Archive - February 2018

Panasonic has introduced a new telephoto zoom digital interchangeable lens, the LEICA DG VARIO-ELMARIT 50-200mm / F2.8-4.0 ASPH. / POWER O.I.S. (35 mm equivalent: 100-400 mm); the third lens in its LEICA DG VARIO-ELMARIT F2.8-4.0 Series.
Scott Mellish, Product Marketing Manager, Imaging, Panasonic, said: “Supporting demand from keen sports and wildlife photographers, the new lens offers a desirable focal length and speed combination – covering a distance from ultra-telephoto to super telephoto, and with a fast F2.8-4.0 aperture.“

“We now have three F2.8-4.0 Leica lenses, 8-18mm, 12-60mm and the new 50-200mm, all with outstanding imaging and exacting body design, including weather sealing. A photographer can carry an amazing focal range of 16mm to 400mm (35mm equivalent), with fast apertures – all in a lightweight kit with no compromise on quality.“

The 67mm filter thread allows for the use of ND and PL filters to further enhance the lens’ versatility. Two optional Teleconverters are available, the 2.0x DMW-TC20, which extends focusing distance to 800mm (35mm equivalent), and the 1.4x DMW-TC14 (560mm – 35mm equivalent). Particularly important when zooming and shooting distant subjects, the POWER O.I.S. (Optical Image Stabiliser) compensates for hand-shake, allowing shooting without a tripod. For powerful stabilisation, the lens works with Dual I.S.ⁱⁱ (Image Stabiliser) and the Dual.I.S.2ⁱⁱⁱ system when mounted on compatible Panasonic LUMIX DSLM (Digital Single Lens Mirrorless) cameras.

The LEICA DG VARIO-ELMARIT 50-200mm / F2.8-4.0 ASPH. / POWER O.I.S. lens (H-ES50200) offers excellent sharpness and precision for both photo and video recording; while achieving a compact mobility not possible in other camera systems. The rugged and stylish metallic black body is designed to match the latest LUMIX G cameras, including the GX9, G9, GH5 and GH5S. The H-ES50200 is priced at $2,299rrp, and will be available in Australia in June 2018 from photographic specialists and consumer electronics retailers.

As with all lenses in the Series, the H-ES50200 has a rugged, dust and splash-proof design, is freeze-proof down to -10 degrees Celsius to withstand professional use under harsh conditions; and takes advantage of Panasonic’s Nano Surface Coating technology to minimise ghosts and flaring. High-quality video recording capability is also a key advantage of this lens Series.

The H-ES50200 lens is compatible with the LUMIX G sensor drive at 240fps to take advantage of the high-speed, high-precision Contrast AF. The AF tracking performance in zooming is also enhanced with high-speed frame analysis for focus control.

The new lens incorporates 21 elements in 15 groups, including two UED (Ultra Extra-low Dispersion) lenses, two ED (Extra-low Dispersion) lenses, two aspherical lenses and one UHR (Ultra High Refractive Index Lens) lens. These lenses and Panasonic’s cutting edge optical technology achieve high-resolution, high-contrast imaging from centre to corner while suppressing distortion and chromatic aberration.

The LEICA DG VARIO-ELMARIT F2.8-4.0 lens Series covers from 8 to 200mm (16-400 mm in 35mm camera equivalent) with three excellent lenses that provide a versatile range and superb picture quality:

• LEICA DG VARIO-ELMARIT 8-18mm / F2.8-4.0 ASPH. (H-E08018)
• LEICA DG VARIO-ELMARIT 12-60mm /F2.8-4.0 ASPH. / POWER O.I.S. (H-ES12060)
• LEICA DG VARIO-ELMARIT 50-200mm / F2.8-4.0 ASPH. / POWER O.I.S. (H-ES50200).

For further information, please visit www.panasonic.com.au or call 132 600.

ⁱ 35mm camera equivalent
ⁱⁱ Dual I.S. can be used with LUMIX GX9, GX8 and GX85.
ⁱⁱⁱ Dual I.S.2 can be used with LUMIX G9, GH5, G85.

The year 2018 marks 10 years since Panasonic introduced the world’s first Digital Single Lens Mirrorless Camera, the LUMIX DMC-G1, in 2008ⁱ.

Panasonic is a pioneer of the mirrorless camera and has led the market in pursuing unique technologies for high picture quality, high performance, high-speed response and video recording capability.

Ground-breaking LUMIX achievements include the development of the LUMIX GH4, which enabled the world’s first 4K video recording capability in a mirrorless cameraⁱⁱ; the introduction of Dual I.S. (Image Stabiliser) with the GX8; and 6K PHOTOⁱⁱⁱ, released with the GH5, delivering high-speed burst shooting at 30 fps in 18-megapixel resolution with no time restrictions.

Paul Reid, Managing Director, Panasonic Australia, said: “’LUMIX G’ has seen amazing evolution in just ten years, with the release of 30 cameras^iv and 34 lenses. This level of innovation is a testament to the skills of our global LUMIX design team.”

“A significant element of LUMIX R&D is taking feedback directly from photographers, and challenging ourselves to refine each new camera to meet even higher standards. I’m excited to see what the next ten years will bring.”

Panasonic has recently expanded its lineup of cutting-edge digital cameras with world-acclaimed flagship models: including the LUMIX GH5, the ultimate hybrid camera; the LUMIX G9, which boasts uncompromising performance for still photography; and most recently the LUMIX GH5S, which brings the highest-ever sensitivity and video quality to the LUMIX range. Panasonic will continue to focus on developing high-end digital cameras that meet the stringent standards of professional photographers and video creators.

Guided by the vision of “Changing Photography”, LUMIX will continue the development challenge over the next 10 years to further promote the company’s position as an industry innovator and introduce a steady stream of exciting new technologies.

ⁱ For a Digital Interchangeable Lens System Camera, as of 31 October, 2008 (Panasonic survey).
ⁱⁱ For a Digital Single Lens Mirrorless camera as of 4 January, 2017 (Panasonic survey).
ⁱⁱⁱ 6K PHOTO’ is a high speed burst shooting function that cuts a still image out of a 4:3 or 3:2 video footage with approx.18-megapixel (approx. 6000 x 3000 effective pixel count) that the 6K image manages.
^iv Including the GX9.

 

Panasonic is proud to introduce the LUMIX DC-TZ220, the latest flagship in its popular ‘Travel Zoom’ series. The ultimate in travel compacts, this premium camera delivers impressive performance and versatility with 15x zoom LEICA lens, 1-inch MOS sensor, and 2.3 million-dot Live View Finder with 0.53x magnification.

Other convenient and creative capabilities offered by the sleek TZ220 include Panasonic’s latest suite of 4K features; Bluetooth for a quick, low energy connection to smartphones; customisable aperture and focus bracketing which combines a series of shots such as landscapes or macros for the best image; and L-Monochrome Mode to create film-like black and white shots.

Scott Mellish, Product Marketing Manager, Imaging, Panasonic, said: “The new zoom lens on the TZ220 provides wider angles and longer reach for greater versatility, backed up by the depth and clarity of the 1-inch sensor. This benchmark travel compact is designed for uncompromising shooters who want to create and share amazing images that bring their journeys to life in stunning detail.”

LUMIX DC-TZ220 | RRP$1,199 | Available: April 2018.

LUMIX TZ220 Key Features

The ultimate travel zoom – exceptional image quality

Now, photographers can perfectly capture even the finest details of their travels. The camera’s 20MP high sensitivity 1-inch MOS sensor with Venus Engine processor delivers incredibly sharp images with rich depth. Supporting this, the TZ220’s 15x zoom LEICA DC VARIO-ELMAR lens (24-360mm – 35mm camera equivalent) offers crystal clear images from high zoom to close-up shots, with a macro focusing distance as close as 3cm. For rock-steady zooming, the camera incorporates Panasonic’s latest image stabilisation technology – 5-Axis HYBRID O.I.S.+ⁱ (Optical Image Stabiliser Plus) – which compensates for hand-shake occurring in virtually any direction.

A high-resolution viewfinder is key to ensuring once-in-a-lifetime shots are precisely framed and in sharp focus. Panasonic has equipped the TZ220 with a high quality 0.21-inch 2,330K-dot equiv. Live View Finder (LVF), with a high magnification ratio of approximately 1.45x / 0.53x (35mm camera equivalent). Image output between the LVF and the 1,240K-dot rear monitor is automatic, using an eye sensor on the LVF. The LVF and the 3-inch monitor provide approximately 100% field of view.

DFD (Depth From Defocus) technologyⁱⁱ minimises focusing time, with a quick autofocus (AF) speed of around 0.1ⁱⁱⁱsec; and supports high-speed burst shooting at 10 (AFS)/6 (AFC) frames per second (fps) to capture fast-moving subjects in crisp detail.

The latest 4K capabilities

The camera also incorporates the latest updates to Panasonic’s trademark suite of powerful 4K Video and 4K Photo capabilities to capture the decisive moment with impressive clarity and total precision. It captures smooth 4K Video in 3840 x 2160 at 25p.

For still shooting, 4K Photo with 4K Pre-burst mode shoots 30 frames per second before and after the shutter is released to capture the defining shot. Batch Save stores an entire burst sequence of up to 150 frames at just one press of a button. On this new model, Panasonic has made it easier to select the best shot from hundreds on a reel with Auto Marking, which highlights images that contain movement or faces.

The Post Focus feature, once set, allows you to choose the focal point of an image after it’s been taken. You can then use the touchscreen to select the exact area you want to focus on – ideal for macro shots of food. Focus Stacking allows the user to combine focal points to achieve complete foreground to background focus.

In addition, the new in-camera Sequence Composition function allows a sequence of images to be shown within one shot – for example, the trajectory of a motorbike jump, the arc of a diver leaving the board, or the movement of a dancer.

For video shooters, 4K Live Cropping provides amazing flexibility – for example, cropping to create smooth, slow zooms or stable pans, while maintaining Full HD picture quality in the final footage.

Enhancing creativity

Bracketing modes available on the TZ220 include focus, aperture, exposure and white balance bracketing. Focus bracketing allows the user to capture up to 999 shots at different focus points with just one shutter press – ideal for shooters who want maximum image quality and the ability to stack focus in post-production. With aperture bracketing, at a single press, photographers can quickly capture multiple shots at varying depth of field. When shooting with shallow focus it can be challenging to quickly decide on the optimum amount of focus that’s best for a shot, so this feature provides the security of alternative choices.

Photographers can capture their creative vision with ease and precision, using intuitive dials and a control ring located on the lens barrel. Smooth control of exposure and zoom free the user to frame and capture the image at the perfect moment. These controls also provide easier access to frequently-used settings such as aperture, shutter speed, focus, filter effects and scene mode. Focus Peaking shows the peak of focus in manual mode, allowing the image to be fine-tuned to the smallest of details. The TZ220 offers in-camera RAW data development.

Designed with the traveler in mind

Sharing of images with smartphones while on the move is streamlined with Bluetooth 4.2 Low Energy connection and 2.4GHz Wi-Fi® (IEEE 802.11b/g/n). With an always-on connection, images can be geotagged for social sharing and you’ll always know exactly where you took that shot. You can also use your smartphone as a convenient remote control. The TZ220 can be charged on the go via USB cable direct to the camera, anywhere there is a USB power source.

The lightweight, portable camera is available in a choice of black or dark silver, with a chassis using aluminum plates for durability, and grips at front and rear for stable shooting. In addition, the new eco30fps mode gives the LUMIX TZ220 a maximum battery life of around 370 images per charge^iv.

The LUMIX DC-TZ220 will be available in Australia from photographic specialists and consumer electronics retailers. For further information, please visit www.panasonic.com.au or call 132 600.

ⁱ 5-axis compensation works in video recording except for 4K video or high speed video recording
ⁱⁱ Works for still image shooting
ⁱⁱⁱ Based on the CIPA standard
^iv When using the rear monitor

New camera offers a rich array of features – including classic rangefinder-style design,   high-resolution tilting viewfinder, 20-megapixel MOS sensor and 5-axis Dual IS

The LUMIX DC-GX9 offers uncompromising style and performance, in a form factor that’s ideal for mobile, candid street and travel shooting.

The newest model in the classic ‘GX’ series of rangefinder-style cameras boasts incredible detail, outstanding low-light performance and impressive dynamic range, via Panasonic’s latest 20-megapixel Digital Live MOS Sensor (without Low Pass Filter) and the high-precision Venus Engine processor.

Panasonic’s 5-axis Dual I.S.technology combines 5-axis internal stabilisation with the optical image stabilisation in selected lensesⁱ.This advanced system ensures class-leading stabilisation from wide angle to telephoto, allowing shooters to leave their tripod at home and travel light. In addition, the electromagnetically-driven shutter system provides quiet, steady shooting.

The GX9’s trademark tilting Live View Finder (LVF) offers 2,760K-dot equivalent resolution for excellent clarity and sharpness when shooting. The 16:9 LVF tilts up by around 80 degrees and has a high magnification of 1.39x/0.7x (35mm camera equivalent). A Power Saving LVF feature extends battery life to up to 900 images per chargeⁱⁱ.

To support intuitive control, the LUMIX GX9 introduces an exposure dial for quick change of exposure settings, and a focus lever for quick adjustment between AFS (AFF)/AFC and manual focus.

Building on this foundation, other features designed to deliver performance and convenience include responsive and rapid autofocus at 0.07ⁱⁱⁱsec; versatile 4K Photo and Video; and Bluetooth Low Energy connection to smartphones.

Scott Mellish, Product Marketing Manager, Imaging, Panasonic, said: “The GX9 delivers the very best in LUMIX image quality with the same sensor as Panasonic’s flagship G9. At the same time, its unobtrusive size supports natural, spontaneous photography of people and places.”

The DC-GX9 will be available in Australia in April 2018 from photographic specialists and consumer electronics retailers. Colours available are: Black, or two-tone Silver and Black.

DC-GX9 single lens kit with 12-32mm lens: RRP $1,399. Available: April 2018.

LUMIX GX9 Key Features

At the heart of the GX9, the 20-megapixel Digital Live MOS sensor (without Low Pass Filter) and the high-precision Venus Engine processor deliver stunningly natural images. Three-dimensional Colour Control balances hue, saturation and brightness for rich colour reproduction from dark to light. High Precision Multi Process Noise Reduction both identifies noise and preserves detail, supporting low-light shooting at ISO 25600.

The camera offers outstanding ergonomics with a 2,760K-dot equivalent LVF and approximately 1240K-dot touch monitor. An Eye Sensor is activated simply by looking into the viewfinder. The GX9’s trademark tilting viewfinder conveniently tilts up by approximately 80 degrees. This and the tilting monitor enable ‘shooting from the hip’, which is less confronting and allows the photographer to blend in to the environment and capture fleeting moments and lively streetscapes.

Panasonic’s Dual I.S. technology can support up to 4^iv stops of image stabilisation – enabling shooting still subjects handheld at slower shutter speeds and ISO values, as well as supporting telephoto focal lengths. Providing further aid to the photographer, the GX9 has excellent autofocus in low-light environments, with -4EV luminance detection in Low Light AF. Live View Boost allows scenes to be electronically illuminated in almost total darkness to check accuracy in Live View before shooting.

The GX9 backs its excellent imaging credentials with Panasonic’s 4K suite. On this new model, Panasonic has made it easier to select the best shot from hundreds on a reel with Auto Marking, which highlights images that contain movement or faces. In addition, the new in-camera Sequence Composition function allows a sequence of images to be shown within one shot – for example the trajectory of a motorbike jump, the arc of a diver leaving the board, or the movement of a dancer.

The GX9 also incorporates the full range of Panasonic’s 4K capabilities, including 4K Video with 4K Live Cropping for stable panning and zooming during recording; and 4K Photo with 4K Pre-burst mode which shoots 30 frames per second before and after the shutter is released. Light Composition mode saves the brightest pixels from a series of shots in-camera, to produce more dramatic images of night scenes such as fireworks. Post Focus mode allows the user to choose the focal point of an image after the shot has been taken, while Focus Stacking combines focal points to achieve complete foreground to background focus.

For creative photography that’s reminiscent of classic black and white film, L.Monochrome D mode in Photo Style makes it possible to shoot dynamic black and white photos with emphasised highlights and shadows, while keeping detail. All three modes – Monochrome, L.Monochrome and L.Monochrome D – allow the grain effect to be adjusted between High/Standard/Low for more creative shooting.

Photographers on the move can streamline sharing of images with smartphones using Bluetooth 4.2 Low Energy connection and 2.4GHz Wi-Fi® (IEEE 802.11b/g/n). With an always-on connection, images can be geotagged, and your smartphone can be used as a remote control. The GX9 can also be conveniently charged on the go via USB cable direct to the camera, anywhere there is a USB power source.

Other key features:

• Contrast AF with Depth from Defocus^v technology offering high speed AF of approx. 0.07^visec, and high-speed burst shooting at 9 fps (AFS) / 6 fps (AFC)
• Other useful AF features include 49-point focus detect, Custom Multi AF, Face/Eye Detection AF, Pinpoint AF and Starlight AF
• Exposure, White Balance, Focus and Aperture Bracketing
• Creative Control in P/A/S/M mode
• RAW data development in-camera
• Multiple exposure

For further information, please visit www.panasonic.com.au or call 132 600.

ⁱ Firmware update is required for some lenses.
ⁱⁱ Under the test conditions specified by Panasonic based on CIPA standard. When the time to get in the sleep mode is set to 1 sec.
ⁱⁱⁱ In AFS, at wide-end with H-FS14140 (CIPA).
^iv Based on CIPA standard [Yaw/Pitch direction: focusing distance f=32mm (35mm camera equiv f=64mm), when H-FS12032 is used.]
^v Contrast AF with DFD Technology works only with Panasonic Micro Four Thirds lenses.
^vi In AFS, at wide-end with H-FS14140 (CIPA).