The Panasonic GH2: A Multi-Layered Camera of Diverse Might

Introduction

Introduction

The Panasonic GH1 was the second-ever Micro Four Thirds (MFT) camera when it was released early 2009 and the first MFT camera to record full HD video. Amongst Panasonic's MFT stable, the GH series is defined as the flagship line, as well as its star model for shooting video.

Even though the Canon 5D Mark II was already making HD DSLR waves from 2008, the GH1 was remarkable for being the first camera with an interchangeable lens to have auto-focus while shooting video. And because it was designed without the classical DSLR mirror, it was small – smaller than HD DSLR cameras.

Now what's new with the GH2? Under the hood, the biggest changes are its ability to shoot at true 50 frames per second compared to the GH1's 25fps (or 60fps for the NTSC version). A new sensor increases the megapixel count from 12MP to 16MP, and also expands the upper ISO limit from ISO3200 to ISO12800. The LCD screen is now touch-screen, like the GF2 before it.

Now that you've an idea of the GH2's positioning and improvements, it's time we take an even closer look at it and scrutinize its performance.