A memory card is not included with the camera.
Get a high-capacity memory card so you don't get caught without memory.
If you wanna shrink a full featured camera system with interchangeable lenses down to a manageable size (without losing any functions), try Prof. Marvell's Patented Shrink-o-Matic Ray--or, you can check out the Lumix DMC-GF2 Digital Micro Four Thirds Camera W/14-42mm Lens (Black) from Panasonic, the smallest and lightest (at the time of release) interchangeable lens camera available.
This Micro Four Thirds contender is 19% smaller and 7% lighter than its immediate predecessor, but still has a 12.1MP Live MOS sensor, a lightweight 14-42mm f/3.5-5.6 (equivalent to 28-84mm) 3x zoom lens, dazzling 1920 x 1080 HD video, and is compatible with the full range of Micro Four Thirds lenses (including Panasonic's 3D 12.5mm f/12 lens)--in short, the speed and customization of an SLR camera in highly portable form.
A bright 3" 460,000-dot LCD display for composition and review can also be used as a touch-screen for making and changing settings like focus and exposure--a touch on a human face, for instance, switches to the portrait mode and a touch on the background or scenery switches to the scenery mode, while a touch on the subject close to the camera switches to the close-up mode.
Despite its tiny size, the GF2 is packed with photo and video goodies. The My Color mode offers 7 preset imaging effects (such as Retro, Elegant, Cinema, Monochrome, Silhouette, etc.), and also allows users to customize color, brightness, and saturation on the fly. The LUMIX GF2 can record 1920 x 1080 videos at 60i or smooth HD 1280 x 720 movies at 60p in AVCHD. For those looking for better compatibility with computers, the LUMIX GF2 can also record HD Motion JPEG in 1280 x 720 and QVGA, VGA and WVGA. The body supports autofocus during video recording and Movie Program Mode allows for selective depth-of-field control.
Additional features of the DMC-GF2 include a built-in pop-up flash, contrast detection autofocus, integrated dust reduction technology, and high ISO 6400 sensitivity.
| Imaging | |
|---|---|
| Lens Mount | Micro Four Thirds |
| Camera Format | Micro Four Thirds (2x Crop Factor) |
| Resolution |
Effective Pixels: 12.1 Megapixels Max Resolution: 12 MP: 4000 x 3000 |
| Sensor Type / Size | MOS, 17.3 x 13.0 mm |
| File Formats |
Still Images: JPEG, RAW Movies: MPEG-4 AVCHD |
| Memory Card Type |
SD SDHC SDXC |
| Image Stabilization | Mechanical |
| AV Recording | |
|---|---|
| Video Recording | Yes, NTSC |
| Aspect Ratio | 4:3, 16:9 |
| Video Clip Length | Up to 75 Min |
| Audio Recording | With Video, Stereo |
| Focus Control | |
|---|---|
| Focus Type | Auto |
| Exposure Control | |
|---|---|
| ISO Sensitivity | 100-6400 |
| Shutter | 60 - 1/4000 sec |
| Metering Method | Spot metering, Center-weighted average metering, Multi-zone metering |
| Exposure Modes | Modes: Aperture Priority, Auto, Manual, Program, Shutter Priority |
| White Balance Modes | Auto, Cloudy, Daylight, Flash, Halogen, Kelvin, Shade, Preset Manual |
| Flash | |
|---|---|
| Max Sync Speed | 1 / 160 sec |
| Continuous Shooting | Up to 3.2 fps |
| External Flash Connection | Hot Shoe |
| Performance | |
|---|---|
| Self Timer | 2 sec, 10 sec |
| Connectivity | AV Output, HDMI C (Mini), USB 2.0 |
| Power | |
|---|---|
| Battery | 1x Rechargeable Lithium-Ion Battery Pack |
| Operating/Storage Temperature |
Operating 32 to 104 °F (0 to 40 °C) |
| Physical | |
|---|---|
| Dimensions (WxHxD) | 4.44 x 2.67 x 1.29" / 11.28 x 6.78 x 3.28 cm |
| Weight | 9.35 oz / 265 g Body only |
| Kit Lens | |
|---|---|
| Focal Length |
14 - 42 mm Comparable Four Thirds and Micro 4/3 Focal Length: 28 - 84 mm |
| Aperture |
Maximum: f/3.5 - 5.6 Minimum: f/22 |
| Angle of View | 75° - 29° |
| Minimum Focus Distance | 1.0' (30.48 cm) |
| Magnification | 0.16x |
| Maximum Reproduction Ratio | 1:6.25 |
| Groups/Elements | 9/12 |
| Diaphragm Blades | 7 |
| Autofocus | Yes |
| Image Stabilization | No |
| Filter Thread | Front: 52 mm |
| Dimensions (DxL) | Approx. 2.39 x 2.5" (6.07 x 6.35 cm) |
| Weight | 5.82 oz (165 g) |
REVIEW SNAPSHOT®
by PowerReviewsPros
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Most Liked Positive Review
Meets Expectations
After 2 months of searching for a small DSLR quality camera I finally found the one I want. The GF2 meets my expectations for a small, simple, high quality camera with great still and...Read complete review
After 2 months of searching for a small DSLR quality camera I finally found the one I want. The GF2 meets my expectations for a small, simple, high quality camera with great still and video. I tried the E-PL2; took it back because iAuto mode produced far too warm and yellow pics in indoor lighting. I tried the Nex5; took it back because the images were way too soft, my point-and-shoot took sharper pictures. Both the E-PL2 and Nex5 can produce good images if you mess with settings, but the GF2 in iAuto mode is simply better. White objects, such as an closet doors, actually come out white with the GF2. I know that sounds like a simple statement, but you would not believe the trouble other cameras have producing whites and light colors in low light. The E-PL2 and Nex5 have better noise quality at high ISO, but in general I found that I kept more of the pics using the GF2 especially the indoor shots. And by the way, when I test cameras I do not use tripods and fancy lighting, I just shoot real life situations.
The touchscreen works OK, not great. Enough said.
The video looks really nice. Not as good as a Hollywood HD movies, but better than most camcorders I have had. Warning, even though it uses AVCHD compression, the video files are still huge. Plan on killing a day editing clips and creating dvds if you shoot more then an hour of video.
The GF2 does not produce as good of a picture as my cousins high end $2000 DSRL, but it is much better than a point-and-shoot. Professionals probably should not get the GF2, but prosumers (like me) will love it.
VS
Most Liked Negative Review
Great camera implementation sensor noisy
I loved the mechanics of this camera. But ultimately a camera comes down to the quality of the image. I saw noise in each image that needed cleaning. Way more noise than I would...Read complete review
I loved the mechanics of this camera. But ultimately a camera comes down to the quality of the image. I saw noise in each image that needed cleaning. Way more noise than I would hope for. I shoot in RAW, so sure, I can clean it up in ACR, but -
I went through reviews of the camera and found something I had missed before I bought the camera - each and every review qualifies the image quality - "great in good light", "good quality below ISO 400". None compared it to Canon 7D or 60D.
The other alternative to Panasonic is Olympus. My first digital camera in 1999 was an Olympus. I started researching that camera - and the image quality is less noisy and better. I am returning the Panasonic, and purchasing the Olympus E-PL2 14-42mm and 40-150mm kit.
Lost of people love this camera. I wanted to. I could not, only because the sensor noise fell short of what I think it should be,
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Reviewed by 36 customers
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Comments about Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF2 Digital Micro Four Thirds Camera W/14-42mm Lens (Black):
This camera is very small, so much to where the tiny lens it comes with looks out of place. It isnt a bad camera, its just not for me...
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Comments about Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF2 Digital Micro Four Thirds Camera W/14-42mm Lens (Black):
I had bought this camera to replace my GF-1 that someone had broken. At first i didn't like it, but I got use to it. The first thing I noticed was the remote shutter option was messing from the GF-1. I like to take timelapse photo shoots and I can no longer do this. However the picture quality does seem to come out nicer. The stereo microphones on the video is a nice new feature. Also the upgrade to 1080p is a nice video option. The 3D option I feel is a gimmick and not worth very much. All in all this camera is very worth the price and the photos are great. It has some advantages over the GF-1, but also some disadvantages. Check it out for yourself.
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Comments about Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF2 Digital Micro Four Thirds Camera W/14-42mm Lens (Black):
The functionality of the camera itself is great. I previously owned the GF1 so some of the controls take some time getting used to, such as the touch screen and no dial, but I haven't had any serious issues. The touchscreen works great and the HD Video controls are nice too. Too bad there isn't much control over the video.
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Comments about Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF2 Digital Micro Four Thirds Camera W/14-42mm Lens (Black):
I've had this camera now for a few months. [...]. I could use it straight out of the box after assembly and inserting a memory card, the battery power was full.The camera is responsive, and works great. No matter what you're doing, just point and click, it'll take the picture, no messing with changing the mode. It comes out of power saver mode quickly and can take the picture in less than a quarter second, but you must double tap the button. It'll take a picture as fast as you can click the button.The Intelligent Assist works pretty good, except maybe under extreme conditions, like in near darkness with no flash. I've only had a few instances where it refused to take a picture, so I turned the IA function off. No idea why it refused to take the picture.The battery life is decent, lasting half a day with moderate use (no flash) and leaving it in power saver mode. Two spare batteries should be sufficient for a full day's usage.I've encountered a couple of times where the lens can rotate a little too easily and stops the camera from working at all. It should lock in a little more tightly. Frustrating the first time before you figure it out.I rated it a 4, but it's more a 4+ rating, but not a full 5.
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Comments about Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF2 Digital Micro Four Thirds Camera W/14-42mm Lens (Black):
Simle in use, light, great photos!
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Comments about Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF2 Digital Micro Four Thirds Camera W/14-42mm Lens (Black):
This camera is so versatile, user friendly with crisp dynamic photos. Being able to change lenses and shoot in raw makes it comparable to a DSLR but it's more compact
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Comments about Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF2 Digital Micro Four Thirds Camera W/14-42mm Lens (Black):
nice price, great camera.
One drawback is the short battery life...I don't think one battery is enough for long time taking photos.
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Comments about Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF2 Digital Micro Four Thirds Camera W/14-42mm Lens (Black):
Snappy little thing that delivers great quality. Much easier to travel with than my EOS 7D.
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Comments about Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF2 Digital Micro Four Thirds Camera W/14-42mm Lens (Black):
I loved the mechanics of this camera. But ultimately a camera comes down to the quality of the image. I saw noise in each image that needed cleaning. Way more noise than I would hope for. I shoot in RAW, so sure, I can clean it up in ACR, but -
I went through reviews of the camera and found something I had missed before I bought the camera - each and every review qualifies the image quality - "great in good light", "good quality below ISO 400". None compared it to Canon 7D or 60D.
The other alternative to Panasonic is Olympus. My first digital camera in 1999 was an Olympus. I started researching that camera - and the image quality is less noisy and better. I am returning the Panasonic, and purchasing the Olympus E-PL2 14-42mm and 40-150mm kit.
Lost of people love this camera. I wanted to. I could not, only because the sensor noise fell short of what I think it should be,
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Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF2 Digital Micro Four Thirds Camera W/14-42mm Lens (Black):
The GF2 has proved to deliver great pictures, with ease. It takes a while to get used to make all your selections on the LCD-screen, but all the menus are logical. Also, working without a wievfinder is strange, but works out ok. In IA, automode, it delivers very good quality even in demanding (low light) conditions. Recording movies in HD is easy, and also of very high quality. I'm very satisfied with my choice!
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Comments about Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF2 Digital Micro Four Thirds Camera W/14-42mm Lens (Black):
I bought GF1 1 year before . I like it . Now , with GF2 lighter and smaller I want to use it. But now I 'm out of US . When i came back I will try it.
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Comments about Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF2 Digital Micro Four Thirds Camera W/14-42mm Lens (Black):
good quality, easy to use
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Comments about Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF2 Digital Micro Four Thirds Camera W/14-42mm Lens (Black):
DSLR is too heavy? Also want a light camera and picture quality same as DSLR? I recommend GF2!
Why we buy GF2?
1. Light & small size
2. Easy to use (Custom quick menu)
3. Touch screen & Dial
4. Hight picture quality (4/3 sensor)
5. Fast and accurate AF
6. Built in Flash
7. HD stereo video
8. My color function, take your attractive photos
9. Standard color screen (That means very close to most monitors)
10. i.R(Intelligent Resolution) amazing picture quality improvement
11. Touch AF & Touch Shutter
Please note before you buy:
1. Touch screen basically is not faster than buttons, which means you may think that would be better if GF2 provides you more button on the pannel such as AEL/AFL button.
2. Battery life is normal, but too short for one day.
3. No MIC input provided.
4. No Manual video.
5. No Manual built in flash output
6. In My color mode, you only can control DoF(Aperture) on touch screen, AF/MF and AF point, NO +/-EV.
7. No film mode like GF1
8. No ASMP dial on top, control on touch screen
9. ISO noise is just OK if compared to APS-C & FullFrame
10. 14-42 kit lens is worse than 14-45, AF is slower than 14-140 kit lens.
In conclusion, GF2 can provide you excellent picture color and sharpnese. No matter the 14-42 is not sharper than 14-45 and Olympus', i.R function and help you improve the problem, so this is still good lens that NO WORSE than dslr. I recommend.
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Comments about Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF2 Digital Micro Four Thirds Camera W/14-42mm Lens (Black):
I purchased the GF2 as a half-step between my usual point-and-shoot camera (Lumix TZ5) and my DSLR (Rebel XTi). I am an avid mountaineer, climber, skier, and adventurer, and this camera served a perfect niche of compact size and high quality imaging. It is extremely easy to use, and the touch-screen was very easy to learn and utilize, even with light gloves on my hands. I only just started using this camera, but I am thrilled thus far (including the HD video option) and look forward to continue its use!
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Comments about Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF2 Digital Micro Four Thirds Camera W/14-42mm Lens (Black):
I wanted a walk around light and have some DSLR capability of range with different lens. Pretty good for that replacement, however a bit disappointed in the IQ aspects.
IQ a bit grainy at all ISO ranges. Tried many settings to no avail. Finally settled with the fact that the IQ cant match those of the higher Prosumer bodies. Of cos with the price thats what is expected.
Nevertheless, the best camera is the one you have with you when you need to take a shot. An the GF2 is probably the most portable "DSLR"
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Comments about Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF2 Digital Micro Four Thirds Camera W/14-42mm Lens (Black):
I bought the camera for travel, family events and mainly for my work with musicians. Highly recomended for semi professional use.
Was really surprised with the low light pictures I took. Unbelievable!
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Comments about Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF2 Digital Micro Four Thirds Camera W/14-42mm Lens (Black):
I had originally purchased the Olympus E-PL2 and exchanged it for the GF2 because of the red dot issue. It's picture quality is not as good as the EPL2 but it is good enough for those printing regular size prints. I do wish it had in body image stabilization though.
The touch screen proved to be more useful than I thought due to the fact that you can use it as a shutter button and the pinpoint focus points. It is slower to focus that way but not by that much. The battery life is as stated, I got about 310 shots with a charge without using flash much and lots of continuous autofocus use which is pretty good.
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Comments about Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF2 Digital Micro Four Thirds Camera W/14-42mm Lens (Black):
Excellent for hiking and backpacking
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Comments about Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF2 Digital Micro Four Thirds Camera W/14-42mm Lens (Black):
The only complaint I have about this camera is the lens is too long to use the flash. It blocks a bit of the flash so there is a dark spot in the right hand corner of the picture. Rather unfortunate, I would suggest the 14 mm lens if you plan on taking a lot of pictures with flash. Fortunately,this camera takes great pictures at low light, so the flash is rarely necessary.
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Comments about Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF2 Digital Micro Four Thirds Camera W/14-42mm Lens (Black):
I'm retired and a casual recreational photographger. My very first click was out my garage door to record my Garage sale set up. The tray of knick knacks at 1 meter was in fine focus, my Peugeot Bicycle at 10 meters was in fine focus, the neighbors car at 40 meters was in focus (you can't read the plate number)but that pic was with the 14mm lens. this is not a lie I'll send you the pic if you like. My second click was a Dandillion at 7" and it revealed a drop of water and speck of dirt down in the core of petals. I am truly amazed.
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