Panasonic GX7 Hands-On Field Test

[@scottelly2]

The tilt-up viewfinder is good for using in bright sunlit situations, dark situations, where you don't want to light yourself up by using the big screen, and situations where you don't want someone who is looking over your shoulder (like a bride's nosy mother, a model's bossy friend/escort, or a pushy client) to see how you're framing a shot. There are other reasons to use the tilt-up viewfinder too. (i.e. your big review screen got broken somehow or there is dust or sand blowing in your eyes on a windy day at the beach, and the viewfinder helps block the sand)

[@TheCameraStoreTV]

We don't think the camera of the year has been released yet. Jordan @ The Camera Store TV

[@georgelamb9873]

The viewfinder flips so that you get a clear view of the screen when looking down on it

[@hveluwen]

Rotating an EVF upwards allows you to hold the camera in a lower position, much more comfortable, you can use both your arms pressed against your body to stabilize the camera. Another useful application would be to have the camera mounted on a microscope adapter or vertical macro (bellows) equipment. With the camera pointed downwards, the rotated EVF is in a comfortable horizontal position. A lightweight camera with body stabilization and non-mechanical shutter is ideal for micro/macro work.

[@GlueFactoryBJJ]

Chris, regarding the tiltable EVF, I think its utility depends on your style. If you "grew up" in photography before live view was available, then your creative perspective will primarily be through the viewfinder. Also, if battery life and if shooting in harsh daylight is important, a tiltable EVF will be handy, at least as an option. My experience crosses both worlds. Initially, I was all EVF (GH3), using the rear screen for review, but, especially with video, I'm liking the rear screen now.

[@napilopez]

Great review as usual, although the sensor size ISO comments are a bit iffy. I've shot wth enough enough Canons to know the new 16MP M4/3 sensors are better than any APS-C sensor Canons have right now, particularly in RAW. DxO agreeing is just icing on the cake. In my personal experience The E-M5 is markedly better than the NEX-7 at high ISOs, and just a little behind the NEX-6. None are as good as the Fujis though. Still, the E-M5/1's IBIS makes it a great low-light choice for static subjects.

[@gavinphotographykentweddin5410]

Once again, you've produced the best video review online AND you've got it out early, great stuff! As for the camera, I tried it last week, and I want it. I personally think it's a looker and, more importantly, is a joy to use.

[@mbvglider]

Amazing that the camera is focusing that fast with the slow 20mm.

[@bohnstube]

Except for the bells and whistles which one can decide whether they need or will use them in their shooting styles, at this point in time for the ever more increasingly important low-light/high ISO IQ, I'm still glad my first entry into MIL cameras was the NEX-5R.

[@YannickKhong]

Hey Chris, I totally understand how you feel about the GX7. When I saw it at the Panasonic Booth, I thought it wouldn't hold a candle to the OMD series but it proved me wrong. Loving the AF and the silent shutter there (helps me stabilise my shot even more). It's so darn quick with ultrasonic lenses like the Panaleica 25. As for the tilt viewfinder, I used to shoot kids or stuff on the ground as I find myself a little more stable when I do. It won my heart. dunno what the EM1 would do more...

[@LastKobold]

I saw one review on a tripod, and finally I see a point for the moving view finder, if you use a tripod and still like viewfinders over screens then it means you do not have to squat as much to get down to the viewfinder, obviously depending on how much time you spend on a tripod, and how much you like or dislike screens, the amount of use you will get will vary....of course you could argue that using the screen would still be easier.

[@shock_me]

You can change the color of the focus peaking in the menu.

[@IcemanBaldy]

Glad to see this video. Since deciding to replace two OMD EM5s with and EM1 and a GX7, I'm happy to see reviews that suggest that the GX7 is a very capable shooter. I was using my second, silver EM5 as a carry around shooter for everyday shots and I find that the silver GX7 is just as retro (if not more so) and is much easier to navigate for changes on the fly. I much prefer the GX7s grip, even over the accessory grip for the EM5, and the buttons, built-in flash, and WiFi and NFC functionality really complete the overall package and make this camera a winner. Being an Olympus fan, I wanted to get the EP5 instead--it wins by a small margin on looks, but even with the love-it-or-hate-it flip up EVF, I prefer the GX7 since it has the EVF built-in. I wish it was a little smaller, but all in all, the GX7 is about as good as it gets for an enthusiast micro-four thirds shooter.

[@winterbreeze23]

Thanks for the info =) between GX7 and NEX6, which one should I get? NEX6 is a fair bit cheaper, but I thought I can learn more with the buttons on GX7

[@IcemanBaldy]

Although the ergonomics are similar, I think it's more a matter of which format you prefer--the NEXs are APS-C which is a bigger sensor with some slight advantages that may not matter to you--they don't to me as I've chosen the micro four thirds sensor of the GX7. I prefer this format as the lens quality, availability, and lens prices are better in my opinion for the GX7. Either camera will provide more than enough button functionality for the novice who wants to improve or the serious enthusiast who is looking for a secondary carry around camera system.

[@winterbreeze23]

I see, I will be going down to a store to feel the cameras in my hands. Thanks!

Hello. You can put the back of the camera close to a wall and still be able to frame with the EVF, the screen won´t tilt close to a wall. I know, it´s very rare..

[@cozywithsarkozy9206]

Sarge nichols looking like a snack ngl

[@PostColorGear]

I agree with another poster. You guys have the greatest reviews. Chris is so comfortable in front of the camera, and Jordan's camera work is fantastic. I also admire that even though you guys have a store, you aren't afraid to point out the downsides of any product (other than saying "hey, they're all great. come buy them" lol) Keep up the good work gentlemen. PS best comment ever...."who cares, healthy's gross" lol

[@mjones410]

Chris I can understand you saying the Panasonic lens stabilisation is more effective than the Panasonic In body stabilisation, however the Oly 5-axis trumps them both. It might be worth testing a Panasonic IS lens on an Oly and switch between the two.

[@ImageMaven]

Thanks Chris! Great review. Panasonic is doing great stuff with their mirrorless cameras.

[@louiseducator]

So pleased you have quickly reviewed the camera. Great stuff per usual. I actually do like rotating viewfinders - when you get a bit older like me it means less bending at the knee!

[@stuartcarden1371]

9 years later and I still love my GX7. At this point I'm going to shoot it 'till it dies....Or I do (let's hope the camera goes first).

[@simianinc]

I use the articulating viewfinder all the time... Often I'll flip the screen for a low show, but I can't see it due to the sun or other light source. Using the view finder, I'm removing ambient light

[@alexanderdunning6586]

Oh God Chris looks so young.

[@larryzapata2614]

Excellent review like always, good information I got a really good idea of what it's like to use the Lumix. I could not see what lens for AF speed demo. I am glad it wasn't the end of CameraStoreTV after all. I guess I missed the part where you guys were going on vacation.

[@TimC883]

Check out some of the other reviews of the GX7 on youtube. The picture quality and video on the GX7 is a step up from the GH3. So if you don't need some of the other GH3 features (which you might) then the GX7 seems to have a nice sensor upgrade.

[@SimonVelazquez]

You make a good point about the lenses, and I have to admit I might be a little bias because I use my NEX 6 almost exclusively with the 50mm f1.8. And as soon as I can get my hands on the new Zeiss 16-70 f4, I think I'll be pretty set.

[@blackyvertigo]

em-1 stabilization works even on old manual lenses with adapters. sensor > lens

[@twoblink]

I was in Paris, taking pics of the bottom of the Arc de Triumph... And I sure had a sore back ... That flip EVF would have been perfect.. Any ceiling shot is perfect for it.

[@scottnelle]

The flip up EVF might be good for following action low to the ground in bright sun. Handy for panning shots and video for skateboarders, cycle races, and the like. Maybe?

[@loudpanzer]

sneaky sneaky viewfinder! :) yea my nex 6 viewfinder sensor is annoying and too easy to trigger too. used to it now though, every time my LCD is black i know something is blocking that sensor..

[@codyrobinson22]

You guys are right. The best camera this year in my opinion comes out this Thursday-The new Panasonic GM1 :)

[@yamaritsakul]

I think it means that both wheels can be selected to control the Aperture or Shutter (frnot:aperture, back: ev or front:ev back:Aperture)

[@ThalanorThornhale]

In the video, the reviewer remarked that he didn't really find a good use for the flippable EVF. Starting with night photography of the heavens where the camera is pointed upwards, I realized that it is useful for that: Pull the EVF out, and look through it and you won't have to contort your body to see the screen.

[@TinTinMonkey]

As usual another great review but there are few things that you completely missed out. It would have been great if you have talked about them as well. - Wifi/ NFC functionality. - More information about the new sensor and how it compares with GH3 / OM-D (which had the best m4/3 sensors to date). Thanks

[@GiulioSciorio]

When I don't want my EVF to sense my hand I flip it up. Also if you shot with a Hassy you come to appreciate looking down into your image. Having a flip EVF I'm able to do the same thing. Also you can turn off the auto switching in the EVF.

[@IDaumI]

Can't beat lens stabilization? Did you forget to turn on the 5-axis when you reviewed the EM-1?

[@madzappa]

I also use EVF all the time, quite often in tilt mode very handy feature. If you are using the screen, just flip the EVF all the way up to prevent that sensor shut off problem. This is good prosumer camera, and small enough to carry everywhere. The WiFi phone app is awesome for remote operation. Some may find the auto focus confusing, there are three pages in the settings menu, it takes time to figure out and remember.

[@Vikingdescendent]

The articulating screen is mainly for videography. So if you don't have a use for it, than you must strictly shoot stills. Once you have one, you can't go back.

[@DanOhPhotography]

One use of tilt EVF is taking a photo of object above our head .. convenience. Can use both tilt screen and EVF

[@chiane1968]

Chris, you didn't shoot anything moving. Can you comment on AF with moving objects, especially compared to the EM-1?

[@petepictures]

The eye finder would be great for vintage MF lenses

[@JonathanMallett]

I was about to ask that question. Especially with the NEX 6 being cheaper, although the Panasonic does have IBIS and a far better lens selection. :) Tough call!

[@ponciodupont5069]

What happened to the babe at 4:07? Nice to see you, but a passing beauty over rides you.

[@paultaylor5513]

I read that with the GX7 the IBIS is always OFF when the attached lens has OIS. Is that true? If so then the test with the 45mm macro is invalid since it was using OIS only.

[@Lu-G7]

Don't know if anyone mentioned here but the rotating view finder would be great for shooting the sky or up above you shots :)

[@kevyan76yt]

You didn't do a review on low lighting shooting and it's noise control.

[@danielrolle9785]

big ups for your reviews. for me they represent a pretty perfect mixture of highly specified information with a good sense of humor. that makes it much more easy to follow.

[@patrickmarlett438]

Wait, to test the camera's image stabilization against that of the lens you went out for drinks? ... Now that's commitment. PS-I want your job, guys! Haha, thanks again for an excellent video review.

[@erkanerdin]

Heey chris! it will better if you shoot a couple of portraits in your reviews to make us see if the model is ideal for portrait photography or not.

[@mrjonnyburkecovers]

Will image quality compare to a 550d or is micro four thirds not there yet? Great review as ever Chris, good to see you guys back

[@antialiasing38]

I can imagine the rotating evf in a street shooting/documentary situation. Looking down gives you a different relationship to the subject than putting it right in front of your face.

[@MysticalMeerkat]

I agree, but I would say that the E-M5 is equal to the NEX-6 at ISO 1600 and up (and I have both). I have not been impressed with the NEX high ISO at all, now multi-shot NR does impress me!

[@llleolllolll]

video quality looks gorgeous, so sharp!

[@dcisive]

I don't agree with him regarding the lens stabilization of the Panasonic's being the equivalent to the IBIS of the Olympus EM1. I have worked with both and there is NO question in my mind I get a stop to a stop and a half better results with the Olympus. Also as far as focus speeds I'd say they are virtually equal, I certainly don't find the Panasonic any quicker by any means. I get the impression TCS isn't a big Olympus fan...just some attitude shows through.

[@Broadus45]

Doesn't the G6 and GX7 allow the user to change the color of the focus peaking mode?

[@blacksap]

IMO GX7 and not just because of the camera, the lenses available for MFT, that makes a huge difference.

[@PhinioxGlade]

I have the evf attachment for my nex 5n, it also moves. So far I've got some weird angles, works well with a Lensbaby

[@stevenunez]

Very down to earth, concise review- well done!

[@Lewser89]

The camera of the year will be released The first of November!

[@oliberrr]

when the day is very bright, use the evf instead of the flipped screen?

[@bwc1976]

Exactly why I'm buying a GX7 to replace my E-PM1.

[@normanem206]

Hi Chris, I was wondering where can i get the black colored gx7 with NTSC format

[@clilaux]

The flip up EVF will work great for those with less than perfect eyesight. I for one have to wear reading glasses when viewing the LCD screen when doing awkward/angle shots with my canon camera which is a pain in the arse lol - the flip up EVF is a godsend - I will be buying this camera. Great review.

[@glsracer]

The only useful thing about the tilt up viewfinder is that it provides a place to hide the diopter adjustment...

[@joennick1]

Did you find the aspect ratio in the EVF a problem? The EVF is only 16:9. Is this a problem when shooting in other aspect ratio modes?

[@johnnymossville]

Great Review of a really interesting camera! They sure did throw a lot of features at this thing. I especially like what he said about focus speed. I'd like to try that out myself.

[@bikeandsee1647]

"Why you ever use that?" (The articulation of the EVF). Well, the problem of why is here secondary to a bigger one: the subjective way of analizing, by which if you do not find the reason, it does not mean that you have not found it, it means there is no reason (!).

[@princecody3499]

Could you guys to a 60p comparison between the gx7 & g6?

[@martina5camilleri]

Trying to decide between this camera and the olympus o md 10 mark II ... help pleasee

[@EshaanLP]

I don't recall Kai saying the GX7 was camera of the year...I believe he said it was the best looking camera of the year. It's funny how different people feel about something as subjective as looks. I personally think the GX7 is gorgeous especially in the silver trim.

[@adot215]

is this better than the sony a6000, in terms of image quality?

[@JIMMYGOZARI]

Which one is better Fujifilm XE-2 vs Panasonic GX7

[@soundknight]

I got the Gx1 half a year ago, Im really happy with it and it was only $500, I dont think the Gx7 is worth $1000 though, its still missing important stuff like dial controlled ISO or Aperture. Still waiting for the next one.

[@rxith1536]

Getting this beat camera

[@patski7105]

i have a d7000.. and am kind of tired of carrying it around.. im thinking of trading it or selling it for the gx7. what yall think?

[@mudgie069]

Question is GX7 or Em5 as I'd say the GX7 is more of a direct competitor to the EM5

[@paulhills1967]

Yep, the best camera reviews on KZbin - thanks!

[@igetsmart]

Thanks for nice review. I have NEX7 and 5n and yes great IQ but I hate the menu system and lack of Fn buttons and no Mode dial. which the 6 has but when I got the GX1 it fell in love the many Fn buttons and Touch to Shoot etc. so now GX7 with its 9Fn buttons and so customizable and feature rich - I have ordered mine and just waiting. Will be interesting to see if Sony NEX8 will have better menu and button layout as Sony always make great sensor.

[@nikonrulz]

A good Canadian down to earth camera revue.

[@ahmedamine6504]

hi please help me who is the best for videos recording (Panasonic GX7 or Panasonic G6 or olympus em5)

[@oliberrr]

does lens stabization works on video mode?

[@JessDemant]

It is super nice camera to work with, and it's been a while since I've been so happy for a camera, because with Gariz Half Case which I bought for it makes it just perfect for me. The only thing missing is with this camera is the lack of microphone input and weather protection, but then Panasonic will probably want us to buy Panasonic GH4 if we want the last thing missing ......

[@stevestruthers6180]

I played with a GX7 in my local camera store yesterday. Nice camera, although the one thing that really struck me was that the GX7 is, stylistically and functionally, practically a carbon copy of Sony's NEX-6 and a6000 cameras.

[@pornpori]

At least its a copy of one of the greatest cameras out there...

[@SwarnadipBanerjee]

Will you pls make a review on Lumix G6? I belive its the most creative camera in the market. Also pls point out how close/or better it is that GH3 . Thanx

[@shellone27]

Does this camera have video image stabilisation? If not, any recommendations?

[@Luger718A1]

Chris which camera do you prefer when it comes to size GX7 or E-M1?

[@zezetech]

Easily the best camera review channel on KZbin! Thinking about buying a GX7, mainly for video, already have 3 Panasonic lenses (20mm, 14-45 and 45-200), at around Eur300, ($360) is it a worthwhile purchase? Again, I need it mostly for run n'gun video, so good AF would be very helpful. Read somewhere, that while AF is lightning fast in photo mode, it's not so good for video. Keep up the great work!

[@princecody3499]

Why don't you guys ship to US like Henrys?

[@stevensingh9829]

How does this compare against the gm1?

[@Luger718A1]

The em-1 makes me want to pay the extra 400 just for the weather sealing and 5 axis IBIS. This one seems like a better size for street though :/

[@GarethHart]

Best camera reviews on the internet. That's all!

[@10399alex]

Can you use bith stabilizers

[@princecody3499]

I was wondering the same thing and did my research. Big Value Inc. on ebay has it & Henrys in Canada. has it (7-14 days). Their the only 2 in the world @ this time that do. The flip side is Panasonic US warranty is void since Big Value Inc is grey market retailer & Henrys is from Canada. I guess you can always by a worldwide warranty from square trade.

[@video-carl]

I noticed you are right-eyed Chris; do you think left-eyed photographers would gain benefit from the tilting viewfinder? i.e. be able to avoid touching the screen with their nose :)

[@kalimanrojas7575]

you should make a review on sony qx100

[@godstuf.godstuf6841]

what camera did you use when you recorded this?? awesome quality! great video!

[@hellooxindra]

can you make review compare to olympus EP-5?

[@Gazumbo]

The ability to flip up the viewfinder vmay not be useful in itself, but at least when you tilt the LCD out, you can then flip up the viewfinder so it's not in the way.

[@princecody3499]

So between the GX7 & E-M1=& The Winner Is?

[@gazza18881967]

What bag is that?

[@guyo68]

Just noticed for the very first time the somewhat inconsistent (I'm not gonna say sloppy...) editing at the beginning, where between wide angles and close-ups of the GX7, you alternate between having the 20mm f/1.7 and the 12-35mm f/2.8 affixed to the body... ha!

[@macac.garlicktv9669]

Can you review the g6