Lumix G2 first impressions

[Bamboopictures]

Just got my hands on the Lumix G2 micro4/3 camera from Cathay Photos. Paid $1165 for body and kit lens(14-42mm). Dived straight into the movie mode and these are my first impressions:

Pros: Very easy to use! Handling is a joy with rotating LCD. Track focusing is very intuitive; locks on very well to subject if there are no sudden camera movements, no breathing. Touchscreen is very responsive; tap subject to focus!

Cons: Bokeh is so-so only with kit lens. No manual adjustment for ISO,shutter speed and aperture; but can get desired effect with programme modes. Manual has only 4 pages dedicated to video recording.

Verdict: track focusing definitely a game changer. Good precusor to AG-AF100. Inspires confidence in the micro4/3 category. Will be buying the faster pancake and the Leica 45mm prime to get shallower DOF AND autofocusing to boot!

 

[Bamboopictures]

I've been playing around with Final Cut Pro to find the best settings
for editing G2 Motion JPEG footages. I struck gold with FCP's
DVCPRO HD 720p30 preset. On my G5, I got orange status unlimited RT
meaning all filters,transitions and layers can be displayed but
playback will drop frames (unless rendered.) That means editing as
usual and then a final render to desired output.
Practically same workflow as HPX170/200 and P2 cards for 1/10th the cost!