The GH1 arrived in 2009 as Panasonic's first video-oriented Micro Four Thirds body, bringing a 12.1MP Live MOS sensor and a mic port to the format for the first time. It had a fully articulated screen and a 1.44MP viewfinder in a 385g body but no IBIS, no 4K, and no Wi-Fi. Like the GH2, it attracted attention from video hackers but is now well past any practical use. A curiosity for those interested in the format's early history. It has been succeeded by the Panasonic Lumix GH2. At 385g, this is one of the lightest M43 bodies available, 153g below the M43 average of 538g. Step up to the OM System OM-3 if you want more controls at the cost of 29g extra.
Best for: Everyday and casual photography
Pros
- Pioneering hybrid stills/video body
- Articulating screen
- Good image quality for 2009
Cons
- Older 12MP sensor
- No in-body stabilisation
- Dated autofocus, 1080p only
Collectible early hybrid
The GH1 was one of the first cameras to take Micro Four Thirds video seriously, with an articulating screen and capable 1080p recording for 2009. Its 12MP sensor and dated autofocus show their age, so it is mainly of interest to collectors and budget tinkerers rather than as a practical everyday camera today.
Specifications
| Body | |
| Brand | Panasonic |
| Status | discontinued |
| Released | 2009-04 |
| Weight | 385g |
| Dimensions | 124 × 84.5 × 80.5mm |
| Weather sealed | No |
| Screen | Fully articulated |
| Touchscreen | No |
| Sensor | |
| Description | 12.1MP Live MOS |
| Megapixels | 12.1MP |
| Resolution | 4000 × 3000 |
| Viewfinder | |
| EVF | Yes |
| EVF resolution | 1.44MP |
| EVF magnification | 0.7x |
| Stabilisation | |
| IBIS | No |
| Dual IS | No |
| Autofocus | |
| Phase detect | No |
| Subject recognition | No |
| Shooting | |
| Video | |
| 4K | No |
| 4K 60fps | No |
| Log | No |
| Ports & storage | |
| Card slots | 1 |
| Card type | SD UHS-I |
| HDMI | mini |
| Headphone jack | No |
| Mic port | Yes |
| WiFi | No |
| Bluetooth | No |
| Battery | DMW-BLC12 |
| Pricing | |
| Price (approx.) | N/A |
Frequently asked questions
Does the Panasonic Lumix GH1 have IBIS?
No. The Panasonic Lumix GH1 does not have in-body image stabilisation. You will need a lens with OIS for any stabilisation benefit.
Is the Panasonic Lumix GH1 weather sealed?
No. The Panasonic Lumix GH1 does not have weather sealing. Take care in rain or dusty conditions.
Does the Panasonic Lumix GH1 shoot 4K video?
No. The Panasonic Lumix GH1 does not record 4K video.
Does the Panasonic Lumix GH1 have phase-detect autofocus?
No. The Panasonic Lumix GH1 uses contrast-detect autofocus. It is slower to lock on to moving subjects than phase-detect systems.
What card does the Panasonic Lumix GH1 use?
The Panasonic Lumix GH1 has 1 card slot and accepts SD UHS-I cards.
How much does the Panasonic Lumix GH1 weigh?
The Panasonic Lumix GH1 weighs 385g (body only, with battery and card).
Is the Panasonic Lumix GH1 still worth buying?
The Panasonic Lumix GH1 has been succeeded by the Panasonic Lumix GH2. The newer model improves on AF performance, sensor, and video specs. At a reduced second-hand price the Panasonic Lumix GH1 remains a capable body, but the Panasonic Lumix GH2 is the better long-term buy if the budget allows.