Pretty sure I must have one of these. I have read the pro's and con's on micro four thirds cameras. I like the relatively inexpensive lens possibilities. Like the idea of 4K video, and the reviews are off the charts.



I have two other Lumix I have the FZ-200, based on Saeeds recommendations, and I think it's great. 24x optical zoom is handy and clear. I have filmed at least one short hunt with it (while it isn't the best choice, it worked out well). About 1/4 of the footage on the video on my homepage was with this camera.



And I have Lumix DMC-TS5, a waterproof point and shoot. I have taken this camera underwater 26 miles offshore in Costa Rica for some interesting footage of a longline caught on a log. Wow, the marinelife was pretty impressive.



I have a Sony AX-2000 that shoots very high quality video. It seems to be a workhorse in the indie film world. I do not expect the GH4 to take it's place, but, rather compliment it, or be a solid alternative based on the situation.

So, there are many members here who are much more experienced than me, I would like to hear your thoughts on the GH4. Thanks!

It's worth noting that Panasonic's customer service is pretty good. I was holding the small point and shoot by the strap and it swung and tapped the screen on an exposed bolt on my T-top on the boat. Cracked the screen. My fault.

Sent it to them, told them how I broke it (clear negligence on my part) and asked for a bid to replace the screen. Their reply was to send me a completely new camera, unopened in the box. Quick turnaround too.

Not too bad. I am rarely loyal to one brand. I never intended to be a Lumix fan, they just have some good cameras.

If you're going 4/3, then Olympus should be looked at as well. The guys at Luminous Landscape are pretty serious and they like the lenses and camera, a lot.

http://www.luminous-landscape....0___150mm_lens.shtml

Wendell,

Based on what you said above, I recommend the Panasonic FZ1000.

It does not have the zoom range of the FZ200, but it has 4K video.

The photo quality is fantastic - the photos of our animals in the link below is by this camera.

By FZ 1000

Thanks Saeed,

Wow, if I didn't have the FZ200, that FZ1000 looks pretty nice!

The inability to manually focus a bridge camera is it's one downfall. The FZ200 and FZ1000 are similar enough that I can't justify getting the FZ1000 as well.

Wendell,

If you are interested in video, forget any camera that requires you to zoom by hand.

This includes all the SLRs and four thirds cameras.

They also have a terrible focus system on video.

I have tried several from Canon and Nikon.

They are totally useless for video except under studio conditions.

SLRS and cameras like the GH$ are more specialized.

I know someone who uses the GH4 to take 4K video for advertising.

But, he specialises in taking video of golvers teeing off.

He has the camera on a tripod, and focused at the golfer, and that works.

Trying to take a video like I do with other subjects outside is almost out of teh question.

Saeed,

Thanks for the advice. I use a Sony AX 2000 for videoing hunts. It's great. I wouldn't consider trying to use a GH4 in it's place. Just not practical. Would be quite a challenge. I agree, it would be great for studio work.

I need a step up from a bridge. Lens cost and selection on the 4/3 is important. With the crop factor, a 300mm lens is equivalent to 600 mm on the GH4. Considering the cost of a good 600mm lens, there is one reason to consider a 4/3.

4/3's has their pro's and con's. I have considered them all and think this may have a place in my camera bag.

Have you tried one? I know your friend has a camera store and lets you try out all the new toys. Have you played around with any of the 4/3's?

Wendell,

I have tried several four thirds cameras, and frankly, I would rather have an SLRs if I needed something more than a point and shoot or a bridge camera.

I practically have a camera anywhere I go.

For indoor pocket camera, I use a Sony RX100 Mark III.

Great photos and video, but not much zoom.

When I go out and need a pocket camera, I use a Panasonic ZS40.

For something better, I use the Panasonic FZ1000.

If I need an SLR, I use the Canon 7D Mark II.

We are off to the Alps in a few days time, and I am taking all the above except the 7D, as I have no need for it in the mountains.

While skiing I carry the ZS40 in my pockets.

I prefer to carry as few lenses as possible.

For wildlife I like to use a fast - F2.8 - lenses like the Canon 70-200mm, and when needed I use a 3X converter.

Off topic - But I hope you find some snow to ski on. It's been a slow start to the ski season in the Alps this year.

Only beginners worry about how deep is the snow.

Experts like me ski on grass!

Well, they're doing a lot of that now in Colorado as well - even with the snow.

Hope you find something white to slide on.