Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF7 Pro Reviews

The Panasonic Lumix GF7 is a fresh update from Panasonic to the entry level compact system camera market, and the camera looks much better than the model it replaces. Not only does it look better, but it is noticeably smaller and the new design should appeal. With the inclusion of the pancake zoom 12-32mm lens, the camera is also very pocketable, even with the lens on. The 12-32mm lens performs well, with a useful 24mm equivalent at the wide-angle end of the lens, although macro performance is better with other lenses. Image quality is good with the camera using the same sensor as the GX7, with good noise performance and detail up to ISO3200. With an introduction price of £429 with the new 12-32mm IS kit lens, the camera is priced competitively with similar models, and with the kit lens delivering excellent image quality, we feel that the camera offers very good value for money. The built in touch-screen makes it easy to change settings, with the selfie features providing good results. The most likely issues you may find with the GF7 are the lack of flash hot-shoe, and short battery life, making it less appealing to the more serious photographer. For the majority of people having a built in flash will be preferable, and the mode dial makes the camera easier to use for every level of photographer. Image quality is very good, with the camera delivering sharp detailed photos with good colour, and low levels of noise. The Wi-Fi implementation is very good, giving remote control and numerous shooting options straight from your smartphone or tablet. There are a few, very minor niggles, including short battery life, but we can very happily highly recommend the camera.

Some may question the point of the GF range now that the GM is available in a smaller package, but the GF continues to offer a lot of great features for a lot less money. A great travel camera, the GF7's flipping screen is ideal for selfies and will perhaps appeal more to those who like to document their holiday visits. Panasonic isn't the only company to make small compact system cameras. The Nikon 1 range is also very compact but it's based around a much smaller 1-inch sensor. For something as small as the GF7 to have such a large sensor is a great feat of camera engineering. I would recommend this camera to many different types of people, and if you already have another Micro Four Thirds camera, this would make a fantastic second body.