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Panasonic LUMIX DMC-G3 16 MP Micro Four-Thirds Interchangeable Lens Camera with 3-Inch Free-Angle Touch-Screen LCD and 14-42mm Lumix G VARIO f/3.5-5.6 Lens
Brand | Panasonic |
Model Name | Panasonic LUMIX G3 |
Maximum Webcam Image Resolution | 16 MP |
Photo Sensor Size | Four Thirds (17.3 x 13 mm) |
Image Stabilization | Optical |
Max Shutter Speed | 1/4000 seconds |
Min Shutter Speed | 60 seconds |
Metering Description | Multi, Center-weighted, Spot |
Exposure Control Type | programmed ae, Manual, shutter priority, aperture priority |
Form Factor | SLR-style mirrorless |
About this item
- 16-megapixel compact mirrorless system; Micro Four Thirds format camera
- Kit includes 14-42mm Lumix f/3.5-5.6 lens; capture high-quality photos in 3D with optional lens
- 3.0-inch free-angle LCD with touch control; new Pinpoint AF feature
- 1080/60i HD video capability in AVCHD format; Venus Engine FHD enables Intelligent Resolution technology
- Intelligent Auto and Intelligent Auto Plus (iA, iA+); more burst shooting options; new Photo Style Mode
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- Panasonic LUMIX G100 4k Mirrorless Camera for Photo and Video, Built-in Microphone with Tracking, Micro Four Thirds Interchangeable Lens System, 12-32mm Lens, 5-Axis Hybrid I.S., DC-G100KK (Black)FREE Shipping by AmazonGet it as soon as Wednesday, Mar 27
- Panasonic LUMIX G9 Mirrorless Camera, Micro Four Thirds, 20.3 Megapixels Plus 80 Megapixel, High-Resolution Mode with LUMIX G Vario 12-60mm F3.5-5.6 Lens (DC-G9MK) , BlackFREE Shipping by AmazonGet it as soon as Wednesday, Mar 27Only 9 left in stock - order soon.
Important information
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BODY SERIAL #001064, LENS $024783 FULL 14 DAY NO HASSLE SATISFACTION GUARANTEE AND A 90 DAY PARTS AND LABOR WARRANTY.
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This Item Panasonic LUMIX DMC-G3 16 MP Micro Four-Thirds Interchangeable Lens Camera with 3-Inch Free-Angle Touch-Screen LCD and 14-42mm Lumix G VARIO f/3.5-5.6 Lens | Recommendations | dummy | dummy | dummy | dummy | |
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Price | — | -20% $1,197.99$1,197.99 List: $1,499.99 | -29% $497.99$497.99 List: $699.99 | $668.63$668.63 | $399.99$399.99 | $475.00$475.00 |
Delivery | — | Get it as soon as Wednesday, Mar 27 | Get it as soon as Wednesday, Mar 27 | — | Get it Mar 28 - Apr 2 | Get it as soon as Friday, Mar 29 |
Customer Ratings | ||||||
Picture quality | — | 4.7 | 4.6 | — | — | 5.0 |
Sold By | — | Amazon.com | Amazon.com | Amazon.com | 42nd Street Photo | BYDEALS |
display type | LCD | LCD | LCD | LCD | LCD | — |
display size | 3 inches | 3 inches | 3 inches | 3 inches | 3 inches | 3 inches |
lens type | zoom | Wide Angle | mirror-lens | Prime | zoom | zoom |
zoom type | Optical, Digital | — | Digital zoom | — | — | Optical |
shooting modes | burst shooting | Automatic | Silent Shooting | burst shooting | Scene | burst shooting |
connectivity tech | HDMI, USB | USB, HDMI | HDMI, USB | HDMI, USB | HDMI, USB | — |
video resolution | FHD 1080p | 4K UHD 2160p | 4K UHD 2160p | 1920 x 1080 (60fps) 1280 x 720 (60, 30 fps), 640 x 480 (30fps), 320 x 240 (30fps)) | HD 720p | FHD 1080p |
optical zoom | 4 multiplier x | 3 multiplier x | 3 multiplier x | 3 multiplier x | 3.2 multiplier x | 3 multiplier x |
magnification | 1.4x | 0.83x | 1.4x | 1.4x | — | — |
wireless tech | ✓ | Bluetooth, Wi-Fi | BuiltIn | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
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Learn More About the Features of the Lumix G3
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Introducing the Panasonic Lumix G3
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Lumix G-Series Cameras
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Product information
Auto Focus Technology | Selective single-point, Face Detection, Tracking, Multi-area, Single, Continuous, Contrast Detection, Live View, Touch |
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Display Resolution Maximum | 460,000 |
Photo Sensor Size | Four Thirds (17.3 x 13 mm) |
Photo Sensor Technology | CMOS |
Effective Still Resolution | 16 MP |
Maximum Webcam Image Resolution | 16 MP |
Self Timer Duration | 10 seconds |
JPEG quality level | Normal |
Camera Flash | Built-In |
Image Stabilization | Optical |
Video Capture Format | AVCHD, Motion JPEG |
Video Capture Resolution | FHD 1080p |
Video Standard | AVCHD |
Viewfinder Magnification | 1.4x |
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Viewfinder Type | Electronic |
Screen Size | 3 Inches |
Display Type | LCD |
Display Fixture Type | Fully-articulated |
Touch Screen Type | Yes |
Model Name | Panasonic LUMIX G3 |
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Brand | Panasonic |
Model Number | DMC-G3KK |
Customer Reviews |
3.5 out of 5 stars |
Best Sellers Rank | #713,604 in Electronics (See Top 100 in Electronics) #2,576 in Mirrorless Cameras |
ASIN | B005058BTW |
Color | Black |
Included Components | Instruction Manual |
Specification Met | No |
Age Range (Description) | Adult |
Processor Description | Venus Engine FHD |
Item Dimensions LxWxH | 1.84 x 4.54 x 3.29 inches |
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Warranty & Support
Feedback
Lens Type | zoom |
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Optical Zoom | 4 x |
Digital Zoom | 4 |
Maximum Aperture | 3.5 f |
Minimum Aperture | 5.6 |
Zoom Type | Optical, Digital |
Autofocus Points | 23 |
Compatible Mountings | Micro Four Thirds |
Focus Type | Autofocus & Manual |
Maximum Focal Length | 42 Millimeters |
Minimum Focal Length | 14 Millimeters |
Expanded ISO Maximum | 6400 |
---|---|
Expanded ISO Minimum | 160 |
Max Shutter Speed | 1/4000 seconds |
Min Shutter Speed | 60 seconds |
Exposure Control Type | programmed ae, Manual, shutter priority, aperture priority |
Metering Description | Multi, Center-weighted, Spot |
Shooting Modes | burst shooting |
Batteries Required? | Yes |
---|---|
Number of Batteries | 1 Lithium Ion batteries required. |
Are Batteries Included | No |
Rechargeable Battery Included | No |
Battery Cell Composition | Lithium Ion |
Battery Description | Lithium Ion |
Battery Weight | 1 Grams |
Removable Memory | Secure Digital Card |
Software Included | Yes |
Target Gender | Unisex |
Audio Input | Microphone |
Connectivity Technology | USB, HDMI |
Continuous Shooting Speed | 4 |
Wireless Communication Technology | Yes |
Flash Memory Type | SD/SDHC/SDXC |
Special Feature | Lightweight |
Water Resistance Level | Not Water Resistant |
Skill Level | Professional |
Form Factor | SLR-style mirrorless |
Hardware Interface | HDMI |
Audio Recording | Yes |
Photo Sensor Technology | CMOS |
Product Description
Product Description
Panasonics LUMIX DMC-G3 offers the benefits of a DSLR interchangeable lens system camera with a point-and-shoot camera's compactness, light weight and simplicity. This reduction in size and weight is thanks to advancements in mirror-free viewfinder technology, and large DSLR format sensors that are more compatible with a new class of compact Micro Four Thirds (MFT) System lenses. This new class of Compact System Cameras (CSC) offers a weight and compactness not seen in traditional DSLRs, for greater portability and creative control. The DMC-G3 provides a traditional DSLR-like experience with an external Mode dial for quick access to common modes like Program, Shutter and Aperture Priority, Manual. Additional dial settings include two Custom Modes, Scene Modes and the new Creative Control Mode. The DMC-G3 provides a dedicated video button that can be used to switch to video capture quickly without changing modes. Like most DSLRs, the DMC-G3 provides a built-in flash and hotshoe for connecting optional LUMIX flashes. The LUMIX G MFT System offers a selection of 11 high performance fixed focal length and variable aperture G Vario zooms, including a highly versatile 3D lens capable of capturing both 2D and 3D images at the same time. There are lens adaptors available for mounting older Leica M and Leica R lenses, including older LUMIX full Four Thirds lenses. An innovative 14-140mm HD G Vario lens provides the best of video and still-image shooting with a long 10x range and near silent high-speed focusing.
From the Manufacturer
Panasonic's LUMIX DMC-G3 offers the benefits of a DSLR interchangeable lens system camera with a point-and-shoot camera's compactness, light weight and simplicity. This reduction in size and weight is thanks to advancements in mirror-free viewfinder technology, and large DSLR format sensors that are more compatible with a new class of compact Micro Four Thirds (MFT) System lenses. This new class of Compact System Cameras (CSC) offers a weight and compactness not seen in traditional DSLRs, for greater portability and creative control. The DMC-G3 image resolution has been upgraded to 16.0-megapixels from its predecessor, the DMC-G2.
Panasonic Lumix DMC-G3 Highlights
The Lumix G3 pictured with optional 3D lens. Mode Dial and Hotshoe
The DMC-G3 provides a traditional DSLR-like experience with an external Mode dial for quick access to common modes like Program, Shutter and Aperture Priority, Manual. Additional dial settings include two Custom Modes, Scene Modes and the new Creative Control Mode. The DMC-G3 provides a dedicated video button that can be used to switch to video capture quickly without changing modes. Like most DSLRs, the DMC-G3 provides a built-in flash and hotshoe for connecting optional LUMIX flashes.
Available Scene Modes: Portrait, Soft Skin, Scenery, Architecture, Sports, Peripheral Defocus, Flower, Food, Objects, Night Portrait, Night Scenery, Illuminations, Baby, Pet, Party and Sunset, which can all be controlled from the intuitive touch-enabled LCD.
Lens Options and 3D Capture
LUMIX G Series Compact System Cameras utilize the Micro Four Thirds (MFT) System mount. MFT offers greater size and weight reduction in the lens without compromising lens performance and clarity. The LUMIX G MFT System offers a selection of 11 high performance fixed focal length and variable aperture G Vario zooms, including a highly versatile 3D lens capable of capturing both 2D and 3D images at the same time. There are lens adaptors available for mounting older Leica M and Leica R lenses, including older LUMIX full Four Thirds lenses. An innovative 14-140mm HD G Vario lens provides the best of video and still-image shooting with a long 10x range and near silent high-speed focusing. When connected to the DMC-G3, ultra fast focusing and auto subject track AF can be achieved.
Many Lumix MFT lenses come with MEGA O.I.S. (Optical Image Stabilization) built-in. This feature helps prevent blurring from hand-shake. Working together with the cameras intelligent ISO Control, which reduces motions blur by adjusting the ISO sensitivity if the subject moves, you're sure to capture images that are sharp.
Dust Reduction System
As with many interchangeable lens cameras, dust on the sensor reduces image clarity. To eliminate this potential, The DMC-G3 uses a Dust Reduction System that uses a supersonic wave filter in front of the Live MOS sensor. Vibrating vertically around 50,000 time per second, the filter repels dust and other particles effectively.
The Lumix G3's touch-enabled, swivel LCD makes it easier than ever to capture the perfect picture. Touch-Enabled LCD Screen
At the heart of the DMC-G3's improved functionality is a movable 3.0-inch LCD (460k- dot) that allows for intuitive touch control of menus and most shooting, focusing, playback and effects controls. Menus can be customized using simple drag-and-drop actions like those on most touch-enabled cell phones. This allows for a custom user interface, giving Quick Menu access to functions that can be tailored to any user's expertise level. Even the shutter can be triggered from the touch-enabled LCD by simply touching the subject you want focused and captured. Using the touch-screen operation, a user can lock onto a subject, enabling AF Tracking in both still and video modes. When you're ready to shoot, the subject will be in focus and ready to capture.
Live Viewfinder
For many, a traditional eyelevel viewfinder is still a must have. The DMC-G3 meets this demand with an eye-level electronic viewfinder that projects a high resolution 1.44m-dot image with 100% field of view (800x600, 0.7x magnification). Color breakup has been improved vs. the DMC-G2, resulting in smooth image viewing while panning.
HD Video Capture
The LUMIX DMC-G3 also shoots 1080/60i High Definition video using the AVCHD format (sensor output 30p). It offers a built-in stereo microphone and is available with Dolby Digital Stereo Creator. Advanced video sound controls include a wind-cut function that further enhances the sound as it helps reduce noise caused by background wind, and an L/R audio meter display for controlling audio levels. Captured video can be played back in High Definition via an optional HDMI mini cable directly to an HD-compatible TV, or easily played directly on Panasonic VIERA TV via the SD card. New near silent focusing features offered in several Lumix Micro Four Thirds lenses helps keep lens noise at bay while the touch-enabled LCD allows you to automatically keep active subjects in focus with touch-enabled subject AF Tracking.
Faster, Accurate Pinpoint Focusing
Contrast Detection Auto Focus technology used in point-and-shoot and new mirrorless Compact System Cameras now approaches the speeds that were once only available from traditional professional-level DSLRs. The DMC-G3 now offers Light Speed Auto Focus (14-140mm ~0.1 sec. 14-42mm ~0.18 sec., 45-200mm ~0.15 sec.). LUMIX Light Speed AF locks onto a subject quickly so you won't suffer from "shutter lag" frustration. Contrast Auto Focusing also offers greater shot accuracy due to fewer hardware components needed vs traditional DSLR phase difference systems, thus fewer pictures will suffer from system focusing errors. (e.g. the accuracy of Contrast AF is approx. 90% while Phase Difference AF is approx. 60% at F1.4).
Easily connect the Lumix G3 to your HDTV via an optional HDMI mini cable. Manual control over focus is available in the DMC-G3 and has been greatly improved over DMC-G2. When magnification is first enabled at 4x by simply touching the subject, that subject is enlarged in a small window allowing you to keep the rest of the image in view as a framing reference. Beyond 4x, that small window fills the monitor so even more control over focus fine-tuning can be achieved. This handy feature is available from both the MF Assist (Manual Focus) and AF + MF focus modes.
The DMC-G3 now offers a larger LCD touch focus area vs. the DMC-G2. Now touch focus can be enabled from any part of the image as seen on the LCD. Unlike traditional DSLRs that limit the number and position of focus points, the DMC-G3 uses the entire image sensor and can even fine-tune focus with a new fine-tuning Pinpoint AF feature. When Pinpoint AF is enabled, the image is enlarged, allowing for pixel-level setting of the focus area desired. Once set, the DMC-G3 will use this fine-tuned focus point to produce a sharp, detailed image.
More Burst Shooting Options
Rapid burst control at various rates and resolutions. Capture full-resolution 16-megapixel images at up to 4 frames per second with mechanical shutter enabled, or an even faster 20 frames per second using the electronic shutter feature at a reduced resolution of 4- megapixels.
Intelligent Auto and Intelligent Auto Plus (iA, iA+)
The DMC-G3 has advanced functions that will satisfy experienced photographers, yet is easy enough for beginners to use comfortably in both photo and video recording modes with iA (Intelligent Auto) Plus. In the new iA Plus mode, the defocusing area, exposure control, and white balance can be adjusted for scenes where a slight manual adjustment may produce a more desired result.
Color and Effects
Using the new Photo Style Mode, popular color effects can be achieved. These settings can be further enhanced with fine-tuning of Contrast, Sharpness, Saturation and Noise Reduction. Color effects include: Standard, Vivid, Natural, Monochrome, Scenery, Portrait and Custom.
With the new Creative Control Mode, accessed from the Mode dial at the top of the camera, an expressive look to the image can be achieved without the need for complicated post-processing software. Common effects can be achieved via the touch-control menu as a pre-setting in an easy-to-understand "what you see is what you get" experience. Effects include: Expressive, Retro, High Key, Sepia, and High Dynamic.
Venus Engine FHD
The new Venus Engine FHD offers vastly improved compensation for electronic noise under low light and shadows where higher ISOs typically add grain to the image. Circuitry on the new 16-megapixel sensor further reduces low-noise signal problems at the pixel level and at the amplifier circuit level. As a result, higher ISOs with much lower noise can be achieved. This means faster action-stopping shutter speeds in low light, and a maximum achievable ISO of 6400.
The noise level of the DMC-G3 offer significant reductions in electronic noise vs. prior models. Noise is significantly suppressed by more than 66%. Notably in shooting at high ISO setting, S/N value is improved by approximately 200% compared with the conventional 12.1-megapixel sensor. The sensor performance improves by 6db at ISO 3200 and max. 9db at ISO 6400.
The new Venus Engine FHD uses new Intelligent Resolution technology to sharpen edge detail without softening fine details. In addition to maximizing edge and fine detail, the Venus Engine offers Intelligent D-Range Control. Intelligent D-Range Control enables maximum capture of the image's full range of brightness, without blown-out highlights and mudding shadows.
Read about our customers' top-rated cameras and lenses on our review pages: Compact System Cameras, Lenses
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Learn more how customers reviews work on AmazonCustomers say
Customers like the image quality, ease of use, and quality of the digital camera. For example, they mention that it takes good pictures, the controls are very easy to use, the menu system is intuitive, and the camera is extremely well constructed. They are also impresseded with the focus, and weight. That said, opinions are mixed on color and controls.
AI-generated from the text of customer reviews
Customers are satisfied with the image quality of the digital camera. They mention that it takes good pictures, the pictures seem more natural, and it makes taking pictures of oneself a whole lot easier. The high spatial frequency contrast produces well-defined images, making it an excellent tool for their kind of photography. Overall, most are happy with the product's image quality.
"...modes and settings, but I can say pretty definitively that it takes excellent photos, gives me the fast autofocus and blurred backgrounds I was..." Read more
"...I fell in love with the camera, it's just fun to use, and the photos are great...." Read more
"...I'm just about happy with the image quality, but know for sure that if I want the best images, I would spend my money on a DSLR like the Nikon D5100..." Read more
"...Good sensor resolution and more importantly high spatial frequency contrast produces well defined images. Pixel peeping folks should be satisfied...." Read more
Customers find the digital camera very user friendly, with intuitive menu systems and a touchscreen that is more convenient than LCD. They also appreciate the great manual controls, interchangeable lenses, and built-in flash. Overall, customers say the camera is easy to pick up and use immediately, and is customizable for quick control.
"...well constructed and feels great in the hand, and is just a pleasure to use...." Read more
"...Easy to use if you need to capture a spontenaous mement.- Intuitive controls if you want to get creative.- Fast shooting.-..." Read more
"...Full-size images look spectacular on large screen monitors. Enlargements are pretty easy too, 11x14 can be viewed from any distance without..." Read more
"...take pictures while recording movies- intuitive menu system- touchscreen is very useful and surprisingly effective-..." Read more
Customers like the focus of the camera. For example, they say it has a fast focusing system, autofocus that is instant, and always spot on. They also appreciate the manual focus and three-mode magnifier. That said, they mention that no front or back-focusing problems occur with any lenses. They like the traditional focusing ring that is sensitive and the fact that the lenses have an excellent manual focus ring. Overall, customers are satisfied with the focus capabilities of the product.
"...can say pretty definitively that it takes excellent photos, gives me the fast autofocus and blurred backgrounds I was craving, is extremely well..." Read more
"...autofocus is fast and accurate. very cool touch to focus while taking movies or touch to focus/take shot in picture mode.-..." Read more
"...to catch up to me was a joy, so when the experts say that automatic focus works great, they're right...." Read more
"...The autofocus is instant and always spot on...." Read more
Customers like the quality of the camera. They say it is extremely well constructed, has a large high-quality sensor, and produces great and sharp images. Some customers however, have reported issues with out of focus backgrounds and the flash is built in, making it a solid camera.
"...the fast autofocus and blurred backgrounds I was craving, is extremely well constructed and feels great in the hand, and is just a pleasure to use...." Read more
"...What could be better:- Feels solid but a bit heavier than expected...." Read more
"...in a different world in terms of speed, ease of use, ergonomics, build quality, viewfinder, battery life, and just about everything else I can think..." Read more
"...* I like the fact that flash is built in, and not a flimsy attachment, like in other cameras...." Read more
Customers are satisfied with the size of the digital camera. They mention that it is really compact, not too small to hold firmly, and offers quality images in a semi portable size. They also say that it fits better under a jacket and has a large LCD viewfinder.
"...What I love:- Smaller and less intrusive than a full sized SLR.- Looks great, especially with the 20mm pancake.-..." Read more
"...Pros:* Perfect size and weight. This camera feels very comfortable in my hands and is easy to carry around...." Read more
"...photographers also seem to be pleased with the G3 for its small size and versatility. But don't take my word for it, read for yourself." Read more
"...it's not optical (this is a micro 4/3rds after all) but it's a large LCD viewfinder which makes it very easy to see details as you're composing your..." Read more
Customers like the weight of the digital camera. They mention that it's easy to carry around, and has very compact and light dimensions.
"...It's so slim, it looks cool, it has that huge APS sensor, etc etc...." Read more
"...It is light, and when you buy the longer zoom you have an amazingly portable package. That's why I'm hanging onto it...." Read more
"...This camera feels very comfortable in my hands and is easy to carry around...." Read more
"...This camera inspires me!Pros:- small and lightweight...." Read more
Customers are mixed about the color of the camera. Some mention that it produces great looking photos with perfect contrast and saturation, while others say that the colors are not as saturated as they would like them to be and that the camera is not as good in low light.
"...It's so slim, it looks cool, it has that huge APS sensor, etc etc...." Read more
"...the limitations of an electronic view finder, the fact that the screen doesn't dim when you raise the camera to your eye, and other niggling details..." Read more
"...Smaller and less intrusive than a full sized SLR.- Looks great, especially with the 20mm pancake.- Great handgrip & controls-..." Read more
"...It's not as good in low light as optical viewfinder, but it shows more useful information and has additional functionality that optical viewfinders..." Read more
Customers are mixed about the controls of the camera. Some mention that it has a full range of control from complete auto to full manual, and the controls are good. They say the LCD controls are easier to adjust, but the EVF controls are sufficient for most things. The settings can be changed quickly once you learn, and it has excellent macro capabilities. However, others say that the camera has very limited manual controls, and that the buttons take time to get used to.
"...The EVF on the G3 is also pretty good. It's a lot easier to adjust menu settings on the LCD, but the EVF controls are sufficient for most things I..." Read more
"...Buttons take time to get used to and remember how to set what you want...." Read more
"...good feel/grip when hand holding- full range of control from complete auto to full manual...perfect for upgrade from point and shoot camera..." Read more
"...engineers who developed the G3 and even I find some of the controls on the small side...." Read more
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Very difficult to only pick one of these. If money was no issue, I'd get at least one interchangeable lens system and one P+S. But alas, money is always a primary factor in these things so I had to make a decision about what was most important to me: picture quality & versatility or portability? After much mental exercise, I decided that having a versatile and high quality camera was more important than something that could fit in my pocket. So that eliminated the Olympux XZ-1 and Canon Powershot S100 that I had been considering (though I'd still love an XZ-1 one of these days).
The second decision was far more difficult. Micro 4/3s or Sony NEX? The Sony NEX series is the most popular on Amazon and has all sorts of hype around it. It's so slim, it looks cool, it has that huge APS sensor, etc etc. And in the Micro 4/3s class, there are so many more affordable options and way more lenses available (and let's be honest, glass is a huge element in taking good photos). While I've wanted a Sony NEX since it was first introduced, I actually started leaning towards the Panasonic G3 when put side by side in my comparisons. What really intrigued me about this camera was that it had all the DSLR features built in already and even resembled a DSLR, but at about half the size and weight, and at a pricepoint that was much more agreeable than competing models without those features. No, it didn't have the supermodel body of the Sony NEX, but seemed quite a bit more practical. Personally, I am not always going to remember to bring a detachable flash with me when I take my camera out on trips. Nor am I going to feel excited about spending $200 or $300 on a separate viewfinder that I also need to keep track of. The G3 integrates these basic (and in my mind, essential) functions into the camera body, eliminating the possibility of someone absent-minded like me forgetting items at home... or worse, on the road.
The other thing that made the G3 rise to the top of my list was the swivel LCD screen. While the Sony NEX-5N has the articulating screen, I find the G3's screen with its full range of motion to be significantly better. I prefer the screen being off to the side so that my hand holding the camera doesn't interfere with my view of the screen, especially if I'm holding it way above my head. Both cameras can achieve the same kinds of photos, but the G3 makes it easier. The EVF on the G3 is also pretty good. It's a lot easier to adjust menu settings on the LCD, but the EVF controls are sufficient for most things I want to do, and I find myself using the EVF just as much if not more than the LCD for composing shots.
So anyways, I ended up getting the G3 (obviously). I've only had it for a few days and still learning the basic modes and settings, but I can say pretty definitively that it takes excellent photos, gives me the fast autofocus and blurred backgrounds I was craving, is extremely well constructed and feels great in the hand, and is just a pleasure to use. The included zoom lens is not that fantastic, but it's a good enough starter lens for someone like me. With a 32GB SDHC card installed I can take 1,141 photos in combined RAW+Fine mode which is more than I'll ever need in one day. Well, who knows - I am traveling to Yellowstone soon :)
PS: Definitely keep your eye on the price of this camera as it dropped twice within a week from the date I purchased it.
EDIT 5/10/12: After a few hundred shots in different conditions I've learned a few extra things I wanted to share. The main thing I've noticed is that in low light, indoor situations, the iAuto mode will not raise the ISO sufficiently to capture the shot. It seems to always want to shoot at 800 during the night, so I find myself switching into Program mode and changing ISO to 1600. It makes a tremendous difference. Noise is completely absent from these shots too. Another thing I've had to change is the behavior of the manual focus ring in different record modes. It's called MF Assist, and if you start adjusting the manual focus ring on the zoom lens when in MF mode, it will zoom in on the area you're pointing at on your LCD or EVF. This makes it very difficult to compose a shot, because now all you can see is a fuzzy square in the middle of your screen resulting from that digital zoom. I promptly turned this feature off after missing a few great photo opportunities while in MF mode - I have no idea where this would ever come in useful. One last thing, the delay when recording an image in RAW+Fine mode is substantial, so I would go to only Fine or only RAW mode when you are doing any kind of action shots, even some photo shoots. Maybe I'm just impatient, but a few seconds can mean the difference between THE shot and a throwaway shot.
That's it for now - all in all I am still enamored with this camera. Because of the inadequate ISO in iAuto mode in low light, I'm pretty much staying in Program mode these days, with white balance set to Auto and ISO manually adjusted based on what I'm shooting. It didn't take long to figure out how to cycle between these settings quickly, another reason I love having the manual mode dial on the camera body.
What could be better:
- Feels solid but a bit heavier than expected. I can fit it into some of my jackets' pockets but it weighs the jacket down too much.
- Shape of camera not as pocketable as I'd hope, mainly due to protruding EVF, only large pocets work even with a pancake lens.
- EVF is great for composing shots but not good enough for evaluating exposure, the 3" LCD does a better job.
- Compared to APSc censors the dynamic range is not as wide, however much better than any compact I ever used. I compared some high contrast shots to my friends Nikon D5100, and his camera was better at preserving highlights. Non high contrast scenes were comperable.
- White Balance could be better in artificial light.
What I love:
- Smaller and less intrusive than a full sized SLR.
- Looks great, especially with the 20mm pancake.
- Great handgrip & controls
- Easy to use if you need to capture a spontenaous mement.
- Intuitive controls if you want to get creative.
- Fast shooting.
- Great Looking Photos
All in all the G3 is not as pocketable as I'd hoped, but that is the tradeoff oh having an EVF and manual controls, and for me it's worth it. The camera easly slips into a small messenger style bag. Once I got over the portablity issue I fell in love with the camera, it's just fun to use, and the photos are great. I especially love it with the 20mm pancake for a really portable package. I took 1,500 hundred photos on my trip, reviewed them all, and I am very pleased. This camera is not for everyone however it's great for anyone that wants to take charge of the camera, play with manual controls and get creative controls without the bulk of an SLR.