Panasonic has released details of the anticipated Lumix DMC-GH1 Micro Four Thirds System camera, which it tags as a ‘Creative HD Hybrid’ model.

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March 4, 2009: Panasonic has released details of the anticipated Lumix DMC-GH1 Micro Four Thirds System camera, which it tags as a ‘Creative HD Hybrid’ model.
Fully compliant with the Micro Four Thirds System standard, the GH1 has similar specifications to the Lumix G1 but adds the ability to record High Definition (HD) 1080/25p or smooth 720/50p HD movies in AVCHD format. (The AVCHD format features almost twice the recording time in HD quality than conventional Motion JPEG.) The 12.1-megapixel 4/3-type Live MOS sensor in the new model has a high-speed 4-channel readout to support Full HD movie recording. As in the G1, this sensor also allows images to be taken at three aspect ratios – 4:3, 3:2 and 16:9 – with the same angle of view, and the camera can also reproduce a square image with a 1:1 aspect ratio.

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The new gold body colour for the Lumix DMC-GH1.
The GH1 will be offered in black, red or a new gold body colour. It includes Panasonic’s popular iA (Intelligent Auto) mode which adjusts camera settings automatically, leaving the user free to compose shots. All the user has to do is aim and shoot even in situations that normally require complicated settings. It also offers the standard P, A, S and M shooting modes enthusiasts require, along with a Creative Movie mode, which lets the user set the shutter speed and aperture manually. High-quality stereo sound is assured for movie clips, with Dolby Digital Stereo Creator, the global standard for superior audio recording. An optional stereo microphone (DMW-MS1) is also available, and a Wind Cut function is included.
The built in optical image stabiliser minimises the risk of blurring from hand-shake when using high-powered zoom for both still and movie capture. Face Detection, Intelligent Exposure and Intelligent Scene Selector functions also operate in both shooting modes. The -GH1 also offers a Playback mode that allows the user to play ‘only still images,’ ‘only motion images,’ or ‘both’. When choosing ‘only motion images,’ you can play AVCHD and Motion JPEG videos separately. Photos and movies can also be played back together with seamless transitions and background music in the new Slideshow mode Using an optional mini HDMI cable, slideshows can be shared on compatible HDTV sets.
Concurrent with the launch of the Lumix GH1, Panasonic has also unveiled two new lenses. The Lumix Vario HD 14-140mm f/4.0-5.8 ASPH./MEGA O.I.S features an inner focus direct-drive linear motor for focusing and covers a focal length range equivalent to 28-280mm in 35mm format. Four aspherical lenses and two ED elements are included to minimise distortion and chromatic aberration and, at the same time, reduce overall size and weight.

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The new 14-140mm (left) and 7-14mm lenses that will be offered with the Lumix DMC-GH1.
The new Lumix G Vario 7-14mm f/4.0 ASPH lens offers an impressive wide-angle zoom range of 7-14mm (14-28mm in 35mm format) and is compact and lightweight for travel. Consisting of 16 lens elements in 12 groups, it includes two aspherical lenses and four ED lenses. Image resolution is high from corner-to-corner even at the wide-angle setting. It also features f/4.0 brightness across the entire zoom range thanks to its large-diameter glass moulded lens elements.
On the GH1, both lenses allow use of the advanced contrast AF system, which includes a Face Recognition function. Each lens has seven iris blades that produce a rounded aperture, multi-coated elements to minimise flare and ghosting and a metal mounting plate. The Lumix DMC-GH1 will be available from late May from authorised photographic retailers. For more information, visit www.panasonic.com.au or phone Panasonic on 132 600.