Round Up: A Micro Four Thirds Field Guide Discussion

[Jamison Cush]

What once was a trade show concept has become an imaging reality. A couple of years after the launch of the first Micro Four Thirds camera, the Panasonic G1, we're knee-deep in models from Panasonic and Olympus. In this round up, we offer a snapshot view of the current Micro Four Thirds offerings and a head-to-head look at the specs and feature sets of each camera.

Read the full content of this Article: Round Up: A Micro Four Thirds Field Guide

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[KCook]

Cool. Now when can we expect Canon, Fuji, Nikon, or Sony to dip their toe in the water?

impatient Kelly

[Andy Stanton]

I expect Canon and Nikon won't do it because of fear that it would cut into the sale of their DSLR's. Perhaps the same situation exists with Sony, though DSLR's aren't as important to Sony's camera business. As far as Fuji is concerned, I expect it will join the micro 4/3 bandwagon at some point. The only Fuji camera whose sales would be affected is the S200EXR, and I suspect that camera line is on its last legs.

[KCook]

I will take a different tack on Nikon. Their D3000 strikes me as a half-hearted "we did this because the other guys forced us" kind of product. A fresh effort with a new M4/3 design might renew their interest in the entry level market.

Kelly

[fskeith]

Compare with DSLR, the price and diversity of lenses still a problem

[dalman]

Good review.

I have a question.

I already have a DSLR and now I would like to shoot some videos. I am debating whether I should get the GH1 or a Camcorder. Which one has the better video quality? Thanks,

[Jamison Cush]

Good review.

I have a question.

I already have a DSLR and now I would like to shoot some videos. I am debating whether I should get the GH1 or a Camcorder. Which one has the better video quality? Thanks,

That all depends on your needs... camcorders have a ton of features not found on video-capable cameras, an external mic jack not the least of them. Too many photographers forget that audio is just as important as the video quality when shooting movies.

However, most capable HD camcorders will range in price the same as these Micro Four Thirds models... and DCR reviewers love the video capability on many of these models. Just keep in mind that there currently is no dedicated camera with video output that rivals a decent HD camcorder.