Panasonic LUMIX G95D 20.3 Megapixel Mirrorless Camera

The Panasonic LUMIX G95M is a very good hybrid camera, but not an excellent one. It's clear that Panasonic has intentionally limited the camera's full potential in some areas, particularly in video. While it offers great value for its price, there are certain features that leave you wishing for more.

Video Performance

For videographers, the G95M offers some great qualities, but it also has several limitations that could impact your decision. One significant drawback is that the camera doesn’t shoot full HD at 24fps, a feature many enthusiasts expect in a modern camera. Additionally, the bitrate for full HD is capped at 24 Mbps, which feels outdated in 2022, given that competitors offer much higher bitrates for better quality.

The 4K video performance also has its flaws. While the camera can shoot 4K video, it crops more than the standard Micro Four Thirds crop, meaning you need to shoot very wide to get a shot that still looks reasonably wide. This can be a bit frustrating if you’re looking for a more versatile field of view. Furthermore, the camera does not support 10-bit video output for external recording in either Full HD or 4K, limiting the potential for high-quality post-production.

The focus peaking, a feature useful for manual focus, doesn't always work perfectly. It tends to be a bit off, which can be frustrating in more critical moments. Also, like many cameras in this price range, the G95M shows a bit of noise in the shadow areas, which is common but still a slight downside.

Photography Performance

When it comes to photography, the LUMIX G95M is a solid performer, but there are some shortcomings. The 20.3 MP Digital Live MOS sensor captures sharp and detailed images, and the camera's overall image quality is comparable to much more expensive full-frame cameras. However, the lack of HDR (High Dynamic Range) photography means that certain high-contrast scenes may not capture the level of detail you'd like. Additionally, like in video mode, the shadows can get a little noisy, which can affect the overall image quality in lower-light situations.

Despite these drawbacks, the G95M excels in a few key areas. It’s a great camera for those looking to create beautiful 8-bit colors in both photo and video, and its stabilized sensor ensures smoother shots, especially when shooting handheld. Furthermore, there’s no recording time limit, which is a big plus for both video and long photo sessions.

Key Features That Stand Out

The LUMIX G95M offers several features that make it unique and flexible for both photographers and videographers. One of the standout aspects is its Vlog-L video profile, which boasts 12 stops of dynamic range, giving you a lot of flexibility in post-production for editing. For photographers, the Live View Composite mode lets you combine multiple shots into a single image, allowing for creative long-exposure photography. Additionally, the Post-Focus function lets you adjust focus after capturing the image, which adds a layer of creative control during editing.

The camera's weather-sealed body ensures it holds up well in various shooting conditions, whether you're dealing with rain, dust, or cold temperatures. The free-angle monitor makes it easier to shoot from creative angles, enhancing your flexibility during photography and video.

Another useful feature for videographers and vloggers is the camera's ability to output video with 4:2:2 8-bit color to an external monitor while simultaneously recording, giving you more control over your video production.

Sound Quality

For audio, the G95M includes 3.5mm jacks for both an external microphone and headphones, allowing you to record and monitor sound with external equipment, which is a great feature for improving sound quality in your videos.

Who is the G95M For?

While the G95M has some notable shortcomings, especially in video, it remains a solid hybrid camera for those who want both photo and video capabilities in a single, affordable package. If you're primarily looking for a camera for video in this price range, you might want to consider alternatives like the GH4, GH5 (used), X-S10 Fuji, or even the Sony A7S2 (used), all of which provide better video performance.

That said, the LUMIX G95M excels in areas like color reproduction, stabilization, flexibility in editing, and low-light photography, making it a great option for photographers looking for a versatile camera. With its weather-sealed body, 20.3 MP sensor, and a range of creative features, it’s an excellent choice for those wanting to explore their creativity in photography and video alike.

Brian A.