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Panasonic G1
World's first Micro Four Thirds DSLR
Micro Four Thirds DSLRs
A tiny DSLR! Is it what so many photographers have been waiting for?
Olympus and Panasonic recently announced development of the Micro Four Thirds system: very compact, slim digital single reflex cameras with large sensors. To obtain the compact size, Micro Four Thirds cameras do not have mirrors traditionally found in DSLRs.
The first available Micro Four Thirds camera will be the Lumix G1, made by Panasonic.
Mirror-less DSLRs
Because they lack mirrors, Micro Four Thirds cameras have electronic rather than optical viewfinders. Lenses manufactured specifically for Micro Four Thirds cameras will be smaller, though some existing lenses can be used with an adapter. Larger lenses may not balance as well as when mounted on larger and heavier cameras.
What does it mean for you and me?
If you want the flexiblity and high ISO performance of a DSLR but have been holding off because of their size, the Micro Four Thirds system may be for you.
But if you're still put off by the higher cost of DSLRs, have no desire to buy and interchange lenses, an advanced, all-in-one compact digital camera may still be your best bet, particularly if you don't take a lot of low light photos.
Related reading: Types of digital cameras
Category: Cool Stuff (Archive)