hi David, nice review. Always nice to hear your opinion about photo gear. Keep 'em coming!
I'll do my best - thanks!
Excellent review. I too have a GX7 to take most of my photos with and a GH3 for more serious work and my videos when it's hooked up to an external monitor.
Thanks, Howard. Looks like the GX7 is becoming a classic. Looking back, it was pretty groundbreaking and what some perceived as flaws were what endeared it to them. How that happens I don't know, just something intangible. I remember it with the older Moto-Guzzi bikes, where rattles and wheazes and small oil leaks didn't drive everyone mad because they regarded it as character. It has to be classic to work that magic.
Great vid. I recently purchased a GX7 for myself and I'm enjoying it so far.
Crunch Taco Arguably the best all round MFT Panasonic have ever made. I love mine.
I bought mine just a few days ago, thanks for the awesome review of the GX7, David. It seems like a very capable camera, much like a Canon two digits in a very small package. It has overwhelmingly lots of features, so overwhelming that I didn't even know it exists in the GX7. Cheers!
bajigurwedangronde I'm glad you're pleased wit the GX7. Mine gets a lot of use, more than any other in fact. The menu system is very well laid out but it is complex, simply because there is so much it can do. I have a little book on Amazon on the GX7s menu system which you might find handy, though the manual is very good.
David Thorpe I ended up Googling most of the features and there are tons of information just available in the web that really explains it well. However, I read the manual while keeping it close with me all the time just in case I need to figure out something quick. Funny thing, just earlier today I discovered that I can enable live preview of exposure compensation and depth of field effect on my screen and finder using the "constant preview" setting on the menu, now that makes the GX7 screen and finder much useful haha!
Any body still watching this guy does best reviews on panasonic m43 cams on the internet
Thank you very much, Ray.
Watching right now
another great review David thank you for what you're doing!
Enjoyed your review. I found the Touch AF feature particularly interesting and useful for moving the AF focus point around.
Thanks Kevin. Yes, touch AF, superb - one of the advantages of truly digital cameras.
Just wondering, how large of a good quality print you can make with one of these, with a 16mp micro 4/3 sensor.
Hi David, Just wanted to say a couple of things and ask a couple of pieces of advice. First, thank you so much for all your videos on here (and your blog). The videos are, in my humble opinion, by far and away the best reviews for M4/3 on RUclips, in terms of accessibility, content, breadth of equipment and humour (subjective I know, but what isn't?) Top class and I look forward to future ones!! I had been left a bit of money by my late mother-in-law to treat myself to something I wouldn't have dreamed of buying, so I decided to sell my original and now aging Nikon DSLR and look for something else to try and renew my interest in photography. Having stumbled across your videos they have certainly done that and I eventually went for the GX7. I am really looking forward to getting to know it (with your menu guide in the other hand). I was delighted to see that I can also add on old, once thought redundant lenses. I'm really excited about trying out my very first lens I have managed to dig out of a Helios 44-2 58mm f2 and my dad's old olympus 38mm f1.8 (adapters on order).
My two requests for advice are these. First, I was looking at a Manfrotto compact light tripod, and notice you carry a mini one. I was just wondering if you had any experience of that one as there are literally 100s of conflicting views on how much you should spend on a tripod. Secondly, I can just scrape to a second new lens and was going to go for the olympus 45mm f1.8. (My camera came with the 14-42mm) The 17mm f1.8 is out of reach for the moment and as I found myself using my telephoto on my DSLR less and less I thought about waiting to get the 35-100 Panasonic. Any advice, subjective or otherwise, would be greatly welcomed. Thanks again for the videos. Andrew
Andrew Atkins Glad you like the videos and find them useful. The old lenses stand up well on MFT because you are only using the centre part of the image circle which is always the best bit.
I'd go for the 45mm for sure especially with the GX7 with its in body stabilization. It's real bargain.
On the tripods, I have the Manfrotto (a Christmas present) you mention and while it is good for the money and a handy size for travel, I wouldn't buy one for seriously holding the camera still. The mini one has a better ball head (surprisingly) and placed on a solid base will hold a GX7 rock steady. I'd save some money and get one of those and decide in time whether you really need anything else.
I have a Giotto tripod which cost about £200 which I bought some years ago. The thing is about general purpose tripods is that they really need to be solid and the more you pay the more steady (and heavy and bulky) they get. In the long run, buying a good one is the cheapest way, since there is no reason to change a good tripod and you'll still be using it in years to come.
Great review of the camera I'm considering upgrading to from my old GF2. My sensible side though is telling me to wait and see if Panasonic announce anything GX8-ish at CES 2015 in a few days time...
Will Snow Thanks. If I had to have just one camera it would be the GX7. It has to be one of the best all round cameras ever regardless of format, a great blend of size, stills and video.
I sincerely hope that Panasonic keep the GX7 format with its IBIS in their range and I'll be looking out for a GX8 just as much as you!
Thanks David Thorpe for giving me some buying confidence! Keep up the good work and all the best for 2015.
Will Snow All the best to you too Will.
Just bought a gx7 today. Your are costing me a lot of money David Thorpe!
Nicool333 Yes but you love it really:-)
How much?
Great review. Sold my 70D, too big and too much trouble dealing with the crop factor when trying to find a good lens. Getting one of these instead.
Thanks. Yes, plenty of dedicated lenses for MFT bodies and with the GX7 very compact. And little performance hit compared to APS-C.
It's only been 5 years, but I've finally got one.
Enjoy it - it seems to be Micro Four Thirds' first classic camera.
leftnose the cap will attach to the interior of the hood, rather than the lens itself. That does protect the lens in the same way, though. So the answer to your question is yes.
Very very good educational video. I also have a gf3 and a gx7 my wife has a gf5 . Panasonic make very good competitive cameras . In January we a re going again traveling to Borneo, I will take my gx7 with 14 mm pancake lens. Great small camera's.
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Glad you think so, Richard. Thank you!
Very interesting and helpful
Excellent review of the GX7 - Thanks.
Thanks Bernie.
How does this compare to the GM1 or GM5? Thx man!
I have a GM1 and the GX-85 (GX-7 II in Japan).
The GM1 is substantially smaller and lighter. It is literally sized for a pant pocket. And for all that, image quality is the same as the GX-85. It's the same sensor after all.
However, just as with lunches there is no such thing as free. The GM1 has no IBIS. More serious is that the GM1 is just too small to use comfortably. It's hard to grip. The buttons are too small.
David, thanks for another excellent review. It's really interesting hearing your thoughts, maybe because I have pretty much the same opinion ;-) I'm enjoying my GX7 too, it's the best camera I've held since I first picked up my little LX5 back in 2010.
I had a lovely little LX3, a beautiful camera and I was very fond of it. My GX7 is being used in much the same way but I do prefer to have the eye level finder. The EVF and the size of an LX would be nice!
David Thorpe The view finder wasn't top of my list of 'must have' but I like it, especially the tilting, I've used it in a church to take the ceiling without looking up! Overall it's just nice to have everything in the camera. It feels 'right'. Thanks again for your excellent review and the others.
Well David i just made the plunge and bought me a GX 7 this is my first high end camera and I am not experienced like you but i took your word for it i plan on doing astrophotography and wildlife and videos of aircraft because i live close to Hill Air force base i bought it as a kit as follows :
1) Panasonic Lumix DMC-GX7 Micro Four Thirds Digital Camera with 14-42mm II Lens (Black)
2) Transcend 64GB SecureDigital SDXC 300x UHS- Class 10 Memory Card
3) Spare DMW-BLG10 Battery for Panasonic
4) Vivitar 3-Piece Multi-Coated HD Filter Set (46mm UV/CPL/ND8)
5) Case Logic Digital SLR Sling Camera Bag/Case (Black)
6) Precision Design DSLR300 High Power Auto Flash
7) Precision Design PD-FD300 Bounce Flash Diffuser for Vivitar 283 / PD DSLR300 + DSLR400V
8) Precision Design 50 in PD-50PVTR Compact Travel Tripod
9) Precision Design 2.5x Telephoto + .45x Wide-Angle Digital Lenses (49mm/52mm/55mm/58mm)
10) Precision Design HDMI to Mini-HDMI (C) Gold Audio/Video Cable (6 ft)
11) Precision Design 6-Piece Camera + Lens Cleaning Kit
12) Precision Design Universal LCD Screen Protectors
13) Precision Design 8 SD / 2 MicroSD Memory Card Case
14) ImageRecall Digital Image Recovery Software
15) Bower 46-52mm Step-Up Adapter Ring
i know theres alot of stuff thats cheap rubbish in this kit but then theres also alot of stuff i can use , is this a good camera for a newbie like me i wanted top notch video and photos with out breaking the bank do you think i made a good choice and if i use OLY lenses for video are the the videos going to come out crappy because of no stabilization should i just stick with Panny lenses? Thanks for all you useful and top notch reviews you are one of the reasons i decided to go this route and do micro 4/3. I trust you because you are a experienced person that knows what your talking about!
David Douglas Thanks for the confidence in me, David! You've bought a great camera which is not only good for learning on but which will serve you just as well when you have more experience. For video, you are better off with Panasonic lenses with stabilization but for stills the fast Olympus primes are great and use the GX7's in body stabilization. Make no mistake, this camera will give you top quality video and stills, as good as any MFT camera made.
For video of planes, make sure you take a look at the Ex.Tele. Conv. item on the movie menu - it doubles the image size for video without quality loss. There's a load of stuff for you to play with there - have fun!
David Thorpe Thank you for taking the time to answer my questions David ! I guess my only fear is Panisonic rumor of releasing the GX 8 , CP+ Camera & Photo Imaging Show 2015, which usually takes place in mid-February in Japan. If that happens i do have a 30 return i can do with the company i bought it from if i return it to them promptly enough . Would that be a wise choice return the camera and wait a few more months for prices to go down and possible pick the Gx 8 with greater 4k capabilities? Its so hard to know where to dive in with something new is right around the corner.Whats your advice on when and where to jump in? Take care happy shooting!
David Douglas No-one has any idea about whether or not here will be a GX8 yet, just rumours, so it's very difficult to make a decision. Even if they do announce a new GX it will be some months before it goes out on sale. There aren't any big changes coming in sensor design so I'd be inclined to get a GX7 at the best price I could and think about a GX8 later on. No matter what happens, the GX7 you buy won't be made any worse by a GX8.
My way with these things is to think for a bit, make a decision (read best guess!) on the information I have and then just do it and don't look back.
David Thorpe Thanks for the quick reply David. You made some good points there, and iv decided to keep GX 7 and learn on it and maybe someday get a mighty GH 4 all in all i think i made a good choice going with the GX7 plus it would be quit a hassle to ship everything back and start over. For everything i want to do it does it well. So theres no reason to look back there will always be something newer and better ever so often ill just have to plan on saving more money and plan on having more than one camera set up like you have .
David Douglas My outfit is definitely on the luxury side. and I'm a bit spoilt in that respect. The reality is that I could do almost everything I want with a GX7 body and a couple of lenses. The GM5 is too restrictive for my only camera and the GH4 has a lot of facilities I could live without.
Another great review. David, would the Panasonic 12-35 mm lens be heavy/awkward on the GX7?. Also, is it possible to connect an external power source to this camera to do long time lapse shooting? The camera is rated at only 350 shots which will produce a rather short time lapse video. I read where the built in intervalometer can be programmed to shoot 10,000 shots, but what good is that with a short battery life?
David, another great review. I have the EPL5 based on your recommendation. It seems that you're using less of your EPL5 after getting your GX7. Btw, I still love my EPL5. Such a lovely camera.
I love the E-PL5 too but the GX7 will replace it. That is entirely down to the GX7's EVF. If it didn't have the EVF, I'd stick with the Olympus for the more compact size.
Another excellent review. Looks a lovely camera.
It's a lovely camera - and thanks for the kind words.
A pleasure. I'm holding out for the GH4 or GH5.
As usual, another great review by you David. Many thanks! I am still enjoying my GH3, but have contemplated a second camera "go to and great image camera" after the 1st of the year. The jury is still out between a simple Fuji X100s, the GX7 or E-M1 the could use my exist 7 MFT lens, or something new (??). Sometimes having too many choices is harder than no choices at all. It is sure exciting times in photography isn't it? Keep your great reviews, they are the best. I'd love to hear your review of the E-M1 if you ever might consider that sometime. Thx. Dale
Very exciting times. Personally I like the way I can use all my lenses on both my cameras, so I find the Fuji less attractive for what I do. If I was in the market for a third camera, though, the Fuji would be top of my list.
I'd love to review an E-M1 but I have no way of getting my hands on one.
I started learning photography with my first dslr D3300, it a fun camera, I learned all the control, exposures and composition. However, i am unable to bring it around with me as it quite huge. I missed quite a lot of shot. I wanted to tried MFT but was skeptical about the smaller sensor than APSC. I experiment using a second hand GX1. The image quality was better than I expected. I shot the GX1 more than my dslr. I like your review, it feel very classy and passionate for photography. Your review doesn't has those fancy music which I find it unique. I will definitely get myself a GX7 after watching your review.
1984Boy Thanks for the kind words! I don't like music on videos myself, it just distracts me. When I discovered MFT, it brought the fun back to photography for me and I guess that comes through in my videos. Might be worth looking at the GX8 when it comes out though my feeling is that for many people the GX7 will be preferable because of its smaller size.
Yes, your feeling was right. I got my GX7 already from a young chap who sold it to me as he rarely use it. I prefer the GX7 size and the camera was just like what you said it was; a camera swiss army knife.It indeed is a very nice camera and i can't stop shooting it. silent mode, Wifi, EVF, HDR, creative filter and tilt screen really bring the fun to photography.
Like the feel when holding a GX7
I looking forward to your GX8 review if you are planning in getting one.
1984Boy I'm definitely getting one but I don't get review models or anything, soi I get one when they become available in the shops. As I understand it, Panasonic will continue producing the GX7 so they seem to reagrd then as separate models rather than an update
David Thorpe I recall you said on the "Why I Use Micro Four Thirds" video that you once had to clean the pollen from the sensor of your GH3 with quite some effort. I had very tough dust problem here and there are lots of little speckles on the edges of the frame that stick to my GX7 sensor that can't be cleaned(both using wet swabs and dry swabs as well as using regular blower). They showed up on f/8 onward and although they are not in the center of the frame, it's sometimes quite annoying and can be problematic. Do you have any suggestion for the preferable cleaning method for my GX7? Or do you think it's better to send it to Panasonic for cleaning? Thank you in advance :)
I pushed quite hard with the wet swabs and dry swabs for quite a long time and over and over until the dirt had gone. You've already done that so your problem sounds even more intractable than mine.
Bearing in mind that the GX7 has stabilization on sensor, you'd probably want to take it a bit easier than with a GH3/4 etc with fixed sensor. I think I'd contact Panasonic, yes.
Thank you David for the great videos, always love the presentation and your pov. Sad to see you find a replacement for your ELP5, you were the main reason i bought it and still in love with it, but im more a prime shooter than zoom, so i still appreciate a lot the compact size of the EPL5.
Btw looking forward, since you are more an zoom shooter, to see you opinions on the new Olympus M Zuiko Pro zoom lenses, like 12-40mm f2.8, and the other three that should come soon.
I always prefer an eye level finder and that's the reason the E-PL5 went. I'd love to have kept it because I really like its diminutive size but my finances don't allow for that.
I'll try to get hold of a 12-40mm, it looks interesting.
I think your review videos are excellent, you point out the good and bad points of every camera or lens. I have seen the GX7 (New) with 20mm 1.7 mk 2 for £799 (UK) and it's very tempting now.
Would you choose this over the EPL-5 for image and video quality?
Thanks Mark.
I'd choose the GX7 because it has the EVF. In terms of image quality there''s nothing in it, really, and unless you are a video specialist both cameras will do what you need to a high enough quality.
Don't discount the wi-fi of the GX7 - it can be very useful, as can the focus peaking. I prefer the jpg output of the Olympus and it is a good bit smaller.
For me, the EVF is the USP. But then, there's always the E-M5!
Awesome review. I have an ancient EPL1 and looking at either EM5/10 or the GX7. So far I love everything about the GX7 except for one thing. I tried the GX7 in store and I'm not used to handling it with the viewfinder in the very corner of the body vs. the center like the Olympus.
If I use the viewfinder with my primary right eye, the camera is awkwardly hanging too far to the right of my head. And if I use it in portrait mode, my right hand is raised so high up like saying "Ay! Look at me, I'm taking a picture!" I love the camera, but I just can't find a comfortable non-awkward way of holding it. I find it a lot harder to tuck in my shoulders for a stabilized shot unless I use the viewfinder with my left eye.
mamba109 Thanks for the kind words. I don't have deep feelings either way about EVF placement and it doesn't bother me as it does you. But it's you buying, not me and if I found as you do I'd go for the EM-5. Even if a camera was much much, much better (which isn't the case with EM-5/ GX7) I'd not get the full enjoyment of my photography with camera that I felt uncomfortable using. Nothing is more important in my opinion.
As a side issue, one big advantage of the positioning of the EVF on the GX7 is that if you use the touch AF frequently, as I do, it prevents your nose inadvertently deciding where focus will be!
Great review. I've been debating an upgrade from my GF3 to this. While I know the GX7 is great, I still like the GF3 because its so tiny and easily pocketable.
Thanks Joe. I have a GM1 and will be reporting back on that. If you think the GF3 is tiny......
I just found a brand new GX7 (black version with 20mm f1.7 lens) for 499€ and promptly went ahead and bought it. I had an E-M5 a while ago, but traded it in for a Nikon D600 as I felt that the micro 4/3 images got too noisy even at lowish ISO settings. The full frame D600 is great and I simply love the image quality, however I started feeling that I wanted something smaller and more compact. I was looking at buying a very expensive lens for my D600, but when I stumbled upon the GX7 on sale I jumped at it having seen so many good reviews. I still see the noise, but I get it better in Lightroom and the results are great, not full frame great, but good enough. I kept my D600 for when I want ultimate image quality, but I can see myself spending my money on more MFT lenses in future rather than full frame. I reckon that a GX7 for 499€ is a nicer buy than 1400€ for a 24-70mm lens for my D600.
Cobus Basson You bought an MFT camera for exactly the same reasons I did. What happened with me was that I then started to use the MFT more and more and the DSLR less and less. So I bought lenses for my then GF#, then got fed up with running two systems side by side and sold the DSLR in favour of another MFT body and some lenses. The latest MFTs like the GX7 have plenty good enough IQ for my purposes but it remains true that if you want the very best IQ, DSLR remains king.
David Thorpe
The only issue I find is that the real good quality lenses in MFT format are not substantially cheaper than the Nikon full frame lenses. The big advantage is size and weight I suppose. I did some side by side testing with my D600 and the GX7 and I was actually quite surprised at the closeness of the results up to ISO 1600. I can see a difference, very minor, because I pixel peep, but I am sure that if I had to ask my wife she wouldn't see a difference. Having seen the close results I think I can see myself ditching the D600 sometime in the next year and investing in the 12-35 and a constant aperture longer zoom, at the moment I only have the 20mm f1.7 lens for the GX7.
Cobus Basson I just took a look and the Nikon 12-70 f2.8 seems to sell for about £1000 in the UK and the equivalent 12-35 f2.8 for MFT is about £800 so it is a fair bit cheaper. I don't know prices in South Africa, of course and that might not be the lens you were thinking of. Having said that, I agree that the main advantage is size.
As you say, there is a difference in IQ but for me MFT is plenty good enough and the differences between it and FF less than you might imagine.
hi what nice informative review dave , just got one off these! normally shoot xe1 love your reviews nice and calm from a photographers point off view nice job,
+Ray Geary Music to my ears Ray - thanks!
Thank you David for all your reviews. I think highly of your work.
EVERYONE, quick question... Panasonic GX7 or Olympus OMD EM10 for a rookie's first camera? Thanks.
luiszo11 Difficult. Both are good cameras. The Olympus has better stabilization in body and a better viewfinder. The GX7 has better video and an electronic shutter which can operate silently if required.
The results from both will be similar. I'd major on this - if this is to be your first top line camera, make sure you get the feel of both of them. The major difference in these cameras is the body design and feel, one rangefinder style, the other DSLR. Buy the one that feels best to you because enjoying using a camera is probably the most important attribute of all.
Thank you greatly David for taking the time to respond. I went with the Olympus after "playing" with both. Yes, feel is critical and both felt great. Reason I went with Oly was mainly for the IS (although in this model is only 3-axis) to be able to reduce lens' overall size. I do not anticipate buying different brand of cameras in the future, but then again "never say never." Again, thank you greatly. I value your input. Sinc. Z
I have just bought one with the 14 - 42 lens and found this a very helpful and superb review. Thank you. Two quick questions from someone who has been using a compact camera for the past ten years: Is it necessary or advisable to protect the lens with a uv filter? What camera case do you use? Bob Epton
+Bob Epton I always buy a filter with my lenses and fit it straight on. A good make like Hoya (to name only one) makes no difference whatsoever to the optical performance and keeps the lens in pristine condition, keeping any sand or sticky pollen etc off the glass. I'm happy to clean a filter firmly , less so a lens. I take the filter off in night shoots if there's any double reflections but that's not often.
Bags, I've used Lowepro, the sling bags, for some time. I like the way I can drag a camera quickly from them with the side access and the way that it will swivel around to your front for access without needing to take it off. Great if you are walking or cycling. They're nicely made and not too expensive, either.
Many thanks for that. Filter ordered plus screen protector.
Bobby Tables I'm certainly going to try one. My main requirement would be the best IBIS possible. Looks nice, though, doesn't it?
+David Thorpe Hey, I hope you could give me some knowledge. I currently own the Panasonic GH4 with the Olympus 12-40mm 2.8 lens as my dedicated video workhorse. Now I love my camera but don't like the idea of carrying a 'DSLR' like body for casual photography which is why I am looking for a smaller, sleek and compact STILLS camera. Between the Olympus EM10 and Panasonic GX7, which would you recommend for mainly stills and street photography (I live in NYC)? In terms of primes I am going to be getting the Pan Leica 25mm f1.4.
+Zanin Lindsay My favourite general purpose prime is the Olympus 17mm f/1.8, just something about that focal length. If you are particularly keen on 25mm, I'd wait and take a look at the upcoming 25mm f/1/7 Panasonic. It'll be stabilized and have quicker focusing than the f/1.4 and probably cheaper too. Between the E-M10 and GX7, both are highly capable but very different to use. The GX7 has a less good viewfinder but has a very comfortable sleek body. I'd strongly suggest you compare them in your hands before deciding. The GX7 has the very handy 'stealthy' silent shutter mode like the GH4. The E-M10 doesn't but the new E-M10 Mk2 does, so that's a point to keep in mind. The GX8 is a lovely camera but more expensive and bigger. Having said that, it is the size of the lenses that make a camera bulky and a GX8 with 17mm Olympus is pretty compact.
David Thorpe I ended up getting the 25mm 1.4 and the 42.5mm 1.7. I will stick with my GH4 for now. Also I am really stuck on my choices here. Which standard zoom lens would you recommend for video and even documentaries out of the Olympus 12-40mm 2.8 and Panasonic 12-35mm 2.8? I use a shoulder rig when doing my 'handheld' footage and a tripod for interviews. Again, I would appreciate any advice you could give me.
+Zanin Lindsay Both lenses are as sharp as you'd need so we can put that aside. The big advantage the Panasonic has over the Olympus f/2.8 zoom is the stabilization but with a tripod you'd want stabilization _off_ anyway. If you have a problem keeping the camera steady with the shoulder rig the Panasonic would be worthwhile but otherwise, the Olympus is a better buy with its pull back collar for manual focus and the extra 5mm focal length. It's a bit cheaper too.
My personal choice would be to buy the 14-140mm zoom. It is slower but a great all rounder, optically good at all apertures and focal lengths and covers all the normal focal lengths through to long tele without lens changing. If you are working in very dim light you already have 2 of the finest fast prime lenses for doing that so you are covered for all eventualities.
Mr.Thorpe, I know you probably do not own a Panasonic G6 but I would like to know your opinion on the G6? I have a GX1 but I do want to upgrade soon, however the GH3 is still to pricey but has some of the features and usability of both the GH3 and G6.
I don't own a G6 but it doesn't seem to me to lack anything that would matter in practical use compared to the GH3. I've said several times that when the GH2 came along, the image quality reached the point where it was good enough for me not to think about it any more. and in many ways the G6 is a GH3 with the GH2 sensor.
If the GX7 price drops a little you could consider that too, though the two cameras will have a very different feel and I'd handle them both before deciding.
David, if you turn the "Power OIS" off on the 14-140mm zoom, will the GX7 body IS take over? Thanks!- Aaron BTW I'm currenty anguishing over a purchase of either GH3, GX7, or Pentax K5IIs. I really want the GH3, but leaning the GX7's way because of the IBIS. Black Friday, in the U.S., is already knocking prices much lower..
Hi - no, the camera gives precedence to the lens stabilization, so with the 14-140, stabilization is lens or off.
I've had or have all the cameras you mention (though a K5 rather than K5 ll). My personal feeling is that APS-C doesn't now offer enough over M4/3 to warrant the extra size and bulk of the lenses. However, if you photograph a lot of sport the DSLR still focuses better on moving subject and many people prefer an optical finder. And the K5 is a lovely camera.
The GH3 and GX7, it's really down to the handling since both are as capable as the other. I'd go for the GH3 because I rate highly the battery grip both for the fantastic handleability it gives the camera and the freedom from battery worries.
On the other hand, the smaller body of the GX7 has its attractions too. Difficult. Buy them all is the answer :-) On the DSLR, if I were going to own one now, I'd buy a FF which has all the advantages of a DSLR plus the ultimnate available digital quality.
some people don't like that moving viewfinder but with a joby mini tripod for beach low shots it very handy to get horizon level ! each to there own! but I use a lot on tripod shots
+Ray Geary I like the tilting EVF myself. I don't use it a lot but when I do - outdoors on a tripod in bright light, as you say - it's very useful. Also when sunlight is directly into the finder or at an awkward dazzling angle.
David. You did such a great review on the Panasonic GX7, I decided to get one. But, I'd like to put the Olympus Pro lens, (the 12-40 f/2.8) on the GX7. I think it's a better lens from all the reviews I've seen, and it's cheaper ($300) than Panasonic's pro 12-35 f/2.8. So, do you know if the GX7 camera and Oly lens are fully compatible in terms of auto focusing, focus peaking in both stills and video modes, etc. while shooting with the GX7? It looks like the electronic contacts of the lens and body would line up all right, but I'm not sure if it would be a perfect match in all ways. Can you help?
There's so much to think about with even what seem straightforward choices, isn't there?
First of all, GX7 is fully compatible functionally with both lenses (all MFT lenses, in fact) so you can rest easy about that. The only difference is that the 12-40 has on on lens function button which will _not_ function with a Panasonic body.
IQ wise both lenses are first rate. Both are (allegedly) dust and damp sealed.
Choices:
Size and weight favour the Panasonic lens. Price and a 40mm top end (not crucial but worth having, nevertheless) heavily favour the Olympus.
So far, if you can accept the extra bulk, the Olympus looks a slam dunk. So I'll complicate it!
If you had any other Panasonic body than the GX7, I'd recommend the 12-35 regardless because it has in lens stabilization. But the GX7 has in body stabilization, not quite as good but effective nonetheless. So the Olympus zoom is still the choice.
_But_....the GX7 stabilization doesn't work in video. For me, videoing bands in dim light and of necessity hand held, it actually would't be practical without any stabilization.
Summing up: If video is not that important to you, I wouldn't hesitate - buy the Olympus 12-40. If video _is_ important I would recommend the Panasonic 12-35mm. Over a few years of use, the $300 will be forgotten but you will still be shooting steady video.
Excellent points, David. You helped me decide to get the omd em1, which will cost more now, but benefit me more in the years to come. As they say, "You get what you pay for." Thanks again. Good luck and success in all your travels.
David Thorpe Thanks!
+David Thorpe: Very pleased with the camera & found your book on the menu system invaluable. My camera has the kit 14-42mm zoom. What lens would you suggest I buy next? I take mostly family and holiday snaps; I enjoy photography but don't take myself too seriously. The 14-140mm looks ideal but would make the original lens redundant. Any other suggestions please?
+Bob Epton Given what you do with the camera, I'd say the 14-140 would be ideal. Maybe sell the kit lens to go towards it. On the other hand the kit lens is smaller and may be worth keeping for when you only want to take a small bag. The alternative might be the lovely little 35-100mm f/3.5-5.6 lens. Gorgeous quality and you hardly know you have it with you. If you are generally happy with the 14-42, the small tele would be the way to go.
Nevertheless, if you can cope with the extra size the 14-140 is the one to have. Great for video, too. No lens changing half way through!
+David Thorpe Many thanks again. 14-140 will be ordered!
+Bob Epton A good move, I'd say. I have a fair array of lenses but consistently when I look at Lighroom and see which has been used most over the year - it's always the 14-140.
+David Thorpe - Ordered from Mathers on Friday. Arrived Saturday! Should I use the O.I.S. on the lens or the one in the body?
+Bob Epton The camera will use the lens stabilization automatically so you don't need to change anything. If you switch it off on the lens, it switches all stabilization off. Have a great time with the lens!
Yes David that was my problem too, developing some great MFT lenses and wanting (lusting) after a few more - especially a couple of manual focus lenses, but not being able to use them another line of camera. Still, that fixed lens 35mm equiv X100s has some very significant endorsements claiming it is the best or one of the best cameras ever made.
Too bad on the lack of access on the E-M1, your reviews are very influencing and many of us like your perspective on new cameras. Any chance you will do any follow up sessions on the GH3. I saw a really good in depth one recently by Will Crockett (Insider's Guide to the Lumix GH3) and I continue to learn new and helpful knowledge I never realized was always there on the GH3, so I realize I have only tapped a portion of it's potential. Dale
Fuji seem to have made a next to perfect minimalist camera with the X100s. I'd love to try one.
I'll try to get hold of an E-M1, I'd enjoy that. I'll think about the GH3, interesting idea.
Great review thanks! I'm very happy with my GH3 :) Soon my first real video job with it :)
I love my GH3, as I've said, It feels like it was made for me.
Based on your comments, I guess GX7 wasn't the worst choise for my first ever interchangeable lens -camera.
Previously I've been using Olympus and Fuji "compact" super zooms.
So far there have been only two/three things/features I'd add to GX7:
- internal GPS
- swiveling screen
- battery grip maybe...
Pretty much everything else has been d*mn near perfect.
Yes, I'd like internal GPS. The swivel screen would probably add just a bit too much bulk and, like the battery grip, encroach on the territory of their bigger and more expensive GH3/4s.
I'm glad you like it. In most respects it's a smallish camera with nearly all the facilities you could need. Especially the sensor based stabilization for the Olympus primes.
I use some older lenses also with an adapter, so the in-body stabilizer is really useful. It's one of the biggest reasons I went with GX7.
Ilja Sara Yes, I like a couple some of the Olympus primes and it's nice to have that bit of stabilization.
Hello David thank you for the great review ! I have my GX7 for a while and its a blast, i want to get my hand on a telephoto lens.
My main purpose is 1.surfing 2.lifestyle/fashion.
what your recommendation thet suit the GX7 better? the Panasonic 30-100 F2.8 or the Olympus 40-150 F2.8 ?
Thanks in advance, Amit
The 35-100 would be nice for the stabilization but the 40-150mm Pro lens would definitely be necessary for the surfing. You'd maybe need the converter, too. The stabilization on the GX7 is OK but I'd use a monopod or tripod as well if I could for fashion stuff. You might think of the Panasonic 50-200, too. Expensive but relatively small and similar IQ to the other two.
Love your videos David. I have OMD-5 and NEX5n and Nex7 and Fuji X100s and have tried the X-E1 and OMD-m1 - I also have Nikon DSLR gear - I must say that the GX7 is the most fun to use - so light and so feature rich - maybe the NEX7 & Fuji X100s have a slightly better ISO performance etc as they are APS-C - but NEX has terrible menus and very few manual controls - and the Fuji has nice IQ but lacks so many features.
The GX7 has it all and in a nice size and costs less -
Yes I would say for a Pro user pic the OMD-M1 for Stills and GH3 if you are into video work - as both have battery pack options and are built more rugged but at the cost of size and weight -
To me GX7 is the closest to perfection up to the level of a Professional that needs complete weather sealing and a large grip and a battery back add-on.
I was hoping that the Fuji XE-2 would have improved from XE-1 and was very disappointed as all it got was slightly faster AF and so so WIFI -
I am very happy with the GX7 and I think it is very much underestimated due to it is a Panasonic - not a Leica or Nikon or Canon etc. -
So many Fn buttons - So nice to have C1 C2 C3 - quiet shutter - 8000sec - Pano - nice art filters - tilt-able viewfinder - super nice touch LCD - touch to shoot or focus etc etc
Will recommend the GX7 to anyone
Glad you like the videos! Yes, the GX7 is fun to use and as an all round camera the best MFT so far. Interesting, you think that Panasonic may suffer from not being one of the old established camera companies. You may be right. I like the way they have produced a really digital camera with little looking back to the past but there are plenty of traditionalists out there.
Are you going to sell the E-PL5 now? Had a chance to play with the GX7. Love the electronic silent shutter mode. Have to say I love the 5-axis of the E-P5 and the VF-4. Both are great, though. Hard to choose a bad m4/3 at the moment.
I've just sold the E-PL5 since I can't justify keeping both GX7 and Olympus. It's that eye level finder that makes the difference. A camera the size of the E-PL5 with an EVF would be interesting, though. But yes, given the current crop of MFT cameras,it is personal preferences that dictate the choice, you can't buy a bad one.
David Thorpe I was just going to ask that! But I felt it was so obvious, I figure I scroll through the comments and I'd find the answer.
I have an omd em5, I'm considering buying a gx7 primarily because of the tilting viewfinder and the ability to touch focus while looking through the evf. Do you find these features beneficial or should I just remain with the em5? Thank you for your very interesting reviews.
TriniPhotoFan Thanks for the kind words. I hardly ever use the tilting viewfinder - I prefer the tilting screen for looking down shots. I find the touch focus while viewing useful but I wouldn't change my camera just for that. I'd stay with the E-M5.
Is the 16:9 only aspect ratio in the EVF a problem when shooting in other aspect ratio modes? Thanks.
joe nick Hi Joe - the EVF isn't _only_ 16:9, it is just that its full size aspect ratio is 16:9, making the other ratios 4:3/ 2:3 and 1:1 crops of that. If you made the native aspect ration 4:3 then all the others would be crops of that and so on. From a users point of view, the native aspect ratio makes little difference .
cheers mate, good one again!
Does it have a mic input?
No, it doesn't. You'd have to use an external reorder and sync it. Not too difficult, actually.
Hi David
I have this GX7 (love it). I've not really shot much action/sports/wildlife with it but would like to at least try it sometime in the near future. I appreciate it has only contrast detect auto focus so not an ideal camera for this type of photography. I presume when setting up continuous auto focus I should use the H (w/o Live View) under the burst rate mode should I wish to try out some sort of moving sports or wildlife photography?
Much appreciate any help with this.
Howie Mudge Hi Howie - your best bet is probably M (with Live View) because then you can see what is going on. H with LV lags behind and can be very confusing to use. Also, the very highest sequence speeds are rarely necessary. It's a big subject which my video on focusing might help with - ruclips.net/video/jNMV4HH2xmM/видео.html
David Thorpe Thanks David. I had watched your video on focusing which was a great help. I was more interested in which burst mode to choose rather than which focusing mode to choose. I'll try M with Live View. My initial thoughts were L w/o live view because I always use the view finder for moving subjects and I believe its around 4.5fps using this mode. I wasn't sure though (like on the Olympus E-M10) if using this mode would lock the focus on the initial point only. On the E-m10 you get 8fps sequential high which uses this method but using 3.5fps on the E-M10 continues to try to focus on the subject. Hopefully all this makes sense. I'll definitely give M with live view a go and see how I get on. Once again thanks for your help.
Howie Mudge I'm probably confusing the issue more than helping here. By live view, I meant real time view. I don't understand why Olympus use the term live view at all, since that is all you have with an MFT camera, viewing live from the sensor. Using the EVF or monitor, H sequence shows you the last frame you took rather than keeping up with the action. It also doesn't follow focus. That's all right where you are at right angles to a horse making a jump, say but not if it is approaching you head on or at a steep angle. M not only predicts focus but gives you a real time view of the subject. For most purposes, M set to its highest is the best bet. A lot of the time single-AF is best, I find.
Hi David, I have the GX7 and was thinking about upgrading to the GX85. A few things I don't like about the GX85, it's plastic where the GX7 is magnesium alloy, I really like the tilt viewfinder on the GX7 also. The GX85 doesn't come with a battery charger either. Is it worth upgrading. The GX7 is quite a nice camera. Thanks.
If you are happy with the GX7, there's no compelling reason to upgrade to the GX85. A more worthwhile upgrade would be to the GX9 but again, if you are happy with what has become a classic Micro Four Thirds camera I'd stick with it. The GX85 does have a magnesium body, by the way, as does the GX9 and the in-camera charging is handy. But no point in changing for the sake of it.
Thanks for responding. I wasn't aware there was a GX9!!!
Yes, it's a nice camera. It has the tilt viewfinder, superb stabilization and the 20Mp sensor. Still no battery charger but it does charge in camera.
Great review..even after 6 years! I've always been interested in this camera but the "shutter shake issue" kept me from getting one ( I went with Oly bodies ). Did you ever find it an issue? I'm going to finally pick a bargain used GX7 up today so less of a risk but opinions vary on this matter?
It's there but more of a hazard for pixel peeping than everyday photography. The electronic shutter is usable for most subjects - I always use it in preference as it maximises the battery life - and avoiding mechanical shutter speeds between 1/60th and 1/400th will avoid it too. It's also more noticeable with some lenses than others. The 14-140mm seemed to be a particular culprit, though I used this lens extensively with it and it never really bothered me.
Thanks David. Just spent a weekend shooting (RAW files) with the GX7 and I'm really pleased with it! From what I see I can get some really nice results without overly worrying about shutter shock. It's still a beautiful, very capable camera imho
@@williammartin9450 It's rapidly coming to be seen as a classic. There's probably shutter shock occasionally if someone were to go through all their images it at pixel level looking for it. You're obviously not one of those photographers and more than I am. I am reminded of Tommy Cooper's doctor's advice when Cooper told him "it hurts when I do this". "Well, don't do that", said the doctor.
I have to sell cameras to fund the next review - you've made me wish I'd kept the GX7!
@@DavidThorpeMFT talking of classics. I just re-bought an E-1 + 14-54mm as I was missing the feel and sound it!
Do you have a Patreon account? I'd be happy to donate. Keep the reviews coming!
@@williammartin9450 Thanks William - no I don't have a Patreon account, I ought to look into it. I have a PayPal button on my newer reviews but it's not necessary to donate!
really good video!!:) I also have a GH3, but i find it to big to always take with me wherever i go and im also feeling a little of a nerd because of the size of the camera:p the only thing that doesent make me 100 % sure to buy the gx7 is the video-quality of it...nothing can really compare to the gh3 in that kind of camera-size? secondly it doesent have a mic input...and the price almost as much as the gh3:) what do you think of it all:)? best regards /gustaf
Hi Gustaf. The GX7 has similar MP4 and AVCHD facilities to the GH3 but not the MOV so if you want the highest quality, only the GH3 of all MFT cameras has it. And no, no mic input. I don't think you should worry about looking a nerd - it's your work people remember, not the camera you use! You should stick with the GH3 - that articulated monitor is a big bonus for video, too.
Just a few observations that some may find helpful. I bought the body on eBay last month for $399, so shop around. The full English PDF owner's manual is 380 (yikes!) pages long - the price one pays for all those features. The body design and viewfinder placement will not suit everyone. If you have large hands or favor your right eye (as someone else noted) you may have operational issues with this camera. Also, larger-size lenses can be very difficult to adjust (zoom/focus) while maintaining a safe hold on the small grip. Finally, I don't find the images as crisp and detailed as what I typically get from my Canon 60D with APS-C sensor, particularly in low light. Not surprising given that the MFT sensor is roughly 40% smaller.
Patrick Fitzgerald Useful thoughts, thanks. I have a little book, The Panasonic GX7 Menu System Simplified, which is my attempt to simplify and clarify that 380 page manual.
I'm desperate to buy a new camera. But I'll always wanted to buy the fuji xe2 but the lumix gx7 seems like a really good camera. I really concerned about the image quality and I really like to do street photography. Between this two camera what do you preferred the best for me ?
I'd prefer the GX7 mainly for the far greater range of lenses available for it. Image quality at the top end of MFT but probably better with the Fuji with its bigger sensor. The GX7 is a lot cheaper of course.
If you pretty much do _only_ street photography, I'd probably go for the Fuji with its nice f2.8-4 kit zoom. But the GX7 has the silent electronic shutter, a great boon for street work. And you can operate it from your mobile phone. Difficult decision. Either one would fill the bill but on balance I'd go for the GX.
Do handle them both before you buy, though. That can make all the difference to your decision.
David Thorpe thank you for replying David :) this helps me a lot.
What I really want is a GX8 but monetarily I am finding these quite cheap. I have made an offer for one that is 20 cheaper than he is asking. I am using a few lenses of vintage SKR type made by Minolta. I have the 14-45 kit lens from my G1 and a 7 artisans 25mm 1.8 that is a wonderful buy for 69 bucks.
Sounds great! The GX7 is very capable and its ability, like all Micro Four Thirds models, to take 3rd party and older lenses adds greatly to its versatility.
Hey David, I'm in the middle of choosing between Panasonic GX7 (kit), Sony A6000 (kit) or Olympus OM-D E-M5 Elite and 12-40mm F2.8 Pro Kit. From your experience which would you suggest? Thanks
Mono Three great cameras and no choice would be bad. The E-M5 stands out, not so much because of the camera, but because of the lens. But then it is twice the price of the other two so that is to be expected. Best image quality is from the Sony. The GX7 and E-M5 though have touch screens, the lack of which would seriously hamper my use of a camera.
I'd bring the choice down to this. If I were going to buy the camera and kit lens and had no intention of buying any more lenses, I'd buy the Sony. If I thought I would want a selection of lenses to choose from in the future I'd buy one of the two MFT cameras. As well as the E-M5 with 12-40, try the GX7 with Panasonic's 12-35 f2.8. Given that the E-M5 and GX7 have pretty much identical image quality and can use the all same lenses, the really big difference between them is in the 'feel'. One feels like a DSLR, the other like a rangefinder. I would choose on which of those feels I prefer rather than any technical difference,
I have a GX7 so wanted to see comments from others, great overview but the closing comment about horse's hooves was really weird!
It's irony, an English trait of humour. The Swiss Army knife is famed in England for having a tool for everything, even things that you never want to do, in fact. So the tool for removing stones from horses hooves has become symbolic of something that will do everything you need and still have tools left over. My remark means the GX7 does most everything you might want a camera to do and a lot that you probably will hardly ever need. And that if that's not enough, maybe the GX8 will incorporate the stuff that you will never use.
It's a lot more simply expressed the way I did it in the video!
Thanks I see the humour, I am American from the Wild West (CA) so maybe weird was the wrong word to use I just thought it was funny and sort of interesting how you ended the review. Yes the Real American Cowboy lives on. A GX7 for every saddle. And the LX100 and FZ1000 might be that GX8 you refer to earlier. Good job keep up the great work!
3DPIXSTUDIO Thanks! It's difficult with these cultural things sometimes, I use a phrase because, well everyone knows it, don't they? And then you realise that it's an English phrase and a German or an American wouldn't have a clue what you are talking about. I read weird as simply 'what the hell does that mean?'
It's a bit different for Americans because Hollywood movies and exported American TV have given everyone an awareness of USA culture, the programmes American children watch, the buzz phrases of the 50s, all of that. When I watch something like Breaking Bad or House of Cards, so familiar is the speech and the scenery that it hardly registers as being 'foreign' at all.
Great Review! THANK YOU!
Thanks!
yeah man nice review
Thanks, Kido!
Another query David. What are your your suggestions for backing up photos when travelling? I can use the GX7 app to transfer photos to my 16gb iPad prior to trying to upload them to Googlephotos or my NAS drive at home but (a) the memory on the iPad is very poor and it will only take a slack handful of photos at a time, and (b) hotel wifi is invariably very slow. Do you back up to a portable hard drive? If so, what make and size? Is it wireless? Thanks as always. Bob
I use a Samsung S2 10.5 tablet with the On The Go USB port that allow you to plug the camera's card in and transfer files to the removeable SD card on the tablet. The iPad are a bit more restrictive so something like a WD My Passport drive might be one answer. I'd be inclined to tote a cheap netbook and plug-in SD reader for the simplest solution otherwise.
Thanks. If i had my time again I wouldn't have bought an iPad. Expensive & poor memory. However I can FaceTime my son in Ecuador!
I used to use an iPad and I liked everything about it except the way that whenever I wanted to do something remotely out of the ordinary it seemed to throw stones in my path. But it has to be locked down and proprietary, that's the price you pay for its reliability and simplicity of use. It's all compromises, isn't it?
@@DavidThorpeMFT I've used an iPad Mini 2 for a few years now and it's worked for me despite the odd hissy fit about space. Love the ability to review the day's shooting as well as back up my photos. However, recently got the iPhone XR with 128gb storage and, even with a load of music on it, I've still got 90+gb left for photos. This may be a way forward (although not a cheap one). Absolutely love my GX7 and have seen nothing since to tempt me away. Love your reviews, too!
@@robscott-buccleuch1195 Glad you like the reviews, Bob. The phones have moved o so fast, I don't have a tablet any more. I use a Samsing S9+ and the screen is just beautiful and big. It has 64Gb internal and takes an SD card too so with up to 250Gb, that's more than enough storage. The phones have come on so much faster than tablets so that the tabs are a bit redundant now. The new Samsung with a foldout display looks interesting but I think the price may be prohibitive. The other thing that has come on is the ease of connection. I used to get quite a bit of mail from Android and Apple users having problems connecting to their Micro Four Thirds cameras but I don't get any now.
Lol, not the first time I’ve heard of press photographers using Nikon Fs as weapons. My grandfather was a press photographer for our local rag for 40 years, when it came time for me to get my first ‘proper’ camera, he regaled me with tales of how many Canons, wrists and foreheads he’d smashed in press scrums with his F2s and F3s. Suffice to say I saved up a few more pennies and got myself an FM ;-)
It makes us sound a violent bunch 😱 Seriously, press work, by its very nature, gives cameras a hammering to the point that a camera's ability to stand up to harsh use is a prime requirement. Some photographers would just sling their gear in the boot of the car after a job but I was always a bit more respectful of my gear and bagged or cased it after use. When I got home I used to clean all the bodies and lenses and make sure everything was shipshape. It was a great feeling knowing that when you were called out suddenly you could just pick up your bag and go, knowing everything you needed was there.
Hi David
Just saw an add saying that Panasonic has finally launched a replacement for the GX7, the GX9. Wait a minute, if the GX9 is the replacement for the GX7 then what was the GX80 and GX8 all about? I'm confused.
Anyway, have you any plans to test the replacement for your beloved GX7?
Hi - yes I have a GX9 on order. Panasonic's camera naming seems to be based on a random number generator. To me it looks like the line goes GX7->GX80->GX9 with the GX8 out on a limb of its own. It certainly wasn't an upgraded GX7. You're confused? I'm confused :-)
Thanks again David!
Hi David, in today's market would you go for a GX7 over a G7? I'm going to get one of these two and wondered what you thought. GX7 with 20 1.7 (and I would pick up 12-32) is £509 whereas the G7 with 12-32 & 25 1.7 (when it is released) is £634 but has 2 year warranty opposed to one. Cheers.
+muttyhc Much as I like the GX7, I think at the moment the G7 offers more including articulated screen and 4K capabilities. It doesn't have in body stabilization but the 12-32 zoom does so no problem. The G7 is more up to date generally. If you can, get to hold both cameras as they are quite different. I personally wouldn't be inclined to buy the 20mm - good as it is, the focusing is a bit behind the times now.
+David Thorpe yes I've tried both, the g7 extensively. much prefer the g7 really but like the idea of a gx7 for stabilisation and could probably afford a gm5 too.
+muttyhc Don't expect too much of the GX7's stabilization. Better than the G7's though :-) Choice depends on how much you want a second body, I guess. 12-32 is good with both.
+David Thorpe Fair comment, some good advice here David thanks. Well looking at the current G7 offer, £529 with 14-42ii and 45-150 lenses and 2 year warranty. Seems pretty unbeatable. I am getting the idea that you think the G7 is a fair bit better than the GX7 and worth the extra cost, I guess I could always add a body at a later date if needed and the G7 isn't massive. However, just to double check if I put the EM10ii into the situation which would you go for David? Also would you prefer the 12-32 or 14-42ii (I am guessing IQ is the same?)
+muttyhc The G7 and those lenses look a good buy to me. I haven't tried the new Olympus but it is quite small which I find gives a cramped feel and that would be my major concern. That's personal, though. The G7 has better video facilities and the 4k Photo mode plus a better menu system and much better kit lens by all accounts. I'd be very happy with the 14-42 supplied with it.
The Olympus has a metal body which gives a nicer feel than the plastic of the Panasonic (though doubt it would be any stronger). It also has that spectacular in body stabilization system, the best there is. The fact is, both of these cameras are equally good but offer different facilities and feel. You'd take the same pictures and be happy with either. I'd personally take the G7 offer because of the lenses (which are stabilized) and both of which offer good performance. The E-M10 Mk2 is new so there won;t be any offers for a bit.
nice review.
Thanks!
Hello! I've been looking at this camera for a while now. However, most people are telling me to go more towards a Nikon, Canon, or Sony camera. I'm having some trouble, what are some advantages to this camera over the other big brands? Thank you!
They all have their merits but for me micro four thirds hits a good balance between size and performance and is the first serious camera format to emerge from the digital camera age, rather than having its roots in the past.
The GX7 is a very small camera for one with so many capabilities and especially a EVF. But you should look at the Olympus EM-5 too.
I have a video on why I use MFT here:
Why I Use Micro Four Thirds Cameras
Unfortunately it seems to have been eclipsed by the Oly EM1 - more expensive but perhaps more capable ...and with better IBIS...what is one to do ?...personally I would go for the Oly...although there seems to be quite a war between full featured m4/3 and full frame at the moment....(if only you have the $$$$$ )...
I see the E-M1 and GX7 as in different markets, with the E-M1 competing with the GH3. Since I don't have any old Four Third lenses, though, I'd buy an E-M5 or (more likely) wait for the E-M6. Full frame is yet another market. If I were to buy one (not likely!), I'd just get an 85mm f1.4 and 180mm f2.8 and use it for what those lenses can do. For general use for my purposes, MFT is better. But money, yes, the answer :-)
Hi David
I just watched a GX7 review where the say that if you shoot Jpeg+Raw on the GX7, the image setup affect both the Jpeg and the Raw. I'm surprised. Have ever heard that?
Thanks
-C
What I mean is that any changes made to the standalone JPG setting apply if you shoot JPG+RAW. The RAW can't be changed.
Do you think that focus peaking could be added in a firmware update for the gh3?
I can't help feeling that if they could add it in firmware, they'd have done so before the GX7 came out so as not to leave the flagship lacking by comparison.
Yeah that's true... It's not a necessity. I've done without but it would be nice.
Could you share your thoughts on the new version of the panasonic 20mm? Is the only difference indeed just cosmetic?
I'll be posting a review of it this week!
David Thorpe Great, thanks!
If I could own only one m43 camera and two m43 lenses, I might choose the EM1 with the new Panny 14-140, and Oly 45 1.8. (This is with stills in mind, don't care about video) Any thoughts?
That would be exactly my choice of lenses. I'd probably choose the E-M5 or GH3 though, because the main advantage of the E-M1 is for old four thirds lenses. Or, if you especially want Olympus, hold fire for the E-M6 which is more likely to be an update for the E-M5 and won't have had its development money spent on compatibility lenses you don't have.
In the end, the beauty of MFT is the lenses, the top end camera bodies from both makers being much of a muchness in the real world.
One day soon I'm going to do a days work using GX7 instead of my Nikon FX dslr. My shoulder will thank me for it.
Hi, how to shoot 2 minutes long exposure or more with this gx7? Thanks 😊
Basically, you can't :-(
Huh. Not bad. I wonder if it's better than the a6000 (or coming a7000), though.
netsurfer912 There's no straight answer to questions like that really because all cameras and formats have their plus and minuses. Very few people ever use cameras to the absolute ragged edge of their performance and so the differences come down to whether you like the feel of it, the availability of lenses and their prices and so on.
So maybe the gh3 will have focus peaking in the future...
I see that you use lenses from different manufacturers on your GX7. It may have been asked already, but is an adapter required to use Olympus lenses; as well as others? I'm a beginner coming to MFT cameras (and to DSLR's for that matter) and I'm trying to gain a somewhat decent understanding of the camera before I start blindly purchasing accessories.
I really enjoyed this review and your opinions on the micro four thirds system in your other video. It really helped me decide between the larger DSLR's and the mirrorless systems.
Thanks for the nice words, Will. In a nutshell, MFT is a standard and all MFT lenses will work the same on all MFT camera bodies.
You can also use lenses from practically any manufacturer with an adaptor and many people have bought MFT so that they can make use of older Minolta/ Nikon etc lenses. They will not be auto-focus and exposure, of course, though you can usually aperture priority mode with them.
David, would you still rate the gx7 in 2017? Many tanks
Yes, it still does the job it always did. The GX80 is better in most ways but for everyday general photography the GX7 is just fine and you'd see no big difference in results.
Hi David, many thanks for coming back to me, really appreciate it. Looking for something with a bit of a larger form factor due to my stumpy fingers :) I did have a GX8 a while ago, but sadly had to sell to raise some funds - just looking about to see how different in size and spec the GX7 is, as one has come up for a reasonable amount on eBay, (not easy when rural and no shops near by to try out) - currently have a Fuji X30 but not liking it at all I'm afraid - again, thank you so much for getting back to me - have alovely weekend :)
What'd you prefer more. Sony a6000 or panasonic gx7?
I prefer the GX7, mainly because I know my way around it!
I feel like I regret the thought of ever selling my GX7. Personally, I've been using it for street photography alot and, in my opinion, after borrowing a Leica M from a friend, I see no reason why you would need a Leica M at all. A Leica will give you an experience that only Leica can give, but in the end it is just their brand of experience in photography. The GX7 made me think more and it was faster.
What the Leica has going for it is that it is a Leica and for some photographers that is enough. If what you want a camera for is taking pictures, then I agree the Panasonic is (at least) as good and in some crucial ways better even leaving aside the huge price difference. Half the Leica range is Panasonic, of course.
Well I didn't mean it in a bad way against Leica. I just meant it in a sense that why get a five star camera when a four star camera offers more for less? And now that you mentioned half the Leica range is Panasonic, then that basically means getting a Leica through Panasonic, in a strange way, no longer requires selling your organs. Well, pun intended on the selling of organs part.
Deso Fire No, I didn't read anything against Leica in your post and I agree. My main problem with Leica is financial - at my age no-one will give me enough for my organs to buy one :-)
Like anything else, part of any buying decision is emotional and Leica will always float the boat for some photographers who like to meld tradition with technology. That doesn't interest me with cameras but If I were buying motor-cycle and had more money than I do), I would buy a Harley. I know they are not technically the very best - but they are a Harley-Davidson.
RIP David.
Excellent review except you did not mention that the EVF while an impressive 2.7 mil dots is only at full resolution DURING VIDEO ONLY with a 16:9 aspect. FOR STILLS THE EVF DROPS to 1.4mil dots because it crops the sides to make it a 4:3 aspect. The EVF actually becomes less resolution than the Panasonic G6 or the Olympus OM-D E-M5. See:
www.cameralabs.com/reviews/Panasonic_Lumix_DMC_GX7/
You are right, of course but I find the viewfinder perfectly adequate for my purposes. I use the eye level finder for framing more than anything else. If I want to compose a picture carefully, I tend to use the monitor.
How is the GX7 for shooting in B&W?
It's absolutely fine. I prefer to shoot in colour and convert to mono afterwards but the camera does it perfectly well.
Everything up to 1:20 - OH DAYUM!