The latest from Panasonic, the Lumix G7, lowers the barrier to 4K capture.
By Jeanette D. Moses | Published May 18, 2015 5:11 PM EDT
We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs. Learn more ›
This morning Panasonic announced the arrival of their newest camera, the Lumix G7. The camera features a 16‑MP Four‑Thirds Live MOS sensor paired with the Venus Engine image processor, delivering fast performance and high‑resolution 4K video at 3840×2160 at 30p or 24p. A new 4K Photo setting lets photographers extract individual frames from any 4K video file and save them as 8‑MP images in 4:3, 3:2, 16:9, and 1:1 aspect ratios.
Panasonic believes 4K video has transformed image creation, so the G7 includes several innovative features.
Three new 4K photo modes—4K Pre‑Burst, 4K Burst Shooting, and 4K Burst S/S—give users more control. 4K Pre‑Burst records 60 images before and after the shutter release. 4K Burst Shooting captures continuously at 30 fps while the shutter button is held. 4K Burst S/S allows a single shutter press to start a burst, stopping with a second press. All modes are accessed via the new drive‑mode dial and can save images at 8 MP.
The 16‑MP sensor and Venus Engine provide expanded dynamic range, higher sensitivity, and improved noise reduction. The G7 shoots at 8 fps, shares the same contrast AF system as the GH4, and can shoot down to –4 EV. Updated AF Tracking now considers color, size, and motion, making it easier to lock onto fast‑moving subjects. The new Starlight AF feature allows precise focus on stars. The camera offers a maximum ISO of 25,600, a shutter speed of 1/16,000 s, and supports UHS‑II SDXC/SDHC cards.
The G7 features a silent shutter, a 3‑inch articulated OLED touchscreen with 1,040 K‑dot resolution—50 % brighter than its predecessor—and built‑in Wi‑Fi that uses a password‑less system for quick sharing via email or social media.
It will be available in mid‑June in three kit configurations: black with a 14‑42 mm lens for $799.99, pewter with a 14‑42 mm lens for $799.99, and black with a 14‑140 mm lens for $1,099.99. A full review will follow in the coming months.
