Up until recently, there have only been 2 types of cameras: the point-and-shoot for the masses and the DSLRs for the hobbyists and professionals. Today, there are 3 types to choose from, thanks to a new breed of EVIL [electronic viewfinder, interchangeable lens] cameras, which include the Micro Four Thirds (MFT) system. The Panasonic Lumix GF1 is Panny's latest MFT entry. Will it be the one camera to rule them all?
I'm not fat. I'm just big-sensored
The MFT system has the best and possibly worst of both worlds; it is slightly bigger than the prosumer P&S cameras and it has the full functionality of entry-level DSLRs. The GF1's sensor is almost the same size as that of a DSLR's (18 x 13.5mm). The big difference, however, is that it's mirrorless. This allows the system to keep the profile slim at 119 x 71 x 36.3mm (4.69 x 2.8 x 1.43 inches) despite the camera being able to shoot at a solid 12.1 megapixels.
The Spartan "function over ergonomics" design makes the GF1 a ruggedly handsome, no-nonsense-looking camera. The design of the GF1 is straightforward, and the button layout is similar to that of a full-sized pro-shooter, only, it's 25% smaller. The trade-off is that the size and sheer number of buttons make it difficult for those with large hands to manipulate the controls.
On the inside, the menu system goes very deep and can get a bit complicated for the average user. Only after hours of playing around with the settings do the robust customizable nature of this versatile camera come out.
Video killed the DSLR star
The video quality of the GF1 is what one would expect of this generation of entry-level DSLRs – that is to say it's pretty good. Shooting at 720p, you can choose between compressed AVCHD and motion JPEG. One of the limitations is that you can only record in mono and there is no option for an external mic.
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