Blog Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH2 Review: The Ultimate Camera for Photography and FilmmakingBlog

In this review, we take an in-depth look at the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH2, a versatile and powerful camera that excels at both photography and filmmaking. We explore its features, capabilities, and performance, and provide insights into why it's one of the most popular choices for creative professionals.

Written by Victor Chan | Updated: Mon May 01 2023

Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH2 article cover photo

Key Features

Mar 23 2011

Announced

16 megapixels

Resolution

BrandPanasonic
Sensor TypeFour Thirds
SensorCMOS
Weight442g
MSRP$899USD

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Panasonic Lumix DMC-G2 thumbnail

Panasonic Lumix DMC-G2

Released Jul 12 2010 | 12MP resolution

Overview of the Lumix DMC-GH2

For photographers and videographers, the search for the perfect camera can be a long and frustrating journey. There are plenty of options out there, but few manage to strike the right balance between image quality, versatility, and ease of use. Enter the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH2, a camera that has gained a loyal following among creatives of all stripes. In this review, we'll examine what sets the GH2 apart from the competition and why it deserves a place in your camera bag. From its impressive sensor to its advanced video capabilities, we'll explore the features that make this camera a standout performer and an essential tool for any photographer or filmmaker.

Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH2 Pros and Cons

Now, we will look more closely at our review of the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH2 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

Excellent video quality
High ISO performance
Fast autofocus
Swivel LCD screen
Interchangeable lenses
Built-in flash
Compact size
Good battery life

Cons

Limited dynamic range
Limited low light capabilities
No built-in image stabilization
Expensive lenses
No headphone jack
Average still image quality
No weather sealing
Limited third-party accessories

Build and Construction

Body and dimensions

Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH2

Weather sealed
Dimensions124 x 90 x 76mm
Weight442g
Thickness76mm
Weight
Min
Avg
This
Max
Thickness
Min
Avg
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Max

Weather Sealing

The Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH2 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
Screen TypeFully Articulated
Screen Resolution460k dots
Body typeSLR-style mirrorless

Suitable for:

PhotographyAbove Avg.
VideographyAbove Avg.
TravelAbove Avg.

LCD Screen

This camera has a fully articulated 3.00" screen, with a display resolution of 460k dots. This makes the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH2 very suitable for those looking for a vlogging camera as you can view yourself while shooting selfies. The camera also features a touch screen, which adds to its ease of use.

Viewfinder

Lumix DMC-GH2 includes a electronic viewfinder with n/a of resolution with a coverage of 100% and a magnification of 0.71x. This feature enhances the camera's suitability for outdoor photography in bright conditions.

Image Quality

Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH2 has a 16MP sized CMOS sensor. You can shoot at maximum resolution of 16 pixels. Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH2 has a native ISO range of 160 - 12800 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

Mar 23 2011

Announced

160 - 12800

ISO Range

SensorFour Thirds
Extended ISOnull - null
Max resolution4608 x 3456 pixels

DXO Sensor Scores

Overall

60 / 102

Color Depth

21.2 / 26.5

Dynamic Range

11.3 / 14.8

Low Light ISO

655 / 4505

DXO mark sensor scores

The DXOmark rankings indicate that the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH2 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-GH2 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/SDXC
Battery Life330 shots
Battery Model
HDMI
USD
Wireless Connectivity

Storage

The Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH2 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-GH2 uses the undefined model of battery pack. This is rated for 330 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-GH2 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-GH2 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-GH2 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-GH2?

The Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH2 features a CMOS sensor

Is the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH2 weather sealed?

No the Lumix DMC-GH2 does not have weather sealing.

When was the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH2 announced?

The Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH2 was announced on Mar 23 2011

Does the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH2 have in-body image stabilization?

No the Lumix DMC-GH2 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-GH2?

The Lumix DMC-GH2 has a native ISO range of 160-12800, which can be expanded to ISO null-null for even greater sensitivity in low light conditions.

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