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Video: Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH1 hands-on

We've been out and about with the Lumix DMC-G1, the second in Panasonic's line of cameras that look, act and swap lenses like a digital SLR -- only smaller, llighter and shooting HD video

Richard Trenholm Former Movie and TV Senior Editor
Richard Trenholm was CNET's film and TV editor, covering the big screen, small screen and streaming. A member of the Film Critic's Circle, he's covered technology and culture from London's tech scene to Europe's refugee camps to the Sundance film festival.
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Richard Trenholm

If a camera looks like a dSLR, is controlled like a dSLR, and swaps lenses like a dSLR, it's probably a dSLR, right? Not if it's the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH1, my friend. We got our hands on the second camera to be based on the Micro Four Thirds system, and we were mighty impressed with the way it handles.

The main feature distinguishing the GH1 from last year's G1 is the addition of video. More than bringing it up to speed with other video-shooting snappers, the GH1's movie function actually surpasses most cameras, and certainly puts it one up on video-equipped dSLRs. It shoots 1080/ 24p high definition, and adds continuous autofocus while filming. Not only do you get a stereo microphone onboard, there's also an input for an external mic.

The hefty kit 10x zoom lens also includes a near-silent autofocus motor so as not to add noise to your videos. All of this suggests Panasonic has shown an attention to detail that makes the GH1 a very enticing prospect. Watch the video for more.

Of course, that's not to mention the price, which currently stands at a whopping £1,300 for the body and 14-140mm kit lens.