Panasonic GM1 camera and 12-32mm lens finally unveiled

Panasonic has finally introduced the GM1, the smallest and lightest Micro Four Thirds camera ever, which will be marketed as an ultra-compact Digital Single Lens Mirrorless shooter.

Panasonic has been making some tiny cameras with powerful features. The smallest of them all used to be the GF3. However, its status has been overtaken by an overly-rumored device, which has just become official: the GM1.

It has been an important subject of the rumor for quite some time and it has been announced as the first camera in the GM series.

Panasonic GM1 has become the tiniest Micro Four Thirds camera ever released.

Panasonic announces GM1 ultra-compact Digital Single Lens Mirrorless camera with GX7 sensor

The Panasonic GM1 is based on an ultra-compact design, which is something that fashionistas will enjoy. The company says that this is a Digital Single Lens Mirrorless (DSLM) camera, but its small size is not reminiscent of its powerful internal hardware.

Speaking of which, the device features a 16-megapixel Digital Live MOS sensor found in the higher-end GX7. As a lot of rumors come true, the 200-25,600 ISO sensitivity range is also a reality. The maximum setting should allow users to take better photos in low-light environments.

The Micro Four Thirds DSLM also comes packed with built-in WiFi so that photographers can easily share images to Android and iOS smartphones and tablets.

Panasonic GM1 top side provides enough room for three dials, some buttons, and the pop-up flash.

Panasonic GM1 becomes smallest and lightest Micro Four Thirds camera ever

Panasonic claims that the camera is made out of metal-based materials so that the build quality remains among the highest on the market.

Although it employs aluminum and other materials, the  Micro Four Thirds system is not environmentally-sealed. This means that photographers will have to be careful when taking it outside, as dust and moisture might cause issues on the long run.

The GM1 camera measures 3.88 x 2.16 x 1.2-inches and weights 204 grams. As a result, it is truly the tiniest and lightest MFT shooter ever.

Panasonic GM1 rear houses a large touchscreen, which is used for framing photos.

Large high-resolution touchscreen and ultra-fast 1/16000 shutter speed for the GM1

The Panasonic GM1 specs list continues with a fixed 3-inch 1.04-million LCD touchscreen, which serves as Live View mode to frame your photos and videos. Since it is aimed at entry-level photographers, there is no built-in viewfinder.

Another impressive feature of the new MFT system is the maximum shutter speed of 1/16000th of a second. The sensor is so sensitive that it allows photographers to use such quick shutter speeds. At the other end, the slowest setting is 60 seconds.

If you do no want to fiddle around with manual controls, then the Japanese manufacturer has prepared 22 scene modes to help you unleash your inner creativity. Additionally, stop-motion animations and time-lapse videos can be easily created within the camera.

Other features of the Panasonic GM1 include a pop-up flash, full HD video recording at up to 60fps, AF assist lamp, USB port, and the ability to add an SD / SDHC / SDXC card.

Panasonic 12-32mm f/3.5-5.6 is a new pancake zoom lens for Micro Four Thirds cameras.

Panasonic introduces 12-32mm f/3.5-5.6 Lumix G Vario pancake zoom lens, too

The GM1 has not arrived alone. It comes with the 12-32mm f/3.5-5.6 Lumix G Vario lens. The new optic will provide a 35mm equivalent of 24-64mm when mounted on Micro Four Thirds shooters.

Panasonic’s latest glass features Mega OIS technology, helping photographers to stabilize the image. It is collapsible and it falls into the pancake zoom category, but it does not feature Power Zoom technology.

The PZ system would ensure a more quiet and smoother autofocus. Thankfully, the GM1 has a Silent Mode to trim down sounds and the Focus Peaking technology certainly enhances AF speed.

Availability details

The Japan-based company has confirmed that the GM1 and 12-32mm lens kit will become available in the coming weeks for a price of $749.99. The shooter will be available in black, silver, white and orange colors.

Amazon has already begun accepting pre-orders for this combination at the aforementioned price.

Current Micro Four Thirds camera owners will be able to purchase the optic separately for $349.99 soon. The lens is expected to be launched in black and silver flavors.