Mastering the Lumix G9II on Day One: What I Learned

As a long time Lumix user I thought I would be able to walk right up to this camera and have it all figured out. But I had to crack open the camera manual a couple of times - especially when I came to the new Subject Detection focus and to figure out the improved menu system. In this video I share my camera set up and show you what I learned.
Table of Contents
0:00 - Intro
0:49 - Read the manual
1:04 - Buttons and dials
2:57 - Menus
3:58 - Focus settings
4:40 - Burst modes
6:04 - Sample photos
7:13 - Quick Menu
11:30 - Up next
All Panasonic Documents and Operating Manuals:
help.na.panasonic.com/manuals/
Firmware Updates for all Lumix Cameras:
help.na.panasonic.com/answers...
Lumix AF Guidebook:
www.panasonic.com/global/cons...
In between videos I post photos on my Community Tab: / marlenehielema
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If this video helped you, please buy me a coffee or send me a KZbin Super Thanks: www.buymeacoffee.com/imagemaven
Or with PayPal: www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted...
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www.imagemaven.com
Marlene Hielema
Calgary, AB Canada
** All video and audio content created by myself and or used with permission from the creator.
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Disclaimer: Some of these links go to my website and some are affiliate links where I'll earn a small commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

[@chrishall4977]

And we're back! The beginning of, hopefully, a series of excellent practical guides to using the G9II just like you did with its predecessor.

[@ImageMaven]

Likely not 5 years worth like before, but I'll do my best for the next couple of months at least.

[@user-ps7mp3bi5l]

So glad you now have the G9 II. You will grow to enjoy it more each day. I've certainly enjoyed mine these past weeks. Looking forward to your upcoming videos.

[@ImageMaven]

You got that right. Every time I use it I feel more at home.

[@mikestewart6669]

I love the quick menu too, but that hasn’t stopped me reprogramming some buttons. I have the top and bottom of the centre dial set to subject detection type and subject detection on/off respectively. I’ve set the two front buttons to near focus and far focus respectively. I love this really useful feature of the G9 II.

[@ImageMaven]

Hi Mike, Thanks for sharing your setup. Interesting that you're using the dial for subject detection settings. I think I'd be afraid of accidentally moving it, as I tend to walk around with my camera on and dangling bouncing around as I tend to walk fairly quickly from location to location. But yes, I've set the near/far focus as well. Forgot to mention that. Thanks for watching!

[@phsb66]

I'm going to hold my hand up and and admit that coming from the Lumix FZ2000 and Lumix GX9, I was a little overwhelmed at first when I got my copy of the G9M2. It hasn't stopped me from taking the occasional superior photo with it, but that manual is not exactly light reading. Your post has helped a little by getting me to use the quick menu, which has lowered my stress levels in getting to grips with this camera, so thank you for that.

[@ImageMaven]

Yes the quick menu has changed everything for me. Lowers the stress level especially when your shooting situation changes quickly. Thank you for the comment and the Super. 😊

[@cloudcitydigital]

I was excited for you to get this!

[@gordon3988]

Now we have to wonder…intro filmed with G100 and still keeping the OM1? Both also great cameras. Even though I won’t likely own this camera, I was quite looking forward to this video. In part as there is always some carry over of the always good advice and just enjoy how you present. And of course, the photos!

[@ImageMaven]

Hi Gordon. Thank you for your kind words and for watching. Well I'm not sure yet about the OM1. I feel I haven't given it a fair chance as I'm so biased towards Lumix. But the OM1 is definitely a smaller body and I've taken some fantastic bird photos with it too. Others have reviewed both cameras and they're really neck and neck image quality-wise.

[@brucegraner5901]

Marlene, always good to see one of your videos and I look forward to your explorations of the G9 (2) features, especially how you feel about phase detect AF. I liked your collection of bird photo examples, especially the last two but the variety was outstanding. One thing I would really like to hear is how do you feel about the "feel" of the G9 (2) compared to the original G9 or OG9. I thought the OG9 ergonomics were just about perfect and I was concerned about losing that feel with the new camera.

[@ImageMaven]

Hi Bruce! Yes, I failed to mention the handling. I guess it didn't bother me too much or I would have complained about it. ;) It's definitely meatier than the OM1, which I've been using for a few months. And it seems to "support" the 100-400mm better than the OM1. But I'll add that section to my next video. And yes, the "new to G9" PDAF focus works excellently! Very good hit rate, even for owls in the dark trees. Thanks for watching.

[@michaelhayward6097]

Wow what an amazing camera - I am jealous :-) - thank you for taking the time to do a vid on it

[@ImageMaven]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@martyptx]

Congratulations on getting the G9II. I still have my G9 and GX9, and I’m not convinced that I will see enough of an improvement in my photos to justify the cost. I’m still very happy for you, and enjoyed the video as always. Looking forward to many more. Great Job!

[@ImageMaven]

Thanks for the kind words Marty. I think that's a smart way to look at things. You've got a great kit right there. Cheers 😊

[@a.beckwith4576]

Yeahhh so glad you have the mark 2, just watched the vid and already learnt and understand how to use the quick menu…. Cannot wait until you deal with the LUTs. Happy new year and really looking forward to your new content 👍

[@ImageMaven]

Glad you like the QMenu stuff. Ah LUTs! Yes, that will be fun. I might have to borrow some off a friend to test out as it's a new area for me. Thanks for watching!

[@ImageMaven]

If you're in a hurry, page 335 of the manual describes loading LUTs, but what it doesn't do it show you how to get them, or create them. Great video topic for me.

[@user-rj1hx5jz1n]

Great video,clear and helpful. Thanks, Marlene. The subtitles following your explanation, did cover sometimes what you wanted to show.

[@ImageMaven]

Oh darn. I'll try and keep things up a bit higher in future videos. It's hard to be exact as people look on different sized screens. Phone vs. Computer is quite a bit different. Hopefully you got the info somehow.

[@user-rj1hx5jz1n]

Yes, I did. Thanks

[@Stone1108]

I’m really pleased for you Marlene, now that you finally have the G9 mk2. Yours is one of the few channels that I know I can depend on for clear, in depth and sincere guidance on the Lumix M43 system. Your final sentence is the big takeaway for me and I suspect those of us who are lucky enough to already have a G9 mk1 or other series Lumix. Like others i’m looking forward to joining you on youtube on your G9mk2 experience.

[@ImageMaven]

Thank you for your kind words Andrew. I look forward to sharing my journey. Cheers!

[@CallmeBigfat]

Happy you got one! cant wait for mine to come in a few days would love to see some great slo mo settings

[@ImageMaven]

This is a long term loan, but I'm probably going to buy it! I love it.

[@datapro007]

Great tutorial Marlene; thank you.

[@ImageMaven]

Thanks for watching!

[@mediamannaman]

I'm so jealous! No seriously, I'm happy for you. What a great camera! Someday maybe I will be able to spring for one. Thanks for the nickel tour! It looks very familiar since I have a G9 and an S5.

[@ImageMaven]

I think you have all the bases covered with those two cameras. Stay the course. Thanks for stopping by to chat.

[@cameronplatts9630]

Great presentation! Thank you very much. 👍👍

[@ImageMaven]

Glad you liked it! Cheers!

[@margaretcopeland1055]

I got my G9ii two weeks ago. I love it. It's a lot of camera. I bought a Lumix G7 but returned it after reading all of the G9ii reviews. I have the Panasonic 100-300, can't afford or justify the 100-400 as of yet, but I'm amazed how well the focus works. Where I live in Southern Oregon there are a few nature sites with bird feeders. Once the weather clears up I want to go out and put the G9ii and my telephoto lens I have through the paces. It's a learning curve for me but I've been doing photography since the late 60's. Your review of the camera dials and settings were most useful. It took me a while to find the G9ii manual online but I did. Having double stabilization, the camera body, and the lens is really really nice.

[@ImageMaven]

Yes the focus is stellar! Such an excellent birding camera. Glad you finally found the manual. Glad you're liking the camera too. The birds will go where there's fresh water in the winter. Cheers and happy birding.

[@MrFirstdance2000]

I'm sufferings Camera Envy, Marlene...LOL So happy you have acquired this and look forward to more productions! Happy New Year and may this be your best year, ever!!

[@ImageMaven]

Hi Steve! 😊 Happy New Year! Well this particular one is a loaner for a couple of months but it seems I’m hooked, and will most likely buy one myself when the price drops a little. Hopefully in time for spring migration.

[@MrFirstdance2000]

@@ImageMaven Yes, indeed! Your location will be a premium target environment for all sorts of game not to mention the landscape coming alive!! Very much looking forward to it...I've got a new coffee machine, I'll try to send you a cup or 3 this week ;)

[@ImageMaven]

You’re too kind! 😊

[@skfineshriber]

I love modern cameras, but when most people hear “page 545 of the owner’s manual” they’re like “Oh hell no. I’m fine with my phone camera.” 😂 Thanks for your clear, sensible explanations. 👏👏👏

[@ImageMaven]

Ha yes. Pretty much! But I'm here for everyone else. My mission is to take the fear out of looking stuff up!

[@westporter1]

I am so glad I "re-discovered" your channel. When I first got the G9, I learned so much about the Panasonic eco-system through your videos. I loved my original G9 but gave it up a couple of years ago because of its lack of PDAF. M43 has always been a special format to me and for a while there, I thought it was lost. Enter the OM-1 and once again I returned to M43 and sold of my FF and APSC gear. With the announcement of the G9 II, it was an easy purchase and addition to the bag(s). I will keep my OM-1 because it has been great especially with the Oly 150-400 but I am probably as thrilled as you are about the G9 II. Much to learn and with videos like yours (your energy and enthusiasm is inspiring!) the curve will be a shorter and more enjoyable journey. I really hope you don't make a "The 100-400 Pana/Leica V2 is a perfect companion for your new G9 II" video. Or maybe I do. 😅

[@ImageMaven]

Wow, you really tried it all. Hopefully you’re as happy with your Lumix G9II as I am. p.s. I also couldn’t wait and got the OM-1 too. Never quite got used to it though. Thanks for stopping by to share your experiences.

[@rafaellewis1263]

Just got mine! Can't wait to dive into your new videos and get out to take some bird pics! I'm lucky enough to have an awesome variety of birds right in my backyard. 😄

[@ImageMaven]

Enjoy! 😊

[@mikestewart6669]

Meant to say, nice shots!

[@jesuscaserofotografia]

Nice video. The g9II it's amazing

[@ImageMaven]

It really is!

[@jesuscaserofotografia]

@@ImageMaven I've had it since November and I'm delighted. Before I had the G9 I and I changed for this one for my KZbin channel creating Lumix content in Spanish. Best regards

[@chhil]

Thank you for this. I have a G9 and undecided on the G9ii. I think the g9ii is going to be great for wild life, it will make life easier. Please do a few more showing off the PDAF and video capabilities.

[@ImageMaven]

So far it's excellent for birding photos. For video, I just have it set up for basic video functionality. Just for short clips for my KZbin stuff.

[@hVF8KZuQPeCc8u]

I thought when I heard the G9II was coming out Marlene finally gets her wish for an updated G9. I am part envious but gives me a good feeling you are rocking with it. Many thought Lumix would finally have to give in and go the phase detection route. Yippee! Micro 4/3rds still has a future.

[@ImageMaven]

Yes I'm rocking it for sure. Lots of upgrades that I'm loving. This particular camera is on loan but hopefully have my own G9II sometime in the future. Thanks for stopping by to chat again Steven!

[@user-rj1hx5jz1n]

Welcome, Marlene, with the G9ii in your hands.Now we'll be able to master it,with your help🙏👍👌🙃

[@FoToEdge]

Thanks!

[@ImageMaven]

Thank you so much!

[@clintjohnson5914]

Yeah..I could crack open the manual...OR......just scroll the menus blindly. Me? I just wait for Marlene's videos,,that seems to work best. I haven't committed to an upgrade with the G9II yet,, but I know this channel will help be decide when, if , and how to move ahead. Thanks again-- I'll be watching for new episodes

[@ImageMaven]

Ah Clint, you made my day. 😄 If you're a birder or wildlife shooter it's definitely worth the upgrade. And overall I really like this camera. More videos to come ... Cheers.

[@seaeagles6025]

Although i don't Shoot with a Lumix Camera i can appreciate that it's great brand, and highly spoken off with other photographers. Nice video and great location. Thanks 😊

[@ImageMaven]

Thank you for watching and also for taking the time to drop a comment. Cheers!

[@seaeagles6025]

@@ImageMaven Your welcome Marlene 😊

[@DaddyyCrab]

I wad looking fwd to you talking abt the G9ii. I’ve had mine since early Nov. Have a coffee. 😎

[@ImageMaven]

Thank you so much! 😊

[@DaddyyCrab]

@@ImageMaven yes. The Q menu is definitely handy

[@pastilance1]

6:47 hahaha, I love this shot!

[@TimTools99]

Hi Marlene. I feel like we have become old friends LOL. I really enjoy your videos and teaching style. I recently upgraded from my old GH2 (if you can believe it) to the G9ii. I could not believe how much more advanced the G9ii is! Your videos have been extremely helpful as I navigate through the big learning curve with this fantastic camera. I'm taking it one step at a time to become familiar with features which interest me. I shoot wildlife mainly. Lots of birds! Thank you again and keep the G9ii how-to videos coming.

[@ImageMaven]

Hi Tim. Thank you for your kind words. Means a lot! Congratulations on your G9II. Yes it’s a beast. I’m still learning how to use it best, but I think I’ve figured out the birding. It’s definitely great for that. You’ll need to check out my pigeon video from January for the latest birding tips. Can’t wait for spring migration! What lenses do you use? Cheers, and thanks for reaching out!

[@TimTools99]

@@ImageMaven Hi Marlene. I have the 14-140 and Leica 50-200. I really like both lens. Ive been doing a lot of reading and of course the 100-400 would be nice for birding. I am taking a trip to Africa in April '24 and I will have to make do with those two lens. The Olympus Zuiko 12-40mm f 2.8 would be awesome to have on the trip for landscape and night shots but wow! @ $1000. Take care Marlene.

[@ImageMaven]

Sounds like an epic trip! I’m sure your 50-200 will serve you well as the animals are likely bigger in the frame than the birds I shoot with my 100-400. 😉

[@howardchud9097]

Quick menu explanation is terrific. I’ve recently been using “vivid” a lot in Photo Style. It’s a blast. What do you use the custom settings for? Perhaps just because they can be specific?

[@eelco6587]

Have my G9 II since 4 days. As I am used to my OM-1, it takes some time to get used to the G9 II as well. Every tutorial is very welcome😉.

[@ImageMaven]

I hope that you get used to it. One step at a time. I'm still not completely used to my OM-1. But I know I need to work harder at it, and also open up the camera manual a bit more.

[@eelco6587]

​@@ImageMaven every different camera needs some time to get used to😅. The G9II is far more comprehensive than my S5 and GX9 and in some aspecte even more than the OM-1. I found an interesting setting I recommend you to check. It is called AF custom setting (photo). In the camera menu and than Focus as sub-menu. Here you can set the prefered preset focus settings for a specific situation. Haven't test it yet myself, but looks promising.

[@ImageMaven]

@@eelco6587 Yes, that is a setting for AFC only. The G9 original has that as well. I made a video about it a couple years ago. I have a link to the Lumix AF Guide in the video description that goes over all of those settings in detail. You just have to remember what you have it on as it may hinder your image capture if you leave it on a setting that's not idea. So I tend to leave it on the default "Set 1", most of the time.

[@Mark_Porter]

Thanks 🙏🏻

[@ImageMaven]

You’re welcome 😊 Cheers!

[@vinaybysani]

cant wait for your review on the camera for wildlife

[@ImageMaven]

I likely won't give a dedicated wildlife review as I'm mostly a birder. But I sometimes find common wildlife like squirrels, deer, elk, mountain goats, mountain sheep, and coyotes along the trails and backroads.

[@vinaybysani]

@@ImageMaven i found your videos on leica 100 400 really helpful before i got one. i am on gh5 and the af is pretty bad and its difficult to get eye focus through manual. really hoping the g9 ii is worth the upgrade.

[@LeeDunbar]

Congrats! Hope to upgrade soon. BTW that was an owl, not a ... DUCK! 😉 Had a similar situation once with an osprey. It jumped off a branch right at me while I was in the kayak. Makes your heart jump a beat for sure.

[@ImageMaven]

Ha! 😉 Heart stopping!

[@flaviopresutti]

I had programa the wheel to turn my ISO up and down, no previous button, just scroll... it's amazing what you can do with this cameras!

[@ImageMaven]

Oh nice. I’ve never heard of that one.

[@JanetPinkston]

Hi Marlene, love your videos, your teaching style is so easy to follow! Will you be doing feature by feature on the G9II? Any idea why they left out multiple exposures (or maybe I missed it?). Also I miss the top side info panel.

[@ImageMaven]

I’m taking a break from KZbin for a bit. Need to find my creative mojo. Gear videos just don’t do it for me. Check out the Lumix USA weekly livestream for those answers. Sean does an excellent job of answering questions.

[@kandaharanar2091]

Learn us focus staking on this camera and also braketing 😊😊😊😊🎉🎉🎉🎉❤❤❤ keep it uppp!!!!!

[@ImageMaven]

Thanks, I'll try.

[@chrislee6650]

As far as I know from reading up about it, PDAF (Phase detect auto focus) isn't used on Single shot focus mode, so it would be behaving like previous cameras, of course the hunting isn't an issue with a photograph. In continuous focus mode and during video recording than PDAF is in operation and with video this avoids the workings of contrast auto focus being seen.

[@ImageMaven]

Thanks for sharing 👌

[@phsb66]

Thanks

[@ImageMaven]

Cheers for this! ☺️

[@spudwas]

I was jealous before when you got the 9mm Leica 1.7 lens. I finally got one! ...Now I'm jealous of you having the G9 ll. Is there no end to my misery?

[@ImageMaven]

Isn't that lens great! I love it so much. As for the camera, if you can't be with the one you love, love the one you're with. Pop that 9mm on your current camera body and get out for a fun photo adventure with it. Cheers!

[@user-jd3ys3jv7n]

哇 拍得也太好了吧👍

[@studio1966]

G9II with the 100-400 PL is a great combo. Use it for 3 Weaks now. Have fun.

[@ImageMaven]

Agree! Great combo. That's basically all I've used it with so far as I'm very excited using it for birding.

[@kathypirok-klein3413]

Congrats on getting your new camera. Did I miss a video of you comparing the new Olympus and LUMIX G9 II? Will look forward to your up coming videos.

[@ImageMaven]

This is my first video on the G9II. More on the way soon. But others have already done that comparison video. Check @microfournerds I think Emily has covered that topic.

[@ImageMaven]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/baK6aq2pfNKNe68si=0XFRV02jH39Nc6i0 Here’s one of 3 videos Emily has done on the topic.

[@daledoram3018]

Great video about G9ii. Will you do a comparison with the OM1 at some point.

[@ImageMaven]

Hi Dale, I'm not sure if I will do a comparison. Others have already done this. If I do, it will be about image quality (and not spec comparisons) especially for birding and low light situations, as that's what I'm most interested in at this point.

[@Mark_Porter]

Very nice Marlene, congrats it’s looks absolutely superb with 100-400! I’ll look forward to watching some new Mkii content! Alas, I probably be won’t be upgrading anytime soon, I’ll likely wait a year or so until it drops a little in price. I’d be very interested to hear what you have to say about Mkii’s handling, how does it feel in the hand compared to the Mk1? 🙏🏻

[@ImageMaven]

Honestly, it feels great in the hand. It was something that I was really worried about. Everyone was up in arms about the size, but it's really not larger than the G9, just feels a bit bulkier when you first pick it up. The familiarity with my most loved Lumix features and getting to know the new subject detection focus makes me forget about the size when I'm in the moment.

[@Mark_Porter]

@@ImageMaven Thank you for the reply, good to know! As a macro photographer, I'd love to know if the in camera focus stacking has been improved (the Mk1's biggest Achilles heel was the lack of hotshoe enabled flash in stacking mode imo). I understand the in camera focus stacking abilities of Mkii are supposed to have been vastly improved? I believe the stacking even works with Godox hotshoe mounted flashes. If so I'd probably upgrade tomorrow 😉. I look forward to watching your future videos 🙏🏻

[@ImageMaven]

I wish I could help, but focus stacking and macro are not topics I have a lot of experience with. Try Micael Widell. He does that kind of work.

[@martingreenberg870]

Congratulations on finally receiving your G9 Mii! You are so far ahead of me. I’m a slow adapter as I’m now retired. The G9 is still more camera than I need. Good thing you are a woman. Real men don’t read the manual. After all, we have you to explain how to get the most out of the 9 Mii. Have a great and healthy new year. Mask On Nurse Marty (Ret)

[@ImageMaven]

Ah Marty! Always love hearing from you. Happy and Healthy New Year to you as well. And I know you'll enjoy your G9 for many years to come.

[@ProbablyAnAmateur]

The UI is almost like my GH5ii. at least its nice to have animal eye focus in the G9ii. but it doesnt feel like a g9ii, more like a GH6 that lost weight. i think my Panasonic may be the last ill be using as I'm now considering something different (not getting rid of it though!) and possibly trying a Fujifilm X-S20. and people say its a heavy camera but i got news that the GH5ii is 727 grams and is bigger than this G9ii so idk what the issue is that its using a full frame body is all about. its a suitable body design. love to see more videos of what you can do with it!

[@ImageMaven]

Thanks for watching and sharing all your Lumix experience!

[@zaddy6960]

On my Fuji XT-3 it has a scale (in feet or meters) for photos and videos that show a focus range. I love it for video so I never have to worry about focus. It’d be great if you could devote a segment to the manual focus options.

[@ImageMaven]

I'll do my best to cover MF in an upcoming video.

[@frankinblackpool]

Two tips that I can offer is to re-program the two buttons on the front of your camera right where you attach the lens. The top button is to "Punch In" for manual focusing. And the lower button is to show/hide the Waveform. I understand that you are not a big fan of filming stuff however the waveform is the best and most accurate way to expose your subject and it will not let you down. Once you start to use the Waveform, you will look back at the Histogram as a quint relic which should be consigned to history. And the sooner Waveforms can be incorporated into stills photography the better.

[@ImageMaven]

Great tips Frank. I'll check out the Waveform soon. Right now I have those front buttons programmed for AF Near and AF Far. But I find I don't really use the AF Near that much as the camera seems to get those shots. And to be honest my hand is a bit too small to reach them easily. But I also had that problem with the G9v1.

[@relaxorama3729]

cool

[@joesjourney9986]

Hi Miss Marlene! Thanks for your amazing content, I love your channel. My friend is using an older Lumix G7 and is considering upgrading to the G9II. We've been trying to find online and even downloaded the manual but we can't find if the G9II still has a 2x and 4x digital zoom feature? It looks like it does have the tele ex, which my GH6 has but she's really hooked on that zoom. Do you know if the G9II has it? Thanks

[@ImageMaven]

Yes it has the Extended Tele Conversion. But sadly not the digital zoom. You're not the first to miss it. But Digital Zoom is definitely in the original G9.

[@marksmodellingmadness]

Good to see you're getting to grips with it. Do you miss the top lcd screen?

[@ImageMaven]

Not at all. Thought I would miss it, but haven’t given it a second thought.

[@markrhodes5474]

Great video Marlene I’m a long time G9 Mk1 user is it worth upgrading to the G9 Mk2 for wildlife photography does the eye autofocus work well in most situations

[@ImageMaven]

If you are referring to the Eye/Body subject detection, then yes is does work very well, especially in good light. Of course with any camera you will have challenges in low light, such as an owl in the forest, in a spruce tree, in the winter, when the sun is low. In bright sun, even with small birds, it really locks onto the eye of the birds I've tested it with. I haven't shot any wildlife yet. Have only had the camera a couple of weeks.

[@chijiokeeuriel5770]

I watched your review on LUMIX cameraz please how can I set up LUMIX 200 With capture card for live streaming on my laptop

[@panpiatek8447]

i wait for iso performers and overall compressing to g9

[@laurentyarp514]

Hi Marlene, thank you for this introductory video. I like the new menus and you are right the quick menu is really great. Panasonic at the top of ergonomy as usual. I tried a S5 II last Saturday at my local camera store. They didn't have a G9 II and the S5 is supposed to have the same dimensions. So I asked to give the S5 a try. In the end the overall feeling was that the camea is a bit thick and the grip didn't feel as comfortable as the G9. Unforunately I didn't have the G9 with me and couldn't really compare. Could you tell us what is your feeling in holding the camera compared to the G9 ?

[@ImageMaven]

Hi Laurent, At first it felt very big in my hand, especially compared to the OM1, which I've been using recently. But after a couple of hours I forgot about the size as I was having so much fun with the new subject detection focus settings. But I shall address this topic in an upcoming video as many people are asking me!

[@laurentyarp514]

Thank you for the answer Marlene. I am glad you felt it was ok in the end. I want this camera so much. Looking forward for your future videos on the G9 II. There are not so many and your G9 series were really good.@@ImageMaven

[@petermartinka9274]

Hi Marlene. I have been waiting three months for this review from you. :) Thank you very much for the video. I look forward to the next one. P.S.: What camera did you use to record this video? Lumix LX100?

[@ImageMaven]

You are so welcome, Peter! I record all of my videos using the Lumix G100 and 15mm lens. It's a great combo for a small space.

[@petermartinka9274]

I am surprised by the image quality. It is a very good combination with that lens.

[@doddster76]

Enjoying mine though I’m struggling to work out slow motion video with it. Is it mostly about using a video editor after filming perhaps?

[@ImageMaven]

No, you can record slow motion video in-camera. But there are a lot of settings compared to the G100, where I use it a lot. Definitely worth me making a video about it.

[@sue.Hoo123]

Hi Marlene, glad to see you got the ii, I’ve had mine a month now, was not completely happy to start with, but now think it’s an improvement, especially the AF, it finds the bird/animal eye really well, even in very busy environments. I’ve customised the Q menu too, it’s really useful, especially for the AF subject modes. As you say there’s an awful lot in the main menu, especially all the different movie options, quite overwhelming. What you maybe able to help me with is the S&Q option on the mode dial. I set it up to give me 4.8x slo-mo, so was on 25p at frame rate 120. So that was fine, I then turned the mode dial to Movie and found it had changed my FHD 1080/60 to the 25 I was using on S&Q, surely the whole point of the mode dial is to give individual settings? Also how do you find the evf, I know it’s supposed to be the same as the G9, but for me it’s not so good 🤷🏻‍♀️

[@ImageMaven]

Hi Sue, I haven't experimented much with video yet - except the lazy "push the red button" type of clips. I'm not really into video production, just enough to get my KZbin videos out. But I'll do a little overview of S&Q mode in the future and test out your issue. The EVF seems fine to me so far, but it's only been a couple of weeks and limited subject matter. Is there something specific you've noticed? Have you adjusted the diopter? Sometimes that gets moved and things look a bit wonky. Great to hear from you again.

[@sue.Hoo123]

@@ImageMaven yes I’ve adjusted the diopter, it seems the angle, or closeness to the body is different. Maybe I’m missing the adjustment the G9 had on the right hand side of evf where you could choose from three settings 🤷🏻‍♀️. When you press the red video button surely it goes to video settings you’ve already set up?

[@ImageMaven]

@@sue.Hoo123 I'm going to investigate the video settings soon!

[@mi9se253]

It is not exactly the same. The G9 EVF had more magnification.@@sue.Hoo123

[@allenoakley1799]

Have you tried the Live View Composite yet? My first attempts coming up this week with an attempt of star trails.

[@ImageMaven]

Not yet. Hope it goes well for you!

[@jackjstrange]

Have you taken it to the skate park yet to try out the new AF?

[@ImageMaven]

Not yet. It has suddenly turned into winter and I haven't had a chance yet. I have plans for the next warm spell though. Hopefully that happens soon.

[@AprilClayton]

Did it feel much heavier than the original? I would love a G95 mark II. G95 was such a nice size.

[@ImageMaven]

It's definitely meatier, especially after using the OM1 for a few months. But that extra meat helps when using the 100-400mm lens. Somehow my video handholding skills are terrible - even with all the stabilization both cameras have.

[@artistjoh]

I am so jealous, Marlene. It will take me more than a year to save up for the mark II. Until then I use the first G9 and the GH5 II

[@ImageMaven]

The longer you wait, the lower the price! This is actually a loaner camera for a few weeks, and I’ll have to eventually buy the G9II as well.

[@artistjoh]

@@ImageMaven I have a feeling that the popularity of the G9 II will keep the price up for a long time to come, but I like your optimism.

[@ImageMaven]

I think you’re right!

[@lindamcmullin785]

Hi, I really enjoy your videos... Very helpful! One thing I haven't been able to figure out is if there's a 4k/6k photo mode like the GH5 has. I love that feature although the megapixels are usually reduced to about half. But does the G9ii have that feature? Thanks in advance. I read about the preburst features but I don't think that's the same thing. Right? Thanks! 😊

[@ImageMaven]

Sadly not, Linda. Those features are things a lot of people will miss. I guess the thinking is that this is a pro-level camera and pros will do a lot of those things in editing, or may not be interested at all. I did love the 6K photo mode for lightning storms, but with the 75 fps pre-burst on this camera, that subject is covered.

[@lindamcmullin785]

I used it for all kinds of things. 😢 Birds, kids, running dogs, etc., and it was easier to search thru the clips than view hundreds of frames. I may have to buy a G9. 😊

[@ImageMaven]

Well on a good note, G9s are going for cheap these days!

[@joesjourney9986]

Is the PDAF all it's cracked up to be? I'm using a GH6 right now, which I absolutely love... Except the AF leaves a bit to be desired. Is the G9 II really that much better to be worth investing $2k or so? Do you think the S5IIX full frame with a Sigma 60-600 would outperform the G9II?

[@ImageMaven]

I'm not a gear head, but in the limited time I've used it, and limited to birding photos only, I think it's a lot better at subject detection focus than the G9. I've not used the GH6 nor the S5II, or that lens, so I can't comment on that.

[@stevewturnbull]

A really helpful guide, thank you. I have a G80 and I'm seriously considering an upgrade to the G9 II. My only concern is low light situations - concerts in particular. Thoughts anyone?

[@phsb66]

I got my first MFT setup (Lumix GX9) when I was completely unaware of the supposed limitations of low light settings. One of the first uses of my new camera with a 12-35mm F3.5-5.6 (with Mega OIS) kit lens was at an outdoor concert at night. I actually thought it took really good shots and I was way back from the stage. So when I later read comments that MFT systems were unable to perform well in low light, I was surprised. I've since bought fast lenses, Prime and Zoom and these have performed even better than my kit lens in low light, so my advice is, get a good quality fast lens and experiment with manual settings, as autofocus doesn't always get you the best results.

[@mikestewart6669]

I find low light images from my G9 Mk2 remarkably clean, at least in jpeg mode.

[@ImageMaven]

So far I haven't pushed it too hard in low light except those owl photos in the trees. I didn't use any denoise or anything on these initial photos. But it might be hard to tell on KZbin as it also downgrades and compresses images.

[@nmecredy]

I also have the G80. I am worried about the extra weight (650g vs 505g) especially when using my 100-300mm (500g)

[@stevewturnbull]

@@nmecredy Yeah, I hear you. I think I'll get used to that though. I certainly don't want a full frame!

[@howardchud9097]

What’s the relationship between Functio buttons, custom settings, and Q menu?

[@ImageMaven]

I don’t think they’re in a relationship. They all do something different. Function buttons allow you to assign a specific menu item to a specific physical button or switch on the camera. Custom settings allow you to have a group of settings ready to go when you switch to a C on the main exposure dial. And the quick menu gives you access to your favourite menu items without having to go searching through all the camera menus.

[@minituin4092]

I recently bought a panasonic G9. With a Leica12-60 mm 2.8 lens, and a Godox V 860III. My goal is macro photography, focus bracketing wit flash. So far, my combinatie does notdo focus bracketing. Not without flash and nitwits. I am searching for examples of a good work arou d. But mostly tutorials are about Olympus camera's. Can you pleasegive me a hint ? Thans you, Maartenz , Holland.

[@ImageMaven]

Sadly, I don’t do macro work. But I don’t know if that lens is suitable for macro. Hopefully you find someone to help you with your macro set up. Sorry it’s not me!

[@blutey]

Hi Marlene, Was the 100-400 lens the mark i or ii version?

[@ImageMaven]

It was the original 100-400. Performs well enough for me. Emily @microfournerds has tested the new one. She made a video about it when I was released.

[@blutey]

Thanks. I still have the mark i too so it's useful to know no upgrade is needed.@@ImageMaven

[@wilave5140]

Bonjour, superbe vidéo... quelle carte SD préconisez vous en vitesse d'écriture ? merci

[@ImageMaven]

Bonjour. If you go to page 25, in the camera manual (pdf), it has a list of recommended SD cards for this camera. If you're using a different camera than the G9II, you can usually find that information at the front of the camera manual. Hope that helps!

[@andresgonzalezcerda7635]

Thanks but, what about the experience? Did you like it? The goods and bad things ?

[@ImageMaven]

So far so good. I've only been using it for a couple of weeks, and really only for a bit of birding. But over time I'll get a better feel for it, and find some dislikes too.

[@MrGb5084]

Quick question, with the g9 I never had to use my reading glasses when shooting. With the g9ii, seems font is smaller now requiring me to do so. Is it possible to make the font bolder or larger?

[@ImageMaven]

Sadly I think the camera menu fonts are a fixed size.

[@MrGb5084]

Quite a difference between G9 and G9ii font clarity. I have both cameras. A real pain having to wear glasses looking through the view finder.

[@AlexMcDougallPhotography]

Hi, is the lowlight performance any better than the original g9s ? Thanks.

[@ImageMaven]

This camera boasts better dynamic range, but I haven't done a side by side test with it.

[@AlexMcDougallPhotography]

@@ImageMaven Thanks for the reply.

[@Greggie_D]

Shame they got rid of the 4(6)K photo modes. Once you mastered them they were brilliant.

[@lindamcmullin785]

Oh, man, I just saw your post... Can't believe they got rid of that feature!! I loved it. What a shame. 😢

[@ImageMaven]

Yes it is a shame. A good reason to hang onto your G9 original. But at least with the Pre-Burst of the G9II you can set any file size and do 75fps and it's basically the same thing, or better. But the Post Focus and Stacking now have to be done manually.

[@Greggie_D]

@ImageMaven I could never get the stacking to work. Too many artefacts. The other 4k photo settings were handy too not just the pre burst.

[@ImageMaven]

Agree. I had a bunch of artefacts when I used it too.

[@robbingheesling]

I'm so mad! I've been waiting for new guts to my G9 and they change the body completely. The original is just perfect for my small hands. 😞

[@ImageMaven]

I thought it would be a problem too, but I totally forgot about the new camera body because my photos are so good! You’ll be fine.

[@robbingheesling]

@@ImageMaven It's the way I've got back button focusing set up, I'll have to rent one to see if I can deal with the new button arrangement! (Thanks for your videos!)

[@strongereveryday2302]

No top deck lcd and no lockable mode dial ruined it for me.

[@Matt_brskr]

Its S5 body with 4/3 sensor?

[@ImageMaven]

G9II body with four thirds sensor.

[@jackjstrange]

Marlene, at some point could you touch on video? Love the camera!

[@ImageMaven]

I'll do my best Jack. It's got far too many video options and I'm not a videographer. I barely know enough to get my KZbin videos done.

[@carlosamat]

good vid… looks like Calgary…

[@ImageMaven]

Yes it is!

[@carlosamat]

@@ImageMaven 😃

[@bingbong4848]

Lumix failing to get you in on the release of this was a huge marketing fail in my humble opinion. They obviously dont know where their faithful fan boys and girls hang out.😊

[@ImageMaven]

Awe, thanks for this! Hopefully that will be changing in the future as I'm now on their radar.

[@JoeHinton-bp4nq]

Is this the newest G9 or is there a III etc? These camera names are toooooooooooooooooooooooooo confusing.

[@ImageMaven]

Yes. G9 Mark 2. Second version of the G9.

[@gyugyu1yt]

Hi Marlene, first of all, greetings from Hungary. I'v been following you for about three years now, but never wrote before. However, our development was somewhat parallel. We bought our 100-300 lenses, then the G9 and the 100-400 more or less at the same time and I've also delved more and more into birding. During the past year I've been using an OM-1 but I cannot wait to get a G9ii, since I prefer the ergonomic of Lumix cameras and the new autofocus appears a huge step forward. I also make technical videos, but most of them are in Hungarian. But you can see a sample of my nature photography here (with alternating Hungarian and English text): kzbin.info/www/bejne/hpOkipSZlsytp7s; kzbin.info/www/bejne/navZn5mXjrN9qtk. I'll appreciate your feedback.

[@hernano221]

At least... G9 II ...please be real and honest in appreciation, NOT hiper hype like beeeest world camera.. bla bla .. please!! Congrats for your new camera!!

[@ImageMaven]

I'll do my best! Thanks for watching.