Preview: Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF3 Micro Four Thirds Digital Camera

First look:

The newest Micro Four Thirds camera model from Panasonic has recently been introduced to the world. Since the first arrival of Micro Four Thirds system cameras in 2008, these mirrorless digital cameras with the facility of interchangeable lens are rapidly taking place of conventional DSLRs and compact digital cameras. Panasonic is one of the pioneers of Micro Four Thirds system camera and it seems their latest model Lumix DMC-G3 has many features to offer to extend that domination. With a super-compact and very lightweight body (7.83oz without lens) and easy-to-use features, this camera is definitely going to give another blow in the face to the bulky DSLRs.

Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF3 MFT

What’s new:

Though compactness is the basic feature of Micro Four Thirds cameras but even then we must mention the super compactness of the new Lumix DMC-G3. This may be one of the reasons why these Micro Four Thirds cameras are getting more favorable these days than heavy and Bulky DSLRs. The 12.1 megapixel camera, with a DSLR like Live MOS sensor and with the use of advanced image processing technologies, can produce super quality images. A new Dust Reduction System has also been included in this new model to keep the sensor dust free.

What’s been refreshed:

Lumix DMC-G3 use the same 12MP sensor which was used in its predecessors too, but this time with a faster processor the autofocusing system of this new model would work much faster.

Picture Gallery

Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF3 MFT

The GF3 has the same 12MP sensor as its predecessor but with a faster processor enabling rapid 120Hz autofocusing. The camera gains the Photo Styles and Creative Controls color and processing options from the G3 but loses several physical features from th

Features walkthrough:

Lumix DMC-G3 has 3D lens so it can capture full HD video and 3D still photos as well as normal still photos. The autofocusing system works very fast (in approximately 0.18 seconds) and very accurately. There's another feature included called Light Speed AF (works at approximately 0.1 seconds). A full-area focusing system has been used.

What’s good:

Lumix DMC-G3 produces excellent details in the image with great color accuracy. Auto exposure and white balance controls are also very accurate. The noise reduction system works quite good. It has got a built-in flash and a new feature has been added to the camera to prevent vignetting effects. The new touch screen control works pretty great too.

What’s not so good:

The mode dial is missing in the new model which could be a negative point as experienced user are so well accustomed to the mode dial. It also lacks a view-finder. As there's already some previous models available in cheaper price with some same features so this latest model surely have to prove it's potentials to the user.

Price and availability:

Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF3 would most probably be released in July 2011. It will be available in three colors - red, white and black. Two lenses are available now - 14mm pancake lens and 14-42mm zoom lens. After release this product will also be available in Amazon.

Wrap-up:

It looks like Lumix DMC-GF3 has got quite a lot of impressing features. Super tiny, highly lightweight, fast AF system, noise control in ISO levels, HD video and accurate white balance, yes it does look quite impressive but the lack of a view finder and a mode dial would be a minus.