Panasonic announces new Ultra High Definition "4K" DMC-G7 - $799.99!

Panasonic does it again - the world's first interchangeable lens 4K camera below $800 with a viewfinder and mic jack. They've also added the GH4's ultra-fast "depth from de-focus" (DFD) autofocus system (available for pre-order from Amazon and Adorama).  Here's the promo video:




The viewfinder and standard 3.5mm mic jack make this a better choice for entry-level 4K video than either the Samsung NX500 or the 1080p-only Sony A6000.

And Canon shooters would have to spend thousands of dollars more for 4K.

With Kipon's fast autofocusing Canon EF to micro 4/3 adapter ($309 at Adorama or $339 on eBay), this would be a perfect upgrade camera for Canon 1080p DSLR shooters who want to make the jump to 4K.

Here's the press release.

And here's some sample footage (please watch at 2160p):



Not bad for an $800 camera.

Three important new reviews: Bloom on FS7; Johnston on LS300 and Behiri on XC10

Three of my favorite reviewers have published reviews/previews of their thoughts on some of 2014/2015's most interesting new cameras, the $7999 Sony PXW-FS7, the $3995 JVC GY-LS300 and the $2499 Canon XC10. I wanted to put them all in one place for those of you who are interested in these cameras.

Phil Bloom's look at the FS7 is a preview for one of his much longer reviews, which is still to come. He is trying out a new way of funding his reviews, a GoFundMe page, which I support. I just rented the LS300 in order to review it here, and it does cost a lot of time and money to put something worthwhile together.

Here's what the two Phils and Johnnie were able to do with these cameras:







As long time readers know, HCR has been in the market for a large sensor camcorder for a while - but we haven't decided yet. These cameras are all on the list - as is the URSA Mini - and these reviews are certainly helpful as we make the final decision. I am personally very grateful to these three guys for these tests.

I've said it before and I'll say it again, what a great time to be a film/video maker!