Lumix GF3 User Review by Mark Jelfs

Posted by Lumix Admin on 22 November 2011 at 5:02 pm

The Lumix GF3 is currently the eighth camera in the Lumix G Micro System range from Panasonic; it is a Micro Four Thirds compact system camera (CSC). The review camera came with a Lumix G Vario 14 – 42mm, F3.5 – 5.6 ASPH/MEGA OIS lens, but the GF3 can be bought body-only, or with other lens options. There is also a choice of body colours – black, red, pink, brown or white.

Key features include:

• 12.1 million pixel LIVE MOS sensor with a Venus Engine VII HD device
• ISO range of 160 – 6400
• 3-inch touchscreen with AF point selection
• Full-time Live View
• 1080i50 AVCHD video shooting
• AF tracking in video mode
• Range of control and scene modes for varied shooting conditions

The GF3 comes with a new body profile – the camera has been slimmed down by 17% in size and 15% in weight compared with its predecessor, the Lumix GF2. In real terms, this means that the GF3 measures 107.7×67.1×32.5mm and its aluminium body weighs a mere 225g. The curvy styling gives a contemporary appearance; it looks and feels significantly different to the GF2. Most noticeable are the lack of a hot shoe and the removal of the expansion port for an electronic viewfinder – sacrifices, no doubt, to keep the size down, but not necessarily a deal breaker.

The camera (as reviewed) comes with a battery, battery charger, lens hood, camera strap, basic printed instructions and two CDs, one containing basic imaging software and the other a more comprehensive manual amounting to 202 electronic pages. Although some users prefer a ‘full’ printed manual, it’s not difficult to see why suppliers favour CDs. Meanwhile, the imaging software provides a starting point; no doubt those who have used some form of digital camera already will have their preferred editing software.

The GF3 felt solid enough, with no obvious concerns over construction or durability for normal use. The battery compartment will be familiar to Panasonic users and is accessed by sliding a catch on the bottom-right-hand side of the body (with the lens towards you). An SD memory card slot can be found above the battery. Next to the release lever there is a DC coupler cover; this protects the opening when the optional DC or AC adaptors are not being used. Also found along the base of the camera is a tripod bush (or receptacle, as the instruction book calls it). With the size of the body being so small, I think there’s the possibility a larger (e.g. 45-200mm) lens may foul the tripod mounting. If you are considering purchasing a tripod, taking your lenses along as well may save a return trip to the retailer. The shoulder strap was comfortable enough in use with the 14-42mm lens, and attached easily.

See the Lumix GF3