Panasonic Lumix DMC-GX8 Mirrorless Digital Camera Body Black - Bundle with Camera Bag, 32GB SDHC U3 Card, Cleaning Kit, Memory Wallet, Card Reader, Software Bundle

2018-09-20T20:00:00

I find this camera takes better pictures than any camera i have owned including my GF3. I loved my GF3 but wanted something more compact for travel and I always loved the style of the old German Lica (sp) Cameras. It took me awhile to become accustomed to the numerous dials and functions when shooting and i am still working on that. I will say that this is obviously not the camera for the novice who might put it on IA and leave it there. That would work but it would be a waist. The lack of a flash did not bother me at all as i have found those those small internal flashes often are inadequate and i had a powerful dedicated flash that is easy to install and produces amazing night time shots. I am still evaluating the battery life compared to the GF3 which has such powerful batteries that professionals say there is no point in purchasing the auxiliary power pack. But this camera is beautiful and feels good to use. I did find the dials a bit stiff but a little silicone spray seemed to loosen them up. It is still new and i am carrying it around experimenting with different lenses i own

Mack K.

Originally posted at

2018-05-29T13:23:27

The GX8 is my first Panasonic M43 body, and I think it is an excellent product! Until now, I have been shooting with Olympus for M43 and Nikon for APS-C and full frame. I wanted a weather resistant 20MP alternative to my Olympus PEN-F. I selected the GX8 rather than the DC-G9, or another Olympus body, due to the smaller form factor. I nearly always carry two comparable camera bodies while shooting, and like one of the bodies to be more compact. The GX8 grip is just large enough to hold the camera comfortably with a variety of lenses. I have used up to 20 oz. zoom lenses with it. The controls are positioned well for use with a Peak Design clutch, which is consistent with my other gear. The GX8 is very configurable, so I have been able to set it up to operate similarly to Olympus OM-D/PEN-F bodies. The GX8 custom mode feature came in handy to help accomplish this. There is no flash in the box with the GX8, but my tiny Olympus FL-LM3 seems fully compatible. I am delighted with the image quality. I understand that the GX8 sensor has an AA filter, but the resulting images are as crisp as my PEN-F which doesn't have an AA filter (using RAW files). The OLED EVF is outstanding. I like the ability to tilt it vertically for wet belly shots and for tripod use. Flipping the EVF up allows me to extend only 3 of 4 sections on a medium weight 5-section tripod, providing more stability and quicker deployment. I bought a Panasonic 12-60mm f/2.8-4.0 lens as a lighter weight travel lens and a 12mm f/1.4 for use with the GX8. The image stabilization has been adequate with both lenses (Dual IS with GX8 + 12-60mm). The Olympus OM-D EM-1 MK II with the 12-100mm f/4.0 seems to offer slightly better stabilization. As for shutter shock, what shutter shock? I have been using the Auto electronic shutter mode, and in over 1000 shots I haven't been able to identify any that clearly exhibited the problem. My Nikon D800 had shutter shock issues, so I am very sensitive to it. The "Silent" setting can be assigned to a button, which is handy to quickly disable all features that make sound or light for more discrete shooting. Panasonic lumped Auto Exposure Bracketing in with the drive mode setting, which is very nice… no need for assigning a separate button like other brand cameras. The Panasonic menu system is well organized but completely different than Olympus. I am not convince one is better than the other though. As an entrenched Olympus user, it took me a few days to learn and configure the GX8 the way I wanted. Anyone else not trying to compare/contrast feature sets or configure the camera to work in a particular way could use it right out of the box with almost no instructions. It is easy to use. Exposure compensation cannot be applied while using Auto ISO in manual mode. I haven't tried using the i.Dynamic feature yet with RAW images, but it may be a work around for high contrast situations with Auto ISO in manual mode. I always use the live highlight/shadow display option on Olympus OM-D and PEN-F cameras. That feature works so well I rarely need to review images for exposure. I discovered the zebra pattern option on Panasonic which provides a similar functionality to see overexposed areas before shooting (not quite as nice as Olympus). Also, it was necessary to turn on the "Constant Preview" option for the zebra pattern to be displayed in manual mode. I think the Panasonic Lumix GX8 is an outstanding compact camera body and I am really glad I bought one! I believe now is an ideal time to buy this moderately compact, feature rich, weather sealed 20MP body. The GX8 may not be the newest Panasonic model, but it may offer the best value at this point in its product lifecycle. There is nothing outdated about this camera. It is a very current, very compelling camera body that I expect to shoot with for years to come.

DOUGLAS A.

2018-01-08T19:00:00

I loved the design of this camera from the first day I saw it in the store. (specially the tilt viewfinder) I have been using this camera for pictures and videos for the past year and a half and It never let me down. Super durable and reliable! Wish image stabilization worked with 4K but ohh well... I guess you can't have everything.

teretete

Originally posted at

2018-01-06T14:47:00

Best of it's type ? Depends on variables such as "best for WHAT" and just what is "its type" ? OK, so I don't care about video, I do like the "RF Style" with EVF in the corner, and the tilting EVF is truly "icing on the cake". You got 20MP which is about max for this format lately ... and they seem to be reeeeally good pixels, low noise etc etc. It has some very clever controls options that I've not encountered on other ILCs, and it has IBIS. So, for me, all that is enuf to rate "best of its type" ... and the price was right. It's not an "economy model", in that more money won't buy me a better camera OF THIS TYPE, yet it cost less than half the price of the "Flagship" models from both brands of M43 gear :-)

david r.

2017-12-27T07:45:01

This was my second purchase of GX8 Mirrorless camera. It is an amazing camera with excellent ergonomics and features. Love the view finder and menu system. Small form factor and excellent grip. Picture quality is excellent and no I don’t like the G9 price and the difference is not that great between GX8 and G9.

WINSTON H.

2017-12-18T15:34:06

I bought the G8 as a follow up to the G85 and the G7. The camera is Leica quality and the images are the equal of any image maker out there. The only down is the Audio requires a 1/8 tip from a microphone. It has all the movie styles. I love the electronic shutter. The quality of the accessories was variable, but the LED light and the recharging system with extra plates was worth the cost. The batteries are working ok. I use the camera as my main camera instead of a very heavy Nikon 810. I am 70 and the camera and lenses weigh 1/3 with equal or better performance.

CHARLES M.

2017-06-01T08:33:20

I recently got the Panasonic DMC-GX8 and I am most impressed so far. The size, features and feel of it are amazing. I had a Nikon D300 and the smaller size is most welcome. Looking forward to playing with it on my upcoming vacations. The bundle was a nice value too I felt.

Gregory L.

2017-05-10T08:38:32

I go the GX8 to supplement my GH4 and when I reach in my camera bag, the GX8 keeps wanting to take over as my primary. This little brother is fast, a bit smaller and produces fantastic photos. And it is become my first choice. And while the video is beautiful, there are still a few tricks that only the GH4 can do. Still what a power combo of cameras.

LES M.

2017-04-19T20:00:00

I picked up this camera to replace my DSLR. I was tired of carrying all that heavy gear around and I wanted a smaller and lighter system that would not sacrifice quality. This one met my expectations and in some instances exceeded them. It is large enough for my big hands and light enough to carry around all day. At first, I was a little confused by the controls and menu system, but after spending some time with the camera I found it very intuitive and easy to use. The GX-8 is fast and accurate and the image stabilization really gets images very sharp even at slow shutter speeds down to 1/2 second. The articulating display is touch sensitive and makes focusing point selection very easy. Other features including 4k photo, and post focusing capabilities make this camera a serious contender. The movie mode is not as good as the GH5, but it will not disappoint anyone. All in all, I am happy with my purchase and the new Leica 12-60mm f2.8-4 really complements this camera quite well.

joe325

Originally posted at

2017-02-22T12:43:01

I've been using Micro Four Thirds cameras and lenses for six years (with a brief detour into Sony FF land). I like the system and the lenses, and for my purposes, it hits a real sweet spot. However, the previous bodies had the 16MP sensor, which I found a bit limiting in IQ in a number of ways. This camera uses the more recent design 20MP sensor, and it really makes a big difference in the overall IQ. It has significantly better tonal and color gradation than the previous generation 16MP sensors, and also is moderately better at shadow recovery. The improvements were enough to convince me to return to M43 as my primary camera after my Sony detour, and I have not regretted it for one second. Keep in mind that if you are primarily a very low light shooter, M43 is probably not the ideal format for you. On the other hand, if you like to work with macro and long tele lenses, it has some distinct advantages, and those are what I shoot the most, so this is a great choice for my purposes. The GX8 is very well balanced in hand, even with the long PL100-400mm lens on it. It's not the smallest M43 camera, but it is very comfortable to hold and use. Touch screen, as always, is very well implemented, and the EVF is HUGE and makes composition a breeze. I am quite pleased with this camera, and do not hesitate to recommend it.

JANET W.

2017-02-08T12:56:15

I bought the GH8 fro use with my Panasonic 100-400mm lens. This combination works well for me. I shoot wildlife with it, mainly birds and other wildlife I encounter while hiking or riding a bike. The weight of the camera verses the reach of the lens and lens was/is a decisive factor. I highly recommend this combination for any one who like a long lens, but wants a light weight but high performing rig to carry while hiking or biking.

PAUL P.

2016-12-28T11:51:40

Amazing abilities in such a small package!

CYNTHIA B.

2016-12-13T09:56:02

The tilting eye level viewfinder and the increased resolution combined with the reduced pricing to get me to purchase the GX8. Never the less I am keeping my OM-D E-M1 as the overall speed is noticeably faster. The size of the GX8 is nice for my larger hands, and the EVF has already been useful as well as the articulated screen.

ROBERT G.

2016-11-01T10:13:12

A beautiful camera, I like the many function buttons for direct control. More than I need.

RAYMOND T.

2016-10-23T09:00:05

I was concern about the size of this camera when I first bought it but once I got it and started playing with it, I found the this is the perfect size for my hand ( I got large hands). while I was reading the review I didn't care much about the tilt view, however, it comes very useful when shooting my kids soccer game with glasses and baseball cap it just makes it easier to shoot. The only con that I can think is that I had to learn to shoot with my right eye ( I am left eye dominant). weather sealed comes in handy in Florida's crazy weather ( it rains out of nowhere). Overall, I am very happy with this camera.

Cristian Q.

2016-10-19T11:35:46

Got it right before a wedding and just did video with it, the only reason I am giving it 4 stars is because right out of the box the tilt/swivel screen has a problem when it is against the body and you very lightly push down on the screen it shut off, think it might just be loose wires on the inside. Otherwise very happy with everything else, and I know Panasonic will take care of this problem right away!

Alden P.

2016-09-26T10:15:14

The menus take some time to become familiar with.

Al B.

2016-09-14T08:26:53

Very smooth and quiet. Great results.

Brian S.

2016-08-31T17:47:12

It's the biggest Micro 4/3 body on the market. I have big hands, so it's not a challenge, but my wife is much happier with her GX7. Panasonic has wisely kept their logical control and menu layout, and the programmable function keys make it pretty easy to quickly reach your favorite functions instead of poking at the screen. Image quality stands up to their past cameras, and the current specials being offered turn the camera into a serious bargain.

Alexander B.

2016-08-30T09:15:27

I was looking into replacing my Olympus E-PL2 when this item appeared on slickdeals. With the limited time in using it I could say this is a wonderful camera.

RAYMOND T.

2016-08-25T14:25:40

First off let me tell you about my background. I have been shooting Mirrorless Cameras for over four years and a Panasonic system has been one of the best. I currently on the GH4, FZ1000, and now the GX8. I love the larger sensor images it produces are crisp and sharp. It is fast enough for light action shots and especially portraits. This camera has become my number one camera for day to day shooting.

JAMAL P.

2016-08-18T09:51:20

I have only taken this on three shoots so far, all personal work, not paying gigs as this is not a professional camera. Here is what I like : Focus is quick and accurate. The 4K video is very sharp and offers great OIS shooting. I also like the built in time lapse feature. The 4k burst shooting is OK, but image quality of the final still is disappointing. Thus leads me to my complaints. Image quality and dynamic range. This camera does not feel like it can even keep up with my Canon 60d. The GX8 was intended to replace my 60d as a lightweight street and hiking camera. It is lighter and smaller, but even with 20 mega pixels it performs well only in the best of light. Forget anything just after sunset and forget trying to bring back any highlights in a high contrast shot. If you shoot a lot of video, this camera is a good choice, if not I might suggest an 80d or equivalent Nikon. I think you will get more for your buck at the expense of a little more weight.

Kyle L.

2016-08-17T15:23:32

So far one of the best 4/3 camera for stills.

Albert S.

2016-08-15T13:46:19

This is my 10th m4/3 cam. I currently also have GX7 and EM5ii, as well as the GF7. I recently sold my D750, but kept D7100 and a sweet old RX1. So I've got a wide base for comparrison. The current deal with 12-60 and voucher proved irresistible. I took it to the Yosemite high country, and like results, but have yet to view on my 5k monitor. I did notice, while shooting some kite surfers at Malibu with a 45-150 that the gx8 was worlds better at AF in waning light. I started with the gx7, which kept balking, but the 8 proved quick (instantaneous) and very hi hit rate! The EVF is tops, the IBIS seems good, and the endless Fn buttons are tremendous

Randa G.

2016-08-02T08:46:25

The camera has very good features, good image quality with the 20MP sensor but the In Body Image Stabilization is pretty much worthless. However it works well in Dual AF with the Lumix lenses which have OIS in them. The AF system is fast but with the pinpoint AF it is unreliable, frequently have problem focusing the image correctly. I mainly purchased this Camera for moving objects like Birds In Flight where the CAF works well. All in all it is a good camera but far from being an excellent camera.

Julius K.

2016-07-06T20:00:00

I bought this camera in 2015 from a Hong Kong shop. My first impression was that it did not feel as compact and tightly constructed as the GX7 (the GX7 is a marvel that has the sense of excellance about it). GX8 takes a few minutes to get used to. It is very similar to the GX7, except for the pivoting monitor, for decades a I shot with a twin lens Rollei and a Hasseblad so I am accustom to waste level shooting. The GX7 monitor drop down feature was perfect, the GX8 monitor is a bit cumbersume, but I am adjusting to it over time. The 20 mp is superb and brings out the best of older lenses adapted to the Panasonic M4/3 mount. Using the 2x digital converter with a 300mm lens is excellent for situations where a long lens is required. Also, the dual stabilization system is all that it is said to be and more. When I have time I still use a tripod, but I really don't need one with the stabilization systems in the GX8 and Panasonic lenses. I like to do micro work and the GX8 combined with the Leica Elmarit is excellent. This is a quality camera for all circumstances.

Old G.

Originally posted at

2016-06-25T20:00:00

This camera has a wonderful feel in the hand. The tiltable EVF and fully articulating OLED screen were huge pluses for me. The touch screen for focusing, and the option of using the new Post Focus option when shooting in 4K are really extraordinary. I read others complaining about the grip feeling small, but compared to other mirrorless cameras, the rangefinder style and feel on this are superior. It is a little bigger than the competitors, but the 20mp sensor is great, and this thing has amazing autofocus in low-light settings. I wish it had a built-in flash, but the tiltable evf didn't allow that. I bought a ($) flash for the Lumix LX100 which is compact and small, so I keep it in my camera bag for the rare times when I need it. Feature set and overall shooting are excellent here. It feels like a camera!

Mike F.

Originally posted at

2016-06-01T13:27:34

I am upgrading from the Panasonic GF1 and what a world of difference. Most everything that I wanted to be changed / improved on the GF1was the GX8 model. The addition of the Adorama gift card was just a bonus.

Thomas B.

2016-02-16T19:00:00

i own 2 GX7 cameras. i did not think that they could improve the camera but then the GX8 came along and its a game changer

justin

Originally posted at

2016-02-10T19:00:00

It has everything I wanted in a camera. It is so feature rich with all sorts of customizable features. All the dial has been overhauled from GX7. New dedicated compensation dial is great. Only switch I do not like is On/Off button. It is bit hard to turn on if one has light gloves for winter photo. It is too recessed. Big pluses are Dual IS, 4K video, weather seal, great grip, articulated screen ... list goes on and on. One thing I am not impressed is burst rate with continuous focusing. Bit too slow though spec states 6 fps. I wish it had Slo-mo, and accessory battery grip.

DSO

Originally posted at