So we know what a DSLR is, we know what a P&S is, but what exactly do we call those new little cameras with the removable lenses? Is it an “Electronic Viewfinder Interchangeable Lens” camera? Well, CNET is asking just that question, and you can contribute to their poll if you’d like. Or hang out with us cool kids.
The writer does raise an interesting point, what exactly do we call the new generation of cameras? How exactly do you classify a camera like the Panasonic GF1, or the GH1? They aren’t exactly point and shoot, but they aren’t DLSRs either. Make your contribution to the democratic process (it’s ok, you can still vote if you’re a felon) and pick the new name and acronym.
Wow, dude, at least get DSLR right. The Micro Four Thirds are rightly-called Micro Four Thirds.
I don’t care what it’s called, I want one. I heard about these cameras, but it would be the perfect camera to take on a vacation. I always have trouble fumbling around with my dslr, and now I’m at the point where I don’t even want to bring it with me on vacations.
I just un-boxed my GF1.
Rule one: The best camera is the one you have with you. For most of us non-professional picture taking freaks, a DSLR is too big to carry all the time, and our compacts won’t meet our skill level.
I tested the EP1 and the GF1 side by side and chose the GF1, because of it’s more sturdy construction and the 20mm is fast at 1.7 (My compact is a Leica (Dlux-3). Leica partners with Panasonic so I’m already familiar with the tech and functionalities.
So here’s the thing; at a little over 2x the size of a compact and about 1/3rd the size and weight of D5 I will carry this camera all the time in my bag.
The zoom 14-45mm zoom lens it came with is passable, but the 20mm 1.7 is insanely good! Finally depth of field from a very reasonably priced camera. (performance is around 80% of a full frame sensor DSLR which is far greater than even a Canon G10.
Panasonic is betting on this format in a big way. I think they’ll win. For two reasons: 1.) They’ve listened to the customer and given us more than we expected and 2.) They’ve executed a product that we can and will want to take with us everywhere we go.