First Look: Lumix DMC-GX7

Lumix DMC-GX7 Micro Four-Thirds Camera

Now, this is a camera I can warm up to…

At first glance, I like what I see; this could very well be the modern digital rangefinder.

The EVF actually has greater resolution than the LCD screen, which is exactly how it should be. And, it’s on the left. A stylish yet practical body design which is not too retro, and made of die-cast magnesium make it solid. Real strap lugs set it apart. A 28-84mm range at f/3.5-5.6 is ample without being excessive.

ISO 25,600 in an MFT sensor? Hmm. That remains to be seen. But certainly this should easily outperform a 1/1.7" sensor in a body about the same physical size.

Mirrorless is fine as long as there’s a viewfinder to go with it, even if only an EVF. Mirrorless cameras without viewfinders shouldn’t be classified as such. Every digital camera that’s not an SLR is mirrorless. The whole point of the mirror is to enable the viewfinder.

Lumix DMC-GM1: Not worthy of the Mirrorless Moniker.

The DMC-GM1 is also a nice offering. No viewfinder though, so not mirrorless. No flash hot shoe either, so no ability to add an external viewfinder. That’s two strikes. Isn’t it ironic that the GX7, which does’t need an external viewfinder has the ability to mount one, and the GM1 which does need it doesn’t. How can designers fail so often and still be employed? Amazing.

The GX7 is a MILC; Mirrorless Interchangeable Lens Camera. The GM1 is a DILC; a Digital Interchangeable Lens Camera. Let’s get it right.