First Micro Four Thirds Camera Announced
Panasonic today announced the 12.1-megapixel Lumix G1, the company’s first model in the new Micro Four Thirds format
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One significant hurdle to creating a viable Live View-based camera has been the slow auto focus performance found in Live View mode in current SLRs. When shooting through an optical viewfinder, SLRs use phase differential auto focus and a dedicated focus sensor, which works very quickly. In Live View mode auto focus relies on the image sensor itself, using contrast detection technology, which has worked slowly to date. Panasonic claims to have solved this shortcoming, promising Live View focus between 0.3 and 0.4 seconds. Another improvement over existing Live View implementations is the 60-frame-per-second LCD display refresh, eliminating the visible stuttering typically seen when panning a current camera in Live View mode.
While the format will allow future cameras with video recording, the G1 does not include a movie mode, though there is an HDMI output for viewing photos on an HDTV. It does have an intriguing new feature called shutter speed preview, though. Users can display an interactive simulated photo live on the LCD, demonstrating the degree to which movement will be slowed or stopped at the current shutter speed setting.
The Lumix G1 will be available in three colors, black, blue and burgundy. Pricing and availability will be announced in early October, though the camera plus 14-45mm lens combination is expected to sell for under $800.