The Panasonic LUMIX DMC-GF3 incorporates all the advanced technology and power
of a DSLR interchangeable lens camera with the style and portability of a compact
point-and-shoot. Being about the size of a smartphone, the lightweight GF3 benefits
from a significant reduction in its dimensions. This is thanks to its newly
enhanced mirror-free technology, and the substantial DSLR sensors that are now
more compatible with the camera's compact Micro Four Thirds System lenses. This
means that you have more creative control over your photos and videos, without
the hassle of carrying around a bulky camera and lens kit.
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Breakthrough Mirrorless Structure:
The DMC-GF3 uses the Micro Four Thirds System standard, a system of interchangeable
lenses developed to enhance the characteristics of digital photo technology.
The GF3 design, with its mirrorless structure, eliminates the need for a
mirror box and optical viewfinder. This helps preserve image quality despite
the camera's slight profile, delivering improved performance in a convenient
digital interchangeable lens system device.
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LUMIX G / LEICA DG Lenses:
One of the major benefits of an interchangeable lens system camera like
the GF3 is its ability to capture a wider range of expression with a relatively
simple lens change. The GF3 is compatible with the full range of Micro Four
Thirds System standard lenses, including the LUMIX G / Leica DG line-up.
LUMIX G / Leica DG lenses feature many of Panasonic's most innovative features,
including telephoto and 3D capabilities. The compact, lightweight LUMIX
/ Leica lenses also support the unique contrast AF system of the LUMIX G
series cameras and comply with the Micro Four Thirds System, designed to
optimize the performance of the camera. Available lenses include several
models in a range of categories such as standard zoom, wide zoom, telephoto,
single focal length and 3D.
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12.1-megapixel Live MOS Sensor:
The GF3 is equipped with a 4/3-type 12.1-megapixel Live MOS sensor, which
delivers the superior image quality of a traditional CCD sensor with the
energy efficiency of a CMOS sensor. The MOS sensor has a high S/N and an
advanced circuit structure that's largely unaffected by the noise generated
on the circuits. This allows the GF3 to provide stunning image quality that
rivals, or in some cases surpasses, that of DSLR cameras.
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3.0-inch 460,000-dot High Resolution LCD:
The DMC-GF3 has a generous 3.0-inch LCD display screen with a 100% field
of view and an impressive 460,000-dot high-resolution output. The wide-angle
viewing makes it possible to frame photos in a variety of creative ways
for both dynamic shooting and image playback and editing. The screen has
been equipped with LUMIX's acclaimed Intelligent LCD technology, which automatically
adjusts screen brightness in 11 steps according to ambient conditions. The
large viewing area of the screen also makes sharing images with friends
and family much easier.
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Venus Engine:
The powerful Venus Engine enhances the GF3's performance thanks to the newly
developed noise reduction technology that provides even better image quality.
The noise reduction system improves S/N by approximately 3dB at ISO3200
and ISO6400 respectively; color reproduction in high sensitivity modes is
improved as well.
The Venus Engine applies advanced chromatic noise reduction at the edges,
preventing the color mixture that may occur in these areas. Chromatic noise
in the gradation part and the edge part are described clearly and effectively.
Selective noise reduction is also applied to outlines to give a more balanced
curve, without compromising image resolution in detailed or fine texture
areas. Spot-type noise, which frequently occurs in dark areas of an image
shot in low light or in the color bleed on high luminance areas, is also
effectively suppressed by the Venus Engine's noise reduction technology.
In live action video recording, the Venus Engine enables a more accurate
level of motion detection thanks to a newly integrated motion detection
circuit. This circuit delivers noise suppression to moving parts more efficiently
for better video.
Whether shooting still photos or live video, the Venus Engine helps produce
images with stunning clarity, even in low light.
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Light Speed AF:
The GF3 has the world's fastest auto focus technology, Light Speed AF. This
reduces focus detection time by doubling the drive speed, from 60 frames
per second to an impressive 120 frames per second. Speed and focusing accuracy
of the advanced contrast AF system on the DMC-GF3 far surpasses even the
most high-end digital SLR cameras with phase-difference auto focus. Light
Speed AF, when combined with the GF3's touch-control AF, makes setting and
focusing on a subject quick and easy, so spur-of-the-moment shots are always
optimized.
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3D Shooting Capability:
The GF3 is the first digital interchangeable lens camera to offer 3D photo
capability, delivering high quality images with impressive clarity and dynamic
detail. The optional LUMIX G 12.5mm / F12 3D lens is compact yet powerful,
allowing for easier handling and instant 3D shooting with optimized settings.
3D shots are reproduced without distortion or time lag between the left
and right sides, even when recording subjects in motion, and because the
GF3 is compatible with any Panasonic VIERA 3D-ready TV, playback of 3D images
(even of close-up shots) is easy on the eyes. With this innovative 3D technology,
Panasonic gives users a degree of expression in image capture that's unprecedented
among digital interchangeable lens cameras.
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Easy Manual Control:
For experienced photographers who like the greater creative control of self-determined
settings, the GF3 offers easy manual controls for exposure, shutter speed
and aperture. The meter guides provide a highly readable visual reference
that shows correlations between aperture and shutter speed, and color-coded
warnings that clearly alert users when settings are out of proper range.
These user-friendly manual controls dramatically reduce the learning curve
for users that are new to system camera technology. They also simplify the
process for more experienced users.
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New Body Design and Color Options:
The GF3 offers plenty of stylish options for those of us who like a great-looking
body style to go along with all those advanced photo technology features.
The small, compact round-form and ergonomic design of the GF3 makes for
a lighter, more portable unit and eliminates the bulk of digital SLRs.
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Customizable Experience:
One of the best things about interchangeable lens system cameras is that
they offer greater control and a more customized experience. With all of
the available accessories and add-ons for the GF3, you can create a system
that works for your particular style and shooting preferences. The DMW-MA1
mount adaptor allows the use of any number of Four Thirds System standard
lenses, so that you are always ready to capture any moment in any situation.
Other accessories include straps, cases, lens filters and protectors, extra
battery packs, tripod adaptors, zoom levers, a mini HDMI cable and SD/SDHC/SDXC
memory card. Choose the extra gear you want right from the start, or you
can add enhancement pieces for a better shooting experience as you become
more comfortable with the Four Thirds System format.
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Intelligent Auto Plus:
If you think using a digital SLR camera is too complicated for everyday
photos and video, think again. The GF3 incorporates Panasonic's exclusive
Intelligent Auto (iA) Plus technology; recording amazing photos and movies
is as easy as using a compact point-and-shoot camera. In iA Plus Mode, shooting
is fully and automatically optimized in any situation; you get incredible
image quality with virtually zero effort.
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POWER O.I.S. / MEGA O.I.S.:
Sometimes the motion of pressing the shutter button on your camera causes
slight vibrations that can compromise picture quality. Images can come out
blurry or streaked, ruining the shot. You'll never have to worry about blurry
images again thanks to the GF3's POWER O.I.S. function. This image stabilizing
technology detects camera vibrations and compensates for movement caused
by hand-shake; this ensures that your pictures are always clear and sharp,
giving you the confidence to capture images whenever the opportunity arises.
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Face Recognition:
If you have a new baby, kids or close friends who feel like family, the
GF3 lets you capture beautiful, natural portraits of your loved ones in
any environment. Face Recognition stores faces in the camera's memory for
optimized shooting. The technology recognizes registered faces and delivers
the best exposure and focus settings for the situation. Registering faces
also lets you sort and organize photos according to the person or people
in them.
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Face Detection:
Face Detection technology makes it easier than ever to record human subjects
with stunning results. The GF3's Face Detection function can identify more
than a dozen faces at once, automatically adjusting focus and exposure for
amazing image quality in any setting. Digital red-eye correction is also
applied automatically so expressions are always natural, even before the
photo is stored on the camera's memory card or hard drive. You will be able
to capture fun group shots and optimize your portraits no matter what else
is in the frame, with no more effort than it takes to press the shutter.
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Subject Detection with AF Tracking:
AF Tracking makes it possible to capture all those once-in-a-lifetime shots
of subjects in motion (think active kids or frolicking pets) with perfect
clarity. Just focus on your subject and wait for the right opportunity.
AF Tracking automatically locks onto the subject and keeps it in constant
focus and correct exposure until you click the shutter.
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Motion Detection with Intelligent ISO Control:
Along with AF Tracking, Intelligent ISO Control makes the GF3 one of the
best action photo cameras around. Intelligent ISO detects subject motion
and automatically adjusts shutter speed and ISO levels to prevent blurring
and ghosting. You will take incredibly optimized action shots with ease.
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Scene Detection with Intelligent Scene Selector:
Few things are more frustrating for casual photographers than trying to
figure out the best scene setting for a particular situation. The GF3's
Intelligent Scene Selector lets you forget the hassle by automatically detecting
ambient conditions and adjusting the camera settings accordingly. There
are six different automated settings, including; Scenery, Portrait, Sunset,
Night Scenery, Night Portrait and Macro, so you get the best possible image
quality no matter what.
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Intelligent Resolution Technology:
Intelligent Resolution delivers uniform sharpness and precise pixel-by-pixel
signal processing for the most effective image optimization in any shooting
situation. Outlines, textures and soft gradations are automatically detected
and adjusted for naturally crisp, clear photos and videos. There's also
an Extended Resolution option for large-format photos so you get even more
freedom to create unique images that capture all your favorite memories.
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Creative Control:
All LUMIX G Series Micro System cameras are equipped with the popular My
Color Mode, which lets you choose from five different color treatments to
create interesting effects on any photograph. Options include; Expressive,
Sepia, High Dynamic, Retro, High Key and the Miniature Effect. You'll be
able to give your photos impressive, artistic finishes instantly without
compromising the original image.
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1920 x 1080 Full HD Video:
The GF3 goes beyond mere still photography with a capable 1920 x 1080 HD
video recording function. Leave your camcorder at home knowing you'll be
able to record movies beautifully in high quality AVCHD format, which offers
almost twice the recording time of standard Motion JPEG HD video capture.
The most innovative feature of the GF3's video recording abilities is the
dedicated button that lets you record video while shooting still photos.
If you love putting memories on film, imagine the possibilities when you
can take pictures and shoot video simultaneously. You'll never again miss
a moment of that school play, sporting event, graduation, wedding, night
on the town or special celebration.
The video recording function is also equipped with a Dolby Digital Creator
microphone that records true-to-life audio and has an innovative Wind Cut
feature that reduces background noise. The result is an enhanced sound quality
on your HD movies.
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Extended Battery Life:
The camera can take up to 340 shots on a single battery charge, so you'll
be free to shoot for hours without having to worry about recharging the
lithium-ion battery. This extended battery life makes the GF3 ideal for
use on vacations, day trips and everyday shooting at a moment's notice.
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Summary
The Panasonic LUMIX DMC-GF3 is a great camera for advanced users, offering
the benefits of a digital SLR interchangeable system camera with the ease
of use of a compact point-and-shoot. For everyday shooting or those occasions
when photo quality truly matters, the GF3 delivers beautifully.