FAQ’s

Q: Can Four Thirds lenses be used?

A: Yes, the DMW-MA1 is a mount adaptor available for Four Thirds lenses. Auto focusing can also be used for lenses that support the Contrast AF function.

Q: Can interchangeable lenses from other companies be used?

A: There is a compatibility chart on the Panasonic global support site.

Q: Are there adaptors made by Panasonic for interchangeable lenses from other companies?

A: Panasonic have produced adaptors to use Leica M and Leica R lenses on the DMC-G1. Please click here for details.

Q: If you use a mount adaptor to mount a Four Thirds lens with an aperture ring, will the aperture ring work?

A: Yes

Q: Is the body made of resin or magnesium alloy?

A: The body is made of resin.

Q: Does the DMC-G1 have a mechanical shutter?

A: Yes. It is normally kept open. This means you can not see it even if you detach the lens.

Q: Electronic shutter is useful at weddings etc. How come G1 doesn't have it? Any specific reason for not to have it?

A: The structure of the sensor didn't allow the G1 to have an electronic shutter. This may be considered in the future.

Q: If the shutter is normally open, How does the shutter work?

A: It closes right before you release the shutter and then starts exposure.

Q: Is the image sensor made by Panasonic?

A: As with our previous models, it was co-developed by Panasonic and Olympus.

Q: What's the pixel pitch for the image sensor?

A: It's 4.36 microns.

Q: I touched the sensor by mistake. How can I clean it? I don't think a blower works for finger prints.

A: You need special treatment to remove oily stain like finger prints. Please contact one of our service centres, using the appropriate options in the 'Contact Us' section of the Lumix lifestyle website.

Q: Is this the first for digital interchangeable lens camera to have EVF?

A: Yes.

Q: What kind of system does the electronic viewfinder use? What does 1.44-megapixel equivalent mean?

A: The electronic viewfinder is a field sequential system. This is a method of forming images in which the three RGB colours are switched for each pixel at the high speed of 180 fps. Because of this, the actual number of pixels displayed is 480,000 x 3 = 1,440,000.

Q: What's the apparent size?

A: It's equivalent to the 0.7 magnification for a viewfinder on a 35mm full-size camera. This is the industry's top level.

Q: What is the release time lag?

A: It is approximately 70ms for the picture to be taken after releasing the shutter.

Q: What do I need to set on the camera to enable me to use third party Non 4Thirds lenses on the G1?

A: You will need to change the option 'Shoot W/O lens' Details on Page 110 of the instruction manual. This allows the camera to operate when no lens or a non dedicated lens is attached.

Q: How do I Use 'Manual Focus assist' with non dedicated lenses?

A: After enabling 'Shoot W/O lens' you can use the Manual Focus assist with any lens that is attached to the G1. When in Picture taking mode Press the Left hand cursor key. This will bring up a box for selecting which part of the LCD to Magnify. Choose an area and press the 'Menu/Set' button. Once you have focused, to return to normal view half press the shutter button. Whilst in the manual focus assist mode you can change the zoom magnification by using the 'Front Dial'.

Q: Can I use external Flash triggers with the G1 hot shoe?

A: Yes, however you will need to ensure to use a trigger system with a low terminal Voltage (Less than 24V).

Q: Are all the Micro 4Thirds lenses compatible with the G1?

A: Yes, the Micro 4Thirds system allows compatibility between different manufacturers who make lenses for this system. Currently lenses for Micro 4Thirds are manufactured by Panasonic and Olympus.

Q: Can I use the G1 with my telescope or Spotting scope?

A: In theory yes providing you purchase a third party adaptor for your spotting scope or telescope for connecting it to a Micro 4Thirds camera. You could also use the DMW-MA1E to convert the G1 from Micro 4Thirds to Normal 4Thirds standard. You might find it easier to obtain an adaptor for your telescope for the 4thirds standard.

Q: Is there a way of setting the camera to infinity focus?

A: There is no way of setting the camera to infinity focus; you will either need to use Auto focus or manual Focus to achieve the correct focus distance.

Q: How do I load the firmware file to the camera?

A: You will need to load the firmware file to the root directory of an SD card using a card reader (You can use the G1 if the firmware is 1.2 onwards).

Q: have loaded the software to the card but the camera will not update what could be wrong?

A: Firstly ensure the '.BIN' file is on the root directory of the card. Also note that the camera will not update unless the battery is fully charged (Showing 3 bars of battery).

Q: What program do I use to convert the RAW files taken with the G1?

A: The camera comes with Silkypix Developer, which can open and convert the RAW files taken with the G1.

Q: Can I use third party editing / Raw converters?

A: Providing that the software you are using supports the G1, then you are able to use this software. To check suitability of the program you are using please contact the manufacturer of the software and enquire as to whether they support RAW files from the G1.

Q: How many pictures can be taken consecutively in burst shooting?

A: "3.2 fps (H)", "2.6fps (M) with live view". Live view burst shooting was added from the feedback of customers who want live view images during burst shooting.

Q: What's the major difference from G1?

A: Upgraded features from G1: - Touch control operation - Movie recording function (AVCHD Lite, Motion JPEG) - Changed AF mode dial - Front dial was moved to the rear of the camera - Live view burst shooting is available in burst mode (When using Medium Picture size) - Added stereo microphone input - Photo shooting during movie recording - AFS works with non-contrast AF support lenses - My color mode

Q: What is touch control operation?

A: The G2 features the world's first touch control operation built into a system camera, not only for taking photos, but can also control auto focus during HD movie recording. It enables intuitive and easy operation when taking photos. "Touch AF": When you touch the subject you want to focus on, the camera automatically focus’s on that subject. "Touch shutter": Touch the subject, camera quickly auto focus’s and takes the photo Other functions that are controllable using the touch control include: "Q menu", "histogram", "guideline" and "playback"

Q: I touched the LCD but only the AF box moves, why is the camera is not focusing?

A: Touch AF works when using movie recording, when Quick AF or Continuous AF has been selected in the “Pre AF” menu and when using touch shutter. In all other modes touching the screen only moves AF area. To focus on that area you then need to half press the shutter button. Please check selected mode.

Q: What is "Touch shutter"?

A: You can simply touch the subject you want to photograph, 1-area AF focuses on that subject and takes the photo. It makes photo shooting much easier and quicker.

Q: Does touch MF work with old lenses via mount adaptor?

A: Yes. But with no MF focusing guide.

Q: Is a stylus pen included?

A: Yes. Please use the stylus pen for LCD calibration.

Q: What types of LCD is used?

A: Resistive touch screen. If you use protection sheets on LCD, it may become less sensitive.

Q: Is it possible to use touch screen functions, by pressing buttons or keys on the camera?

A: Yes. (except for "touch shutter")

Q: Can I use the touch screen to navigate the cameras menus?

A: No

Q: Can touch operation be disabled?

A: Touch screen functions can not completely disabled. However the "touch shutter" and "QMENU" icons can be hidden.

Q: What is intelligent resolution technology?

A: “Intelligent resolution” is the latest Lumix technology that intelligently controls the sharpness of the image. It automatically detects and processes the following 3 areas of a photo individually: 1. Enhances the edge of “Outlines”. 2. Enhances sharpness in “Detailed texture areas” 3. Lastly it maintains the natural look of “Soft gradation areas” By applying optimum processes to each area, the image looks natural, clear and crisp. Not only photos but this also works for AVCHD Lite movies. Intelligent Resolution also prevents soft looking images caused by noise reduction at high ISO sensitivity modes.

Q: Can I turn Intelligent Resolution ‘OFF’

A: Yes, and processing level is adjustable.

Q: What types of movies can you shoot?

A: AVCHD Lite and Motion JPEG movies

Q: Why did you choose to adopt AVCHD Lite format? MPEG4 is easier to use with PC.

A: AVCHD Lite format uses MPEG4-AVC/H264 for compression and basic technology is the same. But only AVCHD format can be viewed with Viera and DIGA. We are offering Quick Time Motion JPEG, more convenient format for PC users.

Q: What is movie EX zoom?

A: You are able to get a zoomed image without losing resolution by cutting out an image from the centre of image sensor. 3x equiv. zoomed image can be acquired when AVCHD Lite HD movie recording. If you use a 45-200mm lens (35mm camera equiv. 90-400mm), you can get super telephoto zoom range of 270-1200mm equiv when movie recording.

Q: What is the effective pixels of AVCHD Lite movie recording?

A: 1280 x 720 = 920,000 pixels

Q: Can I take still pictures during movie recording?

A: Yes. You can take photos during movie recording. Size is S, 16:9, picture quality is "fine" or "standard" according to your camera setting. Max 20 pictures at one movie recording. Not available at Motion picture P mode, Motion JPEG/ QVGA, VGA.

Q: Can I start movie recording by shutter button instead of move recording button?

A: If you select "Motion picture P mode", you can do so. Optional remote shutter(DMW-RSL1) is also available. But you cannot take photos during movie recording at this mode.

Q: Does AF work with 14-42mm lens during movie recording?

A: Yes

Q: Which O.I.S modes can I use in movie recording mode?

A: Mode 1 only

Q: If I use SDHC, SDXC cards, does it stop movie recording when it reaches 4GB?

A: In AVCHD Lite movie recording, the file will be divided but it doesn't stop movie recording. In Motion JPEG movie recording, it stops when it reaches 2GB. This is a limitation of Motion JPEG file. In ‘HD’ a 2GB motion jpeg file will equate to approx 8 minutes 27 second, this is what will be displayed on the camera.

Q: How long can a continuous recording be, when using AVCHD Lite format?

A: For Europe models it is 29 minutes and 59 seconds.

Q: Can the flash be used as a video light during video recording?

A: No

Q: Can I edit movie clips on the camera?

A: Yes you are able to split movie clips to delete unwanted section of video.

Q: Is the focus system the same as that of the G1? What’s the difference?

A: The big improvement is AF tracking became available when movie recording.

Q: What are the characteristics and the selling points of the 14-42mm lens?

A: Approx. 30g lighter than 14-45mm lens by using plastic mount and removed O.I.S. switch. O.I.S. is controlled from the menu.

Q: Why 42mm instead of 45mm?

A: We prioritized the weight of the lens compared to the focal length.

Q: Does lens front rotate?

A: No the lens front does not rotate during operation.

Q: Can we take movies with non ‘HD’ lens?

A: Yes. However ‘HD’ lens may perform better for video recording.

Q: What are the weight, maximum diameter and maximum length of the 14-42mm lens?

A: Weight 165 grams, Maximum Diameter 60.6 approx, and 63.6 mm in length (from the mount surface to the lens tip).

Q: What is the filter thread size?

A: 52mm filter size.

Q: How do you turn O.I.S on/off as there is no O.I.S. switch on the lens?

A: It is controlled by the menu with G2/G10. G1/GH1/GF1 requires a firmware update to control the O.I.S. of this lens from the menu.

Q: Can Four Thirds lenses be used?

A: Yes, the DMW-MA1 is a mount adaptor available for Four Thirds lenses. Auto focusing can also be used for lenses that support the Contrast AF function.

Q: Can interchangeable lenses from other companies be used?

A: There is a compatibility chart on the Panasonic global support site.

Q: Are there adaptors made by Panasonic for interchangeable lenses from other companies?

A: Panasonic has produced adaptors to use Leica M and Leica R lenses on the DMC-GF1. Please click here for details.

Q: If you use a mount adaptor to mount a Four Thirds lens with an aperture ring, will the aperture ring work?

A: Yes.

Q: What's he material of the camera body?

A: It is made of 2 panels of aluminium (front & back).

Q: Does the DMC-GF1 have a mechanical shutter?

A: Yes. It is normally kept open. This means you can not see it even if you detach the lens.

Q: Electronic shutter is useful at weddings etc. How come GF1 doesn't have it? Any specific reason for not to have it?

A: The structure of the sensor didn't allow the GF1 to have an electronic shutter. This may be considered in the future.

Q: If the shutter is normally open, How does the shutter work?

A: It closes right before you release the shutter and then starts exposure.

Q: Is the image sensor made by Panasonic?

A: As with our previous models, it was co-developed by Panasonic and Olympus.

Q: I touched the sensor by mistake. How can I clean it? I don't think a blower works for finger prints.

A: You need special treatment to remove oily stain like finger prints. Please contact one of our service centres, using the appropriate options in the 'Contact Us' section of the Lumix lifestyle website.

Q: What types of movies can you shoot?

A: You can shoot AVCHD and Motion JPEG movies.

Q: Can GF1 play movies taken with Camcorders?

A: No.

Q: Can a UK camera be changed to have a sensor output of 24P instead of 25P for Full HD?

A: No the sensor output is fixed for each market, and cannot be changed on the camera.

Q: Does the GF1 shoot full HD the same as the GH1?

A: No the Movie function on the GF1 is 720P.

Q: Does the 20MM 'Pancake' lens have continuous auto focus?

A: No, Due to its compact design it does not have AFC (Auto Focus Continuous).

Q: What do I need to set on the camera to enable me to use third party Non 4Thirds lenses on the GF1?

A: You will need to change the option 'Shoot W/O lens' Details on Page 110 of the instruction manual. This allows the camera to operate when no lens or a non dedicated lens is attached.

Q: How do I Use 'Manual Focus assist' with non dedicated lenses?

A: After enabling 'Shoot W/O lens' you can use the Manual Focus assist with any lens that is attached to the GF1. When in Picture taking mode Press the Left hand cursor key. This will bring up a box for selecting which part of the LCD to Magnify. Choose an area and press the 'Menu/Set' button. Once you have focused, to return to normal view half press the shutter button. Whilst in the manual focus assist mode you can change the zoom magnification by using the 'Front Dial'.

Q: Can I use external Flash triggers with the GF1 hot shoe?

A: Yes, however you will need to ensure to use a trigger system with a low terminal Voltage (Less than 24V).

Q: Are all the Micro 4Thirds lenses compatible with the GF1?

A: Yes, the Micro 4Thirds system allows compatibility between different manufacturers who make lenses for this system. Currently lenses for Micro 4Thirds are manufactured by Panasonic and Olympus.

Q: Can I use the GF1 with my telescope or Spotting scope?

A: In theory yes providing you purchase a third party adaptor for your spotting scope or telescope for connecting it to a Micro 4Thirds camera. You could also use the DMW-MA1E to convert the GF1 from Micro 4Thirds to Normal 4Thirds standard. You might find it easier to obtain an adaptor for your telescope for the 4thirds standard.

Q: Is there a way of setting the camera to infinity focus?

A: There is no way of setting the camera to infinity focus; you will either need to use Auto focus or manual Focus to achieve the correct focus distance.

Q: How do I load the firmware file to the camera?

A: You will need to load the firmware file to the root directory of an SD card using a card reader.

Q: I have loaded the software to the card but the camera will not update what could be wrong?

A: Firstly ensure the '.BIN' file is on the root directory of the card. Also note that the camera will not update unless the battery is fully charged (Showing 3 bars of battery).

Q: What program do I use to convert the RAW files taken with the GF1?

A: The camera comes with Silkypix Developer, which can open and convert the RAW files taken with the GF1.

Q: Can I use third party editing / Raw converters?

A: Providing that the software you are using supports the GF1, then you are able to use this software. To check suitability of the program you are using please contact the manufacturer of the software and enquire as to whether they support RAW files from the GF1.

Q: Does the touch shutter work whilst the movie is in recording mode?

A: No. Still image cannot be taken during movie recording.

Q: What is touch control operation? I want to know its characteristics.

A: DMC-GF2 has a touch sensitive LCD monitor. Full-time AF works not only in photo shooting but also during Full-HD movie recording. Touch control operations include the following: Touch AF - When you touch the subject on which you want to focus on LCD monitor screen, the camera automatically focuses on it. Touch Shutter - By touching the subject on the screen, the camera quickly focuses on it and releases the shutter. You can take photos with intuitive and easy operation. Also, Q Menu, Histogram, Guideline, Playback function can be assisted with touch control operation.

Q: As the Mode Dial is removed, mode is changed by touching LCD. What is the advantage of it?

A: By just touching the shooting mode icon on the LCD, the icon of the mode is displayed in larger size on the LCD, allowing intuitive operation. After changing the shooting mode, you can successively control AF and shutter release with touch operation, thus completing a series of shooting operations only by touching the LCD.

Q: How many pictures can the camera take on a full charge?

A: Number of Recordable images (photo) CIPA standard* Approx. 350 images (with 14-42mm lens using included battery pack). Approx. 330 images (LVF, with 14mm lens using included battery pack). Consecutive recordable time: Approx. 120 min. (LCD, with 14-42mm lens, AVCHD)

Q: What types of LCD is used?

A: DMC-GF2 uses a Resistive type touch screen. If you use protection sheets on the LCD, it may become less sensitive.

Q: What types of movies can you shoot?

A: You can shoot AVCHD and Motion JPEG movies.

Q: Can we connect GH1's external microphone?

A: No, you can't. (No mic jack on the body)

Q: Can GF2 play AVCHD movies taken with camcorders?

A: No, it can't.

Q: Can camcorder play AVCHD movies taken with GF2?

A: No, it can't.

Q: What is intelligent resolution technology?

A: Intelligent Resolution is the technology that intelligently controls the resolution. It classifies the image into three types of area, edge area, detailed texture area and soft gradation area, and applies optimum process to each area. With this, the developed image resolution is improved, and higher image quality is realized in movie in AVCHD as well as photos. In addition, we aimed at improving overall image quality. For example, noise reduction is applied to the image taken at high sensitivity without losing high resolution look. The following are realized with this technology: 1. Improvement of normal image quality. The image quality of full-pixel image is improved so that the image looks clearer and crisper. Higher performance of high-performance LEICA lens is ensured. In addition, higher image quality is achieved in movie recording as well as in AVCHD. 2. Improvement of the image quality in shooting at high sensitivity. Noise production process tend to cause loss of resolution. Thanks to this technology, when noise reduction is applied to the image taken at high sensitivity, the image can maintain the sharpness. As a result, effective noise reduction can be realized.

Q: What is the Intelligent D-range Control?

A: In addition to the compensation of dark areas performed by the conventional Intelligent Exposure, the new process detects the gamma curve to also suppress highlighted washout depending on the situation intelligently. The result is clear picture suppressing both black shadows and washout.

Q: In what scenes is it effective?

A: When you want to capture the blue sky and the dark part inside the building at the same time under the clear weather, the contrast between the two subjects is extremely different. In such a case, you can capture the image beautifully without gradation break-ups using Intelligent Dynamic Range Control.

Q: Can we output the live view image?

A: No, you can’t.

Q: Can we use a 3D lens? Please give us the details such as the pixel count.

A: You can use 3D lens. The pixel count is 1.4-megapixel (in 16:9).

Q: Can the remote shutter DMW-RSL1 be used?

A: No. Priority was given to size reduction.

Q: Is shooting in 16:9 supported in RAW?

A: Yes it is.

Q: Is developing software included?

A: Yes Silkypix developer is included for RAW and Photo Fun Studio 6.0 for editing movies.

Q: Will iA settings be displayed in RAW after development?

A: No iA settings will not be displayed after development even though it was taken in iA mode.

Q: Does the DMC-GF2 have DNG?

A: No it does not.

Q: Can the DMC-GF2 shoot 3D movies?

A: No, only still pictures.

Q: Is it possible to view 3D images on the camera?

A: No.

Q: What is the focal distance of 3D lens on a 35mm camera equivalent?

A: Equivalent to approx.68mm in 16:9 aspect.

Q: Where is the convergence point?

A: Approx.1m (Images shot at 0.6m - 1m pops out of the TV).

Q: What is the recording format? Can it be taken in RAW?

A: It is compatible with the MPF (Multi Picture Format, file extension is ".mpo") of CIPA. It can be taken in JPEG only, Recording in RAW is not possible.

Q: Are the MPO file and the JPEG file shot in 3D for right eye or left eye?

A: MPO file is made with the image through both eyes.

Q: Is only one lens used for the JPEG file?

A: JPEG is made with the image through the left eye.

Q: Is it the only way to view 3D image on Viera TV?

A: For printing solution, Fujifilm provides 3D printing service (Check the availability in your sales area). It is basically compatible with MPO format and the image taken with Lumix 3D lens and G camera can also be printed.

Q: Is it possible to set the focus by touching the screen with GF2?

A: No, it is impossible because the 3D lens adopts pa-focusing system. Manual focusing is not available either because focus setting is not possible.

Q: Can the iA (Intelligent Auto) mode be used for 3D shooting?

A: No, iA and A mode will be set to P mode in 3D shooting.

Q: Is it possible to preview the shutter speed effect?

A: No, because the aperture is fixed to F12.

Q: Do digital red-eye correction and Intelligent D-range Control work in 3D shooting?

A: No. Because there may be cases when right and left images have different effect.

Q: Can Four Thirds lenses be used?

A: Yes, the DMW-MA1 is a mount adaptor available for Four Thirds lenses. Auto focusing can also be used for lenses that support the Contrast AF function.

Q: Can interchangeable lenses from other companies be used?

A: There is a compatibility chart on the Panasonic global support site.

Q: Are there adaptors made by Panasonic for interchangeable lenses from other companies?

A: Panasonic have produced adaptors to use Leica M and Leica R lenses on the DMC-GH1. Please click here for details.

Q: If you use a mount adaptor to mount a Four Thirds lens with an aperture ring, will the aperture ring work?

A: Yes.

Q: Is the body made of resin or magnesium alloy?

A: The body is made of resin.

Q: Does the DMC-GH1 have a mechanical shutter?

A: Yes. It is normally kept open. This means you can not see it even if you detach the lens.

Q: Electronic shutter is useful at weddings etc. How come GH1 doesn't have it? Any specific reason for not to have it?

A: The structure of the sensor didn't allow the GH1 to have an electronic shutter. This may be considered in the future.

Q: If the shutter is normally open, How does the shutter work?

A: It closes right before you release the shutter and then starts exposure.

Q: Is the image sensor made by Panasonic?

A: As with our previous models, it was co-developed by Panasonic and Olympus.

Q: What's the pixel pitch for the image sensor?

A: It's 4.36 microns.

Q: I touched the sensor by mistake. How can I clean it? I don't think a blower works for finger prints.

A: You need special treatment to remove oily stain like finger prints. Please contact one of our service centres, using the appropriate options in the 'Contact Us' section of the Lumix lifestyle website.

Q: What kind of system does the electronic viewfinder use? What does 1.44-megapixel equivalent mean?

A: The electronic viewfinder is a field sequential system. This is a method of forming images in which the three RGB colours are switched for each pixel at the high speed of 180 fps. Because of this, the actual number of pixels displayed is 480,000 x 3 = 1,440,000.

Q: What's the improved points about still image quality?

A: Combined with new a new circuit structure, noises at high ISO sensitivity was improved by 1-2 steps compared to GH1.

Q: What types of movies can you shoot?

A: You can shoot AVCHD and Motion JPEG movies.

Q: Can GH1 play movies taken with Camcorders?

A: No.

Q: Can a UK camera be changed to have a sensor output of 24P instead of 25P for Full HD?

A: No the sensor output is fixed for each market, and cannot be changed on the camera.

Q: Will auto focus on full HD work with other Panasonic Micro 4thirds lenses?

A: No Currently the Panasonic lenses with AFC capability will only work in 720P mode. 'Full HD' Auto focus is available with the GH1 Kit lens (H-VS014140).

Q: What do I need to set on the camera to enable me to use third party Non 4Thirds lenses on the GH1?

A: You will need to change the option 'Shoot W/O lens' Details on Page 110 of the instruction manual. This allows the camera to operate when no lens or a non dedicated lens is attached.

Q: How do I Use 'Manual Focus assist' with non dedicated lenses?

A: After enabling 'Shoot W/O lens' you can use the Manual Focus assist with any lens that is attached to the GH1. When in Picture taking mode Press the Left hand cursor key. This will bring up a box for selecting which part of the LCD to Magnify. Choose an area and press the 'Menu/Set' button. Once you have focused, to return to normal view half press the shutter button. Whilst in the manual focus assist mode you can change the zoom magnification by using the 'Front Dial'.

Q: Can I use external Flash triggers with the GH1 hot shoe?

A: Yes, however you will need to ensure to use a trigger system with a low terminal Voltage (Less than 24V).

Q: Are all the Micro 4Thirds lenses compatible with the GH1?

A: Yes, the Micro 4Thirds system allows compatibility between different manufacturers who make lenses for this system. Currently lenses for Micro 4Thirds are manufactured by Panasonic and Olympus.

Q: Can I use the GH1 with my telescope or Spotting scope?

A: In theory yes providing you purchase a third party adaptor for your spotting scope or telescope for connecting it to a Micro 4Thirds camera. You could also use the DMW-MA1E to convert the GH1 from Micro 4Thirds to Normal 4Thirds standard. You might find it easier to obtain an adaptor for your telescope for the 4thirds standard.

Q: Is there a way of setting the camera to infinity focus?

A: There is no way of setting the camera to infinity focus; you will either need to use Auto focus or manual Focus to achieve the correct focus distance.

Q: How do I load the firmware file to the camera?

A: You will need to load the firmware file to the root directory of an SD card using a card reader.

Q: I have loaded the software to the card but the camera will not update what could be wrong?

A: Firstly ensure the '.BIN' file is on the root directory of the card. Also note that the camera will not update unless the battery is fully charged (Showing 3 bars of battery).

Q: What program do I use to convert the RAW files taken with the GH1?

A: The camera comes with Silkypix Developer, which can open and convert the RAW files taken with the GH1.

Q: Can I use third party editing / Raw converters?

A: Providing that the software you are using supports the GH1, then you are able to use this software. To check suitability of the program you are using please contact the manufacturer of the software and enquire as to whether they support RAW files from the GH1.

Q: What is intelligent resolution technology?

A: Intelligent Resolution is the technology that intelligently controls the resolution. It classifies the image into three types of area, edge area, detailed texture area and soft gradation area, and applies optimum process to each area. With this, the developed image resolution is improved, and higher image quality is realized in movies in AVCHD as well as photos. In addition, we aimed at improving the overall image quality. For example, noise reduction is applied to the image taken at high sensitivity without losing high resolution look. The following are realized with this technology: 1. Improvement of normal image quality. The image quality of full-pixel image is improved so that the image looks clearer and crisper. Higher performance of high-performance LEICA lens is ensured. In addition, higher image quality is achieved in movie recording as well as in AVCHD Lite. 2. Improvement of the image quality in shooting at high sensitivity. Noise reduction process tends to cause loss of resolution. Thanks to this technology, when noise reduction is applied to the image taken at high sensitivity, the image can maintain the sharpness. As a result, effective noise reduction can be realized. 3. Utilization of the technology for cutting out the still image and improving the resolution in SCN mode. 4. Regarding the image cut out from the movie during movie playback, pixel count is increased and resolution is improved. 5. Photos taken in the scene modes only usable at the size of 3M or 2M (high-speed burst shooting, burst shooting with flash, high sensitivity and photo frame), and taken with zoom macro can be beautifully enlarged.

Q: What is improved from the previous Intelligent Resolution?

A: New Intelligent Resolution adopts the image processing in which the captured image is first enlarged to be processed with Intelligent Resolution and then reduced to the original size.

Q: Can I switch off IR?

A: Yes, and the IR level is also adjustable.

Q: Is it unique to Panasonic?

A: Yes.

Q: What's the difference from the others?

A: Separate the image in 3 parts, "outlines" "detailed texture area" and "soft gradation area" and applies optimum process to each area.

Q: What are the basic LCD performance specifications?

A: The large 3 inch LCD has 460,000-dots and a 3:2-aspect-ratio. The touch sensitive freeangle LCD panel has higher contrast and better colour reproduction.

Q: How has the LCD screen been improved compared to the GH1?

A: Display performance has improved by 45% in area ratio based on CIE1976 UCS diagram compared to GH1.

Q: Why is it a 3:2 LCD?

A: Because it has a multi-aspect-ratio switching function/ We chose 3:2 because it's between the 4:3 and 16:9 sizes.

Q: I want to have a view finder style control on the LCD.

A: You can select "View Finder Style" from custom menu and use it on the LCD.

Q: What is Intelligent Dynamic Range Control?

A: Technologically speaking, the circuit to compensate the dark part is applied to the part with high brightness for correcting the gamma curve. As a result, the blown-out highlight is suppressed.

Q: What is different from the conventional dark part compensation?

A: Gamma curve correction is applied to the high brightness part as well as the dark part.

Q: How is Intelligent Dynamic Range Control processed?

A: It is processed with different correction curves to provide each shooting scene with optimal correction.

Q: Is Intelligent Dynamic Range Control always ON?

A: You can select the effect among "OFF", "Weak", "Moderate" and "Strong".

Q: Is Intelligent Dynamic Range Control a technology unique to Panasonic?

A: Yes.

Q: Is it software-based processing or hardware-based processing?

A: It is hardware-based processing.

Q: Is the focus system the same as that of the GH1? What's the difference?

A: The time required to focus the camera is shortened by doubling the sensor driving speed to 120fps when activating AF control. The time for focusing is much faster than that required in phase difference AF. You can focus the camera in approx. 0.1 sec. (with 14-140mm lens).

Q: GH2 uses a sensor co-developed by Panasonic and Olympus. Why is the AF faster than that of Olympus?

A: We cannot comment on Olympus products. In GH2, we have improved the controls of those unrelated to lens on the body side to realize fast AF.

Q: Does autofocus get faster if we attach Olympus lenses to GH2 compare to attaching them to Olympus cameras?

A: We don't have clear data but it seems to get faster with the lens currently available on the market.

Q: What is the advantage of the contrast AF system?

A: The strongest advantage is the improvement in accuracy. In addition to that it allows the Face detection AF/AE to be used. It also increases the freedom in selecting the metering mode, and it reduces the number of times mirror moves when using Live View, allowing smoother shooting.

Q: Is there a difference in accuracy between phase difference AF and Contrast AF?

A: Theoretically, we believe that Contrast AF has a higher level of accuracy.

Q: Does it have a Synchro Terminal (X contact)?

A: No, it doesn't have a separate Synchro Terminal. However, the X contact signal can be taken from the accessory shoe.

Q: What special innovations and usages are exclusive to the Live View Finder? What's the difference between EVF and LVF?

A: You can view the image through the viewfinder with the selected aspect ratio before you shoot. You can confirm the conditions of the white balance and exposure in advance, and see the effects of the My Colour mode. You can use guidelines in the viewfinder. You can display changed setting values for the ISO sensitivity while looking at the viewfinder. The angle of view changes when zoomed and you can also display face detection.

Q: What's the system of EVF?

A: It is based on a field sequential system that uses independent RGB 3 pure colour illumination to produce 60 fps (360Hz, twice RGB/frame) for each of the 3 colours.

Q: What else is improved in LVF?

A: The display area is increased from GH1's 800x600 to 852x600 in GH2. It is now easier to view.

Q: What is the advantage to increase display area?

A: It allows to increase the number of dots to be displayed in 3:2 and 16:9 aspect ratios. As a result, you can view finer images through the view finder. 3:2 aspect ratios have from 1,28M dots to 1,45M dots, and 16:9 aspect ratios from 1,08M dots to 1,23M dots.

Q: How many pixels are there on the EVF?

A: Approx 1.53M dots. It's a newly developed LVF with square alignment. The world's largest EVF finder magnification of 1.42x (0.71x: 35mm camera equiv.). Olympus VF-2: 0.575x.

Q: Noise looks different from LCD and LVF at low-lit condition. Why?

A: LCD and LVF displays the image in a different way.

Q: Can I stop gain-up? Why does the gain-up function operate automatically?

A: No, you can't. It works automatically to maintain frame rate and brightness. Sensor readout method and signal processing of LCD/LVF has been improved since G2/G10. As a result, the noise and flicker during gain-up are reduced.

Q: What's the aspect ratio of the Live View Finder?

A: The panel is 4:3. The display will change depending on the aspect ratio of the shot.

Q: Is the image sensor in the GH2 made by Panasonic?

A: Just like in our previous models, it was co-developed by Panasonic and Olympus.

Q: Is the GH2's image sensor the same with G2/GH1?

A: No it is newly developed.

Q: Is the sensor the same as the new Micro Four Thirds professional camcorder AF-100 released in September 10, 2010?

A: The basic structure is the same but the specifications are not.

Q: Is the Venus Engine the same as the one used in the G1/GH1/GF1/G2?

A: No, a newly developed Venus Engine FHD is used in the GH2.

Q: Can we copy AVCHD movie to DVD recorder via USB connection cable?

A: Yes you can copy AVCHD movies via USB to BD recorder or DVD recorder which supports AVCHD.

Q: Recording modes of AVCHD are FH/SH. Recording modes of camcorder are HA/HG/HX/HN/HE. What's the difference?

A: The file structure is different. Therefore we use different file names.

Q: What's the difference between MJPEG and H.264, and between MJPEG and AVCHD?

A: MJPEG is suitable for playing on a PC or for website uploading. As H.264/MPEG4 is adopted in digital terrestrial TV broadcasting, H.264/MPEG4 is a standard for video compression which is suitable for playing HD movie on audio visual appliances. AVCHD lite is a standard for recording high definition signal (H.264/MPEG4) taken by camcorder onto SD card/HDD/DVD. We do not consider there is a remarkable difference in image quality between Motion Jpeg and AVCHD. Since differential compression is used in AVCHD, AVCHD has higher compression rate, thus allows longer recording time with a memory card.

Q: Can we use internal flash during movie recording?

A: Internal flashgun cannot be used in movie recording.

Q: If we use SDHC, SDXC card for continuous shooting, does it stop movie recording when it reached to 4GB?

A: In AVCHD movie recording, the file will be divided but it doesn't stop movie recording. In Motion JPEG movie recording, it stops when it reaches 2GB file size. For Europe models continuous AVCHD recording is limited to 29 mins 59 seconds.

Q: Can I set a shutter speed below 1/30 at low-light movie recording mode?

A: No, 1/30 sec is the slowest shutter speed in movie mode.

Q: Is the image stabilization available only with "mode 1" during movie recording? Can we use "mode 3" as well?

A: Mode 1 only. Mode 3 is for a panning shot, it doesn't work for movie recording.

Q: What's the shutter speed range at normal recording mode and Motion picture P mode?

A: Shutter speed range is 1/30 to 1/16000 sec.

Q: What is the advantage of 24P recording?

A: In 24P movie recording, the images are recorded at 24fps, the same rate used in cinema. This makes it possible to create expressive images with afterimage effects which is unique to cinema and not achieved in movie recording in 50i.

Q: Does AF work with 14-42mm lens during movie recording?

A: Yes but it doesn't perform as well as the 14-140mm HD lens.

Q: What are the advantages and disadvantages of GH2 compared to camcorders?

A: Camcorders are made for movie recording especially for event shooting. Pro's include: 1. Long time movie recording. 2. Smooth full HD 1920×1080p movie. 3. Panasonic camcorders have 3MOS sensors that reduces highlight and reproduce rich vibrant colours. On the other hand, GH2 has an advantage in recording more expressive images unique to SLRs. Pro's include: 1. Large sensor size allows you to be more creative and produce out of focus background by using a large aperture (depth of field control). 2. Ability to change angle of view of movie recording by changing the lenses such as a wide angle lens or a fish-eye lens. 3. Fine white balance adjustments and use of film mode for recording impressive monochrome movies.

Q: Can I start and stop movie recording by pushing the shutter button instead of movie recording button?

A: If you select "Motion picture M mode", you can do so. But you cannot take photos during movie recording in this mode.

Q: What types of movies can you shoot?

A: AVCHD and Motion JPEG movies can be recorded.

Q: Can we connect GH1's external microphone?

A: Yes you can.

Q: Can we take still pictures during movie recording?

A: Yes you can take still pictures during movie recording. This is a new function. You can select Movie Priority mode or Picture Priority mode for movie recording. In Picture Priority mode, you can take pictures with 14-megapixel resolution.

Q: Does touch MF work with old lenses via mount adaptor?

A: Yes, but there is no MF focusing guide.

Q: How does AF work on a DMC-GH2?

A: You can directly touch and move the focus area box. You can pinpoint the AF area with "1-area AF" and "Face detection AF". You can select the AF area with "23-area AF" and AF tracking is also available.

Q: How does MF work?

A: You can select and touch the area you want to focus on. MF assist then magnifies the area (5x or 10x is selectable). It is easy to check the focus with the large and high resolution LCD screen. MF focusing guide appears when Lumix G lens is on.

Q: If we attach H-VS014140 or H-FS045200 and mount the camera a tripod, the lens touches the tripod and it is difficult to adjust the zoom and focus. Other companies have similar issue. What do you recommend for it?

A: In such cases, we recommend using DMW-TA1 (Tripod adaptor).

Q: How many pictures can be taken consecutively in burst shooting?

A: 5fps (H mode) and 3fps (M mode with Live View image).

Q: How many pictures can the camera take on a full charge?

A: Number of Recordable images (photo) by CIPA standard: Approx 350 images (with 14-42mm lens using included battery pack). Approx 330 images (LV, with 14-42mm lens using included battery pack). Continuous recordable time: Approx 120 mins (LCD, with 14-42mm lens).

Q: Can we edit AVCHD movie file?

A: Yes, you can edit the movie file. Using the included Photo fun Studio software Ver.6.0 BD Edition, you can make short movies easily.

Q: Is the GH2 Apple compatible? Camcorders are compatible with iMovie.

A: Yes GH2 is compatible with Apple iMovie (iMovie 09 onwards).