Some questions about the GH1

[Arch Stanton]

I'm currently deciding between the GH1 and 7D. I'm more concerned about the video capabilities with the main features being depth of field, low light, and ease of workflow.

That being said, hopefully these questions can help me decide.

• Is there going to be a "Body Only" version of the GH1? Or, do you think I would be able to sell the kit lens?

• Can I edit the files from the GH1 in Premiere Pro CS4 and After Effects CS4 without any transcoding or converting? If I shoot in 720p, what is the workflow for 24p and slow motion?

Thanks

 

[Peter J. DeCrescenzo]

Hi Arch.

Q: Will Panasonic sell a localized version of the GH1 body-only configuration other than in Japan?
A: Maybe. Probably. People who know are under non-disclosure agreements and can't say. Everything else is rumor/conjecture. Including the first two words in this answer.

Concerning your workflow questions, I'd be surprised if they aren't already answered in the GH1 Workflow sub-forum here:
http://www.dvxuser.com/V6/forumdisplay.php?f=178

 

[ydgmdlu]

You're going to get shallower DOF and better low-light performance on the 7D. The compression on the 7D is less flaky in all modes, but the 720p modes seem to suffer from severe moire/aliasing compared to the 1080p mode. The consensus here seems to be that you should consider shooting 720p on the GH1 as often as possible, if you don't want to risk severe compression issues. If you want 24p, the 7D will give you better results (arguably more pleasing image, less compression, higher resolution) that are easier to use in your NLE (since you won't have to go from 60p to 24p). However, the GH1 has demonstrably less rolling shutter artifacts in the 60p mode (but the 7D might be just as good in 60p).

I think that you should be able to find a buyer for the kit lens. It's a very desirable lens for Micro Four-Thirds users. The lens is actually worth more than the body. You could probably sell the lens for $800 (since the MSRP is $900), making the body $700, which is less than half the price of the 7D body.