Blog Exploring the Features of the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF3: An Impressive Micro Four Thirds Camera

This blog post delves into the impressive features of the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF3, a micro four thirds camera that takes stunning photos and videos. From its compact design to its impressive autofocus system, this camera is worth exploring for photography enthusiasts of all levels.

Written by Victor Chan | Updated: Mon May 01 2023

Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF3 article cover photo

Key Features

Aug 11 2011

Announced

12 megapixels

Resolution

BrandPanasonic
Sensor TypeFour Thirds
SensorCMOS
Weight264g
MSRP$599USD

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Overview of the Lumix DMC-GF3

The Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF3 is a powerful, yet compact micro four thirds camera that packs a punch in terms of photography and video capabilities. Whether you're a seasoned photographer or just getting started, this camera has a range of features that can help you take your skills to the next level. In this blog post, we'll explore the top features of the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF3, including its autofocus system, image quality, and user-friendly design. So, let's dive in and discover why this camera is a favorite among photography enthusiasts.

Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF3 Pros and Cons

Now, we will look more closely at our review of the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF3 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-quality images with 12.1 megapixel resolution.
Compact and lightweight design, making it easy to carry around.
Interchangeable lens system, allowing for a wide range of photos.
HD video recording with stereo sound for high-quality video.
User-friendly interface for quick and easy operation.
Wide range of color and image processing options for customization.
Fast autofocus and image stabilization for steady shots.
Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity for easy sharing and remote control.
Affordable price point compared to other high-end cameras.
Good battery life for extended shooting sessions.

Cons

No built-in electronic viewfinder, which may be difficult to use in bright sunlight.
Limited ISO range compared to other high-end cameras.
Autofocus may struggle in low light conditions.
No in-body image stabilization, which requires the use of stabilized lenses.
Smaller sensor size may not provide the same image quality as larger cameras.
Limited selection of lenses compared to other camera brands.
LCD screen is not fully articulated, making it difficult to take selfies or vlog.
Short battery life when using Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity.

Build and Construction

Body and dimensions

Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF3

Weather sealed
Dimensions108 x 67 x 32mm
Weight264g
Thickness32mm
Weight
Min
Avg
This
Max
Thickness
Min
Avg
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Max

Weather Sealing

The Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF3 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 FinderNone
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-GF3 not as suitable for those looking for a vlogging camera as you cannot view yourself while shooting selfies easily. The camera also features a touch screen, which adds to its ease of use.

Viewfinder

Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF3 does not include a viewfinder. The lack of a viewfinder on the Lumix DMC-GF3 camera may make it less suitable for outdoor photography in bright conditions.

Image Quality

Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF3 has a 12MP sized CMOS sensor. You can shoot at maximum resolution of 12 pixels. Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF3 has a native ISO range of 160 - 6400 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

Aug 11 2011

Announced

160 - 6400

ISO Range

SensorFour Thirds
Extended ISOnull - null
Max resolution4000 x 3000 pixels

DXO Sensor Scores

Overall

50 / 102

Color Depth

20.6 / 26.5

Dynamic Range

10.1 / 14.8

Low Light ISO

459 / 4505

DXO mark sensor scores

The DXOmark rankings indicate that the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF3 camera has 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-GF3 is poor

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/SDXC
Battery Life300 shots
Battery Model
HDMI
USD
Wireless Connectivity

Storage

The Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF3 supports SD/SDHC/SDXC 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-GF3 uses the undefined model of battery pack. This is rated for 300 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-GF3 has built in flash which is great for event photography and in low light situations. However it lacks an external flash shoe, which limits you to using the built-in flash.

Shutter

The Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF3 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-GF3 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-GF3?

The Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF3 features a CMOS sensor

Is the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF3 weather sealed?

No the Lumix DMC-GF3 does not have weather sealing.

When was the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF3 announced?

The Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF3 was announced on Aug 11 2011

Does the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF3 have in-body image stabilization?

No the Lumix DMC-GF3 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-GF3?

The Lumix DMC-GF3 has a native ISO range of 160-6400, which can be expanded to ISO null-null for even greater sensitivity in low light conditions.

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