Conclusion
Although it's pricey for the package, regardless of which kit lens you choose, Panasonic's GF1 is pleasing to use and a good example of the kind of camera serious enthusiasts would like as a more portable alternative to a DSLR kit. It provides many of the benefits of a DSLR: interchangeable lens options, a relatively large sensor, raw file capture and a full suite of user-adjustable controls. All these factors provide reasons for nominating the GF1 as an Editor's Choice in both the Advanced and Four Thirds System categories.
It's great to see all these features offered in a camera that, while not exactly shirt-pocketable, is small enough to fit into a jacket pocket (although you'll need a fairly capacious one if you opt for the zoom lens kit). Shooting video with this camera is also as easy as with one of Panasonic's digicams because the ergonomics and controls are so similar. The camera design and ergonomics are also more video-friendly than shooting with a DSLR-style camera.
However, potential buyers should note that even though Panasonic has packed in lots of automated functions for point-and-shoot users, the full capabilities of this camera can only be realised with raw file capture - and only by users who are prepared to edit images in Adobe's Photoshop or Photoshop Elements. The high price tag of the camera plus lens can be justified by the performance achievable through these means - but not if you plan to stick with the bundled software.
Buy this camera if:
- You want a compact, interchangeable-lens camera that fits into a jacket pocket.
- You'd like the ability to shoot both still pictures and HD video clips.
- You want a Live View system similar to those on most digicams.
- You'd like most of the controls and functions offered in serious DSLR cameras - including manual focusing and zooming.
- You're interested in shooting raw files and are prepared to edit them in Photoshop or Photoshop Elements.
- You require high resolution and low noise levels at ISO settings up to 800.
Don't buy this camera if:
- You require noise-free images at high ISO settings above 800.
- You require high burst speeds and buffer capacity plus fast cycle times.
- You want body-integrated image stabilisation that works with all lenses.
- You want a wide range of accessories to build your system. (You'll have to wait a while for the MFT system to grow.)