Panasonic’s new LUMIX G9 offers photographers a combination of high image quality, mobility, and ultra-fast shooting. The camera is a strong choice for nature and action photographers.
The G9 builds on the LUMIX GH5. At the heart of the G9 is a 20.3-megapixel sensor that produces detailed images with low noise, attractive colors, and clarity. A special AR coating on the sensor reduces ghosting and flare, making challenging conditions—such as photographing animals against the light—less problematic.
A new High Resolution mode produces 80-megapixel-equivalent images in both JPEG and RAW formats. This is ideal for landscape and macro photographers. The mode combines eight images captured in sequence while the sensor shifts. A tripod is required when using this mode.
The G9 has an upgraded internal image stabilization system. It is now possible to shoot at shutter speeds up to 6.5 stops slower while still obtaining sharp results. This is ideal when using the G9 handheld with a long telephoto lens to photograph subjects such as wildlife from a distance.
Fast AF tracking performance and a focus-acquisition time of 0.04 seconds. A frame rate of 20 fps is possible at full resolution with continuous autofocus (AF-C). When focus is locked on the first frame (AF-S), a burst rate of 60 fps is available.
Panasonic’s 4K Photo and 6K Photo technologies can capture action at 30 fps (6K) or 60 fps (4K), allowing a single frame to be selected for large, high-quality prints. The 4K technology also enables other useful functions, such as Post Focus, which lets users adjust the focus point after capture. Focus Stacking allows depth of field to be adjusted afterward by combining multiple images.
Viewfinder and LCD
The G9’s viewfinder was the largest in its class. The Live View Finder (LVF) offers 0.83x magnification (35mm-camera equivalent). It also remains blackout-free, even during high-speed shooting, so users can keep following their subject. With a high resolution of 3,680,000 pixels, the viewfinder provides 100% frame coverage, allowing users to be confident that they are capturing what they see. The viewfinder design also incorporates a night mode and AF Point Scope.
At the rear, the camera has a fully articulating 3-inch LCD touchscreen with 1,040,000 pixels. It is ideal for choosing compositions from a variety of creative angles. The screen is designed to remain clearly visible even in bright conditions, while a night mode is available for low-light shooting. The G9’s design is both functional and durable. A status LCD on top of the G9 shows the selected settings at a glance. The Fn lever allows settings to be changed quickly, while the joystick lets users move the focus point without taking their eye from the viewfinder.
Sealing, Slots, and Wi-Fi
To prepare the G9 for a wide range of conditions, its front and rear frames are fully cast from magnesium alloy. It is splash- and dust-resistant and freeze-resistant to -10 degrees Celsius. The camera is designed for intensive outdoor use, so all seams and controls are sealed for protection. Both SD memory-card slots support the ultra-fast UHS-II format. The G9 was the first LUMIX G camera with this capability. The slots can be configured as needed: for additional storage, as a backup, or for different media types—for example, one slot for video and the other for JPEG/RAW files.
The G9 supports Bluetooth and Wi-Fi. Bluetooth can maintain a low-power continuous connection, making it easy to transfer images to a smartphone or tablet and then share them.
A range of accessories and lenses was also available to expand the G9’s versatility.
Availability
The Panasonic LUMIX G9 and the LEICA DG ELMARIT 200mm f/2.8 Power OIS lens were announced in the following configurations:
- MODEL COLOR EAN RRP SCHEDULED AVAILABILITY LUMIX DC-G9EG-K (body only) Black 5025232873555 € 1,699 Early January 2018
- LUMIX DC-G9LEG-K (body + H-ES12060E — LEICA 12–60mm) Black 5025232873579 € 2,299 Early January 2018
- H-ES200E — LEICA DG ELMARIT 200mm f/2.8 Power OIS Black 5025232873159 € 2,999 Mid-January 2018
