lumix

275/365

Since starting this project the number one question I get asked is “What kind of camera do you use?”. I can’t tell you how many emails/comments/questions I’ve answered with this question but I’ll say it’s more than 3

Up until about a month ago – I’d been shooting this entire project on a DSLR (a Canon 30D). The Canon was given to me by my photographer sister and though it still worked well – it was getting older. I was very nervous that it would die before the project ended as it kept giving me ‘error 99′ messages and would stop shooting while I was using it! I was getting stressed out that the 30D would cark it and leave me stranded unable to finish the project. With much convincing Errol agreed to buying a new camera and I had planned on a Canon 7D. HOWEVER! I ended up going down an entirely different (and significantly cheaper) route and bought a Panasonic Lumix GF1.

I felt a little scared venturing into unknown waters (otherwise known as the land beyond Canon) but I am here today to tell you that there is life after Canon! The Lumix is a new breed of camera, an EVIL! I have a feeling more and more people with be converting to the ‘dark side’.

Over the last month I’ve been developing a nice relationship with my Lumix. We started out a bit rocky as he wasn’t like  my ‘ex’ and he didn’t work exactly the way I expected him to. During the first week I was convinced I’d made a mistake. With  lots of communication (he provided me with an indepth manual!) and some tender loving we got past our differences and things are warming up around here. Which is good of course, considering he’s with me nearly 24/7.

For those of you who are looking at buying a camera to capture your babies I can recommend this to you!

A few thoughts;

Size:

The thing I liked best about this camera (and especially for this project) is that I was sick of lugging my DSLR with me. My Canon weighed 1.5kg and added a significant weight to my handbag/nappybag/camera bag. Before I started this project I avoided going out with my DSLR as it was cumbersome to have to bring an extra bag (or an oversized handbag) just for my camera. This little Lumix can fit in a large pocket and easily fits in all my handbags. He weighs next to nothing compared to my DSLR.

Less obvious is how nice having a ‘small’ camera is. Pulling a DLSR out of your bag is rather intimidating to people and often makes for less natural photos. The Lumix is less ‘professional’ looking and doesn’t seem quite so scary when you’re putting it into people’s faces. I’ve also managed some sneaky photography with it which I would never have got away with using my 30D

Price:

With lens he was less than half the price of what I was looking at for a 7d. Need I say more?

Quality:

For a tiny camera – I am amazed with the quality that comes off this little thing! It’s just as good as my DSLR, if not better. It came with a 20mm 1.7 which is beauuuuutiful. That lens alone for my 30d would have cost me an arm and a leg! I am in love with the wide angle and depth of field!

Video function:

Like the new DSLR’s (but unlike my old 30d) the Lumix has a HD video function with delivers gorgeous film with auto focus at the touch of one button! It’s great when I am taking a photo and something sweet is unfolding between the two to be able to switch straight to video.

So yes, if you’re in the market for a new camera for family photos – this could be for you! Here ends my impromptu unprofessional review