GH3 Panasonic GX7 Newbie QUESTIONS ... (and a few thoughts vs. Sony's a7 camera)

T

The Irish TRex

Well-known member
Just bought the Panasonic GX7 with the kit lens and the Olympus 45mm 1.8 lens. Learning it's ins and outs today. Liking it so far. If anyone with experience has answers to the questions below, I'd love your help. My main reason for getting this camera was for photos. I debated getting a Sony a7 because I get essentially 25% off via a family member's discount who works for Sony. It was a VERY tough choice, but ultimately the flexibility to get cheaper fast lenses while still under budget led me to my choice. I have 30 days to test before I can return and go Sony if I prefer. Sony has the features that allow the camera also to be a great emergency backup for my pro video cameras (my day job) which the GX7 does not, although it's no slouch in the video dept.

But again, my main reason for this camera is for shooting photos (specifically of my kids) hopefully with some nice shallow DOF.

QUESTIONS:

1) I'm confused over setting one of my custom Fn buttons to "Preview" which from the manual makes it sound like I'll be able to see the aperture, SS, etc. changes in the viewfinder while composing a shot. But that doesn't seem to be the case. What is that "preview" setting for then? My goal is really to be able to see all the changes that I make live on the LCD and EVF but right now I can only seem to get that in MANUAL mode with CONSTANT PREVIEW set to ON. Is there a way to do the same in A, P, or S mode?

2) Should I leave i.Dynamic setting on or off? Seems like one would usually want the most dynamic range out of a shot so I'm just not sure if I should keep it at OFF, LOW, Standard, High, or Auto?

3) Focus modes (AFS/AFF/AFC). Which setting would you recommend for shooting close ups of kids playing while trying to maintain a shallow DoF. I realize the AFS mode allows me to set focus and recompose, but kids often don't exactly stand still so maybe one of the other two??? I can't really see the difference between AFF and AFC either. But then again, I'm new to this.

4) AF + MF Setting...I thought this meant that if I'm in AF mode that I can make minor adjustments manually still once I've locked my focus, but I can't seem to either get it to work, or I'm doing something wrong (which is probably the case). Ideas?

5) Anyone know whether a micro 4/3 camera like this will have faster autofocus vs a full frame camera like the Sony a7?


That's all for now. Again, I'm new to this camera and will be running it around all through the holidays before I make my final choice of this camera with the extra lens vs the Sony a7 w/ kit lens only (all I can afford for now).

Thank you!

(PS. I put this in the GH3 thread because I couldn't find a GX7 one...hope that's okay)
 
The Irish TRex said:
1) I'm confused over setting one of my custom Fn buttons to "Preview" which from the manual makes it sound like I'll be able to see the aperture, SS, etc. changes in the viewfinder while composing a shot. But that doesn't seem to be the case. What is that "preview" setting for then? My goal is really to be able to see all the changes that I make live on the LCD and EVF but right now I can only seem to get that in MANUAL mode with CONSTANT PREVIEW set to ON. Is there a way to do the same in A, P, or S mode?
Click to expand...

I don't have a GX7 but a lot of what's in the GX7 is probably the same as the GH3. Panasonic makes some effort to stay consistent within their line. Preview baffles me. What I get when I try to map it to an Fn button is: One press - Shutter effect on, 2nd press Shutter effect off. On the GX1 in Manual mode this (2nd press - shutter effect OFF) gives me the same thing CONSTANT PREVUE set to ON would if the GX1 had Constant Prevue (which it doesn't). On the GH3 I get the Shutter effect on and off, but with CONSTANT PREVUE set to ON, I've never shut it off to see if it's the same.

So I forget about Preview, I remain "baffled" as to what it's supposed to do. You're better off depending on CONSTANT PREVUE to show you what your settings are doing anyway. In P, A, or S the exposure system is going to try to get you a "perfect" exposure anyway so that's what you're going to see in the EVF or on the LCD.

The Irish TRex said:
2) Should I leave i.Dynamic setting on or off? Seems like one would usually want the most dynamic range out of a shot so I'm just not sure if I should keep it at OFF, LOW, Standard, High, or Auto?
Click to expand...

I leave it OFF. With previous models most agreed that "intelligent" anything was...Anything but! So some (many?) of us just leave it off. If you want to try to be "precise" on your exposure you really don't want to leave anything up to the camera. Now, for convenience sake I'll use P(rogram) mode or A(perture priority) mode for situations where I don't have time to "fiddle" with it but have to react quickly and get the shot. Where I have time, I'll be in M(anual) mode.

The Irish TRex said:
3) Focus modes (AFS/AFF/AFC). Which setting would you recommend for shooting close ups of kids playing while trying to maintain a shallow DoF. I realize the AFS mode allows me to set focus and recompose, but kids often don't exactly stand still so maybe one of the other two??? I can't really see the difference between AFF and AFC either. But then again, I'm new to this.
Click to expand...

I use AFS or MF, but attempting shallow DOF on kids running around (or just moving while playing) could have one on the short road to the nuthouse! It's frustrating and difficult. However depending on the lens and the environment you might try a quick test of AFC. I've had limited luck with this, if the background has enough contrast you might find the lens "pumping" focus back and forth between subject and background. You might also try working at f5.6 rather than f1.8, you can still get somewhat of a "selective focus" effect and yet some change in position or camera to subject distance might be covered here. I tend to save the real shallow zone of focus stuff for when they are pre-occupied and staying more still.

The Irish TRex said:
4) AF + MF Setting...I thought this meant that if I'm in AF mode that I can make minor adjustments manually still once I've locked my focus, but I can't seem to either get it to work, or I'm doing something wrong (which is probably the case). Ideas?
Click to expand...

It works in AFS mode only (as near as I can tell) and only as long as you hold the shutter release partially depressed. If you letup on the shutter button for any reason it "clears" and you have to autofocus again and hold the button while you turn the focus ring.

The Irish TRex said:
5) Anyone know whether a micro 4/3 camera like this will have faster autofocus vs a full frame camera like the Sony a7?
Click to expand...

I believe so. Both Panasonic and Olympus are claiming the fastest autofocus of all and I think they're both right.

The Irish TRex said:
That's all for now. Again, I'm new to this camera and will be running it around all through the holidays before I make my final choice of this camera with the extra lens vs the Sony a7 w/ kit lens only (all I can afford for now).
Click to expand...

I'd keep the GX7. Some are already calling it the "perfect" have it with you compact camera on the market. Size and weight advantages plus it will take almost any lens ever made with the right adapter. You have access to the entire line of Panasonic and Olympus lenses made for the m4/3 system (and there's LOTS of 'em). Video quality is right up there with the GH3 and it will get you more than decent stills. Have fun with it.

The Irish TRex said:
(PS. I put this in the GH3 thread because I couldn't find a GX7 one...hope that's okay)
Click to expand...

This is where it "fits".
 
noirist said:
The A7 *destroys* the GX7 for still image quality. It's a no-brainer.
Click to expand...

That is a laughable statement. What are we living now, Transformer-like scenarios where cameras battle each other for supremacy?

Picture taking is so much more than a sensor and image processor. The first obvious thing is optics. So if you want to spend an extra $3,000 on a Leica lens to go with your A7, fair enough.

Second is the comparative cost of each system (re above). If it is a business proposition, then the financial considerations change. You will get a better image out of the A7, but what is better, at what cost, and will the difference be worth it?

Thirdly, you are comparing a full frame sensor esthetic to a smaller sensor rendition. Each has its own strength and weakness. It is up to everyone as to what the benefits and cons are.

As to video, remember that accurate focusing with a full frame sensor is harder to get right and Sony's video codec leaves a lot of room for improvment. As Bruce pointed out, I'm betting auto focus on the smaller sensor is faster.

But I'm always reminded of two very obvious and beaten to death maxims. The best camera is the one you have with you, and the most important feature of any system is the operator.

Best of luck with your search.
 
To kind of put things a bit in perspective:

I have the predecessor to the GX7, the GX1. Sensor and processor technology are basically GH2 sort. Video on it is tully AUTO with no provision for manual settings with one exception, a menu provision for setting the shutter at 1/60 (NTSC version) or 1/50 (PAL version) to minimize flicker from power line frequency. Yet even with this disappointing crippled video implementation, this camera is a very flexible compact, have it with me all the time camera. Takes every lens I own and with the optional external EVF, the LVF2, this little camera will do almost everything the "big boys" will.

I use it primarily for stills but if a video opportunity presented itself I'd press the red button and roll with full AUTO. it's video is very good.

The GX7 is everything one could hope for in a very compact camera. It's what the GX1 should have been. It has been described by early testers and many purchasers (once released) as the very perfect "carry around" camera. Image quality in both stills and video is basically GH3 technology with a few extras such as focus peaking.

Two things stop me from getting one now (well three).

1: The GX1 I have is for now filling that "easy to carry around" role for me. In a small Case Logic camcorder bag it "hides" nicely in the center console of my Honda CRV. Nothing visible suggests a camera in the vehicle.

2: The "in body" image stabilization does not function in video mode. So where I need that I just purchased a slightly used Olympus OMD E-M5 for it's 5 axis IS when I need to handhold or have a video camera in motion.

3: Price...Out of budget range for me at this time. However this may be temporary as in somewhere around a year from now prices may drop enough to tempt me.

I sure would like one. Like the GX1, nobody seeing you with a camera like this takes you seriously so you can get away with getting good images where someone with a DSLR and BIG bag might be told "No pictures, please". A couple of Sky News correspondents got into Tibetan cities (lots of Bhuddist protest activities) where the Chinese military had everything locked down. They had a GH2, it's small size said "tourist" where Journalists with obvious ENG type video cameras would have been turned away and not allowed past checkpoints.

They got video interviews and smuggled those out.

The GX7 would sure make a perfect complement to my GH3's.
 
Thank you all for the responses. This combined with now 3 days of "playing" with the camera has been SUPER helpful.

noirist said:
If stills are your primary use, then you should get the A7. The A7 *destroys* the GX7 for still image quality. It's a no-brainer.

http://www.dxomark.com/Cameras/Compare/Side-by-side/Sony-A7-versus-Panasonic-Lumix-DMC-GX7___916_901

For movies, the GX7 is, however, much better.
Click to expand...

Yeah, I've seen that comparison and its amazing how on one hand the Sony a7 numbers "destroy" the GX7, but on the other hand people rave about perceived image quality of the GX7 so who knows. My primary purpose is photos for this purchase but there are some disappointing things video-wise that make me wonder how the GX7 is, as you say "much better". The Sony a7 uses the same AVCHD codec, it has clean live-HDMI output, a external mic port, and a headphone jack. Not that I'd be shooting at 1.8 all the time or anything but I figure I can always stop down if needed to deepen the DOF if I wanted, right. I've always like the Panasonic "look" for video so I totally get it, but beyond personal preference of "look", how is the GX7 much better than the a7 for video?

Bruce Foreman said:
(GX7 has...) Size and weight advantages plus it will take almost any lens ever made with the right adapter. You have access to the entire line of Panasonic and Olympus lenses made for the m4/3 system (and there's LOTS of 'em). Video quality is right up there with the GH3 and it will get you more than decent stills. Have fun with it.
Click to expand...

I'm obviously playing devils advocate here but for a full-frame camera, what appealed to me was it's very compact size and weight compared to others. The lens selection and more importantly for me, the affordability of great lenses, is ultimately what led me to purchase the GX7. Well, that and it was $200 off last week on B&H. :) You say that it will take almost any lens every made with the right adapter...can it take the new Sony 18-105 f/4 power zoom lens? I know that might sound strange but that's a lens I'm looking at for our pro-video work because of the variable speed power zoom. ...and I get the 25% discount on Sony products.

AFTER 3 DAYS...

I'm loving the camera. It's great. While I do wish I had one of the pro zoom lenses like the Panny 12-35 or the 35-100, I can get those later if I wanted when I've refilled my wallet. One thing that is disappointing is the lack of stabilization in video mode. I had read that before I got the camera, but having a non-stabilized lens on like the 45mm 1.8 is impossible to get anything steady out of...and I have a VERY steady hand as a regular video camera operator. Those two zooms I just mentioned have O.I.S. so that's nice but it still makes me go hmmmm.

The silent shutter is eerie and amazing and obviously the Sony a7 shutter isn't stealth at all. Wifi/NFC setup was super simple and pretty amazing. Autofocus seems to be great. I'm not a pixel peeper but the images appear to be in focus where I wanted them, although that will improve over time as I get "better" at this camera. I agree with the statement about it's not the camera, its the operator. I use small sensor HMC150's and we get shallow DOF images and shots that rival any large sensor camera with the exception of maybe sharpness. Just gotta know how to manipulate it. But we're upgrading our video line this year as well...and that's a whole other thread.

AT THIS POINT...I'm leaning toward keeping this GX7 through the holidays then returning it for the a7.

My reasons are complex really. But I feel that for an extra $200 I could get a killer compact full frame camera that can be used as an emergency backup for our upcoming video camera line. We need 1080p60 (which both cameras have), but we also need the HDMI live out for livestreaming. Combine that with the external mic input and the headphone jack and it seems like it'll be an easier ride on the a7. Plus I know for a fact it takes the power zoom lens I mentioned above (in crop mode for photos) although I'm not sure how that'll work in video mode. Now many people won't care for that lens, but it's nearly perfect for what we do.

At 25% off, the Sony a7 would be $1500 plus tax which would bring it close to $1650. Yeah, the kit lens isn't amazing apparently, but I can learn the camera really well and then when the wallet refills, get a good lens. Plus, isn't the Sony a7 kit lens (24-70mm 3.5-5.6) equivalent to a micro 4/3 lens that would be "close to" 12-35mm 1.8-2.8? Am I wrong there? That seems even a little better than the Panasonic M43 12-35mm 2.8 which retails for $1119.00 right now. And the Sony kit lens is lighter than that 12-35 (barely, but still).

If I didn't get the discount, I'd probably be MORE than happy with the GX7. It's great so far. Maybe I'll change my mind as I get better and better with it over the holidays, but I'm wondering if I'm missing out on my one chance to get a great compact full-frame camera that's in my budget.

...and I'm still curious what the "Preview" option is as mentioned in my first (original post)? Anyone know that?
 
Last edited:
The Irish TRex said:
Just bought the Panasonic GX7 with the kit lens and the Olympus 45mm 1.8 lens. Learning it's ins and outs today. Liking it so far. If anyone with experience has answers to the questions below, I'd love your help. My main reason for getting this camera was for photos. ...
Click to expand...

There are forums focusing on micro 4/3 photography that might offer more depth on optimum use of the GX7. It might be rude to send you to another forum directly, but I'd suggest that you do a bit of searching?

Fran
 
Fran Guidry said:
There are forums focusing on micro 4/3 photography that might offer more depth on optimum use of the GX7. It might be rude to send you to another forum directly, but I'd suggest that you do a bit of searching?

Fran
Click to expand...

Yeah, I've been to a couple but really I figured this one might have a few answers and so far so good. Just a few remaining questions (see my last post in yellow). Thanks.
 
Last edited:
The Irish TRex said:
Thank you all for the responses. This combined with now 3 days of "playing" with the camera has been SUPER helpful.



Yeah, I've seen that comparison and its amazing how on one hand the Sony a7 numbers "destroy" the GX7, but on the other hand people rave about perceived image quality of the GX7 so who knows. My primary purpose is photos for this purchase but there are some disappointing things video-wise that make me wonder how the GX7 is, as you say "much better". The Sony a7 uses the same AVCHD codec, it has clean live-HDMI output, a external mic port, and a headphone jack. Not that I'd be shooting at 1.8 all the time or anything but I figure I can always stop down if needed to deepen the DOF if I wanted, right. I've always like the Panasonic "look" for video so I totally get it, but beyond personal preference of "look", how is the GX7 much better than the a7 for video?



I'm obviously playing devils advocate here but for a full-frame camera, what appealed to me was it's very compact size and weight compared to others. The lens selection and more importantly for me, the affordability of great lenses, is ultimately what led me to purchase the GX7. Well, that and it was $200 off last week on B&H. :) You say that it will take almost any lens every made with the right adapter...can it take the new Sony 18-105 f/4 power zoom lens? I know that might sound strange but that's a lens I'm looking at for our pro-video work because of the variable speed power zoom. ...and I get the 25% discount on Sony products.

AFTER 3 DAYS...

I'm loving the camera. It's great. While I do wish I had one of the pro zoom lenses like the Panny 12-35 or the 35-100, I can get those later if I wanted when I've refilled my wallet. One thing that is disappointing is the lack of stabilization in video mode. I had read that before I got the camera, but having a non-stabilized lens on like the 45mm 1.8 is impossible to get anything steady out of...and I have a VERY steady hand as a regular video camera operator. Those two zooms I just mentioned have O.I.S. so that's nice but it still makes me go hmmmm.

The silent shutter is eerie and amazing and obviously the Sony a7 shutter isn't stealth at all. Wifi/NFC setup was super simple and pretty amazing. Autofocus seems to be great. I'm not a pixel peeper but the images appear to be in focus where I wanted them, although that will improve over time as I get "better" at this camera. I agree with the statement about it's not the camera, its the operator. I use small sensor HMC150's and we get shallow DOF images and shots that rival any large sensor camera with the exception of maybe sharpness. Just gotta know how to manipulate it. But we're upgrading our video line this year as well...and that's a whole other thread.

AT THIS POINT...I'm leaning toward keeping this GX7 through the holidays then returning it for the a7.

My reasons are complex really. But I feel that for an extra $200 I could get a killer compact full frame camera that can be used as an emergency backup for our upcoming video camera line. We need 1080p60 (which both cameras have), but we also need the HDMI live out for livestreaming. Combine that with the external mic input and the headphone jack and it seems like it'll be an easier ride on the a7. Plus I know for a fact it takes the power zoom lens I mentioned above (in crop mode for photos) although I'm not sure how that'll work in video mode. Now many people won't care for that lens, but it's nearly perfect for what we do.

At 25% off, the Sony a7 would be $1500 plus tax which would bring it close to $1650. Yeah, the kit lens isn't amazing apparently, but I can learn the camera really well and then when the wallet refills, get a good lens. Plus, isn't the Sony a7 kit lens (24-70mm 3.5-5.6) equivalent to a micro 4/3 lens that would be "close to" 12-35mm 1.8-2.8? Am I wrong there? That seems even a little better than the Panasonic M43 12-35mm 2.8 which retails for $1119.00 right now. And the Sony kit lens is lighter than that 12-35 (barely, but still).

If I didn't get the discount, I'd probably be MORE than happy with the GX7. It's great so far. Maybe I'll change my mind as I get better and better with it over the holidays, but I'm wondering if I'm missing out on my one chance to get a great compact full-frame camera that's in my budget.

...and I'm still curious what the "Preview" option is as mentioned in my first (original post)? Anyone know that?
Click to expand...

One thing you wan to be very careful about with the a7 or a7r, is make sure that it does not have any overheating issues when shooting video!! I had both the Nex5n and the Nex7 both overheated to the point that I could not use them. Do your research on this, and you will see many users dumped them just for that reason, I like both the A7 and the A7r but I'm waiting till I read some reports on this.

Good Luck, If you get one come back and report if it works fine with no overheating. Many previous owners were really hacked off at Sony because they are vague in there marketing materials, Like " Up to 29 Minutes"
 
Most professionals and serious amateurs can see the difference between 1 bit of color depth or 1 bit of dynamic range. But pretty much everyone can see the difference between 2 bits of color depth AND 2 bits of dynamic range AND a factor of 3 in low-light ISO. With that kind of immense difference, I don't think there's a still picture the GX7 can take that the A7 can't take much better.

It's misleading to compare the "fast" m43rds lenses to the fast Sony full frame counterparts. A f2.8 lens on an m43rds sensors is optically equivalent to a f5.6 lens on a full frame sensor. So not really that fast after all. An typical f5.6 zoom on a m43rds sensor is optically equivalent to a f11.2 zoom on a full frame sensor, ie., very dim. Yes, you can improve that number with the speedbooster, but only if you're willing to use full frame lenses on your speedbooster. And yes, the full frame lenses are more expensive. But in the end you get what you pay for and if you want the best still image quality, you need to get a full frame sensor with full frame lenses and you will be very happy with the results.

Unfortunately, all the Sony full frame cameras like the A7 have poor video image quality due to line skipping. Some are worse than others and the A7 video quality appears to be at the bottom end (along with the RX1). The GX7 has very good video image quality. So if you want good videos, that's the way to go.
 
"So where I need that I just purchased a slightly used Olympus OMD E-M5 for it's 5 axis IS when I need to handhold or have a video camera in motion."

Bruce, would you please give a short review of your OMD E-M5? Also, what price range would I be looking at for a body in good condition?

Thanks
Norm
 
If you don't understand Olympus camera menu-ing, the "menu diving" makes for a bit of a learning curve. I had previously owned a Pen E-P3 so I was a bit prepared, the E-M5 only seemed to "lead me around by the nose" for about 2 days before I kind of learned where to find settings. Once you get the hang of it things are good.

Stabilizing: Handles the "handheld jitters" VERY WELL! The up and down component of normal walking still comes through, and it cannot compensate for sudden "jerks". I'm 75 so I can't maintain the smooth "duckwalk" for long at a time, but initial tests are very encouraging. You have only one framerate, 30p, (Olympus doesn't think anyone in the world needs anything else) but I do pretty much all of my work in 30p anyway so that doesn't impact me much.

Those who work in 24p and in 25p find that Premiere Pro and I think Sony Vegas automatically conform 30p on a 24p or 25p timeline.

I paid $650 for a black body with 736 "shutter clicks", it looks brand new and the guy sent it with an extra battery, all accessories, packed in the original box. I've seen a couple at that same price with a 12-50mm "kit" lens (makes a weather sealed package with UV filter in place) after I bought mine but I already had that lens so that didn't "bother" me.

The place to look for one is the buy/sell forum on www.mu-43.com. As always you have to be wary of scams but folks there seem to play the sell/purchase game straight and fair. I've made 2 purchases there, the body and a 17mm f2.8 lens. But lots of those folks are trying to sell off E-M5 bodies so they can try to afford the new E-M1.

I just ordered Photography & Cinema's GB-1 "cage" for it, I have their Honu cage for the GH3 and like it real well, the GB-1 is wider with solid grips and combined with the E-M5's 5 axis IS should allow me much better handheld work.

The E-M5 is a small camera, I have medium size hands but I adjust to damn near anything.

Hope this helps.
 
Last edited:
7DDude said:
One thing you wan to be very careful about with the a7 or a7r, is make sure that it does not have any overheating issues when shooting video!! I had both the Nex5n and the Nex7 both overheated to the point that I could not use them. Do your research on this, and you will see many users dumped them just for that reason, I like both the A7 and the A7r but I'm waiting till I read some reports on this.

Good Luck, If you get one come back and report if it works fine with no overheating. Many previous owners were really hacked off at Sony because they are vague in there marketing materials, Like " Up to 29 Minutes"
Click to expand...

http://www.cinema5d.com/?p=22066

In this "first look" article by cinema5D.com in the comments you'll see that the reviewer didn't experience any overheating issues running the a7 in a hot room for 2 hours. That's good news. My primary use for this is photos so that is why I'm still leaning toward returning it and going with the Sony a7. For video, I think I can get around some of the a7's downfalls vs. the GX7's all around great video performance. In the end having that HDMI-live out and mic out and headphone out is helpful IF I ever need to use this camera as an EMERGENCY back up for our live stream shoots. I don't anticipate ever needing it, but if I do in an emergency, I know that it can work whereas the GX7, as nice as it looks, cannon be used for streaming since there is no live HDMI output. I'm happy with the GX7, but like I said, I feel like this might be my one chance to get a great compact full frame camera at 25% off. Plus, I just found out that Samyang made a bunch of new cheap, fast, full frame lenses for Sony's e Mount so I could easily afford a nice portrait lens like the 85mm f/1.4 without the need for an adapter. Sold.

I'm learning.
 
Just found out that for a limited time I get 35% off the Sony Cameras and 50% off accessories (family member works for sony). Done. Purchased the Sony a7 with kit lens for only $1299! I'll happily hang on to my new GX7 until the Sony arrives. Very excited.
 
Hi Bruce, Thanks for taking time to reply. It looks like I will be spending the next few days doing some research.

Bruce I am also 75, forget the duck walk, we should be happy that we can still walk. LOL
 
For what it's worth, I'm now sitting here with both the GX7 and Sony a7 on my desk and can't decide which one to keep. I was certain to keep the a7. Then it arrived and I think I was spoiled by the GX7's fast autofocus speed. The a7 seems to hunt much more especially in low light. It's entirely possible that after only one day, I'm not using the a7 correctly. But after messing around with it for a few hours the last 2 days, I'm now totally unsure of what to do. I may just sell the Sony a7 with the kit lens and spare battery and flash all for a great price if I can. It's obviously in perfect condition at only 2 days old and since I got a deal, I'd be willing to sell it for a bit less than it would be at full price. Then maybe I'd take some of that money and put it toward another lens for the GX7. Right now, here's what matters to me:

PROS FOR GX7 (for me anyway):
1) Autofocus speed faster than a7 in my limited use in both daylight and low light and this is HUGE for me. Maybe it's the kit lens on the Sony that's slower, I have no idea, but now that I know how fast a camera "can" autofocus, I'm spoiled.
2) The shutter button feels less squishy.
3) In MF mode, I can press my finger quickly against the shutter button and take that many pictures whereas the a7 seems to be fast, but not able to keep up with how fast I press the shutter when I do it rapidly.
4) Lenses are cheaper. I have the 45 1.8 but I'm wondering if I should sell that and get the 35-100 instead for portraits because then I could also have video stabilized at longer focal lengths and have a more versatile lens than the 45 1.8 (which I do really like a lot so far).


PROS FOR SONY a7 (for me anyway):
1) Grip. I really like it. Feels more comfortable and solid in my hands.
2) Outputs for video. The sony has the HDMI output plus the audio mic input and headphone jack. If the GX7 had the mic port, then I'd be set.
3) EVF - Both cameras have nice viewfinders but the Sony one isn't 16:9, it's more square and fits my eye better. The GX7 is more squished and it's harder to look through.
4) It's a full frame camera which is nice to be able to say that I have. I know, I know, it's not the camera as much as it is the operator that makes a great photo, but it's still nice to invest in something that a format that pro photographers seems to value.
5) I like how I can be in AF mode and hold down the MF button and it still allows me to lock onto things using AF, but also then utilize peaking the whole time and make manual adjustments on the fly. Maybe the GX7 has that option too but I haven't found it yet. Still learning both.


PROS FOR BOTH the GX7 and Sony a7
I've taken some great photos and pics so far with both. I'm not a pixel peeper but they seem great.
1080p24 and 1080p60 video. I like having that option which is one of the main reason I don't look at Olympus cameras. Even though this camera is primarily for stills, I will use it for video and I want those two frame rates for various reasons.
Customizable buttons...I have no history with either menu so I'm sure I'll get used to either one, but I like how both cameras have several customizable buttons.

Just my thoughts after a few days with each. One is going to go soon. Not sure which yet.
 
It seems like you're more concerned about ergonomics than image quality. What are the stills like? How many pictures have you taken with each?
 
noirist said:
It seems like you're more concerned about ergonomics than image quality. What are the stills like? How many pictures have you taken with each?
Click to expand...

Well, truthfully the AF speed is a big factor for me right now. Ergonomics matter, but it's definitely not top on my list of things that matter most. I like the ergonomics and EVF of the Sony a7 actually better, but I'm considering selling it and keeping the GX7 because it's much faster when it comes to autofocus. As far as the stills, my thought is that each camera is very capable of getting great pics, right? And once I really get used to using one of them I'm certain my pics will get better and better. I've taken probably 300-400 shots or more with each (maybe closer to 600-700 with the GX7) and of course some are better than others...but that's not the camera, that's me no knowing what all the settings are yet to best take advantage of each camera. I've had more time with the GX7 at this point so my pics with it are better at this point.

I read that blog post from Kirk Tuck and it makes sense. But he didn't like the ergonomics of the a7 and I had no problem with it. I'd definitely look at getting an Olympus, but the fact that they can't shoot 24p or 1080p60 rules them out for me for business reasons.

Decisions, decisions...
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top