Panasonic Redesigns GF-Series

2015.01.20

Earlier today Panasonic made a surprise-announcement for their latest compact mirrorless digital camera. The all-new Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF7 is a complete redesign of its predecessor, the Panasonic GF6 launched in 2013 and reviewed here. The new arrival slots itself as upper entry-level, above the diminutive GM-series and below the extremely capable GX-series.

The Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF7 is built around a state-of-the-art 16 megapixels Four-Thirds LiveMOS sensor with matching Micro Four-Thirds lens-mount. It has an ISO 100 to 25600 sensitivity range and an impressive 1/16000 to 60s shutter-speed range, thanks to a hybrid mechanical and electronic shutter. It can sustain up to 5.8 FPS continuous shooting with the mechanical-shutter and up to 40 FPS at 4 MP with the electronic one.

Its new design includes the most radical change from the GF6, a large 3" touchscreen LCD with 1 megapixel of resolution which also tilts up 180°, allowing for easily-framed selfies. On the rear, there is also a single control-dial, which is standard for this level of camera. A traditional mode-dial sits on the top-plate, which also hides a built-in popup flash, something which does not fit in the smaller GM-series.

There is no doubt the GF7 can deliver high image-quality from a compact package, as Panasonic proved well with the GM1 reviewed here. The inclusion of the popup flash and tilting LCD are key to grabbing different potential buyers.

The new Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF7 is expected to arrive this April for a suggested price of $599 USD or $699 CDN. Amazon.com is already accepting pre-orders. Buyers pretty-much anywhere can also order from Adorama and B&H Photo.

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