The Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH2 is the latest Micro Four Thirds camera which comes with a 16MP Live MOS sensor. It also boasts of a high-tech 1080p HD video that auto focuses continuously at different frame rates which includes the cinema standard 24fps. GH2 has succeeded the GH1 model with additional features like:

• Touch AF/AE and Touch Shutter,
• hi-fi Venus Engine FHD processor
• 60 fps Live View
• Electronic viewfinder at multi-levels
• 3-inch adjustable LCD screen
• Optical Image Stabilization to reduce blurring due to a shaking camera
• 160-12800 ISO range
• Supersonic Wave filter that removes dust particles.

The Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH2 is available either in black or dual shade of black and grey. The cost is pounds 899.99/ $1000 for the 14-42 mm lens while the 14-140mm lens costs pounds 1299.99/ $1500. The US markets is selling the individual body as well for $900.

The designing of the GH2 Model is almost identical to its predecessor GH1 model, so the reviews for both have same details, in this aspect only. It measures 124 x 89.6 x 75.8mm and weighs 392g without the lens. Thus its weight and size is same as GH1. Panasonic, however, has not been caught on by the frenzy of reducing size so that users with average hand size can operate it with the same comfort as the earlier model.

The front of the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH2 has an indicator light which acts as a self-timer and assists in focusing. Also there is a lens release button, lens mount and hand grip made of rubber. You will have a natural inclination of putting the fore-finger on the shutter button while using the thumb and other fingers to hold it. The finishing is textured with the GH2’s plastic embodiment- a protective coat for long and rigorous usage. DMC-GH2 is actually in continuation of Panasonics’ trademark quality with a metal chassis, lens mount and tripod socket.

For this review, the 14-140mm lens was tested and it was found that Panasonic did give way to shrunken technology by reducing the size and weight of a lens with 10x focal length. The lens moves out longer when it’s adjusted for maximum zooming for telephoto setting. This system is gaining popularity these days and the market will give you a lot of Micro Four Thirds options to choose from with all sorts of focal lengths available.

Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH2 is quite in contrast to conventional DSLRs which rely on auto-focus. This camera uses the Contrast AF of compact cameras. The AF system has a lock-focus that can capture image within 0.1 seconds which is extremely quick. The optical image stabilization comes from the lens itself and is not built-in. The Mega O.I.S. can be switched on and off. The menu system of DMC-GH2 lets you access 3 different modes for O.I.S. Mode 1 is ON throughout, Mode 2 is turned on as the shutter button is pressed and Mode 3 adjusts up and down motion to make it appear stable in the end picture.