Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH1: An SLR-type camera with HD video recording
If you weren’t already impressed by Panasonic’s Lumix DMC-G1 Micro Four Thirds camera, then you definitely will be now. Just five months after the initial launch of the camera Panasonic has unveiled a new high-definition version of the camera that allows you to capture HD video in addition to taking pictures.
The Panasonic Lumix GH1 takes pictures at a 12.1-megapixel resolution and is being called a “Creative HD Hybrid” by Panasonic due to its ability to record high-definition 1080/24p or 720/60p video in the AVCHD format.
The Micro Four Thirds format as you may know does not use a mirror like typical SLR cameras, which allows the cameras to have a smaller body while still enabling them to take interchangeable lenses.
While the high-definition video recording in a compact body is definitely what makes this camera stand out from the competition, the camera also has a great deal of features that most photographers will find useful. The GH1 has an Intelligent Auto Mode, which is also found on some of Panasonic’s smaller consumer cameras. Intelligent Auto allows users to let the camera take some of the guesswork out of how to set it. The camera also has face recognition that “remembers” registered faces within the camera and gives those faces priority in some shots.
The Lumix G1 made quite a splash when it was introduced at the end of last year. It’s impressive that Panasonic is introducing a new model so soon, and especially one that is able to capture high-definition video. For some time SLR’s have not included video recording, it’s nice to see that feature start to bleed over from the consumer market into some prosumer and slightly professional cameras.
The Lumix DMC-GH1 will be available in black and red, no word yet on pricing or availability for the camera.
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