Why the Panasonic GH3 is a Good Buy in 2022
- Panasonic GH3 Overview
- Panasonic GH3 Imaging Capabilities
- Panasonic GH3 Video Capabilities
- Final Thoughts on the Panasonic GH3
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Without a doubt, one of the best mirrorless cameras for beginner photographers is the Panasonic Lumix GH3. Despite its older age, it’s a powerful camera loaded with competitive features that still hold up today. Furthermore, its affordable price makes it an absolute steal for people looking to learn the ins and outs of photography.
In this Panasonic GH3 review, we share absolutely everything there is to know about the camera. We start with a general overview of the key specs and features before taking a closer look at how it functions for stills and video work, respectively.
One excellent resource with loads of used Panasonic GH3 cameras in stock and a place I have bought and sold countless photo and video gear throughout the years is MPB. They are a trustworthy and reliable online platform that sells used photo and video kit at unbeatable prices.
Moreover, all of their cameras are meticulously hand-inspected by experienced product specialists and backed by warranties, allowing you to make your purchases confidently and worry-free.
Do you have any old or unused camera gear lying around? Guess what? You can also use MPBs online marketplace to sell or trade-in equipment you already have and use the proceeds towards awesome new-to-you gear. It’s an excellent way to offset costs and save even more on the equipment you want and need.
With that said, it’s time to dive in and learn why the Panasonic GH3 remains a capable camera in 2022!
Table of Contents
Panasonic GH3 Overview
The Panasonic GH3 is a crop sensor mirrorless camera that was released in November of 2012. Since its debut, three new cameras in Panasonic’s standard “G” lineup have supplanted it. First, in 2014 there was the Panasonic Lumix GH4. Then in 2017, Panasonic launched the Lumix GH5. And most recently, the all-new Panasonic Lumix GH6 came out in February 2022.
The Panasonic GH3 boasts a 16.1-megapixel Four thirds sensor and a Venus Engine VII FHD image processing engine. The two combine to help deliver sharp photos and videos time after time. Also, thanks to its Micro Four Thirds lens mount system, this camera has a huge selection of native Micro Four Third Lenses.
The camera is made of a durable magnesium alloy with a weatherproof coating that protects it from moisture and dust. Additionally, it is smaller and lighter than its successors, making it ideal for everyday use, travel, and even for kids.
The Panasonic GH3 was the first Panasonic G mirrorless camera to include an OLED rear display and OLED electronic viewfinder (EVF). Both are accurate and responsive and help increase workflow efficiency. Finally, the camera’s five customizable Fn buttons, two control dials, and touchscreen capabilities enhance productivity in photo and video modes even further.
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Panasonic GH3 Imaging Capabilities
For still photography, the Panasonic GH3 works great. The resolution from the 16.1MP image sensor is sharp, and pictures taken on the GH3 have excellent edge-to-edge detail retention. In addition, you can select to shoot either JPEG or RAW files. RAW images have a higher dynamic range and are better for editing, but if you are a beginner, I recommend sticking with JPEGs.
As for the out-of-the-camera colors, they are on par with other older mirrorless cameras like the Sony Alpha a6500 or the Olympus O-MD E-M5. For the most accurate and natural-looking colors, I suggest shooting JPEGs and boosting the in-camera saturation ever so slightly.
One area where the camera lags behind competing models is low-light performance. Four Thirds imaging sensors are smaller than APS-C and full-frame sensors, and therefore less light ultimately hits the sensor. Also, the max ISO of 12,800 is on the low end. However, the Panasonic GH3 has noise reduction technology which helps boost low-light image quality.
Another thing I love about this camera is its creative photo modes. The HDR mode can capture numerous images, increases clarity, and makes colors pop. On the other hand, the multiple exposure mode allows you to shoot two photos and overlay them on top of each other for exciting and unique results.
Panasonic GH3 Video Capabilities
If you like recording videos, you will be thrilled to hear that the Panasonic GH3 is also a fantastic video camera. And although it isn’t the best option for professional videographers, thanks to its lack of 4K, it’s ideal for beginners and intermediates. Plenty of vloggers and YouTubers have also had great success with this camera.
It shoots 1080p Full HD footage at frame rates of 24, 25, 30, 50, and 60 frames per second. Regardless of the frame rate you choose, video quality is superb. If you want to create slow-motion footage, the best method is to use 1080p/60p and then slow down the footage manually in post-production.
Thanks to a built-in intervalometer and the fun time-lapse mode, you can also create exquisite time-lapse movies directly in the camera. This mode eliminates a massive step from the editing process and is perfect for capturing sunsets, sunrises, stars, and more.
Other notable video features of the Panasonic GH3 include a fully-articulating touchscreen display, timecode support, and microphone and headphone jacks. The articulating screen makes composing images easier, and the multiple jacks improve audio quality.
Final Thoughts on the Panasonic GH3
While it may not be the newest or coolest kid on the block, the Panasonic GH3 certainly still has a place in 2022. Whether you are a beginner looking for the ideal camera to learn on, or someone on a budget, the Panasonic GH3 is the perfect camera for you!
If you do decide to get a GH3, or any other Panasonic or Olympus camera, here are some of the most popular used Micro Four Thirds lenses to pair with it that are currently on sale at MPB: