A Review Of The Panasonic DMC-GX8 Micro Four Thirds Camera
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- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 30 ก.ย. 2024
- A review and test of the Panasonic DMC-GX8 Micro Four Thirds Compact System Camera Camera - the Leica you never had?
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Still rocking my GX8 after many years of reliable use, thanks primarily to this review. You are sorely missed David. RIP.
Absolutely. My go to for MFT related stuff.
Still sounds like a great camera
I came here to say thanks to the late, great Mr Thorpe. I bought this camera thanks to this excellent review.
Seven years have passed, and the GX8 is still a great camera. Panasonic got it right back then, and it is still a camera worth using in 2023.
Is shutter shock real issue like people said?
@@evernam993m8I've not experienced it with my GX8. I've owned it for six years.
@@evernam993m8No.
@@evernam993m8 No its fixed with firmware update and its also severely exaggerated.
Just bought a gx8 and my full frame friends love it. Form and function on it is the best. Its not big its the perfect size. The flip up evf is so useful and not a gimmick. In 2022 id buy this all day. Gx85 and gx9 dont come close. This has weatherproofing!
Finally! A quippy and didactic look at this camera with _examples_ of "this is wtf I'm talking about" as opposed to the technical dribble I can Google myself. Keep it up-please.
I intend to keep it up, Ralph and I'm glad you enjoy it!
Your profile picture is Hotline Miami! I like that game!
I googled “wtf”. It seems to mean “what”. Just in case others might be wondering...
Good stuff David. I've been using two GX8's for commissions and personal assignments. Been very happy with the results and my clients love the work as well.
+Giulio Sciorio Thanks Giulio - two of them eh? You'll have made a lot of people jealous :-) Although it shouldn't be important, clients do like to see their photographer using a a'professional' camera' and the GX8 certainly looks the part.
@@DavidThorpeMFT Thousands of years later and I think I want to buy it to replace an aging GX7, although I would want to get a G9 I can't justify it's price for me a non photographer thoughts?, Is just me probably wanting to justify my lack off technique lol with a newer body, or will it be wiser to just invest in glass (I do not own any fast lens besides the 12mm2.0 and 25mm1.7
@@emudojo Interesting l'm considering either a GX8, GX9 or Pen-F as a second M43 body. I already use and enjoy a G9. I'm looking for a street camera to use with my Panasonic 15mm f1.7.
@@peterlemke3468 HI Peter! I'm looking for a second M43 body (my primary is EM1 Mark II) and I'm considering the GX8 or the Pen-f...which did you get and why??
I want gx9 in gx8 body
Interesting remark - I think many people would like such a camera.
Thanks David, I love your reviews, they don't age. RIP. Ross
daive . can you tell us about
photojournalism ?
like pro and con
you're experience +++
Thank you for such a detailed review +DavidThorpe, you actually helped me to decide on a GX8. I'm getting it as a companion to my new FZ2000 since I'll be filming interviews, some outdoor footage (great that GX8 is weather sealed) and overall as my B camera, smaller and easier to carry with me every day. Cheers!
Fabulous review. I decided to purchase second hand on the basis of this.
love your reviews, i'm trying to find a camera I can match up with my jvc gy-ls300 (M4/3). I want it to have 4k capability and be able to use rokinon m4/3 lens. this might be a good option with out breaking the bank.
That's quite a superb review, I much enjoyed listening. Particularly like the slide-show style - instead of being forced to look at some geezer's punim for too long - and intelligent wording. Hope you'll be doing the GX80/ 85 sometime soon.
+Stef Hendrik Glad you like the videos, thanks Stef! I did put my punim on screen but I got too many love letters and marriage proposals from women all over the world, so I stopped :-) New word for me punim, I'll remember that one. I have a GX80 on order so that's in hand. Don't know when it will be available but I'm looking forward to it.
absolutely brilliant review - truly a poet photographer - a very rare breed.
+Peter Sellmer Thanks Peter. If I'm a rare breed, I hope that doesn't mean I am endangered too :-)
Is it true that panasonic is going to discontinue this camera? The Pen F died, the GX8 is apparently dying, the new cameras of the GX series are a setback, Olympus om-d e-m10 mark III without mic port and without full articulade screen, fujifilm takes out an X-T100 with toy features. Nobody understands that many people want versatile cameras, with good features in small bodies and stylish?
I don't know if Panasonic plan to continue the GX8 but I do know that a lot pf photographers will miss it. I was surprised the Pen F was being continued, though I can see that the high price contributed to that. Not so the GX8. Maybe camera sales are dropping and makers are hollowing out production to cheaper, simpler cameras and high end expensive ones with nothing in the middle. I hope not/
Just watched this now, held in high regard! Absolutely one to consider now!
Vader caught me off guard. Lol.
I finally bought the GX8, and after about a month using it, there's quite a lot of small little things that really improved the overall experience of using the GX8 compared to the GX7. The grip, the custom buttons, the LCD screen, the viewfinder, the dials, the buttons, the overall handling, and everything else about this camera make so much sense for me. It inspires me to learn about video too and now I've been doing some video projects too with the camera.
I "baptized" the camera by taking it into a concert, with the concert pictures that you shared in my mind. It didn't disappoint at all, the pictures at ISO 3200 were just amazingly clean and sharp, just like your concert pictures.
The 20MP doesn't make too much improvement by default. But on the same line as what you said, when I downsized my images, they were noticeably sharper and cleaner than GX7's images. To add to your review, the E-Shutter doesn't produce banding anymore under the same lighting condition when compared to GX7's E-Shutter, although as you explained the jello effect is still present.
I still don't like the price, but here where I live it's a bit cheaper than the E-M5 Mark II or the E-M1, so it's the best value for the money for this price range. Thanks once again for your excellent review.
+bajigurwedangronde Thanks for that and the interesting observations. I agree with everything you say and I'm interested to learn that the banding is gone with the e-shutter. I also agree about the price which makes me think that Panasonic's decision to sell both cameras is a good one.
Great review David , the only trouble is with your reviews is that they cost me lots of money. Ive now sold all of my Nikon gear and have gone compleatley over to the 4/3 system.
Camera EM1D, Lenses 7/14, 12/40, 40/150 with converter, and the 75 mm which is unbelievable the sharpest of them all. This DMC- GX8 is on my wish list for a good second camera.
Micro 4/3 is a great system and very light for traveling with. Keep up the great reviews David.
Regards Mick
+Misha crowe Thanks, Mick!. You certainly have gone for MFT in a big way. Great outfit you have there.
What a lovely, calm, even review :-) Thank you.
Damn you David!!! I've got a G7 now wondering if I need a GX8 lol. Great vids and love your dry humour.
+Ben Lister Thanks Ben!
Let me know I have the same dilemma exactly the same ....and i dont know
Fantastic and well thought review. Thank you!
+CafeKraft I like the 'well thought out' - I sit down and work through my thoughts on a camera after a lot of use with it and 'well thought out' is exactly my aim. It's nice when it is noticed - thanks!
+David Thorpe gffffgff
2024 and just bought this camera, what a beautifully crafted and performance packed camera. SUPER HAPPPY!
My dream is that Canon introduces an APS-C version of the GX8. I'm not holding my breath though.
i have the gx8 & g7 both fantastic, the only gripe with the gx8 is the 2.5mm mic jack! also just a point to note, my olly 40-150 2.8 'pro' lens has dies after just 5 months, i await to see what olympus have to say!!
Harry bunn, hope We also going to see some final thoughts from you :)
+Harry Bunn (GRVOTV) I don't know why they use that small jack, since there is room for an extra 1mm. I'm surprised about the Olympus zoom but it is (hopefully) a one -off. At least it is still under warranty.
well look on the bright side, the gx7 has no mic input at all!
+Marcus Nixon Not much of a bright side to those of us who own several mics with the standard 3.5mm plug. Just what we need - a 3.5mm to 2.5mm dangling around
might you get gx9 with 5 axis body dude
Hello David! Your friend across the pond here in Utah. Brilliant review. I was wondering when you would add your Vader voice to the GX8 reviews! I was curious about the camera and rented it for a couple of days. We visited the Grand Escalante in the southern part of Utah which is gorgeous. I was shooting with the 8 and the GX7 simultaneously. What I found was I loved the ergonomics of the 8, the weight to me was fine. The EVF was a big upgrade over the 7. Focus, notably faster and the 4K mode, when I figured it out was great. Worked the images in LR 6 and I saw a slight improvement over the 7, not much. I've shot with everything since the G1 and I see this camera as a great companion to the GX7. I still love my GX7 and will keep it. I will sell my GH2/GH3 and a lens so I can buy the GX8.
+Mark Seawell Ho mark. Yes, as I said, the IQ is only marginally better than the GX7 but that is pretty good given the increased pixel count. GX7 and GX8 would make a very good pairing and ideal for travel photography.
David Thorpe Indeed. I this is a lovely camera and will definitely buy it!
David - Thank you for your generosity in offering these reviews. I enjoy your technical expertise and your capacity to be so clear, concise and artful in your communication. You''re my go-to source for wise and thoughtful here.
That's good to hear and thanks for it, Jonathan!
Thank you again for sharing your thoughts David. I loved the Lord Vader sound clip, super cool and it made literally laugh out loud. I've been looking forward to your GX8 review, and now I may just go out and buy one. Panasonic should hire you!
i dont mean to be so off topic but does someone know of a tool to log back into an Instagram account..?
I somehow lost the account password. I would appreciate any tricks you can give me!
@Alexis Dante Instablaster =)
"..what I didn't like was the Leicas that Leica made." perfect. lol!
:-)
Well David, I am currently deciding between the Lumix GX8 and the OM-D EM-5 Mk. II, but I think the EM-5 Mk. II wins it, based on my needs and on the image stabilisation, especially for video, which the GX8, disappointingly, doesn't have, EM-5 IBIS shown here: th-cam.com/video/JQgIiZeksFI/w-d-xo.html
I am not quite sure about the trustworthiness of this test between the GX8 and the EM-5 stabilisation comparison - a Panasonic employee?
Ok, the shortcoming of the EM-5 is the short battery life and need to buy a separate handgrip. I would like to do more video, but I don't need 4K, at least for another 1-2 years. Yet, I hear that the GX8 does not have the battery life of the GH3 and GH4.
The prices of both cameras on eBay are almost the same, especially with the added price of the hand grip.
So, my priorities are taking sharp photos with good colour rendition and shooting video less than I take photos. Having IBIS (I have a few Olympus lenses as well as Lumix and one Voigtlander manual) for photo and video is ideal for me. The high resolution feature is a bonus too. The flip-out screen and touch screen are things that I enjoy on my GH3 so I'd get those too on the EM-5.
Flash? Well, the EM-5 has hotshoe so my flash options are supported via a 3rd party flash trigger for my flash(es).
The common genres I take are landscapes, portraits and street photography, macro rarely (I do not have a macro lens nor ring flash).
So, I am overlooking something? Is there something I've missed? I hope not as I'd love a go at the EM-5 and think it's a better investment for my needs over the new 20mp GX8.
I'd be happy to hear your views. Thank you.
+BobToms100 The image stabilization of the GX8 isn't as good as the E-M5ll. However, combined with the stabilization of the lens, it's about the same. And of course with a Panasonic lens you have full stabilization, lens and digital. The E-M5ll sounds a better bet for you. The only reason don't use mine is the menu and body controls which I find myself disabling rather than keep altering things unintentionally. For me the overall experience of using a camera is more important than technical considerations. If I enjoy a camera I use it. If not I don't. Purely personal, of course.
Wonderful review - I've just purchased it based on your recommendation. I only have Olympus lenses at this point, so I'm glad that it has in-built stabilization, even if it's not at the level of the E-M5 Mark II. And the autofocus is faster than any other camera I've used.
Hi Tyrone - yes it's a pretty stunning all rounder. Glad you liked the review.
Love your reviews, detailed, well explained and very informative.
Great to listen and certainly the best micro 4/3 channel on youtube
Regards and a happy new year for you and your family.
Subscribed.
+João Lopes Thanks for letting me know that, Joao. I really appreciate it. Happy new year to you and yours too!
Hi David, excellent review and very informative. I was a Leica rangefinder camera owner who loved my Leicas but now welcome our new digital overlords. At the moment I am shooting more video than stills so the GH4 is the thing, but I do pine for a Leica-like rangefinder-style form factor and the GX8 may be the one for me, for MFT format at least. I would love to create a practice combining making documentaries with shooting documentary-style photographs and perhaps the best current combo would be the GX8 with a GH4 and maybe a GH5 (especially if it has great stabilization).
+angelaERDE I somehow doubt the GH5 will have great stabilization because the 4K generates so much heat. But makers seem to be doing technical miracles now, so who what do I know? One of my best photographer friends always had Leicas and he loved using them as much as I didn't. I think that apart from a few specialist applications like macro, manual focus, rangefinder or not, is becoming redundant because the he auto is so fast and accurate on these latest cameras. I have a little 12-32mm lens which doesn't have a focusing ring and I have yet to miss it.
One Leica thing I did really love was the gorgeous engineering and build quality. Like the Hasseblad, that German engineering made the cameras sexy, somehow.
Another fantastic review, David. The most thoughtful review I've seen on the GX8 so far. You've given me a different perspective on this camera. Now, do I buy a GX8, or wait for the upgraded EM-1. Hmm.
+Dustinrhoades Thanks very much. Hmmm indeed! The GX8 isn't cheap but by the time a new Olympus comes up it will have come down in price. Trouble is there's no way of knowing how much an E-M2(?) will be or when it will come out. Not soon, I would have thought since Olympus are just about to upgrade the firmware of the E-M1 in a big way and if a new version was imminent they'd have put it on that instead. Mind you, Olympus don't even reply to my emails so I have no insider knowledge whatsoever! If you are happy with your present setup it might be good to wait.
If you're not, you might look at both an E-M1 and GX8 now. The E-M1 is a lot cheaper now than the GX8.
True. Olympus is announcing a new firmware update for the OMD 5 II and EM1. Mabye they're trying to buy themselves little time. Still, can't say my EM-1 leaves me wanting for much. It's like carrying a camera and a computer around with you all the time.
+Dustinrhoades I dind't realize you already had an E-M1. So you're not deprived, whatever happens, then :-)
Nice revisada gracias
hi sir, how do you solve webbing caused by fungus inside the lense?
oh has anyone else had trouble with the Nissin i40?
Great review! I bought my GX7 almost solely on your review of it, but now you've gone and got me lusting after the GX8. Thanks a lot, David!
+Will Blake You're welcome, Will! I hope you like the GX8 as much as I do.
+David Thorpe If only I could talk my wife into letting me spend another $1000! Until then, I have to enjoy the GX7.
Great review as always, though I think il buy that 17mm before I update my original omd em5
+Conrado Sosa Thanks Conrado. The 17mm will work well with any camera you put it on so it's a great long term buy.
interesting... now how am I supposed to not blow my Christmas savings now? bloody impossible.
+Brian Cullen Tell your family it was my fault. I'm far enough away that they could never get me :-)
I'm on a tight budget, and looking at the GX8 as my main camera for the future, some decent used ones about now at a fair price. I like shooting birds mostly. Would you still recommend it today?
OK--My months of research on the MFT scene has finally lead me here...(although the voice in my head when thinking about the subject is no longer my own--having a British accent---very distinct from my native Idaho tones ). The Pen -F still runs around my brain,, But, like the girl you decide is the one to bring home to meet mom..rather than the alluring one you know is just not right for you..the GX8's 4K video/ mic input combo adds just enough to the mix to sway the vote.. Plus I am routinely finding very nice GX8s for under $500 US where the Olympus runs well over $700. Seems like a bargain..I would be so curious to hear you give the Panasonic GX850 a run through..It might not be your type of camera, but I just picked one up with the pancake zoom and 3 OEM batteries like new for $250 US. I bought it fill the emotional gaps left by the Olympus XA, the Rollei 35s and the Canon GIII 17s (and maybe a Minox) setting in boxes at the top of some closet...would be interesting if you had the chance....Thanks for all the well thought out presentations and examples..
The GX8 is a tremendous bargain at the prices you mention. After all, it has the same IQ as the most expensive Micro Four Thirds cameras and one of the best EVFs too. That GX850 with extras is a bargain too. I don't get on with cameras without an EVF generally, though my GM1 compensates with its tiny form. Maybe I should take a look at he GX850....at that price!
I got mine one week ago and I'm really impress with this camera.
Nice review.
+Hans Lewinnek Thanks Hans. Yes, impressed me too.
As of today: GX8, GX80, G...80, G... I'm confused. Which one to get if you like making movies, want a nice stabilization in the camera body, ok bitrate for movies. Owning the old E-M10 today and want to move up. Been looking towards the E-m5 Mk II, but I have no idea if its better or not vs the Olympus range. It would be nice to have the newer 20mpix sensor when you want to crop things, but...I guess it's only the G...hold on...GX....8 (?) that has that in this price range. Not just sure how it would be to use that camera with heavier lenses such as 100-300 (well, heavy and heavy...), say larger... And no mic-in nor phones out.
=/
From what you say, your best option at the moment is the G80/85 Panasonic. The 20Mp sensor is nice but makes little difference to IQ overall. The GX8 has less good stabilization and the old shutter. The GX80 is smaller and a favourite of mine (as was the GX7) but has a less good EVF - but for a sheer modern all round camera, the G80 takes a lot of beating. It has a mic input but no headphones out.
Thank you David
Does the DFD focus scheme help focus lens such as the 20mm f/1.7 which is known to be a little slow (particularly in low light). Thank You
+123HURST No, not really. The slow(ish) focusing of the lens is due to the lens focus mechanism itself so any gain from DfD would be minimal. Nonetheless, the GX8 will make the 20mm focus as fast as it capable.
For stills only Gx8 or E-M10ii for street photography?
Either one will do the job very well. I'd go on body size or EVF. The E-M10ll is beautifully compact, the GX8's EVF lets you see exactly what you are photographing big and sharp and clear. But both are perfectly capable modern Micro Four Thirds cameras.
Yesterday I have done almost 800 shots Raw+fine JPG on one battery (still one bar), bright conditions...
Yes, I think the 'official' battery life tests must involve the mechanical shutter, some flash use and so on. I find that in straight shooting I get about double the battery life, similar to your findings. Nice to know that, thanks.
David, at 1m43s you mention the left hand viewfinder "keeps your nose from choosing the focusing for you" - is that because you look through the viewfinder with your right eye ?
I'm *very* new to my GX8, had it a month or so and only now having time to learn how to use it. I'm overwhelmed by the complexity right now to be honest.
But...... as I was learning about the focussing and being able to use the rear screen, yes, if I view the EVF with my left eye (more natural) then I find my nose does touch the screen and change the focussing.....
I do know that Cartier-Bresson et al, users of the Leica, would use their right eye on the left hand viewfinder, to keep their left eye open and free to view their surroundings normally.
As I've purchased this camera for Street photography, would you suggest I now do my best to also employ that style of usage ?
Many thanks.
Ideally you'd have mirrored versions of rangefinder style cameras for left and right eyed people but the real world isn't like that and the majority right eyed people get the best of it! Yes, keeping one eye open is extremely useful and not too hard to get used to. I do it a lot. Sometimes if I really need to concentrate on something, I frame the subject (not too tightly) and look over the top of the camera with both eyes.
I'm afraid the complexity of these cameras overwhelms a lot of people. I work with Micro Four Thirds cameras all the time and I still have to look things up sometimes. I have a book on the GX8 (what a great camera!) here amzn.to/2hj1bsy (USA) and here amzn.to/2hfLiCI (UK)
Shame that panasonic never pursued a successor. Feel like this body is an ergonomic update away from greatness. I personally prefer the shutter button on top of the camera, rather than slanted forward, reachable with the thumb.
I hear quite a few photographers saying the same thing and I'd have thought a GX8 style body as a partner to the G9 would have been very popular. Panasonic, like all big corporations, moves in mysterious ways!
How usable is it in dimly lit areas without a built in flash? Would just raising the ISO and(or) slowing the shutter speed compensate?
+Rufus Leakin With an f/2 or better lesn, slow shutter and the high ISO capability there wouldn't be many situations the camera couldn't cope with hand held. It'll focus in those situations, too. Otheerwise, a tripod will enable shooting in any light. The only problem with that is that sometimes at low levels the quality of the light is poor, directional or shadowy, for example. Then, the only way is with flash or (possibly) an LED lamp. I do like to have a flash with me just in case and Panasonic really should have supplied a small one at this price, even if it has to be separate.
Is it just me .... despite the higher specs I think the Panasonic G80 images are sharper crisper no question ...
Neither camera has a low-pass filter, so it's not that. The main difference would be that the GX8 has 20Mp against 16Mp - so more pixels are packed on to the same size sensor. Those pixels must therefore be smaller. Maybe it is something to do with that that you are picking up. You might find it interesting like to down-sample the GX8 image to 16Mp and compare again.
Great video David. Perhaps off-topic here but were some of these pictures taken in Collioure, France or around that area?
+Mr Gijs Thanks! The pix, not too far away. They are mostly in Carcassonne, with a few around Limoux.
Le meilleur des micro quatre tiers ! je le regrette énormément ....
Thanks for the review, probably the best I've found on youtube on the GX8. I have one question: how do you find the new sensor for birds, compared to the 16mp one in E-M1?
I have the same question, waiting for the answer.
+far0ashgar Thanks Dan. I'm not really a bird photographer so not much help. The new sensor has lost nothing by going to 20Mp and gained detail. All I can say is that of the E-M1 pleases you, the GX8 will please you a bit more. I see that Olymus are going to start using it too in the Pen F, so I imagine it will be in the next E-M1 too.
David Thorpe m
hi David I have A G7 and was going to sell it and get the GH4. however many people are saying the the G7 has better low light capability. so now I am looking at the G80 or GX8 as my video camera mainly because they have in body stabilization and that is important to me , which I why I am not looking at the GH4. I basically want to do documentary work and want to up my game in video. would you recommend the G80 or GX8 or do you believe I should still consider the GH4. I am on a limited budget which is why the GH5 is not a consideration any advice would be truly appreciated as I am now completely confused. thanks JF
Great video!! Thank you!!! This was 2015, we are now in 2017. Which do you think is a better choice, especially for pictures... the GX8 or the G85???? Thank you again! Aloha!
David,I have found myself needing some good advice about what camera to own. First I am a real fan
of the Lumix line of cameras. My first was the FZ200, then followed by the FZ2000, G7 and now the GX85. I also own a LX10 for pocket type shooting. My heart wants a GX8 since I have the 12x35mm 2.8, 25 1.8 and the 14x140mm that was the
kit lens for the G7 when purchased. Fifteen years ago I shot a Mamiya RZ and a
Bronica 645, so I know what large sensors can produce. I am 74 years old and have early Parkinson tremors in my right hand. My GX85 seems to work extremely well with the IBIS in camera and lens.I try to get out at least once a week to photograph landscape mostly. I send my good shots to my Facebook page for my friends to view. If we travel I often put together an 8x10 photo book. I no longer print shots any larger than 11x14.I really like the looks of the FZ300. Has many features I wanted on the GX8, but a very small sensor. I would sell off my GX85 and lens and keep the LX10. Will the small sensor be a problem for 11x14 or smaller prints and Facebook?Please let me know what you think? Is my heart getting in the way of a good decision? Many thanks,David
Despite the date of this review, I'm considering this Lumix to replace the (amazing) G9 I recently purchased bcz it (G9) is so heavy & bulky. Your tour shwing the simplicity and easy menu &customized options leads me to seriously consider this 7 yr old Lumix. I had an Oly omd_em10. Like you said...designed by a engineering !,,,
Does the camera turn off by heating when recording in 4K ?, is there any way to record more than 15 min in 4k?
No, there are no firmware hacks for the GX8 that I know of so unfrotunately the recording limitation has to be lived with. The camera will turn off if it overheats i any mode.
looks great! but unfortunately the price and size have put me off (i already thought the GX7 was too bulky for its body shape).
Need to upgrade my EPL5, think i might go for the EM10 II - cheaper and has those Olympus colours..
+attentionaddicts I'm hoping to try an e-M10ll at some point, it looks to be remarkable value for money. I shoot RAW always so the colours are whatever I want but Olympus do have a specially pleasing rendition of JPGs to my eyes. I think the price of the GX8 will come down at some point and for me the body size is just about right, as is my E-M1. But what other camera system gives you such diversity of camera bodies yet will all share the same lenses, so that if you or I change our minds over size or price or whatever, we can keep all the lenses, the major cost of any outfit. Imagine the cost of going over from Pentax to Nikon, say!
I shoot RAW too. But Lightroom has picture profiles for Olympus cameras under under Camera Calibration > Profile which match the cameras JPEG picturemode settings (natural, vivid, portrait etc).
Not sure if EM5 mk2 is supported by Lightroom yet,so maybe you didn't notice this!
You can also get Olympus JPEG colours with RAW using their free Olympus Viewer 3 editing software, but it's very slow and buggy.
anyway agreed, probably the best thing about m43 is the variety of lenses AND bodies. something for everyone!
+attentionaddicts It should be possible to get Olympus colours with a custom setting on a Panasonic body since some Olympus cameras use the same sensors as Panasonic. It would take a bit of work - maybe someone has already worked it out.
david thorpe thanks for the response because I have been thinking about the gx8 as a backup wedding camera and honestly I thought the high iso jpeg processing looked very digital and not grainy when i tried it at the camera store. I can deal with grain but I hate it when in camera jpegs look soft and digitilized if that makes sense. thanks again for replying
I've been waiting for your thoughts on this camera, thank you for posting your video of GX8! I am watching it right now :)
+bajigurwedangronde That's quick! I hope you like it.
+David Thorpe I do like it! Your video helped me to understand the GX8 a bit more before I buy it. It's not yet available in my country but when it's available, no doubt I will buy it in a heartbeat. The weather-sealing, the faster continuous auto focus, the grip, the swivel screen, the new IBIS technology, and the slight bump in image quality, all tick the boxes in my checklist of which features to improve in GX7. Once again thanks for the video, and enjoy your GX8
Which? Panasonic GX-8, black with a Gariz Case or the Olympus OM-D E-M1
I am currently using an Olympus OM-D E-M5
I want to upgrade to one of these two cameras because they are both on sale through ebay.
Overall image quality, durability and weather sealing are important.
I shoot general still photography, landscape and some cultural events. I can see the need for video, but I haven’t done a lot, and it does seem to be the future.
I personally like the Panasonic format, but I feel the Olympus may be a more durable camera. I’ve switched back a forth a few times. I have experience with my Olympus and my brother has an E-M1 and it has been good, but the Panasonic looks very tempting.
What would you suggest?
These are the lenses I have.
• Olympus 12-40mm f/2.8 Pro
• Panasonic 42.5mm f/1.7
• Olympus 40-150 f/2.8 Pro
• Olympus MC-14 1.4x Teleconverter
• Kipon adapter for some manual focus Konica Hexanon AR lenses I have.
That is a difficult one, Rudy. I've not found Olympus to be any more durable than Panasonic or read anything that would suggest that problems with either make are any more likely. It seems to be mainly isolated instances that are just bad luck. You obviously have a leaning to the Panasonic and I wouldn't argue with that. The Olympus lense work very, very well with the Panasonic and if fact I find the focusing better with the GX8 than the E-M1. The E-M1 has better stabilization, of course but given that you like the rangefinder form factor, I'd go with the GX8.
Thank you for your timely response. I do like the rangefinder format. I really would rather have the GX-8, so that's what i'll do. I appreciate all your reviews and I hope the best for you. Thank you again. Rudy
Great vid as always!
I see you have the Olympus 17mm 1.8 mounted on the GX8 here. How is in the autofocus in video mode? I currently have the Olympus 17mm 2.8 lens and even though I love this lens for traveling, the autofocus doesn't seem to work on video mode on the GX8.
Thanks! The 17mm f/1.8 works very well for video or anything else on the GX8. It was designed with silent focusing and video in mind so no worries.
I like your review of the Panasonic GX8 very much. However, since than it became very quit regarding the GX*. What happens, is it the shutterlock that made the GX8 a market faillure? I still like the design and specification. Should I still by one ( the price has dropped since)? Would appreciate your opinion about the GX8 today (sept.2018) Thanks , I love your channel and style. BvL from Holland
Thanks, Bob. The price of the GX8 has dropped a lot and that makes it a good buy in my opinion. It has the same image quality as the latest cameras and an EVF as good as any of them plus good stabilization too. If you like the rangefinder style, there's not much against it except the size and the shutter shock. The size is a matter of taste. It's hardly a big camera and for me the size is about right for general photography. It does handle very nicely indeed and feels spacious as a result of its size. I think, as you say, that it is the reputation for shutter shock that has marred its sales. It does exist but in a restricted range of speeds and if, like me, you use the electronic shutter by default, is eliminated. So, we are left with the possibility of shutter shock for shutter speeds from around 1/60th to around 1/400th.
When do you need the mechanical shutter? For flash. But you won't see shock with flash since the duration is very short. For long exposures but that's outside the shock range. So for general subjects where the electronic shutter may give the characteristic motion distortion 'jello' effect. I'd say it is rare to come across such subjects. If you want to stop motion, you'll be using 1/500th or more so no shutter shock. I think there is rarely a need to use the mechanical shutter at all within the shock range and if you do and get shutter shock it's not to the extent that it would be noticeable at normal screen resolutions. The fact that it exists at all is what worries photographers. They don't want a camera where they have to remember not to use the mechanical shutter in certain situations. it is unsettling. Why buy that one when there are others without that problem?
For many photographers the electronic shutter just doesn't feel right because of the jello effect, again a rather exaggerated problem in normal use.
Given the prices now and the quality of the camera, I'd see it as superb value and a great buy.
Thanks a lot David, I absolutely do share your opinion.
GX8 price is $1,200 vs A7 full frame $1,100. Unless you already have expensive 4/3 lenses, why would one buy the GX8 over the A7? GX8 has much smaller sensor, less pixels, is more expensive, both have great EVF and size is about the same.
+Giutubo Spatubo How about the crap focus in the A7 and fantastic focus on the GH8? A better range of lenses for m43 cameras. 4K video.
+Giutubo Spatubo Take the lenses - the 40-150mm f/2.8 is half the price and weight of the nearest Sony equivalent, even though that has a much smaller zoom range. It's the lens size and choice that makes MFT, not the body size, although if you want a truly small camera body, there's the GM5. The focus speed of the GX8 far out-paces that of the Sony. Those are a couple of reasons.
If I were in the market for a full frame camera it would be the Sony but I simply have no use for 42Mp and big heavy lenses. I used FF all my professional life but now I can shoot for enjoyment I see no point in cycling, walking or going public transport with the weight and bulk of a FF outfit. Therefore my choice is the GX8. It is important to remember that people do not all think alike and there are many, many reasons for preferring one camera over another. Technical specifications are not one of the most important.
Hi David.
I have seen many camera reviews but honestly your ones earn respect. I would like to ask a few questions that I believe you can answer in the best and honest way.
I am interested in buying either the Olympus E-M5 II or the Panasonic GX8. I was able to visit a camera shop and to hold the E-M5 II but felt it would literally slip off my hand due to its weight and small plastic grip. As I have not yet held the GX8, which of the two cameras is ergonomically better? That is, is the GX8 better gripped for instance?
Lastly, I have read (from dpreview) that MFT is dying! What is your opinion? Would you suggest APS-C mirrorless cameras to MFT? If so, which model would you recommend?
Thanking you in advance,
Jerry
The two Micro Four Thirds makers Panasonic and Olympus have invested huge sums in amazing new top line lenses over the past few months, not something they would do if they were in meltdown.
I read the DPReview piece and thought at the time that their piece was sloppily argued and short on fact, contentious for a bit of fun. Nothing wrong with that. The market having problems with dropping sales at the moment is the DSLR, APS-C or FF, with mirrorless in general on the up. I take no pleasure from any drop in camera sales, by the way.
The present crop of FF cameras are wonderful but for me, reminiscent of the big American cars of the 50's compared to the Japanese and European cars of today. Very, very big and impressive but not achieving much more than more modern designs in _real life_ use.
I personally wouldn't move back to FF for love nor money, Micro Four Thirds has revitalized my interest in photography after a lifetime using FF cameras.
I can only give an intensely personal view on the E-M5ll which is arguably the finest all round camera in Micro Four Thirds. It is too small and densely packed with controls. The GX8, on the other hand is one of the best handling cameras around with its spacious body, something you will appreciate the moment you pick one up. However, though I've not tried it yet, the GX80/85 looks to be exactly what you are looking for and I would buy before trying one. Whenever friends starting out in photography ask me to recommend a camera and lens, I suggest the Panasonic G7 with its well designed menu system, easy handling and useful size - plus the 14-140mm Panasonic zoom.. The GX80 looks to take over that spot!
Wonderful!! Thank you for the great feedback. Keep up the good work!
Is the GX8 your new favorite camera?
As an all rounder I think it is. The two things which make my Olympus E-M1 equally favourite are the battery grip and the stabilization. If I had to choose I think it would be the GX8 because I find Panasonic's ergonomics and menus so much better. But it would be with a heavy heart that I'd give up my E-M1 and I'm glad I don't have to.
David what cameras and lenses do you personally use nowadays?
+Ruel Payawal (Jigs) Hi - I use my E-M1 and GX8 plus a GM5 now and again. Lenses, mainly Olympus17mm f/1.8, 60mm macro and 40-150mm f/2/8, Panasonic 12-32mm, and 14-140mm. If I go through exif on Lightroom, my 14-140 gets the very most use. Next in line would be the 12-40mm Olympus and little 35-100mm Panasonic. I'm thoroughly spoilt but in my defence I am ruthless about selling stuff I don't use.
I like it and I'm seeing an offer for 550 dollars. Do you think it's worth it for a "rangefinder" style camera at that price? Weather-sealed it's a good spec. What camera do you currently use? Thank you
I'm currently using an E-M1 Mark III and Panasonic GX9 the most but it chops and changes with me because of the reviews. The GX8 has the same 20Mp sensor as the latest models and a better EVF than any of them bar the G9. At that price for a new camera, it's worth every penny (well, cent!). The only things against it are the possibility of shutter shock - which is easily avoided - and the stabilization is a little less effective than the latest. It is still highly effective, though and one of the nicest of all Micro Four Thirds cameras to use.
@@DavidThorpeMFT Thank you for your answer (for me, every chilean pesos). I thought that, despite the years, it could be a very good camera by the specifications (and looking for this camera in Amazon, I found a book by you about this camera). About your cameras, nothing more than curiosity, although I also think that the tool you use says a lot about what you are evaluating at that moment. Cheers
Its a pity that the in body stabilisation does not work when shooting 4K. But maybe i am wrong? For me thats the deal breaker. And the external microphone is not a standard jack? It seams like they somewhat crippled the video on this camera? I enjoy my EM-5 but you are right its a bit small and no 4K so i am looking for an upgrade. And i love my old film Leicas hehe. Oh yes one thing they made it a bit plastic looking compared to the Olympus Pen. Thanks for the review :)
:-)
Nice to see you smiling ;)
Hey, we use the same OP/TECH strap system on our cameras.
+Peichen01 I like being able to plug and unplug them at will but also they are soft on the wrist. Good prices, too.
Can you manually set the aperture and focus in the movie mode?
+Steady Rolling Yes, all the modes including full manual are available in video, as is manual focus with peaking if required.
There is a second income to be had with this voice doing audio books
That would be fun! Thanks!
Are you going to review the Pen-F soon? I wanna see what you think in comparison to the GX8. My concern of the Pen-F is the small size & not being able to get a grip on it while the GX8 has a Great grip.
+Cody Robinson I'm putting it together now. I'm going to review the Pen F and then do a more in depth comparison of the two cameras. They are very much the same and yet very different at the same time.
+David Thorpe Can't wait David :) Nobody has done a direct comparison video online yet :)
Lumix gx8 vs gx85
does the GX8 have AF eye detection (finer focusing than just face detection) as shown in your video here with the GH4? th-cam.com/video/jNMV4HH2xmM/w-d-xo.html very helpful for me to have that more accurate auto focus feature shooting portraits with minimum depth of field.. thanks for your reply and for your your great videos!
+justinspirational Thanks for the kind words! Yes, the GX8 has the same face/ eye detection as the Gh4.
+David Thorpe forgot to ask does focus peaking work with (non panasonic/olympus) manually focused lenses with ether the GX8 or GH4? Will eye detection AF work with the Olympus 75mm f1.8 autofocusing lens or will eye detecttion only work with Panasonic autofocusing lenses specifically? Thank you once more- you have been extremly helpful and I appreciate it!
+justinspirational Glad to help! Focus peaking will work with any lens, Micro four Thirds or not. Eye detection will work with any native Micro Four Thirds lens but requires electronic contact between camera and lens so will not work with old Nikon lenses etc.
+David Thorpe thanks so much David- great news!
David thorpe at high iso were you shooting raw or jpeg?
+seanimal3 I always shoot RAW. When I use the high ISO pix on the videos I apply no noise reduction beyond the touch I use as standard (it's the Lightroom default) on 200ISO images and I apply no sharpening whatsover. Obviously, the downsampling from 5000px wide to 1920 loses a bit of noise anyway ( no way to stop that). But even for my own use with 3200 or 6400 ISO images I only apply enough color noise reduction to turn the coloured speckles to grey. I much prefer noise to detail loss and I don' find the RAW images, Panasonic or Olympous, need extra sharpening anyway.
Super excellent review. Thanks very much!
Hi David,
Great Vid like everytime !
Ive a Question about the Shutter Shock Problem this Camera should have, do yave any Probs with this Disfunktion ?
Or is it only a Rumor ?
Ive a hard decision between this Kamera with the 14-140 or the Sony 6300 with the 55mm1.8.
I would use it for my Dog, Street and Portraits.
Ur Word would have much weight to me.
Thanx and greetings from Salzburg, Austria.
IG: Geburahsilberwolf
+Geburah “Wulf” Silberwolf Hi Wulf - shutter shock exists with the GX8 so it has an auto shutter setting which switches to the electronic shutter for shots at shutter speeds where it would be a problem. I use the electronic shutter normally anyway, switching to the mechanical one only for flash and high speed sports and moving subjects. I've never heard of any shutter shock effect with the Sony but all cameras using a mechanical shutter have it to some extent. Note that it is apparent only under very close scrutiny at high magnification and shows between 1/60th and 1/350th or so.
On the cameras themselves both would do a fine job a fine job for your purposes but a single 55mm lens would limit what you can do quite a lot. It's a bit long for a lot of street work and short for portraits. The GX8 will do about anything with the 14-140 but lacks speed. Bear in mind also that the range of affordable and excellent lenses is much greater for the Panasonic than the Sony.
If you bought the GX8 and 14-140, you have a camera that would do almost everything. The Sony would be much more restricted. For low light the Sony would be better, obviously but you can buy a reasonably priced 25mm f/1.7 Panasonic lens that would do the same job and give you the best of both worlds. All in all, lovely camera that the Sony is, to buy an outfit as versatile and capable as the GX8 and 14-140 combo would cost you a great deal more money. My GX8 has become my first port of call camera largely for its stunning S-AF performance and the beautiful big EVF.
Oki David =) Orderd a Gx8 with the 14-140 =)
I thank ya for ur time and ur detailed answer and helpin me out =) !
Another big minus for me at the Sony is the lack of a Supertele.... never thinked on that =)
Lg from Salzburg !
+Geburah “Wulf” Silberwolf Glad to help, Wulf.
I find the GX8 has poor ergonomics due to poor design of the rear grip side button area. I find it very easy to accidentally press arrow pad keys, as well as the Disp button. I have to lock out the arrow pad when working with more substantial lenses (like Panasonic's f/2.8 zooms) to avoid annoying accidental button actuations by the heel of my hand as I use the camera. And there's no lock out on the display mode button so there's no adequate configuration fix for the poor grip side design. The front function button is also poorly designed (tiny, textureless, and flush) and is nearly impossible to identify by feel. My GH3 is vastly superior in terms of control layout and handling and I never get unwanted rear panel control activation with it.
The new annoyance I've discovered is the location of the (too small) microphone jack that ensures the mic connector (actually, the adapter that I have to use for my mics) will interfere with adjusting the angle of the articulating LCD.
I find the image quality no better nor worse than other recent 16MP MFT cameras. Many Panasonic OIS lenses are still awaiting firmware updates to allow dual IS operation and we won't see all the updates until sometime next year.
AF performance is fast and tracking has been improved. I still get focus hunting frequently with my 45mm Macro-Elmarit, even when not shooting at close range. 4K video quality is impressive (I'm no video expert, however).
+BJ Nicholls I've never had the problem you describe with the rear panel or display button, either on this or GH3 or 4 and for me the front button rests under my finger so a squeeze operates it nicely. Obviously ergonomics could never be the same for everyone, given the range of sizes of human beings which is why I'd always say that you should handle camera before buying, just as you would test drive a car.
Focus hunting is something I have only come across once with the GX8 but that was because I had the focus area set too big and a quick diminution of its area solved that. I use a wide range of lens, many from Olympus and as you can hear in the video, the Olympus 40-150 zoom is no different in focus speed from the 14-140 Panasonic nor in lock on ability. My Olympus 45mm is slower (though still not slow) but it is an older lens and that's what I'd expect.
I rarely find a perfect (to me) camera and the nearest I have ever come is the Hasselblad. This GX8 for me is the best so far MFT camera. The GH3/4 come close but I'm no video specialist and they are capable far beyond what I need. The GX8 has adequate IBIS which makes the Olympus lenses a better proposition for me and gives it the drop over the GHs.
4K video is neither here nor there to me and where the sensor is concerned I said in the video that quality was much the same so the extra pixels come at no cost. I'd have preferred lower noise levels on a 16Mp instead of the same on 20Mp but down-sampling doe that anyway. I've been shooting some hummingbird moths and the extra cropability of the bigger sensor is handy there.
It's a shame the design doesn't suit you but if you already have a GH3 I guess there would be no point in buying a GX8 given it doesn't work for you. On the other hand, you've saved a lot of money :-)
I wouldn't have discovered the handling problem by just playing with the GX8 in a camera shop. I own the camera and I'm making it as workable as possible. One option for a patient buyer is renting, assuming any of the rental services offer this camera. Indeed there are many users who will have no problem. Reports like mine are in the minority.
+BJ Nicholls It's true that a short play with a camera doesn't tell you everything but it gives you an insight at least. As you say with cameras, I've found the same with cars. A test drive only tells you so much. It's after three months you get a full idea of something.
You'll reach an accommodation with the GX8, I hope. And lets look on the bright side, if the GX8 was perfect, who'd need a GX9? Seriously, thanks for the very interesting insight.
I am curious in 4k30 how long does record?Also how good is it battery life?
Battery life is similar to most mirrorless cameras at around 300+ shots though I use the e shutter and expet to get double that. using the battery carefully. Video, it'll record for about 2-2.5 hrs on one battery. It'll record video in 4Gb chunks but there's no limitation otherwise.
@@DavidThorpeMFT Thanks
Small and light is the whole gestalt of m4/3. This is almost the size of the Sony a7 with a sensor 1/4 the size. I'll wait for the long overdue Oly E-M1 II. Hopefully they have something smaller and lighter up their sleeve and maybe a 24MP sensor.
+George Stone There are plenty of small and light MFT cameras to choose but for someone like me who prefers something a little bigger, these suit well. I wouldn't expect an E-M1 Mk 2 in the near future. The E-M1 with the new firmware will probably be as much of an advance as Olympus needs for now. I don't personally want a 24mp sensor because I'd sooner reduce noise on the 20 or 16 Mp items. Still, if they do it, I don't have to buy it.
+David Thorpe I have pixel envy.
+George Stone Even worse than the other envy!
Carcassonne, such an impressive sight. Took my breath away the first time I saw it.
Yes, fantastic. Especially from a distance where you can see the way it sits on the top of the hill.
Thanks David, another great review.
I've owed the Olympus OM-d EM5 ii and LOVE the camera (when its working properly)
Since purchasing Olympus in July, it's been sent back to Olympus TWICE!!!!....in fact just again yesterday.
My issues are a blank LCD and now it won't power off....
I say all of this to say, As soon it returns from repair.....I'm TRADING it in for the Panasonic.
I can live without the 5 axis stabilization.
+Darryl Harris That's a shame about the E-M5ll. I've had a few people mentioning breakdowns of Olympus gear lately. I do hope it isn't a quality control matter but just a normal failure rate. There'll always be some faulty cameras out of the vast number made but two with one camera doesn't look good and it'd shake my trust in its reliability. The GX8 should be a decent replacement for the Olympus, very, very different in feel. I hope you like it as much as I do. I actually like everything about the E-M5ll.....except the size and therefore handling.
David is time laps available on this camera and how is it done.
Thanks for helping make up my mind about this camera. I ended up starting with the body, Pan 14-140mm f3.5, Pan 20mm f1.7, and the Oly FL-LM3 flash. So far I love it.
+Perpetual Journey Glad to hear that and glad I was helpful. Great outfit and very capable.
When I've tried E-M5m2 and E-M10 AF-C, it kept doing the back and forth focus thing, even on still subjects. That kind of annoyed me, and made me think only the E-M1 could be capable of capturing movement the best from Olympus camp. I never got to try it, but it has Phase Detection AF-C, whilst other Olympus bodies have Contrast AF-C. Maybe Olympus Contrast AF-C not as good as Panasonics? I don't think you can capture the right focus if the AF keeps doing that back and forth movement. It made me feel like E-M5 and E-M10 are for still photography only, left to be used in AF-S mode or Manual.
GX8 isn't without its share of problems though. I think its burst rate might be much lower than I initially thought/was initially made aware of. The SH mode, which I believe is 10fps mode, works only with E-Shutter and without continuous AF for every frame. I think the 4k photo mode might have AF (not sure), but it too is limited to E-Shutter. I think some of these modes got rid of the IBIS too (not a problem when capturing fast movement though, as you would need high shutter speed anyway to freeze the motion).
But for capturing fast moving subjects with continuous AF for every frame, the burst rate is 6 I think. Maybe it's a step-up from G7, but certainly not very high. I hope there could be way to address this (maybe battery grip?) or firmware upgrade to allow choose 10-bit setting from menu (in-case the 12-bit is limiting the FPS). I'm not sure how many continuous AF FPS E-M1 has, but I believe it must be higher.
+Tuze The E-M1 goes up to 9fps with C-AF but I use it at 6fps to up the hit rate. The 4K photo mode couldn't really use the mechanical shutter, It's just not possible to make it robust enough in a consumer camera. I use the e-shutter all the time, just switching to mechanical for occasional flash use or fast moving subjects moving across the frame. Given that the mean time before failure of most mechanical shutters is about 100,000, at 30fps you'd have a shutter life of a bit less than an hour!
The SH mode is actually 40 fps with high burst mode being 10fps. On S-AF, the GX8 is faster than the Olympus bodies, even with Olympus lenses. On the other hand, the Olympus is still very fast. At very low light levels the GX8 is much more effective.
There are inherent problems with mirrorless cameras of all types for C-AF. While the GX8's S-AF is faster than just about any DSLR, for C-AF neither make matches a DSLR with dedicated phase detection sensors. You can put the PD on the sensor itself but then it is limited by the speed at which the sensor is read s it is just a halfway house. The fact remains that even C-AF on the latest MFT cameras is approaching that of good DSLRs.
I heard that gx8 has 49 focus point , question is it has good and fast focusing when taking video ? Especially when we take an object closer to the lens and back to our face..and compare to olympus pen f in fast focusing , which one wins over ?
Both the GX8 and Pen F have decent C-AF in video. It intentionally isn't fast with either because fast focus changes with video look really awful. Most videographers use manual focus where possible but otherwise S-AF and a half press on the button will change the focus point.
In your opinion, what could be the reason for so sharp a drop in the GX8's price comparing with the Oly EM5II? You describe a superb camera which now is selling for less than £600 including cash back and with a kit lens. The EM5II remains well over £700 for the body only. Ani idea?
All I can think of is that newer models (I know, the GX8 is hardly old!) have better IBIS and no tendency to shutter shock. Looked at purely as a camera, it has a great EVF and the same 20Mp quality as the E-M1 Mk2 and GH5. At the price you quote it is excellent value. Its focusing is top notch, too. I can't find any material difference between it and the GH5 (or E-M1 Mk2, for that matter. There have been mutterings about a GX9, which would lower prices but given that Panasonic have just introduced 2 new models in the G9 and GH5S, I wouldn't think they'd hurry to bringin yet another. But, like Manuel in Fawlty Towers, I know nothing.
Great review. A couple of things I didn't know in there, and you induced a little bit of buyer's remorse with the EM5 2 comparisons. Always good to have a decision challenged. =)
Concerning battery life however, many reviews (including this one) remark upon the poor battery life, and going in to this from my Nikon D800 I expected the worse. However I easily get 400 shots from my GX8 before I lose the first bar on the battery indicator. If I assume all three bars are equal, I'd expect 1200 shots from a single battery, which seems quite reasonable. Is this considered poor, or am I just really miserly with my battery requirements?
+NFG man That's good going on the battery - maybe you shoot a lot in a short time? That saves on EVF and/or monitor time, both of which are battery eaters. It is certainly _much_ better than I get. On the two cameras, these are getting so good now that the choice is on feel/ handling or maybe one has a particular feature that someone wants to use. I can genuinely say that there is no bad MFT camera on the market so that choices really boil down to personal preferences and values rather than merit. Amazing battery life you get, now I think of it! Glad you liked the video. thanks.
I am in the process of down-sizing (= replacing) my Canon DSLR equipment to MFT. So far the Olympus EM1 or EM5 II has been on top of my preference list. The GX8 is now number one as a consequence of this excellent review!
+Torsten Villnow Thanks Torsten. The E-M1 or E-M5ll would feel more DSLR like so worth trying one in store if you can. I prefer the E-M1 because the E-M5ll is too small for my taste. Of the E-M1 and GX8, I personally prefer the GX8 for its (in my opinion) better handling. To match the stabilization of the E-M1, you would need to use compatible Panasonic lenses that will use the dual stabilization function of the GX8.
All in all, if you like the feel of the GX8, that would be the one I'd go for, though in the final analysis I'd be happy with either.
Your band's bass player is Ed Sheeren? Sure looks like him! :)
+Apricot Chutney Yes, I needed a bass player for the shots and bunged Ed a fiver and there he is :-)
David Thorpe Haha!
Great video. I can't decide between the GX8 or the GH4.I will be shooting more stills than video. Any suggestions.
Thanks Darren - for mainly stills I'd be inclined to the GX8. The great EVF and the 20Mp sensor are a big attraction. The GH4 has more specialist video facilities and is an excellent stills camera too but the GX8 is more up to date. Very different designs but both are great handling, well laid out cameras. I do like the GX8's dedicated exposure compensation dial, too.
David when is the review on the Pen-F gonna done?
+Cody Robinson I'm writing it now. It's hard camera to get to know and put in perspective and I need to feel I fully understand it and what I think about it. It makes me a bit slow but I prefer to be honest than make the vid when I'm not sure. Early next week, all being well.
Thanks for the review of the GX8 David it helped make my mind up to purchase the camera and the Panasonic Leica 100-400mm Lens took them out for a test drive yesterday to RSPB Bempton Cliffs and the results are brilliant. That's coming from Canon which I also love but health reasons I need lighter gear and this set up fits the bill perfectly.
Glad it helped, Kurt. The great big EVF on the GX8 is great with the 100-200 and I found the dual stabilization was more than good enough even for such a high mag lens. The weight of an outfit to perform a similar task a DSLR doesn't bear thinking about!
just LOVE this review!
didn't understand half of it (I'm no photographer) but you did a heck of a job explaining!
thank you
Photography ought to be fun, i reckon!
And the clincher for me .... eye detection. It's hard getting focus on fidgety subjects (i.e. kids) when one of the fabulous m43 prime lenses are wide open. It's why I prefer my GH4 to my GX7 for portraits, but I think that the GX8 may just become my new stills camera
+simianinc The eye detection is excellent, in line with the general focusing.
Excellent review David! You have any plans to review the recently launched Panasonic GX80 or GX85 and compare it with GX8? Thanks.
+atul dutta Thanks Atul! I have a GX80 on order and hope to get it soon and yes, I'll compare them.
Very late to this party.. :-) Just bought an excellent used GX8 and already have David Thorpe's book on this camera at hand. As a retired diesel mechanic with xl hands and tired of fumbling with a diminutive low end Oly, the GX8's size will find a new home for Oly's glass.
Panasonic still has this camera on offer at considerably more than the G9 here in the US.
Camera costs get a bit out of kilter sometimes, don't they? The GX8's size and layout are ideal for anyone with larger hands and in terms of IQ the GX8 is little, if any different from the G9. Great EVF and ergonomics, too.