Photokina 2012 is just around the corner and as the event is getting closer, rumors and speculations about the possible announcements are also getting wilder. Other than that, photography buffs are highly excited which is quite understandable since Photokina happens to be the largest event of cameras and related technology. Among other grand announcements during the event this year, we are expecting a new compact system camera, Panasonic GH3, which would supposedly have the fastest AF in the world. At present, a few limited prototypes of this camera are available for photographer and journalists and wide scale sales would most probably be started after Photokina.
Although there isn’t any official information regarding the exact technical specs or price of this camera, rumors and speculations do exist. As per the latest rumors, the important technical specs of this camera include a new 16 mega pixel sensor, the capability of ALL-I 72Mbit/s video recording, an ISO range of 100-12,800, external vertical battery grip and full application remote control. Besides, rumor also has it that this camera would be weather sealed. The specs, however, were recently confirmed by the few people who have experienced with this camera.
The physical structure of Panasonic GH3 is quite large and it seems like a DSLR. Considering its DSLR-like structure, the camera gives a more “pro” look compared to many other top compact system cameras in the market such as Olympus E-M5. Performing a comparison with DLSR cameras, its physique is more like Nikon D7000 or Canon 7D.
On the front of technical specs, Panasonic has brought about several improvements in this model compared to the earlier ones. According to the company, the feedback given by photographers and filmmakers was a deciding factor in the improved specs. The sensor of the camera would come with “wide dynamic range” while its autofocus ability would be fastest of all the compact system cameras available in the market at present. While confirmed details about video specs and features were not disclosed, they certainly happen to be among the very best among the mirrorless lot.
Another great thing about Panasonic GH3 is that connectivity has been made a lot better and the minor connectivity issues found in the earlier models have been removed. Since the feedback from filmmakers was also one of the deciding factors leading to the improved specs, this camera, with its variety of physical and wireless connection possibilities, would be perfect for film-making. Overall, Panasonic is certainly pushing the boundaries with this camera, which according to many people would be the best camera form the company to the date.
According to various sources, GH3 would be the only major camera form Panasonic that we would see during the Photokina. However, we do expect the announcement of a new GX2 camera from the company during the months after Photokina. To know complete details of this apparently amazing camera, as well as exciting announcements from other tech giants, just keep your fingers crossed for Photokina which is not far now.
