Key Features
Aug 11 2011
Announced
12 megapixels
Resolution
Brand | Panasonic |
Sensor Type | Four Thirds |
Sensor | CMOS |
Weight | 264g |
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
Cons
Build and Construction
Body and dimensions
Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF3
Weather sealed | |
Dimensions | 108 x 67 x 32mm |
Weight | 264g |
Thickness | 32mm |
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 Finder | None |
Screen Type | Fixed Type |
Screen Resolution | 460k dots |
Body type | Rangefinder-style mirrorless |
Suitable for:
Photography | Above Avg. |
Videography | Above Avg. |
Travel | Above 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
Sensor | Four Thirds |
Extended ISO | null - null |
Max resolution | 4000 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
Crop factor calculator
Crop factor
1x
Full frame equivalent
24mm
This camera: Four Thirds
24mm
Connectivity, storage, battery
Storage | SD/SDHC/SDXC |
Battery Life | 300 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.
FAQ
The Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF3 features a CMOS sensor
No the Lumix DMC-GF3 does not have weather sealing.
The Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF3 was announced on Aug 11 2011
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.
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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