Panasonic will update its G Series line-up in September with the release of the Lumix DMC-GX8 camera for photo enthusiasts.
Angled view of the new Panasonic Lumix DMC-GX8 camera with the 14-42mm kit lens. (Source: Panasonic.)
Featuring a new 20-megapixel sensor and Panasonic’s Dual IS (Image Stabilisation) technology, the weatherproof GX8 comes with Panasonic’s latest 4K functionality and a high magnification Live View Finder. The Dual IS system combines four-axis sensor-shiftstabilisation with two-axis lens stabilisation to provide superior steadiness for for both still image capture and movies. Blurring is effectively suppressed in both wide angle shooting and at the tele end of zoom lenses. The next-generation 20-megapixel Digital Live MOS Sensor delivers abundant detail, superior low-light performance and an impressive dynamic range.
Together, the sensor and processor enable the GX8 to support 4K video recording. The latest 4K video and 4K Photo capabilities equip the camera to achieve 4K burst shooting at up to 30 frames/second continuously for up to 30 minutes. The OLED electronic viewfinder (EVF) has a resolution of 2.36 million dots and a magnification of 0.77x (35mm camera equivalent). A new large eyecup makes it easier to use, and an eyepoint of approximately 21mmmakes the EVF comfortable to use even when wearing glasses. The 3-inch 1,040K-dotfree-angletouch monitor has a wide viewing angle and rotates 180 degrees to the side and tilts 250 degrees up and down, with approximately 100% of field of view.
With a rugged body design, including a magnesium alloy full diecast front and rear frame, GX8 is designed for extended shooting in the field. Splash and dustproof sealing is installed on every joint, dial, and button. The control button layout is intuitive, with manual dials for aperture and shutter speed adjustment and a dedicated exposure compensation dial covering a range of +/- 5EV. the front and rear dials for smooth manual shooting. There are eight physical and five on-screen programmable function buttons.
The DMC-GX8 offers Panasonic’s best AF performance, integrating Contrast AF with DFD (Depth From Defocus) technology. Burst shooting is available in 20MP full resolution, at 8 fps (AFS) or 6 fps (AFC) to capture fast moving subjects. The mechanical shutter covers exposures up to 1/8000 second, with the electronic shutter extending the range to 1/16000 second. Useful AF features include 49-point focus detect, Custom Multi AF, Face/Eye Detection AF, Pinpoint AF and AF Tracking. The popular Creative Control mode features 22 filter options. Integrated 802.11n Wi-Fi connectivity with NFC (Near Field Communication) technology offers users direct uploading to sharing sites and remote camera controls.
The DMC-GX8 will be available in Australia in September from photographic specialists and consumer electronics retailers. It will be available in two colours: black or two-tone black and silver. The body alone will be priced at an RRP of AU$1399, with the 14-42mm single-lens kit at AU$1499 and the twin-lens kit at AU$1699. A kit with the 14-140mm zoom lens will sell for AU$1999, while the 12-35mm f/2.8 Pro kit will be priced at AU$2399. For more information, visit http://www.panasonic.com/au/consumer/imaging.html.
