Getting a new "old" camera!

[Liz]

I have been looking for a 2nd camera for a while - one I can take with me on a regular basis when I'm not using my E-P3. I had been looking for either a 2nd micro 4/3 or a p&s with a longer zoom as well as wide angle.

After reading about Leica's new Monochrome camera, it brought back to me how much I've always loved b&w photography. I could never dream of purchasing an $8,000 camera. But just having a b&w mode and the ability to shoot in b&w makes for a lot of fun!

I used to own the Panasonic LX5 which features a "dynamic b&w" mode which I really loved using. I sold it because the zoom was not long enough, and I've missed having the fun of shooting in b&w! The b&w filters and other similar features in some of the cameras (including my E-P3) just don't do it for me.

At any rate, I did a lot of research trying to find another camera with dynamic b&w or something similar. Of course, it was Panasonic that seems to offer the best options in digital. I was surprised to find that Panasonic included dynamic b&w plus a few other "film modes" in some of their older micro 4/3 cameras.

Today I found a new G1 with the 14-45 lens (great lens btw-better than the 14-42 kit). I got a great deal on it - and I pick it up tomorrow. It has good reviews - along with user reviews that include some by photographers that actually have kept this camera just for the "amazing" b&w images. Panasonic stopped their b&w modes with the newest models.

The G1 also has a VF as well as the 3" LCD. It does not do video, but neither do I! It looks heavier than it is - it's only 4 oz. heavier than my E-P3.

This is perfect for me because I really wanted a 2nd camera - and now I can have fun with my attempts at b&w again! And I can use my m4/3 lenses on the camera (the Pana ones with optical IS). I'm thrilled! :thumbsup: :thumbsup: :thumbsup:

Just wanted to share with my friends at PR. We all know how it feels to get a new toy!

Liz

[Greg McCary]

Liz the G1 is a great camera. Congrats.

[Liz]

Liz the G1 is a great camera. Congrats.

Greg - did you or do you - have the G1? Could you share a bit about your experience using it?

Thanks.
Liz

[Frog]

I hope your enthusiasm is matched or exceeded by the results you get, Liz.
Of course, we will expect pictures.

[Liz]

Update: I went to check out (and buy) the G1 - it's a great camera! However, in the meantime I discovered a used GF-1 on sale at B&H for $300 body only. It had rating of 9+ out of 10, so I figured it is a good price since I already have lenses, some of which are Panasonic. I checked specifications, features which are newer. Also, it has more b&w modes than the G1 - and it is a lighter weight. It will be here tomorrow. I'll let you know.

Liz

[Grandpaw]

Liz, congratulations on the find, it is always fun and interesting to get a new toy. I have ordered a Nikon 20E III TC to go on my Nikon 70-200 F2.8 and it is annoying having to wait for it, Jeff