Discover the Versatile Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF1 Camera for Capturing Stunning Shots

Learn how the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF1 camera can become your perfect partner for capturing high-quality images. With its advanced features, compact size, and affordable price, this camera ranks high among photography enthusiasts.

Written by Victor Chan | Updated: Mon May 01 2023

Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF1 article cover photo

Key Features

Oct 14 2009

Announced

12 megapixels

Resolution

BrandPanasonic
Sensor TypeFour Thirds
SensorCMOS
Weight385g
MSRP$999USD

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Overview of the Lumix DMC-GF1

If you're in the market for a new camera, the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF1 is definitely worth a closer look. This micro four-thirds camera boasts advanced features such as a 12.1-megapixel sensor, autofocus tracking, and interchangeable lenses. But that's not all - this camera is also compact and lightweight, making it ultra-portable and perfect for those who love to travel. In this blog post, we'll delve into the benefits of owning a Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF1 camera and explore the different ways it can elevate your photography game. So, let's dive in!

Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF1 Pros and Cons

Now, we will look more closely at our review of the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF1 camera. We will see what it can do and compare it to other cameras like it. We will tell you what's good about it and what's not so good. This way, you'll know if it's the camera for you!

Pros

High image quality
Compact and lightweight
Interchangeable lenses
Good low-light performance
Fast autofocus
Manual controls for advanced users
HD video recording
Good value for money

Cons

Small sensor size
Limited battery life
No built-in flash
No weather sealing
Limited lens options
Limited dynamic range
Limited ISO range
No built-in viewfinder

Build and Construction

Body and dimensions

Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF1

Weather sealed
Dimensions119 x 71 x 36mm
Weight385g
Thickness36mm
Weight
Min
Avg
This
Max
Thickness
Min
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Max

Weather Sealing

The Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF1 is not sealed against water and dust, so it's important to be careful when using it in such conditions. If you often shoot in environments with water or dust, it's recommended to check out another camera with weather sealing.

Design and Handling

Main design features

View FinderElectronic (Optional)
Screen TypeFixed Type
Screen Resolution460k dots
Body typeRangefinder-style mirrorless

Suitable for:

PhotographyAbove Avg.
VideographyAbove Avg.
TravelAbove Avg.

LCD Screen

This camera has a fixed type 3.00" screen, with a display resolution of 460k dots. This makes the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF1 not as suitable for those looking for a vlogging camera as you cannot view yourself while shooting selfies easily. Unfortunately, the camera does not have a touch screen, which may make it less user-friendly.

Viewfinder

Lumix DMC-GF1 includes a electronic (optional) viewfinder with no electronic viewfinder of resolution with a coverage of n/a and a magnification of n/a. This feature enhances the camera's suitability for outdoor photography in bright conditions.

Image Quality

Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF1 has a 12MP sized CMOS sensor. You can shoot at maximum resolution of 12 pixels. Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF1 has a native ISO range of 100 - 3200 which can be boosted to null - null. It can also save files in RAW format which gives you a wider room for post processing.

Key Features

Oct 14 2009

Announced

100 - 3200

ISO Range

SensorFour Thirds
Extended ISOnull - null
Max resolution4000 x 3000 pixels

DXO Sensor Scores

Overall

54 / 102

Color Depth

21.2 / 26.5

Dynamic Range

10.3 / 14.8

Low Light ISO

513 / 4505

DXO mark sensor scores

The DXOmark rankings indicate that the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF1 camera has above average color depth performance, which refers to the number of colors the sensor can distinguish. Additionally, its dynamic range is also average, allowing it to retain low amounts of details in both bright and dark areas of a scene. The camera's low light ISO performance is poor, which is an important factor to consider if you plan to use it in dimly lit indoor environments or at night. Overall the image quality of the Lumix DMC-GF1 is below average

Crop Factor

Camera crop factor (or focal length multiplier) refers to how a camera's sensor size affects the apparent field of view of a lens. Crop factor is determined by comparing the size of a camera's sensor to that of a full-frame sensor, which is a standard reference size for camera sensors.

Size comparison

Medium FormatFull FrameAPS-C (Sony, Nikon)

Crop factor calculator

Crop factor

1x

Full frame equivalent

24mm

This camera: Four Thirds

24mm

850100150200

Connectivity, storage, battery

StorageSD/SDHC/MMC
Battery Life380 shots
Battery Model
HDMI
USD
Wireless Connectivity

Storage

The Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF1 supports SD/SDHC/MMC with 1 slots for storage. This may suffice for everyday use. However, for professional applications such as wedding photography, it is not recommended as a memory card malfunction could lead to the loss of all footage.

Battery

The Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF1 uses the undefined model of battery pack. This is rated for 380 shots shots which is high. If you intend to take photos or record videos for an extended period, it might be a good idea to bring along additional batteries.

Photography Features

Flash

The Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF1 has built in flash which is great for event photography and in low light situations. It also offers a flash shoe that allows you to attach external flashes. This provides more versatility in your lighting choices.

Shutter

The Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF1 boasts a maximum mechanical shutter speed of 1/4000s, which is ideal for shooting fast-moving subjects in bright environments, such as in sports photography. Faster shutter speeds enable you to freeze the action and capture every detail, making it easier to get the perfect shot.

With a continuous mechanical shutter speed of n/a or an electronic shutter speed of n/a, this camera is not capable of capturing the perfect moment more easily, making it not as suited for wedding, sports, and wildlife photography. Higher shutter speeds make it easier to capture fast-paced action, ensuring that you never miss the perfect shot.

Autofocus

The Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF1 includes contrast detection autofocus (AF), with 23 number of focus points.

While contrast detection is generally more accurate and precise, phase detection autofocus is faster and more effective in most situations, particularly when photographing moving subjects.

Phase detection autofocus works by dividing the incoming light into pairs and then analyzing how they intersect on the camera's sensor. This method allows the camera to determine not only if a subject is in focus but also the direction and distance needed to adjust the focus to achieve perfect sharpness.

On the other hand, contrast detection autofocus works by analyzing the contrast of an image and adjusting the focus until the highest contrast is detected. While this method is very accurate, it can be slow, especially in low light conditions or when photographing moving subjects.

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FAQ

What is the sensor size of the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF1?

The Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF1 features a CMOS sensor

Is the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF1 weather sealed?

No the Lumix DMC-GF1 does not have weather sealing.

When was the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF1 announced?

The Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF1 was announced on Oct 14 2009

Does the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF1 have in-body image stabilization?

No the Lumix DMC-GF1 does not have in-body image stabilization that can compensate for camera shake, making it easier to shoot handheld in low light conditions.

What is the ISO range of the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF1?

The Lumix DMC-GF1 has a native ISO range of 100-3200, which can be expanded to ISO null-null for even greater sensitivity in low light conditions.

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