DMC-GH1 | PRODUCTS | LUMIX | Digital Camera

New Technologies and Enhanced Images for a New-Generation Camera

By maximizing Panasonic's accumulated ν (nu) Maicovicon technologies, the 4/3-type 12.1-megapixel Live MOS sensor featured in the DMC-GH1 is able to offer the best of both worlds — the superior image quality of a full-frame CCD sensor, and the lower power consumption of a CMOS sensor. It also adds a high-speed readout for recording HD movies.
A new noise reduction circuit and a technique that implants the photodiodes in the deep portion of the silicon also suppress noise when shooting in low-light conditions, for even higher quality images. Plus, another new technology makes it possible to read 4 channels of data simultaneously, which allows the DMC-GH1 to deliver Full-time Live View images at 60 frames per second, while faithfully reproducing high-resolution images with fine detail and rich gradation.

Using only 12.1-megapixel of the total 14.0-megapixel Live MOS sensor gives the DMC-GH1 a multi-aspect ratio capability. This lets you shoot using a 4:3 or 3:2 aspect ratio, or the 16:9 ratio that is optimal for HDTV playback, while maintaining the same angle of view.

*1 35mm film camera equivalent.
*2 Multi-aspect doesn't support 1:1 aspect ratio.

The Venus Engine HD incorporates two CPUs. This not only boosts image processing speed, it also helps achieve an exceptional noise-reduction performance. Also, the two CPUs of the Venus Engine HD allow long-time movie recording in AVCHD while maintaining low power consumption. Signals containing a large amount of image data are sent from the Live MOS sensor to the high-resolution LVF, resulting in the display of sharp 800 x 600-dot images at 60 fps. And the Venus Engine HD features HDMI output too.

Higher Image Quality with Advanced Signal Processing

For the image processing LSI, the Venus Engine HD features exceptionally advanced signal processing capabilities. This sophisticated LSI separates chromatic noise from luminance noise and applies the optimal noise reduction to each, so you capture clear, noise-free images even when shooting at high ISO sensitivity levels. The Venus Engine HD also provides independent gradation control for each of the R, G and B colors, so even delicate color nuances are reproduced faithfully. Linking smoothly with the Live MOS sensor, the Venus Engine HD records stunning high-resolution 12.1-megapixel images with exceptional accuracy.

The energy-saving Venus Engine ＨＤ and genuine rechargeable lithium-ion battery*¹ work together to extend the shooting time of the DMC-GH1, making it possible to take approx. 300 shots*² on a single battery charge when using the LCD, and approx. 320 shots*² when using the LVF.

*1 The DMC-GH1 comes with a function to check whether the battery and unit can be safely used together. •Batteries made by other companies which have been certified by Panasonic may be used with these units, but we offer no guarantee as to the quality, performance or safety of such batteries. •Exercise care when purchasing batteries. Many fake or imitation batteries have been found among those sold at unusually low prices and those which customers cannot check for themselves before purchasing. •Please confirm the latest information about batteries on the following website.
http://panasonic.jp/support/global/cs/info/battery.html
(This website is in English only.)
*2 According to the CIPA Standard with LUMIX G VARIO HD 14-140mm / F4.0-5.8 ASPH. / MEGA O.I.S..

Flow of the Dust Reduction System

1.Power off.
2.When the camera power is turned on, the filter vibrates to shake off dirt and dust.
3.The dirt and dust adheres to the absorption part to prevent it from appearing in the sensor image.

If dust or other foreign matter gets inside the camera when you're changing lenses, it could cling to the image sensor and show up as a spot in your photos. Dust entering the camera while changing the lens is one of the biggest problems with interchangeable lens cameras. The Dust Reduction System in the DMC-GH1 helps eliminate this possibility by placing a Supersonic Wave Filter in front of the Live MOS sensor, between the low-pass filter and shutter. Every time the camera is switched on, the filter vibrates around 50,000 times per second to repel dust and other particles without affecting the camera's internal mechanisms, helping maintain superb image quality.

A camera without dust reduction

The DMC-GH1

The LUMIX G lenses comply with the new Micro Four Thirds System standard for digital interchangeable lens cameras. Even with their extremely small size, these high-performance lenses reflect Panasonic's advanced optical technologies, such as the MEGA O.I.S. (Optical Image Stabilizer) system or a design that minimizes wide-angle distortion to further improve optical performance. Characterized by their compact size and light weight, the LUMIX G lenses bring out the full capabilities of the 4/3 image sensor, and support the Contrast AF function of the DMC-GH1. The new LUMIX G VARIO HD 14-140mm/F4.0-5.8 ASPH./MEGA O.I.S. lens also supports a Continuous AF/AE function that works for both photos and movies.

Learn more about the LUMIX G lens

MEGA O.I.S.*

MEGA O.I.S. compensates for hand-shake to help prevent blurring, so you get sharp, clear shots every time you shoot. The built-in LSI processes output from the gyrosensors at an extraordinary 4,000 times per second, helping achieve an exceptional hand-shake compensation performance.
When the MEGA O.I.S. is in continuous operation, you see a clear, blur-free image on the LVF or the LCD monitor. However, the gyrosensor system provides maximum performance when MEGA O.I.S. is activated only at the moment the shutter is released. With the DMC-GH1 you can select whichever of three stabilization modes better suits your needs.

MODE 1 Image is corrected continually, so you can see the image clearly on the LVF or the LCD monitor. MODE 2 Correction occurs at the instant you press the shutter button, so the corrective effect is greater. MODE 3 Corrects for up / down camera movements continually. This mode is ideal for panning action shots.

* MEGA O.I.S. is not available on LUMIX G VARIO 7-14mm / F4.0 ASPH..

The Micro Four Thirds System is an interchangeable lens camera system that was designed and developed to optimize the characteristics of digital technology. It carefully preserves the image quality of the 4/3-type image sensor, while reducing the size of the camera body and particularly the size of wide-angle lenses. The Micro Four Thirds System also offers excellent expandability and adaptability to future functions.

Go to the Micro Four Thirds System standard website

• Micro Four Thirds™ and Micro Four Thirds Logo marks are trademarks or registered trademarks of Olympus Imaging Corporation, in Japan, the United States, the European Union and other countries.

* Availability of models and colors may differ depending on the country.
* Check the website of the Panasonic sales company in your country or region for details on the LUMIX models, colors, and optional accessories that are available in your market.