Panasonic launches premium support in Germany!

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1459777527848

German owners of the GH4, GH4R and GX8 can join the Panasonic premium support service by paying a 99 Euro yearly fee. Here is the German press text:

Hamburg, April 2016 – Mit dem neuen LUMIX Premium Service unterstützt Panasonic Fotografen und Videofilmer dabei, stets die optimale Leistung aus ihren LUMIX G Kameras herausholen zu können. Der Service bietet professionellen Kundensupport, umfassende Wartungs- sowie Reparaturleistungen von Produktspezialisten aus dem Hause Panasonic. Eine eigens eingerichtete Hotline, Express-Reparatur und Zustellservice stellen sicher, dass Probleme schnell, bequem und effizient gelöst werden.

Das neue Serviceangebot richtet sich an die Nutzer der Kamera-Modelle LUMIX GH4, GH4R und GX8 in Deutschland. Der Service ist in drei Leistungsstufen verfügbar, um den persönlichen Bedürfnissen jedes einzelnen Anwenders angemessen begegnen zu können – vom ambitionierten Fotografen, der Wert auf eine sorgenfreie Lösung im Servicefall legt, bis hin zu Profi-Videofilmern, die tagtäglich auf die maximale Leistungsfähigkeit ihrer Kamera angewiesen sind.

Das Angebot ist ab einem Preis von 99 Euro pro Jahr für den Premium BLUE Service verfügbar. Der Premium GOLD und Premium BLACK Service bieten einen erweiterten Leistungsumfang und sind für 169 Euro, beziehungsweise für 199 Euro erhältlich.

Die Serviceleistungen im Detail:

Premium BLUE Service

Alle Mitglieder des Premium BLUE Services erhalten Zugang zu einer eigens eingerichteten Service Hotline. Geschulte Experten von Panasonic stehen wochentags zwischen 9 und 17 Uhr für Anrufer bereit und beantworten alle Service-Anfragen rund um das jeweilige LUMIX G Modell.
Falls eine registrierte LUMIX GH4, GH4R oder GX8 eine Reparatur benötigt, bietet Panasonic einen persönlichen Abholservice: einfach die Panasonic Hotline anrufen, einen passenden Termin und Abholort (innerhalb Deutschlands) vereinbaren, fertig. Anschließend wird die Kamera in ein Panasonic Service Center transportiert und dort via Express-Reparatur instandgesetzt. Innerhalb der üblicherweise zweijährigen Gewährleistungsperiode ist der Reparaturservice kostenlos.

Grundsätzlich überprüfen die Techniker bei jeder Reparaturleistung sowohl das Gehäuse als auch das Objektiv darauf, ob die aktuellste Firmware installiert ist und bringen diese – falls nötig –  auf den neuesten Stand.

Ziel ist es, dass die Eigentümer ihre LUMIX G Kamera nach spätestens drei Werktagen zurückbekommen. Sollte dies in Einzelfällen nicht möglich sein, erhalten die Premium BLUE Mitglieder ein kostenfreies Leihgerät.

Premium GOLD Service

Über die Leistungen der Premium BLUE Mitgliedschaft hinaus übernimmt Panasonic für Kunden des Premium GOLD Services auch die professionelle Reinigung des Bildsensors sowie des Suchers der Kamera (einmal jährlich). Dazu werden die Kameras in einer staubfreien Umgebung mit besonders sensitiven, nichtalkoholischen Flüssigkeiten gereinigt.

Premium BLACK Service

Der Premium BLACK Service umfasst zudem eine erweiterte Palette an Reparatur- und Wartungsmaßnahmen. So bietet die höchste Servicekategorie zusätzlich zu professioneller Reinigung, Firmware Updates und Express-Reparaturen auch eine Kalibrierung des Objektives (einmal jährlich). Bei diesem Service, der für die unten aufgeführten Objektive verfügbar ist, untersuchen die Techniker die Abbildungsleistung und führen feinste Optimierungen durch, damit Fotos und Videos wieder so gestochen scharf werden wie beim ersten Einsatz.

Der LUMIX Premium Service ist erhältlich im Panasonic Webshop unter
PSC-BLUE: http://shop.panasonic.de/PSC-BLUE.html
PSC-GOLD: http://shop.panasonic.de/PSC-GOLD.html
PSC-BLACK: http://shop.panasonic.de/PSC-BLACK.html

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Panasonic GX80 announced!

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GX80

Store links:
Black GX80/85 at BHphoto. Amazon. Adorama. WexUK. ParkUK.
Silver GX80/85 at BHphoto. Amazon. Adorama. ParkUK.
Panasonic DMW-FL200L LED Flash at Adorama.

Previews:
Hands-on at Dpreview. GX80 review at ePhotozine. Hands-on review at Hybridcams. Preview at WexUK. Hands-on at ParkCameras. First look at Whatdigitalcamera. Preview at Photographyblog. Toma de contacto at Quesabesde. Side by side comparison of the image stabilisation of the new Panasonic Lumix GX80 and the Olympus EM5 II at TheVideoMode.

Videos:
Video preview at Dpreview. 5-Axis Dual I.S. featured on LUMIX GX80/GX85 (Youtube). Post Focus Tutorial – With LUMIX GX80/GX85 feat. Jonas Borg (Youtube). 4K PHOTO Tutorial – with LUMIX GX80/GX85 feat. Jonas Borg (Youtube). Panasonic LUMIX GX80/GX85 Shooting Impressions by Jonas Borg (Youtube). Panasonic LUMIX GX80/GX85 Shooting Impressions by Joseph Linaschke (Youtube). Panasonic LUMIX GX80/GX85 4K Video “The Soul of New Orleans, the Soul of a LUMIX” (Youtube). Introducing Panasonic LUMIX GX80/GX85 (Youtube).

Press text:
Here at 43rumors. German text at SystemKameraForum. Photoscala. French at LeMondeDeLaPhoto.

Notes:
The new 12mm leica lens will be announced in a new event coming soon.

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Full GX80 review at ePhotozine and Cameras.reviewed

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Bildschirmfoto 2016-04-05 um 12.28.07

ePhotozine is the first site publishing a full review of the just announced new Panasonic GX80. Their verdict is:

The Panasonic Lumix GX80 offers a compelling set of features and shows that Panasonic are continuing to innovate in the digital camera market, with a new shutter unit designed to reduce shutter vibration as well as reduce shutter sound. They’ve removed the optical low-pass filter to improve image quality from the 16-megapixel sensor, and combined with the latest image processing from Panasonic, the results are very good. Panasonic has also introduced 5-axis sensor based image stabilisation, which is designed to work in combination with lenses with optical image stabilisation. Image stabilisation also works with 4K video recording, which means you can record high-quality 4K (UHD) video even when using the camera handheld.

The GX80 delivers images with very good colour and is capable of producing images with excellent detail, although does benefit from the use of high-quality lenses to get the best out of the camera. However, saying that, the 12-32mm kit lens produces good images, and is particularly convenient thanks to the extremely compact size, turning the GX80 into a camera you can easily take with your where-ever you go. For those that want some of the best features available in a mirrorless compact system camera, the Panasonic Lumix GX80 certainly ticks a lot of boxes, and with a wide range of Micro Four Thirds lenses available, it’s difficult to resist this camera!  

The camera earned the five star edit’s choice award (maximum possible).

Cameras Reviewed also tested the camera and writes:

I’m not gonna mince words: It’s been a long time since I’ve had this much fun with an entry-level camera. I say that as someone who has handled just about every high-end system camera out there—the GX85 is a special camera, and it shows in the lab and out.

Not only does the GX85 offer a huge step up compared to a point-and-shoot camera, but it’s quite compact and has all the creature comforts you could want. Better yet, while you’d normally expect some measure of compromise at this price point, there’s very little of that here. In fact, the features that do make the cut (like dual image stabilization and 4K photo) are really going to help shooters of all levels get the shot they want—especially with fast-moving subjects or in low light.

 

Store links:
Black GX80/85 at BHphoto. Amazon. Adorama. WexUK. ParkUK.
Silver GX80/85 at BHphoto. Amazon. Adorama. ParkUK.

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Press release: LUMIX GX85 – High Image Quality and High Performance Packed in a Compact Body

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Bildschirmfoto 2016-04-05 um 06.37.04

Store links:
Black GX80/85 at BHphoto. Amazon. Adorama.
Silver GX80/85 at BHphoto. Amazon. Adorama.

NEWARK, N.J., April 5, 2016  — Panasonic is proud to introduce a new Mirrorless Interchangeable Lens Camera, the LUMIX DMC-GX85 (GX85) for camera enthusiasts or anyone looking for an alternative to bulky DSLRs, that delivers lighter, more intelligent, uncompromising results. Nearly half the size of most DSLRs, the GX85 delivers impressive large sensor performance in the most compact camera system ever designed by Panasonic LUMIX. Thanks to the elimination of the low pass filter, its fine detail resolving power is boosted nearly 10% over previous 16-Megapixel sensors.

The LUMIX GX85 incorporates a new 5-axis Dual I.S. (Image Stabilizer) for more effective suppression of blur. Combining an O.I.S.(Optical Image Stabilizer, 2-axis) and a B.I.S.(Body Image Stabilizer, 5-axis), the 5-axis Dual I.S. compensates for a larger range of movement than ever before. Users can enjoy blur-free photo/video shooting from wide to tele, even in low light situations.

The 16.0-megapixel Digital Live MOS Sensor without a Low Pass filter and the new Venus Engine combine to achieve crisp, high resolution images in detail with high contrast, impressive color reproduction. The LUMIX GX85 adopts a new electromagnetic drive in the shutter unit. The shock caused by the movement of shutter diaphragm is dramatically reduced and the shutter sound is also minimized. The Contrast AF System features DFD (Depth From Defocus) technology and excels in both speed and accuracy by exchanging the digital signal between the camera and the lens at max. 240 fps, resulting in ultra-fast auto focusing of approx. 0.07 sec*. A variety of extensive AF functions including Face/Eye Detection AF, Pinpoint AF, One-shot AF and advanced Low Light AF enhance usability to comply with wide-ranging shooting situations.

The GX85 integrates a LVF (Live View Finder) with 2764K-dot equivalent high resolution and approx.100% color reproduction*. This 16:9 Wide Screen LVF boasts approx.1.39x / 0.7x (35mm camera equiv.) magnification and 100% field of view. The new 3.0-inch large, approx.1040K-dot high resolution static-type touch monitor with approx. 100% of field of view tilts up by 80-degrees and down by 45-degrees which enables shooting at either high or low angle even easier.

For even more creative photography, the LUMIX GX85 integrates the new L.Monochrome mode in Photo Style that offers impressive monochrome capture with rich gradation comparable to that of B/W film. Focus Bracket and Aperture Bracket are also new additions to conventional Exposure Bracket and WB Brackets that allow users to choose the best shot later. Thanks to its Wi-Fi® connectivity, users can connect the camera to their smartphone / tablet to expand the flexibility in shooting/storing/sharing images.

1. 4K capability bringing the evolution in videography/photography – 4K video and 4K PHOTO
Taking advantage of the high speed signal readout capability of the sensor and high speed signal processing, the LUMIX GX85 is capable of recording 4K video. Despite its high performance, it boasts superior energy efficiency and the size is kept compact for high mobility. The LUMIX GX85 records stunningly smooth, high-resolution 4K video in 3840 x 2160 at 30p or 24p in addition to the full-HD 1,920 x 1,080 60p (60 Hz) videos with practical full-time AF.

Thanks to this 4K technology, users can enjoy 4K PHOTO which users can capture the fleeting photo opportunities at 30 fps by extracting the most appealing frame. Three exclusive modes are available to choose from depending on the situation; 4K Burst, 4K Burst (Start/Stop) and 4K Pre-burst. All these function in 4K PHOTO enable saving pictures in 8-megapixel equivalent high resolution.

The LUMIX GX85 comes with the Post Focus function that enables users to select an in-focus area even after shooting. You can get multiple shots with different focus points with a single shutter release to choose from. It is helpful in situations such as macro shooting where severe focusing is required or for changing expressions by changing focused subject. This function has been developed by combining the DFD (Depth From Defocus) auto focus technology that enables measuring the distance to the subject and the 4K technology.  Operation is quite simple and easy – just shoot an image in a Post Focus mode and touch on the point where you want to set focus while playing it back.

In addition, the LUMIX GX85 incorporates the Light Composition function as a new option of 4K PHOTO mode. The camera synthesizes the images by choosing and saving a brighter pixel. This makes it possible to produce a more luxurious, dramatic image of situations such as fireworks or night scenery in camera with ease.

The LUMIX GX85 also enables 4K Live Cropping in video that yields stable panning or zooming while video recording. In panning shots, you can just set the viewing angle to start and end to get smooth panning imagery without using special equipment such as a slider. When zooming, you can set the after-zoomed viewing angle first, so that the subject can fit perfectly in the frame. Thanks to the digital operation, the imagery of zooming is smooth because it does not physically move the zoom lens.

* About motion picture recording / 4K Photo recording
– Use a card with SD Speed Class with “Class 4” or higher when recording motion pictures.
– Use a card with SD Speed Class with “UHS-I UHS Speed Class 3 (U3)” when recording motion pictures with [MP4] in [4K] or [4K PHOTO].
(SD speed class is the speed standard regarding continuous writing.)
– Recording stops when the continuous recording time exceeds 29 minutes and 59 seconds or the file size exceeds 4GB with [MP4] in [FHD] [HD] [VGA].
– MP4 motion pictures with [MP4] in [4K]:
– When using an SDHC memory card: You can continue recording without interruption even if the file size exceeds 4 GB, but the motion picture file will be divided and recorded/played back separately.
– When using an SDXC memory card: You can record a motion picture in a single file.
– When the ambient temperature is high or continuous recording is performed, the camera may stop the recording to protect itself. Wait until the camera cools down.
** For [4K] video output, use an HDMI cable that has the HDMI logo on it, and that is described as”4K compatible”.

2. New 5-Axis Dual I.S. (Image Stabilizer) to be free of blur
The LUMIX GX85 incorporates the new 5-axis Dual I.S.(Image Stabilizer) for more effective suppression of blur. Combining an O.I.S. (Optical Image Stabilizer, 2-axis) and a B.I.S.(Body Image Stabilizer, 5-axis), the 5-axis Dual I.S. compensates for larger movement which was conventionally uncontrollable, making it possible to use 4-step slower shutter speed*1. By making the most of both O.I.S and B.I.S., it is highly beneficial not only in wide angle but also in telephoto and in the adverse situations such as at nighttime or with one-hand shooting.

The 5-axis Dual I.S. works in both photo and motion picture recording including 4K video. Panasonic LUMIX G DSLM (Digital Single Lens Mirrorless) Cameras offer a wide variety of digital interchangeable lenses and most of them will comply with this 5-axis dual I.S. in LUMIX GX85*2 and the B.I.S. compensates for the camera movement even when a lens without O.I.S. is used.

*1 Based on the CIPA standard [Yaw/Pitch direction: focusing distance f=32mm (35mm film camera equivalent f=64mm), when H-FS12032 is used.] *2 Firmware update is required for some lenses.

3. The high image quality with real-to-life detail and impressive color reproduction
The LUMIX GX85 lets users shoot vibrant, true-to-life high quality images with excellent resolution, high contrast and impressive color reproduction. Removing the Low Pass Filter, the limiting resolution is improved by approx.10%* while detecting high frequency components to suppress generation of moiré by the Venus Engine, is designed for the GX85.The Venus Engine reproduces vibrant, impressive color such as clear sky by dividing hue, saturation, and luminosity, and finely adjusts them separately. Taking advantage of this fine tuning capability, LUMIX GX85 enables users to choose a preset of contrast, sharpness, saturation and noise reduction as they choose according to the shooting subject in Photo Style. Notably, L Monochrome is a new option added to the Photo Style, making it possible to shoot impressive monochrome photo with deep black and rich gradation like that of B/W film.

The combination of the Digital Live MOS Sensor and the Venus Engine achieves clear image rendering with minimum noise even in low-lit situations and at max. ISO 25,600.

The LUMIX GX85 adopts an electromagnetic drive in the shutter unit. The shock caused by the movement of shutter diaphragm is dramatically reduced by approx.90% in comparison with a conventional spring-powered shutter units.

4. High speed response and practical AF/MF options
The Contrast AF in the GX85 achieves even higher speed and higher precision focusing with digital signal communication at max. 240 fps. Furthermore, the DFD (Depth From Defocus) technology*1 calculates the distance to the subject by evaluating 2 images with different sharpness level while consulting the data of optical characteristics of the current lens. As a result, the GX85 achieves ultra-high speed AF of approx.0.07 sec*2 and high speed burst shooting at 8 fps (AFS) / 6 fps (AFC) to capture fast moving subject in-focus.

The Low Light AF makes it possible to set focus on the subject more precisely even without AF assist lamp in extremely low-lit situations to -4EV, which is as dark as moonlight. Plus, the GX85 integrates Starlight AF which allows users to shoot a star in the sky at night with auto focus. This can be achieved by accurate calculation of contrast value in a smaller AF zone.

A total of 49 focus detection areas offers more flexible composition together with Custom Multi AF mode in which users can freely select the blocks to focus out of the 49 in the focusing area. In addition to the conventional Face Recognition AF, the GX85 incorporates Face / Eye Detection AF which automatically sets focus right on the eye of human face. With the Pinpoint AF, users can magnify the target area to set precise focus.

*1 Contrast AF with DFD Technology works only with Panasonic Micro Four Thirds lenses.
*2 In AFS, at wide-end with H-FS14140 (CIPA).

5. Intuitive control for operational comfort
The GX85 integrates a LVF (Live View Finder) with 2764K-dot equivalent high resolution and approx.100% color reproduction*. This 16:9 Wide Screen LVF boasts approx.1.39x / 0.7x (35mm camera equiv.) magnification and 100% field of view. It comes with the Eye Sensor and the Eye Sensor AF and starts auto focusing by just looking into the LVF not to miss the shooting opportunity.

The 3.0-inch large, approx.1040K-dot high resolution static-type touch monitor has approx. 100% of field of view. It tilts up by 80-degrees and down by 45-degrees which enables shooting in either high or low angle even easier.

To further enhance the controllability, the GX85 comes with thick, solid grip for stable holding even in one hand. The front/rear dual dial system enables direct setting – for example, users can adjust white balance with a front dial and set ISO with a rear dial while choosing the shutter speed or seeing the noise effect, which is helpful in complex lighting situations.              

6. Other Features

  • Exposure / WB / Focus / Aperture Bracket NEW

In the LUMIX GX85, Focus Bracket and Aperture Bracket are new additions to conventional Exposure Bracket and WB Brackets for users to choose the best shot later. In Focus Bracket, max.999 images can be shot with different focus points. The Aperture Bracket lets users have multiple shots with a different depth of field.

  • Creative Control in P/A/S/M Mode

The GX85 integrates a variety of artistic functions that adds fun to digital photography. The popular Creative Control mode features a total of 22 filter options. The effect parameter of each mode is also adjustable. Now it is possible to apply one of these filters even in P/A/S/M mode. Users can combine a favorable setting and filter to make specific effect.. Also the GX85 is capable of taking pictures “with” and “without” filter effect simultaneously, so that users can compare them and choose later.

  • Easy Wireless Connectivity via Wi-Fi® with Smartphones

The LUMIX GX85 integrates Wi-Fi® connectivity (IEEE 802.11 b/g/n) to offer more flexible shooting experience and instant image sharing with easy operation. Once connecting the camera and smartphone/tablet installing Panasonic’s dedicated application software Panasonic Image App for iOS / Android, users can shoot / browse / share images remotely.

  • RAW data development in Camera
  • AC/USB Power Charging
  • Silent Mode
  • Multiple Exposure
  • Time Lapse Shot / Stop Motion Animation

Optional Accessories
The new compact, lightweight External Flash DMW-FL200L (GN20) is available. The DMW-FL200L offers 90-degree vertical bounce lighting and it can also be used as LED light when video recording. It also features wireless shooting capability.

The LUMIX GX85 will be available at www.shop.panasonic.com  and valued channel partners at the end of May for $799.99 in both silver and black versions with a 12-32 kit lens.

About Panasonic Consumer Electronics Company
Based in Newark, NJ, Panasonic Consumer Electronics Company is a division of Panasonic Corporation of North America, the principal North American subsidiary of Panasonic Corporation. The company offers a wide range of consumer solutions in the U.S. including products from VIERA Life+ Screens, Blu-ray players, LUMIX Digital Cameras, Camcorders, Home Audio, Cordless Phones, Home Appliances, Beauty, Grooming, Wellness and Personal Care products and more. In Interbrand’s 2014 annual “Best Global Green Brands” report, Panasonic ranked number five overall and the top electronics brand in the report. To learn more about our products, visit panasonic.com. Follow Panasonic on Twitter @panasonicUSA; additional company information for journalists is also available at www.panasonic.com/pressroom.

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It’s back: Panasonic GX8 for $839!

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[shoplink 59093 ebay]Bildschirmfoto 2016-04-04 um 10.37.13[/shoplink]

The Silver Panasonic GX8 is for sale for $839 only at [shoplink 59093 ebay]Quickndone eBay (Click here)[/shoplink].

tradein

Olympus is having a Trade Up Campaign through 4/30. You can learn more about it on those special pages at Adorama, FocusCamera.
Purchase an Olympus Pen F – save $150
Purchase an Olympus EM1 – Save $100
Purchase an Olympus EM 5 Mark II – Save $100
Customers will receive their trade in bonus at the time of purchase

At FocusCamera you have to use these codes:
“OLMTRADEUP150” for PEN F
“OLMTRADEUP100” for EM1 and EM5 Mark II

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(FT5) New image of the Black GX80. And full spec list.

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panasonic_gx85_black_f001

THe image above shows the Black GX80 and here are the full specs google translated from the Japanese:

– 16 million pixels sensor
– No low-pass filter (resolving power is 10% improved)
– Ultrasonic Dust Reduction
– 5-axis camera shake correction (sensor shift method). Dual camera shake correction of the 2-axis camera shake correction in the lens
– Camera shake correction operation is also in the video
– Video is 4K / 30p 100Mbps. Full HD / 60p 28Mbps
– Recording time: when the rear monitor used in the 4K / 30p is about 80 minutes. EVF when using about 70 minutes
– Wi-Fi built-in
– EVF is 2.76 million dots. Magnification 1.39x (35mm equivalent 0.7x). Eye point is 17.5mm
– Eye sensor
– AF the contrast AF. DFD technology adoption
– 1728 zone multi-pattern metering (EV0-18)
– ISO200-25600 (extension ISO100)
– Shutter speed is 60 seconds -1/4000 seconds. Electronic shutter 1 sec -1/16000 seconds
– Synchro speed is 1/160 seconds
– In the camera RAW development
– LCD monitor three inches 1.04 million dots. Tilting. Touch panel
– Continuous (mechanical shutter): 8 frames / sec in the AFS, 6 frames / second in the AFC
– Continuous (electronic shutter): AFS at 10 frames / second, 6 frames second in the AFC
– The number of pictures on the 13 copies in RAW, more than 100 sheets in the JPEG (depending on the card speed and image size)
– 4K Photo mode, 4K burst, 4K pre-burst
– 4K post focus mode
– Built-in flash. Guide number 4.2 (ISO100)
– USB terminal. HDMI terminal (type D). External microphone terminal
– 290 sheets battery life in the time of monitor use. EVF 270 sheets at the time of use
– The size of 122 x 70.6 x 43.9mm
– It weighs 426 grams (SD card, with battery). 383 g (body only)

 

via Digicameinfo.

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