Not long after the release of Lumix G7, now Panasonic
introduces a newest member of its mirrorless cameras line. The Panasonic Lumix
GX8 is the successor of Lumix GX7 which was launched in 2013.
So what's new in the Lumix GX8? First of all is of course
the new Micro Four Thirds sensor which is now packing a 20.3 megapixel
resolution. This sensor has a maximum ISO sensitivity level of 25,600, and
combined with the Venus Engine processor, promises to improve low-light
performance than its predecessor.
Accompanying the new sensor is the double image
stabilization (IS) system which is quite unique. Simply put, the Panasonic
Lumix GX8 can combine the IS system of camera with the IS system of lens to
produce blur-free images without having to rely on a tripod all the time.
About the video, the Lumix GX8 apparently also carries 4K
video recording capability. Users can choose between 24 fps or 30 fps mode, as
well as the ability to 'take' 8 megapixels photos from the 4K video that's
being recorded. Or if you prefer to snap several photos at once, Lumix GX8 is
ready to be used in burst mode at speed of up to 8 fps.
Still about the performance, Panasonic claims that the 49
point autofocus system of Lumix GX8 can capture focus faster than its
predecessor, although the AF system of Lumix GX7 had been very fast, even in
low light conditions though.
If talking about the design, Panasonic seems to retain the
retro style that was brought by Lumix GX7, with revisions in some parts. The
body frame is still made of magnesium, and now it's claimed to be resistant to
water splash and also dustproof. On the back of this camera, you can still find
an OLED electronic viewfinder (EVF) that can be tilted up to 90 degrees.
However, the most interesting feature is the touch screen.
Unlike most of mirrorless cameras where the screens can only be tilted up or
down, the Lumix GX8's LCD can be pulled to the side and then twisted around,
similar to those normally found in DSLR cameras. Thus, the users will be more
flexible in determining the composition angle.
Panasonic Lumix GX8 is planned to be marketed from the mid
of August 2015. The price offered is about $ 1,200 without a lens, while there
are two colors you can choose: black variant or a combination of black and
silver variant.