Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF1

Currently in the camera market, there are 2 manufacturers that specializes in the 'Micro Four Third' system... Panasonic and Olympus... Previously 2 models were launched by Panasonic utilizing the 'Micro Four Third' system... The Lumix DMC-G1 and the newer Lumix DMC-GH1... Now behold the new Lumix DMC-GF1... The Lumix DMC-GF1 has a 12.1 megapixel sensor, a 3 inch LCD and comes with either the 20mm prime lens or 14-45mm zoom lens... Besides that, it comes with a built in flash and a hot shoe for optional items such as external flash and electronic viewfinder...

Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF1 with 20mm F1.7 prime lens...

Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF1 with 14-45mm lens...

Side view of Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF1 with 14-45mm lens...

Side by side comparison with Olympus EP-1... Basically these 2 cameras are quite similar... They share the same sensor and also the lens mount... The Panasonic comes with a built in flash where as the Olympus comes with built in image stabilizer system... But personally I prefer the looks of the Panasonic more because it looks more macho...

Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF1 with 14-45mm lens and Olympus EP-1 with 14-42mm lens...

The Panasonic trio... The famous Lumix DMC-LX3, Lumix DMC-GF1 and also Lumix DMC-G1...

I wonder whether the Lumix DMC-GF1 can replicate the success rate of the Lumix DMC-LX3... In my opinion, it is a bit hard mainly because of the asking price of the new camera... RM3499 for the camera with 14-45mm zoom lens!!! For me, I will choose a DSLR over this camera because the image quality is definitely better... I don't mind lugging my BIG DSLR around... If I have the extra cash to burn then it is a different story... With the asking price, this camera will only appeal to those that don't wish to carry a big DSLR everywhere but need something better than those run of the mill point and shoot camera...