In the world of digital photography, the Panasonic LUMIX G85 is a standout performer that captures moments in stunning detail and vivid colors.
In this comprehensive
review, we will explore the specifications and advanced key features, as well
as the pros and cons of the Panasonic LUMIX G85. This mirrorless camera has
gained significant popularity among photography enthusiasts.
Specification Snapshot
Let us kick
things off by delving into the specifications of the Panasonic LUMIX G85. This
section will provide you with a quick overview of the camera's technical
details.
See also:
1. Sensor and Image Stabilization
The heart of
the LUMIX G85 is its Micro Four Thirds sensor. With an effective still
resolution of 16 megapixels, it offers excellent image quality. What sets it
apart is the absence of a low pass filter, which results in a nearly 10 per
cent increase in fine detail resolving power compared to its predecessors.
The camera is
equipped with an impressive in-body 5-axis dual image stabilization system that
works seamlessly for both photos and video, even in challenging low light
conditions. This feature alone can make a significant difference in the quality
of your shots.
2. Shutter Speed
The LUMIX G85
offers a versatile shutter speed range. You can capture fast-paced action with
a maximum shutter speed of 1/4000 seconds or experiment with long exposures at
a minimum shutter speed of 1/4000 seconds.
3. Metering and Exposure Control
This camera
provides a range of metering options, including Center-Weighted Average,
Multiple, and Spot metering. Moreover, it offers various exposure control
modes, allowing both manual and automatic adjustments, as well as
aperture-priority and shutter-speed-priority settings.
4. Form Factor
One of the key
attractions of the Panasonic LUMIX G85 is its compact form factor. It is
designed to be lighter and more agile than traditional DSLRs, making it a great
choice for those who want both performance and portability.
Advanced Key Features
Now, let us
dive deeper into the advanced key features that make the Panasonic LUMIX G85
stand out from the crowd.
1. Mirrorless Magic
The LUMIX G85
is a mirrorless interchangeable lens camera that combines the best of both
worlds. It offers the performance and flexibility of a mirrorless camera with
the added advantage of being significantly smaller and lighter than most DSLRs.
This is particularly appealing for photographers who are on the move and want
to capture incredible shots without the bulk of a traditional DSLR.
2. Class-Leading Dual Image Stabilization
Image stabilization
is a crucial aspect of modern photography, especially when shooting in low
light or capturing videos. The Panasonic LUMIX G85 excels in this department
with its 5-axis dual image stabilization. This system works seamlessly for both
photo and motion picture recording, including 4K video. It ensures that your
handheld shots are clear and crisp, even in challenging lighting conditions.
4. Live Viewfinder and Flip LCD Display
The camera
boasts an integrated eye-level OLED live viewfinder with 2360K dots. This
high-resolution viewfinder ensures that you can frame and capture shots with
precision. Additionally, the rear 3-inch LCD with 1040K dots is touch-enabled,
allowing you to adjust for optimal viewing angles with ease. Whether you prefer
composing your shots through the viewfinder or on the LCD screen, the LUMIX G85
offers versatility for all shooting situations.
5. 4K Video Capture and More
The Panasonic
LUMIX G85 is not just about still photography. It is a capable 4K video camera,
recording in 3840 x 2160 resolution. This feature is enhanced by exclusive
Lumix 4K photo and 4K post-focus modes. With 4K Photo, you can capture photos
at up to 30fps and then choose your desired focus points after taking the shot.
This level of flexibility and detail in video and photography is a game-changer
for content creators and enthusiasts.
Pros and Cons
To provide a comprehensive overview of the Panasonic LUMIX G85, let us examine the pros and cons of this mirrorless camera. Understanding both its strengths and limitations will help you make an informed decision about whether it is the right choice for your photography needs.
|
|
Outstanding Image Quality |
The LUMIX G85's 16-megapixel Micro Four Thirds sensor, combined with the absence of a low pass filter, results in impressive image quality. The camera excels in capturing fine details and vivid colors, making your photos truly stand out. |
|
✅ |
Compact and Lightweight |
Compared to traditional DSLRs, the LUMIX G85 is remarkably compact and lightweight. This portability is a significant advantage, especially for travel and outdoor photography. |
|
✅ |
Class-Leading Dual Image Stabilization |
The 5-axis dual image stabilization system is a standout feature, ensuring that your shots remain sharp and clear, even in challenging shooting conditions. Whether you are capturing photos or shooting 4K video, this feature makes a noticeable difference. |
|
✅ |
Versatile Shutter Speed |
The camera's wide range of shutter speeds allows you to experiment with various photography techniques, from freezing fast action to creating long-exposure masterpieces. |
|
✅ |
4K Video Capabilities |
For videographers and content creators, the LUMIX G85's 4K video recording and flexible focus options in 4K Photo mode open up a world of creative possibilities. The ability to select focus points after capturing a shot is a unique and valuable feature. |
|
✅ |
Live Viewfinder and Touch LCD |
The combination of a high-resolution live viewfinder and a touch-enabled LCD screen provides versatility and precision in composing your shots. You can choose your preferred viewing method based on the shooting situation. |
|
✅ |
Wi-Fi Mobile Control |
The LUMIX G85 offers convenient Wi-Fi mobile control, allowing you to remotely control the camera and transfer photos to your smart device. This feature adds a new dimension to your photography experience. |
|
|
Limited Resolution |
While the 16-megapixel sensor produces excellent image quality, it might be considered somewhat limited in resolution compared to cameras with higher megapixel counts. This limitation could be a factor for those who require extremely high-resolution images. |
|
❌ |
Smaller Sensor Size |
The Micro Four Thirds sensor, while delivering good image quality, is smaller than APS-C or full-frame sensors found in some other cameras. This may affect low-light performance and depth of field control. |
|
❌ |
No 4K at 60fps |
The LUMIX G85 records 4K video at 30fps, which may not meet the requirements of videographers who need 4K at 60fps for certain types of content. This limitation could be a drawback for those specifically focused on high-frame-rate 4K video. |
|
❌ |
Limited Lens Selection |
While there is a range of compatible lenses for the Micro Four Thirds system, the selection is still more limited compared to larger sensor systems like APS-C or full-frame. This may impact your ability to find specialized lenses for specific photography styles. |
|
❌ |
Noisy Operation |
Some users have reported that the camera's operation can be somewhat noisy, which may be a concern when shooting in quiet environments or during video recording. |
Compare with Similar Lumix Cameras
1. Panasonic LUMIX G7 (LUMIX G7KK):
- Effective Pixels: 16MP
- Image Stabilization: Magnetic Dual IS2
- Screen Size / Type: 3" Vari-Angle Touch
- Built-in Flash: Yes (Pop-up)
- Max Video Resolution: 4K: 3840 x 2160
- Mic / Headphone Port: Yes / No
- Wireless: Yes
2. Panasonic LUMIX G9 (LUMIX DC-G9KBODY):
- Effective Pixels: 20MP
- Image Stabilization: Magnetic Dual IS2
- Screen Size / Type: 3" Vari-Angle Touch
- Built-in Flash: No
- Max Video Resolution: 4K: 3840 x 2160
- Mic / Headphone Port: Yes / Yes
- Wireless: Yes + Bluetooth 4.2LE
3. Panasonic LUMIX GH5 (LUMIX GH5LK):
- Effective Pixels: 20MP
- Image Stabilization: Magnetic Dual IS2
- Screen Size / Type: 3.2" Vari-Angle Touch
- Built-in Flash: No
- Max Video Resolution: 4K: 4096 x 2160
- Mic / Headphone Port: Yes / Yes
- Wireless: Yes + Bluetooth
4. Panasonic LUMIX GH5s (LUMIX GH5S):
- Effective Pixels: 10MP
- Image Stabilization: Optical Stabilization
- Screen Size / Type: 3.2" Vari-Angle Touch
- Built-in Flash: No
- Max Video Resolution: 4K: 4096 x 2160
- Mic / Headphone Port: Yes / Yes
- Wireless: No
Here are some key differences:
- The LUMIX G9 and GH5 series have higher effective pixel counts (20MP) compared to the G7 and G85 (16MP).
- Only the G9 and GH5 series have a mic and headphone port for audio recording and monitoring.
- The G85 and G7 have built-in pop-up flashes, while the G9 and GH5 series do not have built-in flashes.
- The GH5 and GH5s offer a higher max video resolution (4K at 4096 x 2160), which may be preferred by videographers.
- The G9 has Bluetooth 4.2LE in addition to Wi-Fi, providing more advanced wireless connectivity.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review 1: 5.0 out of 5 stars - Great Camera for Beginners
Reviewed
by Matt in the United States on June 10, 2023
Matt says: I recently purchased this camera as my first step into the world of photography,
and I couldn't be happier. The camera is easy to use, and even as a beginner,
I've found it quite user-friendly. It has allowed me to capture beautiful
moments and explore my passion for photography. The included lens works well
for a variety of situations, and I'm excited to learn more about photography
with this camera.
Customer Review 2: 5.0 out of 5 stars - Excellent Value for Money
Reviewed
by Douglas Jotblad in the United States on February 15, 2023
Douglas
Jotblad says: I've been using this camera for about a year now, and it has
exceeded my expectations. The quality of both the camera and the included lens
is impressive. The compact size makes it perfect for traveling, and I've used
it for everything from family gatherings to outdoor adventures. The battery
life, while not exceptional, is sufficient for my needs, and I always carry a
spare battery just in case. For the price, this camera is an excellent value.
Customer Review 3: 5.0 out of 5 stars - Versatile and Reliable
Reviewed by
Kevin J. Scully in Canada on November 5, 2022
Kevin J.
Scully says: I've been using this camera for various photography and
videography projects for over a year, and it has consistently delivered
excellent results. The 12-60mm lens that came with it is versatile and has been
suitable for my needs, whether shooting videos or capturing still images. The
camera's compact design makes it easy to carry around, and it has held up well
to daily use. Overall, I am extremely satisfied with this camera's performance
and features.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q. What is the sensor size of
the Panasonic LUMIX G85?
The Panasonic LUMIX G85 features
a Micro Four Thirds sensor, which is smaller than a full-frame sensor but larger
than the sensors commonly found in compact cameras.
Q. Does the Panasonic LUMIX
G85 have 4K video recording capabilities?
Yes, the LUMIX G85 is capable of
recording 4K video at a resolution of 3840 x 2160 pixels, making it suitable
for high-quality video capture.
Q. Is the camera
weather-sealed or weather-resistant?
Yes, the
Panasonic LUMIX G85 is weather-sealed, which means it offers protection against
dust and moisture, making it a good choice for outdoor and rugged shooting
conditions.
Q. Does the camera have image
stabilization?
Yes, the
LUMIX G85 features a 5-axis in-body image stabilization system, which helps
reduce camera shake and allows for smoother handheld shooting.
Q. What is the maximum burst
shooting speed of the Panasonic LUMIX G85?
The camera
can shoot at a maximum burst speed of up to 9 frames per second (fps) in its
high-speed burst mode, making it suitable for capturing fast-moving subjects.
Q. Can I use different lenses
with the LUMIX G85?
Yes, the
LUMIX G85 is an interchangeable lens camera, so you can use a variety of Micro
Four Thirds lenses, allowing you to choose the lens that best suits your
photographic needs and creative vision.
Conclusion
The Panasonic
LUMIX G85 is a versatile and capable mirrorless micro 4/3 interchangeable lens
digital camera. With its 4K video recording capabilities, weather-sealed
design, in-body image stabilization, and compatibility with a range of Micro
Four Thirds lenses, it caters to both photography enthusiasts and
videographers. Its compact size and robust features make it a well-rounded
choice for various shooting scenarios, whether you're capturing stunning still
images or high-quality videos.
Call to
Action
If you're in search of a camera that offers exceptional image and video quality, flexibility, and durability, the Panasonic LUMIX G85 might be the ideal choice for you. Don't miss the opportunity to explore the world of photography and videography with this feature-packed camera. Take the next step in enhancing your creative pursuits and capturing moments in extraordinary detail. Explore the Panasonic LUMIX G85 to unlock your potential and create stunning visual content.
