Digital Home Thoughts: Panasonic G1: World's First Micro Four Thirds Camera Reviewed

"Panasonic's stated reasons for introducing Micro Four Thirds are simple; to produce smaller cameras that act more like compact DSCs whilst offering the quality and versatility of a DSLR - and in doing so to convert some of the millions of compact camera buyers who - according to research - are put off digital SLRs by the bulk, complexity and lack of user-friendliness."

The Panasonic G1 is an interchangeable lens camera that employs a revolutionary idea - remove the mirror and make the distance to the lens smaller, thereby allowing you to make the lenses themselves smaller. Now, you can have DSLR quality without the DSLR bulk (which is exactly why I have a pocket camera in addition to my DSLR). The G1 gets DPreview's vaunted "Highly Recommended" rating. As a first step, Panasonic deserves the kudos. However, there are two drawbacks to the initial model - a limited selection of lenses and no video mode. It will be interesting to see if this product catches on, or if it is eclipsed by the ever-increasing capability of compact cameras. Click on the link to get all the facts on the new Panasonic G1.