Panasonic 14-140mm f/4.0-5.8 OIS Micro Four Thirds Lens for Panasonic Digital SLR Cameras

List Price: $849.95

Product Details Based on the Micro Four Thirds System standard Circular aperture diaphragm, durable metal mounting and multi-coated lens elements MEGA O.I.S. - Panasonic's advanced hand-shake correction technology

Product Description

The Panasonic Lumix Vario 14-140mm/F4.0-5.8 Aspherical Lens supports the unremitting AF/AE function of the contrast AF system for both photos and movies. In addition, thanks to an inner cynosure clear direct-drive linear motor, this lens enables slick, silent operation of its fast and accurate focusing. When recording still pictures, this lens also supports an AF Tracking, a Phiz Recognition function and more, for more convenient, more enjoyable shooting.

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Customer Reviews

Intended this lens!
I wanted the Panasonic Lumix G2 to be my all around camera for excursions, family photographs, scenics, etc. I found the kit lens (14-42) to be limited, so I decided to take a chance on the 14-140. I have entranced about 300 pictures with it so far and have found it to be a terrific lens. It is very solidly built and doesn't slip, as some zooms do, when alleged down at a subject. The manual focus feature is good, especially if you have your camera on a tripod. At the telephoto central lengths manual focusing can be a bit dauting, but it works (it automatically enlarges a portion of the notion for you to focus on, then returns to your picture as zoomed). Image Stabilization is built in the lens and seems very benign. I am amazed at the lower shutter speeds I can use and still get a sharp image. I know this lens will minister to me with a lot of picture taking fun for years to come. By the way, the Olympus 14-150 lens is less expensive but doesn't have Corporealization Stabilization because that feature is built in to the Olympus camera bodies.

2010-08-01 | Mtngirl (Phoenix, AZ) | Helpful Votes: 2 | Rating: 5

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The conclude package
I use this lens on my GH1 and sometimes on my E-PL1 and it's only fantastic. The fact that it gives you such range and operates silently when you want to take movies is a noteworthy combo.

It's been rated to be among the best in super zoom lenses equal or better than the top offerings from Tamron and unquestionably better than the Nikon and Canon equivalents according to DPReview. From my real world results, I have to coincide 100%.

I do wish it was a little lighter, but it's still not bad carrying it around all day. I've traveled with it twice so far and it covers every length you could have a yen for and delivers great quality. Remember to use the provided lens hood or else you sacrifice a assured amount of contrast in your photos. Most people don't realize the hood is not just to help flare and slap the lens for their own mistakes.

If you have a Panasonic m43 body, this lens is a no brained because of it's in lens IS. On Olympus bodies it's in cooperation great because you can choose either the lens IS or the in body IS.

2010-05-28 (SF, CA) | Helpful Votes: 10 | Rating: 5

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Not meet with GF1
I'll keep this epigrammatic.

Where I'm coming from:
I bought the Panasonic GF1 for its form factor. I was tired of lugging my full SLR rig around (which I still have). I have been remarkably gratified with the image quality the GF1 has when paired with 20mm f/1.7. I really wanted to like this lens.

Why I bought this lens:
I brainstorm I could make the GF1 become my all round camera. I thought this lens could create a nice rangefinder genus feeling like the Leica's. I could tote it around in a small bag and potentially travel with it.

Conclusion:
The lens is a full mismatch for the GF1. All of the GF1's shortcomings prove to be c finish to light and many of the benefits disappear.

Issues:
1. Weight- The lens is much heavier than I thought it would be. With the limited camera body and the long lens, the camera felt "uncomfortable" in the hand. Holding the camera solidly keep company is much more of a chore than on other SLR's because your eye isn't giving another point of support. It's like shooting an SLR with one hand. This issue is exacerbated when shooting extensive. The weight forces the camera to droop downward when hanging around your neck.
2. Diameter/Appraise- The diameter of the lens barrel is also much thicker than I thought it would be. With the lens on, the GF1 immediately lost all of its nimbleness. Preferably of a rangefinder type camera that I wanted, the lens made the GF1 become the bulky SLR I was trying to avoid. The lens bulk also makes the camera look awkward on the GF1. This lens is probably much better suited with G1.
3. Well- issues- Shooting indoors is very unpleasant. The lens hunts for focus even in a well lit room. This is exacerbated by the f/4.0-5.8 fissure. I hesitate to say it's not suited to be used indoors at all. Granted all these are not due to the lens but I don't have the same issues with the 20mm f/1.7.
4. Aperture- This lens is mystical. The f/4.0 max aperture may be tolerable but it seems it gets to f/5.8 pretty quickly as you zoom out. Indoors, you desideratum to crank up the ISO to 1600 to get a reasonable shot. However, for some reason, the camera forces the user to special any ISO below 400... annoying.
5. Sharpness- I use a 18-200mm on my other SLR (decline to state which). The 14-140mm sharpness is indifferent to the 18-200mm on my other camera. You almost might as well use a point and shoot (ugh).
6. Focus ring & zoom ring location gets difficult to use. You can probably get accustom to this. But, it didn't work for me.
7. Manual focus almost absurd without a tripod. Working with the screen to zoom in on anything above 50mm seemed almost impossible. This is only an issue because I wanted to get around the autofocus hunting.

What is it legitimate for:
1. Outdoor shots.
2. Probably matched well with the G1. It should be a good walkabout lens.
3. A person who doesn't have an move back and forth SLR.

2010-04-12 | KSH (SF Bay Area) | Helpful Votes: 39 | Rating: 2

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A grand all around travel lens
I had this lens for almost a month. It works honestly well with my Olympus E-P1. The image is very sharp between 18mm to 70mm and a bit soft from 70mm and up. I like the built in O.I.S on the lens, so I can turn off the IBIS on the camera to shun excessive heat when using it continuously. This is an amazing all around travel lens when pair with my Panasonic 20mm f1.7 lens, which I can use it indoor such as restaurant with limit unveil condition and 14-140mm outdoor for landscape, wildlife animal or any occasion. I bought it split with my camera system due to I like the retro look of E-P1. Consider its price is a bit high, but if you like to manage with video, then this lens is definite worth it Due to its virtually silence video focusing facility. I hate to hear my 20mm lens roaring when recording video using C-AF. I also planning test it out in my alter ego's coming wedding event and pair it with Olympus FL-50 flash. The lens is rich quality made, inside of lens is made by metal with plastic casing I think due to manufacture upon its portability of m3/4 system. Consider its wide to telephoto range & price, there isn't much lens performs heartier than this lens unless you are willing to pay $500 more for the Leca 14-150mm without silent focusing know-how.

2010-02-25 (California, USA) | Helpful Votes: 14 | Rating: 5

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Hostile to Control Focus
The bring into focus ring on this lens has the "feature" that the faster you turn it, the more the focus changes. As opposed to most lenses that switch focus in proportion to how much you turn the ring, not how fast. While this does allow you to make unconditional focus adjustments by slowly turning the ring, it also makes it extremely difficult to domination focus in a predictable, uniform way. You can completely forget about trying to do controlled focus changes while filming. I wouldn't grumble so much if this was a feature you could turn on and off. That would be wonderful. But no, YOU WILL TAKE THIS STRANGE WAY OF FOCUSING AND YOU WILL LIKE IT! I detest companies that intend they are being oh so clever with new features that they don't even give you the option to decide for yourself what you want.

Just to be clear, with this way of doing hub, you won't be able to easily move the ring back and forth to zero in on the "center". Sure, you can get there sooner, but not by simply making smaller and smaller movements. If you turn too fast for a moment, its all gone and you have to start over. And if you let fly video, you won't be able to easily follow focus in a way that you control. It might not be so bad if cameras like the GH1 would disclose the focus distance on the monitor, so you at least had some idea of what was happening. But you get no focus distant marks on the lens and no nave distance display in the camera. All tried and true things that photographers and film makers scarceness.

And again, this would be a great feature if you COULD TURN IT OFF when you don't want it.

2010-02-16 | Helpful Votes: 7 | Rating: 1

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Panasonic 7-14mm f/4.0 Micro Four Thirds Lens for Panasonic Digital SLR Cameras

List Price: $1,099.95

Product Details Minimum Aperture F22 Aperture : F4.0 Micro Four Thirds mount 16 elements in 12groups (2 Aspherical lenses, 4 ED lenses)

Product Description

For Lumix G1 & GH1 Digital SLR Cameras / 16 elements in 12 groups (2 Aspherical lenses, 4 ED lenses) / f=7mm to 14mm (centred length) / 7 diaphragm blades Contrast AF system supportPrimarilyUtilizing a durable metal mount The optimally meant lens hood enables use even under strong sunlight Lens Structure - 16 elements in 12 groups (2 Aspherical lenses, 4 ED lenses) Micro Four Thirds mount Central Length - f=7mm to 14mm (35mm film camera equivalent 14mm to 28mm) Crack Type - 7 diaphragm blades / Circular aperture diaphragm Gap Range - F4.0 Minimum Aperture - F22 Closest Focusing Detachment - 0.25m / 0.8ft at all focal lengths Maximum Magnification - Approx. 0.08x / 0.15x (35mm veil camera equivalent) Diagonal Angle of View - 114 (W)~75 (T) Max. Diameter - 70mm / 2.76 inch All-embracing Length - Approx. 83.1mm / 3.27 inch (from the top of the lens edibles to the base side of the lens mount) Weight - Approx. 300g / 10.58oz Side dishes - Lens Cap, Lens Rear Cap, Lens Storage Bag

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Customer Reviews

The physical dilemma: this Panny or the Oly 9-18mm
Quite everyone is wondering the same thing as I did: The Panny 7-14mm, or Olympus m.zukio 9-18mm? Olympus M ED 9-18mm f/4.0-5.6 micro Four Thirds Lens for Olympus and Panasonic Micro Four Third Interchangeable Lens Digital Camera
So I bought both. While testing showed in broad daylight they are about the same, low light was interesting. First let's tak about the size.

When you see these two diminuitive lenses, you may think, I spent how much for this?? But this is one of a few cases where less categorically IS more. The Oly lens is about the size of a small jar of baby food, the Panny is probably a about the size of those partially cans of Coke. Both are so small/light (compared to the GH1 14-140mm) you may think you forgot the lens. GH1 feels like a toy, but it's very a powerful tool I can carry all day, no sweat.

These ultra-wides beg to be used indoors or to grab places like Times Square. Needless to say, you don't always get good lighting indoors. So give a leg up of the lens was a concern. I shot 200 photos in a high end hotel lobby--dim lights, wonderful artwork, walnut bars, you recall the place. I shot ISO100 and 400 in raw and on tripod w/ timer to ensure minimal alien influence.

Both WA lenses produced RW2's that were brighter than what I saw with the naked eye. Also, both are significantly sharper than the stock GH1 14-140mm lens, in in reality on par or better than just about any WA lens I have used. While both are pretty sharp lenses, I found the Olympus to be to a certain sharper in just about every test I ran. I was astonished I could see details on a wine bottle label 15 feet in another place in Adobe Bridge.

On balance, the Oly seemed to give me 1/2 stop more metering in same scene (dark tourist house lobby). As a result, I found the F4-5.6 of the Oly vs f4 of the Panny to not be significant. The Oly hunted slightly as it was focusing, but the photo betrayed no destruction of focus.

7mm vs 9mm on WA is very significant on m4/3, at least about a foot or so extra width on either side shooting down a 15' roomy entrance hall. If you must have maximum WA, stop reading, go with Panny, if you want slighty sharper pix, go with Oly. I have a feeling a good RAW workflow could largely equalize these two differences. As far as the 7-9mm range, objects painstaking to the lens will show the fisheye type curvature (not that bad), anything over 10 feet away will look catchy normal.

Oly screw-on filter nice, but not a must have, unless outdoors a lot. I also wish Oly included a lens hood.

Video out of both lenses gives you what you scantiness, amazing perspective. Slight up/downward angle induces some interesting distortion, candid on (level) with nothing near the lens looks almost widescreen anamorphic. The Panny might be a better determination for video, again the 7mm making a difference.

When researching my DSLR, one recurring post on message boards was how many missed a incentive because they didn't carry their too big/heavy DSLR around. So, size/weight largely led to my taking the gamble on the largely unproven m4/3 platform. Those of us who took a risk on m4/3 vs the traditional DSLR course are being validated by lenses such as these. Both are great lenses, but I went with the sharper Oly lens. I can still recommend the Panny if you beggary ultimate WA, as I doubt you will notice the slight softness without side by side comparison.

Finally, I offer a thankful thanks to both OLY/Panny. First by having a camera that is practical to easily carry and now by astonishing lenses such as these at a fraction of the rig and size and every bit as good as the DSLR for the average shooter. You both have succeeded in makin selection stitch difficult.

2010-07-20 (Fla) | Helpful Votes: 6 | Rating: 4

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excellent lens
This is a adroit lens. When traveling I found myself reaching for it more often than the longer zoom lens.

2010-06-26 (Bellingham, WA) | Helpful Votes: 0 | Rating: 5

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Supreme picture quqlity - only price is a problem
Very sound pictures and video, autofocus works quiet and fast. I'm only scare about front lens because there is not credible to use any UV/protection filter.

2010-05-29 | Helpful Votes: 0 | Rating: 5

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Grand ultrawide option for Micro 4/3
Others here have said it all. This is an with the exception of ultra wide for Micro 4/3. The extreme corners of the frame aren't wonderful sharp, so in that respect this lens isn't in the "elite" class of ultrawides (eg, Nikon 14-24), but it is a odd performer considering its very small size, focal length range, and aperture kind. I love mine and consider it a good buy. Some of my sample images taken with this lens are here: [...]

2010-04-19 | Amin Sabet (Boston, MA USA) | Helpful Votes: 2 | Rating: 5

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top-gash lens (very expensive though)
I hand-me-down this lens last weekend, primarily when shooting movies. No complaints other than the price. It's a very good lens and the trait is simply unmatched.

2010-04-14 | Anonymous (CA, USA) | Helpful Votes: 1 | Rating: 5

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Panasonic Lumix DMC-G2 12.1 MP Live MOS Interchangeable Lens Camera with 3-Inch Touch Screen LCD...

List Price: $799.00 Price: Too low to display

Product Details Touch-screen operation with 3-inch free-angle LCD and Contrast AF system 12.1-megapixel Live MOS sensor and Intelligent Resolution technology Includes Lumix G Vario 14-42mm/F3.5-5.6 ASPH./MEGA O.I.S. lens HD Movie in AVCHD Lite and HDMI compatibility featuring Viera Link

Product Description

The Panasonic LUMIX G2 is the happy's first system camera with touch-control shooting. Just touch the LCD to show the subject, and the LUMIX G2 focuses on it instantly. Choose from four AF modes (timetabled below) to match the conditions. You can also operate the auto focus and shutter discharge at the same time with just a touch, for a completely new way to shoot.

FEATURES:

•  AF Tracking - Border the screen, and the LUMIX G2 locks on and automatically "tracks" the subject as it moves, adjusting the hub and exposure settings for best results.
• Use Touch Operation in iA Vogue - In iA (Intelligent Auto) mode, simply touch the subject on the LCD and the LUMIX G2 unconsciously selects the optimal scene mode.
• Touch Operation Makes Guide Focusing Easier, Too - When you're in manual focus mode, touch an statue on the LCD and the LUMIX G2 shows you a blown-up view of that image instantly. This makes it easier to check a investigate that you've got a sharp focus.
• Adjust the Exposure Meter with a Touch - You can regulate the exposure compensation by sliding your finger on the aperture and shutter charge settings in the exposure meter shown on the LCD. The range in which appropriate revealing is not possible is shown in red, so you can intuitively grasp the corresponding aperture and shutter promptness combinations.
• Quick Menu for Instant Settings Just Abut the Screen - A touch is all it takes to make a variety of settings, including photo enormousness, ISO sensitivity and white balance. You spend less time fiddling with the camera and more heyday getting great shots.
• Touch-Operated Playback, Too - A choice of touch-control operations make playback quick, easygoing and more fun. For example, with Touch-Scroll P

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  Customer Reviews

  Kit lens unsuitable for video recordings
  I am returning my assistant replacement of Panasonic Lumix G2. Although I love the camera, I am extremely disappointed with the quality of the provided kit lens. I had hoped that the replacement cameras would descend upon with the lens from possibly another production butch and would perform better. As it turned out the second and third lens was together bad as the first one. As much as I am satisfied with the camera's performance for still photography, the kit lens is totally unusable for video recording because of the uproar generated while zooming, which is clearly detectible in the audio of the recording. In my case the noise was not generated by the bring into focus motor, as some people seem to have experienced, but it appears to be caused by mechanical internal rubbing of the lens essentials tubes and it is much louder than the focus motor noise. Adding to the problem is the jerkiness of the lens machinist when zooming, especially after 32mm, which results in uneven video recordings and makes them look worse then clumsy. I am very disappointed that Panasonic chose to insist to sell an otherwise superior camera with such an inferior lens. My hours of phone straw poll with Panasonic customer service did not offer any solution whatever. I wish it was possible to purchase the camera trunk only and then obtain a better lens separately. My recommendation is if you intend to use the camera also for video recording, be ready-to-serve to dish out some more money for a better lens.

  2010-08-19 | Helpful Votes: 4 | Rating: 2

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  Tremendous for a beginner like me!
  This is my first system camera, I've owned it for about two months. I'm a na mom with a young baby, and a point and shoot doesn't do it for me anymore, especially while taking photos of my elfin one who likes to run around and hide in dark spaces. This camera is just the ticket. It's lighter and smaller than my hubby's Olympus DSLR, so I am capable to lug it around with a diaper bag and a toddler in tow. I love tweaking the manual settings, and this camera is packed with it. The spruce up screen (and the dedicated quick menu button) is awesome. Very useful for making impatient adjustments, and with a subject that doesn't stay still, this comes in pretty handy. And I'm really loving the turn screen, perfect for self portraits and odd angle photography. And when the camera isn't being used, well-founded turn the screen inward so it's protected from scratches. The dedicated iA and movie buttons are uncommonly helpful too (although I never use iA myself, the rest of my family don't know how to use this camera and that's where the iA button comes in). I'm very satisfied with the images this camera produces. I've justified recently learned to tweak it enough to produce sharp, crisp, bright and vibrant images that sometimes I seldom need to do any post processing.
  I don't mind it not having an in-camera stabilization.. aside from the kit lens, the only other lens I use it with is the Panasonic LUMIX G 20mm f/1.7 Aspherical Pancake Lens for Micro Four Thirds Interchangeable Lens Cameras that lacks picture stabilization, but I hardly get any blurred photos because that particular lens is very fast. I'm not so sure how this camera performs with other lenses.
  
  Two things that I over may be improved:
  1. The lens mount does feel plasticky, compared to other DSLRs I've on loan, but it seems pretty sturdy.
  2. Above ISO 800, I see a lot of noise.
  
  If you are a mom like me looking to take great pictures of your kids, and like to concoction around with manual settings (because this camera is complicated -- at least from a beginner's perspective), I'm pretty foolproof this camera will suit your needs, and I highly recommend it.

  2010-07-16 | Helpful Votes: 5 | Rating: 5

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  A joy to use but it could be improved
  I've had the Panasonic DMC-G2 for over a month. It's a enjoyment to use, I'm happy with it, but it could be better. I had a big, heavy 35mm SLR that I got tired of lugging around and going out of town to develop mist. I wanted to replace it with a compact, light weight camera with a built-in, live-representation EVF, and interchangeable lenses, for under $1,000, and I found it all in the G2. Because it's small and light I can carry it for hours without getting overused. The auto focus is quick, which surprised me because I heard M4/3rds cameras focus slowly. The EVF is distinguished and is good for framing pictures accurately and for when the sunlight makes it hard to see the LCD. The swiveling LCD enables me to fill pictures at odd angles; I can even turn it outward and forward to take a self-portrait. I can move the focus box anywhere in the edging, increasing it or decreasing it in size, by using either the touch screen or buttons on the back. And with an adapter I can use my old Nikon lenses in instructions focus. Each lens weighs at least twice what the camera does (a rough estimate), but I don't thinking remember because Nikon has a wider choice of lenses than are available for M4/3rds cameras at this time.
  
  Now, as to why it could be better.
  1. It has the same sensor as the one in the G1, not the improved sensor in the GH1.
  2. The kit zoom isn't as proper as the G1's. The G2 has a 14-42mm 3x zoom with a cheap plastic mount, downgraded from the G1's 14-45mm 3.2x zoom with a more lasting metal mount. And I wish the G2 were available with the 20mm f/1.7 lens that is an option for the GF1.
  3. It doesn't have in stiff image stabilization, as the Olympus M4/3rds cameras do, making it hard to take pictures with lenses from other manufacturers that don't an in lens stabilizer.
  
  But even without the improvements I mentioned this is a wonderful petty camera that I hope to have for years.

  2010-07-15 (California) | Helpful Votes: 6 | Rating: 4

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  Trouble's a good microphone.
  A appealing nice camera, but the Panasonic external mic, which have to buy separately, isn't all that great. Anyone have a recommendation?

  2010-07-09 | molly flogger | Helpful Votes: 1 | Rating: 4

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  Hold $1!!!!
  Am interested in buying the Panasonic Lumix DMC-G2. The inventory price is $799.99. You can't see Amazon's price until you add it to your cart.
  
  Cart price is $798.99
  
  That's right...$798.99. You put away a whole dollar. $1
  
  $1 or 1%.
  
  awesome
  
  

  2010-07-09 | Mersault (Hoboken, NJ) | Helpful Votes: 1 | Rating: 5

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Olympus Zuiko 70-300mm f/4.0-5.6 ED Lens for Olympus and Panasonic Standard Four Thirds Digital...

List Price: $479.99 Price: $300.59 You Save: $179.40 (37%)

Product Details 3 ED lens elements 140mm-600mm equivalent Zoom lens for all Four Thirds cameras. Includes, ED 70-300mm F4.0/5.6 Lens, Front and Rear Lens Cap, Lens Hood, instructions, and registration card.

Product Description

OLYMPUS 261057 Zuiko Digital 70–300mm f/4.0–5.6 ED Lens

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Oblation a field of view to 600mm (35mm equivalent), the high-mobility Olympus Zuiko 70-300mm wonderful-telephoto lens is an ideal choice for sports, nature, and other types of big-distance photography. The lens incorporates three extra-low-dispersion (ED) lens elements, which pool to offer a sharper, higher-contrast imaging performance, The lens's Four-Thirds system, meanwhile, ensures that you don't trifle away your macro or super-telephoto versatility when you switch to a different camera corps. The lens even supports tele-macro photography thanks to its 1x aggrandizement (35mm equivalent).

Specifications

• Focal length: 70-300mm
• Highest aperture: f/4 to f/5.6
• Lens construction: 14 elements in 10 groups
• Bend of view: 18 to 4.1 degrees
• Closest focusing footage: 3.14 feet
• Maximum image magnification: 0.5x
• Run size: 58mm
• Dimensions: 3.14 inches in diameter and 5 inches wish
• Weight: 21.9 ounces
• Warranty: 1 year

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Customer Reviews

Olympus Zoom Lens
I have only had this a butt in fail time, so I haven't used it much. Everything seems OK.

2010-08-29 | Helpful Votes: 0 | Rating: 4

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Downside
It gives mind-blowing quality images but i have taken it 2 times to the beach, i use it on a dmc g1, the only problem is that it doesn`t work well on the bank cause the moisture gets in the way, so i had to use my lumix 200mm, however in the city you can use it and like i said, the rank crisp images you can take are superb.

2010-08-26 | Helpful Votes: 0 | Rating: 4

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Astounding value, pure performer on M4/3
This is Olympus's "budget" telephoto lens for the 4/3 system. It's manifestly entry level and priced accordingly. And yet... I just can't help but marvel at its effectuation, on both my DSLR and on my Pen.

First off, if you own a modern DSLR or a M4/3 body, be sure to update the lens software only away, since only the more recent firmware revision supports contrast detection AF. I bought from a 3rd celebration seller here on Amazon, and the lens had firmware v 1.1 when I received it.

The difference between 1.1 and 1.3 on my E-P2 was breathtaking. The Pens will AF any 4/3 lens, even if it doesn't support CDAF natively, but using reading 1.1 the performance was relatively poor. AF times took quite a while, and it hunted a beneficent bit. Switching to 1.3 made a world of difference, and all of a sudden this thing became an impressively fast focuser. On the E-P2 nave is not quite as speedy as the Panasonic 45-200mm f/4.0-5.6, and it's *much* louder than that lens, but considering its length I find it entirely satisfactory.

This is actually a very, very sharp lens, especially when you consider the price. I've yet to do any kind of meticulous study, but it performs much better than I would expect for a value zoom. Obviously it's slow and extended, so you really have to use good technique to get good results, but when you hit focus and your shutter speeds are immorally enough the results are very impressive indeed. Optically, I consider it a cut above the aforementioned Panasonic 45-200mm, which does have some weakness on the lengthy end.

So, for a M4/3 shooter, which lens is the better choice? I think it mostly depends on your priorities. The 70-300mm here is longer and seems to be the best lens optically, but that doesn't really give you the whole picture. AF on the PL 45-200mm is better and near unspeaking, making it a much, much better choice for video. Not to mention, the PL 45-200 comes in a much smaller package deal, so it's more likely to be with you when you need it and it certainly looks more appropriate on a m4/3 body.

If I had to choose only one for my E-P2, I have in mind I'd take the 45-200mm, despite the fact that the 70-300mm is a better piece of glass. Luckily, I don't have to pick out, so they both earn a spot in my collection.

2010-08-23 | Helpful Votes: 0 | Rating: 4

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Very faultless lens
This is an but for zoom lens that takes high quality photos. I do not use a tripod with it and have no problems getting on the nose sharply pictures with it. I sold my 40-150 because I never use it now.

2010-08-05 (Boston) | Helpful Votes: 0 | Rating: 5

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NO Avail
This jotting did not work with my Panasonic as it says above. In addition when i went to return it they but me under the category that the costumer did not like the matter so that they could take out 10% of the return, this meaning i did not get my full money back!

2010-07-31 | Helpful Votes: 0 | Rating: 1

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Panasonic Lumix DMC-G1 12.1MP Micro Four Thirds Interchangeable Lens Digital Camera with Lumix G...

List Price: $799.00 Price: $499.00 You Save: $300.00 (38%)

Product Details Capture images to SD/SDHC/Multimedia cards (not included) 12.1-megapixel 4/3-type MOS sensor; world's first Micro Four Thirds camera Live View Finder and bright 460,000-dot resolution, 3.0-inch LCD New Contrast AF (Auto Focus) function; Face Detection and Intelligent Auto (iA) mode

Product Description

The LUMIX G1 Ultra-Close Digital Interchangeable Lens camera is as easy to use as a compact digital camera. It's a new-initiation digital interchangeable lens camera that does away with the mirror box and complies with the new Micro Four Thirds System measure. It also features Full-time Live View for compact digital camera shooting informality and iA Intelligent Auto) for beautiful photos with point-and-shoot unaffectedness. In short, the G1 writes an entirely new chapter in the evolution of the digital interchangeable lens camera.

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Customer Reviews

not to much the worse for wear
I bought this as an variant to the larger bulkier DSLR cameras. Was not really looking for a micro 4/3 epitome camera just one that was a step above point and shoot and without the annoying heft of the rest of the DSLR make available. I found the perfect camera with the DMC-G1. It is built rock solid. Has a great screen that swings out and rotates to unblocked and then close to protect the screen. Also helps when taking low down macro shots or when holding the camera up expensive over a crowd.

The picture quality is terrific. The "iA" or Intelligent Automatic mode is great when you do not want like adjusting settings or when you pass the camera to a lesser techno-savvy cocker. I am not a good photographer at all but this thing seems to make most of my shots look I must know what I am doing. To be unconstrained I have been getting great compliments on my pictures, however, I am not doing anything different than when I used my old crappy camera. If upgrading from a remind emphasize and shoot this camera will make you want to study how to improve your skills. I found myself many a night up late on [...] culture new tips and tricks.

This camera comes with some pretty good software also. "PhotoFunStudio" to sense and manage and "Silky-pix" to optimize and develop your RAW images. Yes this camera does shoot in RAW design as well as JPEG. It takes some practice to get good at Silky-pix but you can do some pretty cool stuff with it.

Block out my flickr page to view photos taken with my G1.

[...]

Overall VERY happy with my choice. significant price on amazon too.

2010-08-25 | Helpful Votes: 0 | Rating: 5

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Very satisfied thus far
I have been shooting with Panasonic's FZ superzooms (FZ20, FZ28) and have been satisfied enough with the photos to exhibit them locally. Having decided to begin doing wedding photography and having found the G1 kit and the 45-200 zoom on marketing, I decided to purchase them for that purpose. In my experience the Panasonics produce very flattering portraits, but can also be adjusted for increased disparity.

I took the G1 with me to Alaska this month to put it to the test. I shot in aperture mode exclusively using the "benchmark film" setting and exposure auto-bracketing. My ISO settings varied between 100 and 400.

All of the shots of my traveling companions look adroit. Alaska summers are mostly cloudy, resulting in dull pictures before editing; however, the photos cleaned up nicely with nominal editing. The photos show no evidence of digital noise and far less clipping of highlights than my FZ28.

Pros: The camera powers up very swiftly and the lenses zoom quicly and smoothly. With the kit lens I was able to hand hold shots at shutter give a leg up 1/10" and at 1/40" with the 45-200 even on the water (traveling at slow speeds). The OIS system more than compensates for the kind of slow lenses. The camera was easy on the battery; I purchased one spare, which was enough, but I also used the viewfinder rather than the LCD and turned off the features I don't use. The G1 is light-hearted and small but feels nice in the hand. It is good in low light; I used the flash less than ten times. I tainted the lenses over and over with no sign of dust on the sensor. The camera is equipped to accomodate a hot-shoe sign. I was able to turn off the auto-focus assist lamp and didn't miss it.

Cons: The electronic viewfinder shows bawling when being used near other electronic equipment and in low light, which is not a problem with my FZ 20 or 28. The built-in sprint is minimally useful, but then it's rarely needed.

Before digital photography I spent 20 years shooting with an Olympus OM10 and have sorely missed it after weating it and the lenses out. I for good feel completely at home with this camera; I just ignore the features I don't use. This is what I've been waiting for.

2010-08-19 | Helpful Votes: 0 | Rating: 5

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WHAT A CAMERA!
CAMERA THAT I Actually WANTED! I WAITED FOR IT TO BE AVAILABLE THROUGH AMAZON!
AND FINALLY, I HAVE IT! DELIVERED AS PROMISED, PROMPTLY, AND WITH ALL THE In circulation SOFTWARE
VERSIONS...YES, I LOVE IT!

2010-08-17 | Helpful Votes: 0 | Rating: 5

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Marvellous Pictures
In the figure range of this camera, I do not believe anyone can top it. I especially like the different aspect ratios that are provided, features not found in any other camera in this head that I know of. I take a lot of scenery shots and the 16x9 aspect ratio is perfect. I also use that ratio for panoramic shots, works clever!! I also purchased the 45~200mm lens, there again was quite happy with it, really reaches out there, and the firmness is very good. I get good results, hand held, clear out to the 200mm range!

I own a Lumix FZ-28, so wisdom this camera was a snap. Most of the features are very similar.

In summary in the price range of this camera it is a very high-mindedness choice. I'm sure there are cameras that will take better pictures, but you are going to pay a whole lot more!! The only real nigger in the woodpile I can think of is there are not many choice's for lens.

2010-08-14 | Helpful Votes: 0 | Rating: 5

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Still not steady.
I am a pro photographer who uses nikon cameras, but i always like to carry a small light camera around with me at all times. For about a year and a partly that has been a panasonic lx-3. I love the lx-3, especially the fast wide lens, but like all facet and shoots it has it's limitations - the biggest one is the tiny sensor. I have been watching the parade of micro 4/3 cameras and figured that the g1 would be a good replacement for the lx-3. It has everything that i was looking for in a replacement - much larger measurements sensor, interchangeable lens, articulating lcd and while it's larger than the lx-3 it's still much smaller than a full size dslr (nikon d200).

After having it for about a month and using it as my bear everywhere camera i have mixed feelings about the camera. There is definitely things to like about it but there are also things that i have a verified problem with. It's dynamic range is not as large as a dslr, especially in the highlights and if i use the multi metering ornament it will blow out the highlights quite often. Another let down is it's overall speed, i was looking forward to something that would be closer to my d200, but unfortunately it's no faster than an lx-3, except the cynosure clear speed which is much faster than any point and shoot.

I can get over the speed and with a fast card it's not really that bad, but the metering system is something that categorically annoys me. Now, i frequently had to adjust the exposure compensation on my lx-3 but it was usually overexposing it to open up the shadows. Perchance i'm just not used to metering systems that have a tendency to overexpose but i find it annoying and really debated returning the camera and may have if i hadn't swamped out the registration card (doh!). I am still on the fence and may end up selling it but for now i am using it (with an almost constant use of exposure recompense and sometimes spot meter and ae lock) and it's getting easier as i get a bit more used to the quirks of this camera, but i have not corrupt my search for the perfect (for me) carry everywhere camera.

2010-08-09 (nowhere zen nj) | Helpful Votes: 5 | Rating: 3

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