Panasonic is expecting sales of the Lumix DMC-GH1 Creative HD Hybrid camera to commence locally at the end of May.

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April 28, 2009: Panasonic is expecting sales of the Lumix DMC-GH1 Creative HD Hybrid camera to commence locally at the end of May.
The latest addition to the Lumix G Micro System of interchangeable lens cameras, the GH1 can record both high-quality photos and High Definition (HD) 1080/25p or smooth 720/50p HD movies in AVCHD format. The new model combines the key features of the Lumix G1, including a 12.1-megapizel 4/3-type Live MOS sensor and a full range of shooting modes, including Intelligent Auto (iA) and Full-time Live View for simple operation. Intelligent Auto now includes Face Recognition, a function that ‘remembers’ faces from previous shots. With this new model, Continuous Autofocus (AF) can be used while recording movies, and high-quality sound recording is available with Dolby Digital Stereo Creator.

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Front view of the Lumix DMC-GH1 with the articulating LCD opened. (Source: Panasonic.)

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Rear view showing the LCD monitor reversed onto the camera’s back panel. (Source: Panasonic.)

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The Lumix DMC-GH1 with its built-in flash raised. (Source: Panasonic.)
Two new Micro Four Thirds System interchangeable lenses have been announced. The new Lumix G Vario HD 14-140mm/F4.0-5.8 ASPH./MEGA O.I.S lens is the perfect movie recording partner to the Lumix DMC-GH1. This versatile 10x zoom lens offers silent and continuous auto focusing and seamless aperture adjustment. Panasonic has also unveiled an ultra wide-angle zoom lens, the Lumix G Vario 7-14mm/F4.0 ASPH, which covers a focal length range equivalent to 14-28mm in 35mm format.

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The new Lumix G Vario HD 14-140mm/F4.0-5.8 ASPH./MEGA O.I.S lens, which will be offered with the new camera. (Source: Panasonic.)

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The wide-angle Lumix G Vario 7-14mm/F4.0 ASPH lens. (Source: Panasonic.)
The Lumix GH1 will be offered with the Vario HD 14-140mm/F4.0-5.8 ASPH./MEGA O.I.S lens for an RRP of $3,299. The Vario HD 14-140mm/F4.0-5.8 ASPH./MEGA O.I.S lens will be sold separately for $1999 (RRP), while the Lumix G Vario 7-14mm/F4.0 ASPH will carry an RRP of $2299. For full product details, visit www.panasonic.com.au or phone Panasonic on 132 600.