Panasonic Lumix DMC-G2 with 14-42mm lens Reviews: Digital Mirrorless Camera

Here’s a list of the questions other shoppers have asked owners of the Panasonic Lumix DMC-G2 with 14-42mm lens

1. was looking to purchase this camera but noticed on the reviews that the ease of use was'nt a good scoring. Could you explain to me why? Im a beginner,so don't want something that is going to be to difficult to use, thanks.
   
   julie asked on 19 Jan 2011
   1. The features will keep you interested ... but I suggests you buy a good book on the basics like " photography , the hidden manual "
      
      Mick replied on 09 Apr 2011

       
2. Is this comparable to a DSLR such as the Nikon D500 that can be used for a beginner to photograph food?
   
   Ryan asked on 09 Mar 2011
   1. Yes only less bulky
      
      Mick replied on 09 Apr 2011

       
3. I struggling to chose between the Lumix G2 and the Sony NEX -5 help me choose as the more i look into the more confused i become.
   Both offer great things !!!
   
   Steve asked on 30 Mar 2011
   1. Both great cameras. I also looked at the Sony but on value and technical detail the G2 won it for me.
      
      Mick replied on 09 Apr 2011

       
4. Hello, can this camera use an SDHC memory card?
   
   Vaila asked on 22 Apr 2011
   1. Yes it does take the SDHC memory card, I have an 8gb card in my G2. You should make sure that any card you buy is at least class 6 but better still class 10 as this determines the "data write speed" from camera to card, ie the quicker the data is written to the card, the quicker the camera can take shots
      
      john replied on 25 May 2011

       
5. Hi,
   I am confused between g10 and g2, can you help me i am beginner and don't know which is better.
   Thanks
   
   Tahir asked on 04 May 2011
   1. The G10 is the Older version of the G2. the G2 has many additional features including the articulating or swivel LCD which is also like the iphone screen, ie you can operate everything on the camera via the touch sensitive screen, including the shutter button, just tap it and it takes a shot. In short the G2 is a far superior camera to the G10 and you will notice the price difference reflects this........ Go for the G2
      
      john replied on 25 May 2011

       
6. hi there dose the g2 have a built in flash pop up were the horse shoe housing is
   
   Diane asked on 17 May 2011
   1. Yes it does have a built in flash, you simply slide the switch next to the flash and up it pops. The "hot shoe" is for additional flash if you wish or it can also have an stereo mic mounted
      
      john replied on 25 May 2011

       
7. Is it worth buying the g2 or wait a week for the g3
   
   Martin asked on 03 Jun 2011
   1. wait for G3
      
      dilip replied on 04 Jun 2011

       
   2. The G2 is a very capable camera, the G3 extends this... But for a greater price. I'd imagine the G2 prices to drop considerably once the G3 goes on sale and you could pick up a G2 bargain.
      
      Ben replied on 06 Jun 2011

       
8. i cant decide between a Lumpix G2 and Nikon D3100, help please!
   
   sherry asked on 15 Jun 2011
   1. I considered both but found more features with G2 also lighter and portable especially if your upgrading from a point and shoot
      
      Mick replied on 15 Jun 2011

       
   2. Hi Sherry,
      The G2 or the Nikon 3100 ?
      It would depend on the type of photography you will be using the cameras for, if you are like myself intending to do mostly amateur / hobby photography, landscapes etc: I would go for the G2 it is easy to carry around and has some great features probably on a par with the Nikon 3100 and both are a similar sensor size, the much more expensive Nikons £ 800 plus have a more professional bigger size sensor which would then show a better quality photograph to give very big enlargements .
      I have owned a Olympus 520 two lens outfit for the past two years and I always have to consider carrying it about all day it becomes heavier as the day goes on, so i have just sold it for lack off use .
      The G2 is in my opinion better than the new replacement The G3 is now out .
      I considered that in most reviews most experts reported that the G2 is easier to hold as it is slightly bigger than its new replacement, the G2 can be used completely in auto mode for some great shots but you can use all the settings that the Nikon has .
      Also there are some good prices going the G2 is selling in some dealers on the net at about £200 cheaper than it was selling recently because of the new G3 replacing it.
      I should point out that I have been a keen mostly amateur photographer for many years (too many) and sometimes you can spend to much time getting all the settings right and you miss the shot , so i leave my G2 set on auto and multi shot setting and if I see a good scene I only have to switch on the camera and I have got the shot I wanted.
      The Nikons do have a much bigger choice of lens but at a cost - they can be very expensive.
      Co- incidental as I am a bit of a magpie I also recently bought a Nikon D5000 about the time I purchased the G2 and tried a number of photographs side by side with the G2 and there is no difference in the quality of the photographs from both cameras.
      So the G2 will be the one i prefer to carry about as its so light to carry about all day.
      If I was taking wedding photographs for family and friends the Nikon would be the number one choice although you would need two cameras anyway as backup.
      I must admit the Nikon makes you look more professional if your selling photographs.
      I hope I have helped you in some way in your decision between the two and best wishes in the future.
      
      
      
      
      
      
      William replied on 15 Jun 2011

       
9. Hello im one of those people who look and check all of the pros and cons about buying everything. I have a lumix point and shoot but i want something alot better. Is this camera worth spending the money on. It certainly gets good reviews. Your advice is really appreciated
   Thanks.
   
   tom asked on 26 Jun 2011
   1. Hi Tom,
      
      I'll be honest, I was a little dubious before I brought this camera. I checked all the review sites... And then checked again, then took the plunge.
      I don't know what I was worring about, this is a fantastic camera, the pictures it takes are stunning. I took the step from a point and shoot to this camera, it has an intelligent auto setting to help you take your pics. Then you can delve into the all the manual settings... Oh and you can shoot film in HD too. I can't rate this camera highly enough as a piece of kit, but it doesn't come with a camera bag which was a bit dissapointing.
      As the new Lumix G has just come out there should be a bargain to be had with this model.
      
      Hope this helps and good luck with your purchase.
      
      Thanks
      Ben
      
      Ben replied on 27 Jun 2011

       
   2. Hi Tom, just like you, I read all about everything, watch all the demo videos and then wait for the right price.... This G2 camera was well worth the wait. I was over £700 at launch and is now retailing at around £360, that's point and shoot high end money but you get a real camera for that price with the G2. Size-wise, its a lot bigger than point and shoot, which is a downer for me but you have to compromise somewhere and they do pack a lot of quality into it. I am a point and shooter so I leave the camera set to Intelligent Auto and get great shots. The camera host's massive amount of features for you pound so buy with confidence and enjoy your photography, fantastic gadget, wise investment, proud to own this camera. John
      
      john replied on 27 Jun 2011

       
10. can you tell me what is in the box when you buy it with 14-42mm lens, thanks
    
    Lisa asked on 27 Jun 2011
    1. Hi Lisa
       Box, camera body,14/42 lens,panasonic cd / dvd with photofun studio and silky pics etc:, lens hood,plastic lens bag,2x electric cables = 1x av cable 1x usb cable ,battery,battery charger,lead to connect charger to 13amp socket, body cap,lens cap,stylus pen (which is a grey flat piece of plastic to use on the flat screen and it does 'nt look like a pen) and 212 pages operating instruction book .
       Any further help i will be happy to help ! justwilliams@live.co.uk .
       Bill.
       if you have the instruction book - on page 9 it has a list of all the items that you should have in the box.
       
       William replied on 27 Jun 2011

        
11. Is this any good for taking pics of birds in the distance - they don't have to look brilliant but for identification.
    
    Diane asked on 07 Jul 2011
    1. It will certainly be good enough for that level of detail, your pics will look great but as with all distance photography, to maintain clarity you will need to mount this camera on a tripod. Enjoy
       
       john replied on 07 Jul 2011

        
    2. agree with Johns reply but to be honest you may be better off with a bridge camera like the Panasonic F45 . excellent quality but with the added bonus of a built in zoom and is less expensive.
       
       Mick replied on 09 Jul 2011

        
12. When I buy the camera, memory card including in the box? or we need to buy it separately?
    What other necessary equipment and accessories should we buy separately?
    
    Neilson asked on 13 Jul 2011
    1. Hi Neilson,
       
       In the box you will get the camera, battery with charger, lens with lens cap, camera strap and the cables and software to attach and upload your pictures to your computer.
       
       You do not get a memory card, you will need to buy this separately. There are numerous websites selling memory cards, I'd suggest buying the fastest card you can afford (do your research first). You also don't get a camera case, if you need one, I did for keeping my new camera safe from bumps and scratches, you will need to buy one separately.
       
       Hope this helps
       Ben
       
       Ben replied on 13 Jul 2011

        
13. I am looking to buy this camera, what gb memory card would you suggest when using this camera as i would like quick fast shots for shooting sceneryand wildlife whilst also taking portrait photos in a studio!
    Thanks for your help!
    
    Alicia asked on 26 Jul 2011
    1. I purchased and recommend the Sandisk extreme video HD 16gb card selling at a well known internet store for £29. 03. advertised today. with free postage.
       this is ideal for fast video shots and the 16gb will give quite a long run. and is also ideal for large number of fast photographs for a large number of fast still photo's.I would also recommend a 52mm uv or skylight filter is left on the lens permanently for protection of fingerprints and scratches.
       Happy shooting from justwilliams at live.co.uk
       
       William replied on 27 Jul 2011

        
14. Can you confirm what I presume, and that is, is it easily possible to get the - (I think), very professional and effective blurred out of focus background and the subject sharp in the foreground with the wide aperture of the 14mm 42mm lens?
    
    Tony asked on 27 Jul 2011
    1. You are correct, it is possible to have the background out of focus with the subject crisp and sharp. Simply tap the display and that area will remain in focus whilst the remainder will be defocused
       
       john replied on 27 Jul 2011

        
    2. Hi Tony,
       
       It very easy to get the blurred background effect, you just need to be closer to your subject than you would with a longer lens. I take a lot of these type of shots when I take portrait pictures.
       
       Thanks
       Ben
       
       Ben replied on 27 Jul 2011

        
    3. yes..with practice
       
       Mick replied on 27 Jul 2011

        
15. I want to be able to use a Minolta AF 70 -210 lens with it. Is it easy to get an adapter?
    
    
    Sue asked on 30 Jul 2011
    1. Hi Sue.
       I didnt know till you asked but i keyed in to the search engine for a adapter that you require. Lots of results =
       first try ebay item number 380302351905 this week
       or "g04photosupplies".
       but will cost about £40. and you have to manually set the aperture and the focus.
       Personally my opinion is it would be to much cost and hassle. and not the best of quality anyway.
       better to sell the minolta lens on ebay and put the £40 cost of a adapter towards a dedicated lens made for the G2 camera.
       Hope this helps, best wishes
       Bill
       
       William replied on 23 Aug 2011

        
    2. Hi Sue.
       I didnt know till you asked but i keyed in to the search engine for a adapter that you require. Lots of results =
       first try ebay item number 380302351905 this week
       or "g04photosupplies".
       but will cost about £40. and you have to manually set the aperture and the focus.
       Personally my opinion is it would be to much cost and hassle. and not the best of quality anyway.
       better to sell the minolta lens on ebay and put the £40 cost of a adapter towards a dedicated lens made for the G2 camera.
       Hope this helps, best wishes
       Bill
       
       William replied on 23 Aug 2011

        
16. I am looking for a camera that can take pictures whilst the subject is moving, plus I would like to be able to take panaromic views - does this camera have this ability?
    Plus I've read that it isn't very good at nighttime shots is this true?
    and lastly some pictures would need a tripod is this correct?
    
    
    
    Debi asked on 15 Aug 2011
    1. I'm very sorry i have only had my Lumix G2 for about three month and i have been very busy at work and really have not got to know the camera that well.
       The little time i have work with my LunixG2 i'm very please with it and look forward to getting to know my new camera,sorry i could not anser all your Question.
       
       Percy replied on 24 Aug 2011

        
17. Can I ask, is this camera good for macro shots... close-ups of flowers etc, I am looking to become a pro-photographer,
    Thanks!
    
    Sam asked on 16 Aug 2011
    1. This camera is an ideal starting point for macro photography. I have had excellent results with macro set to Ia but you can use your own settings for amazing results
       
       john replied on 23 Aug 2011

        
    2. very good... but would recommend the 45/200 lens for more spectacular shots.
       
       Mick replied on 23 Aug 2011

        
18. Do you think this camera suitable for weddings and portraits?
    
    Adam asked on 04 Sep 2011
    1. pictures are very clear and sharp with good wide angle, not so good for close up
       
       Anne replied on 06 Sep 2011

        
19. is the battery life good ?
    
    josie asked on 11 Sep 2011
    1. Hi Josie.
       I haven't come across this question before .
       The battery has plenty of power for use all day so charge up after a full days use , I have never run out of power but of course it depends on what you are using it for,and if you can re-charge if you are away on holiday, so take the charger with you when away from home.
       I sometimes do not use the camera for weeks at a time and it still holds its charge.
       Best wishes
       Bill
       
       William replied on 12 Sep 2011

        
20. Hi I,m a teenager and very interested in photography.....i may take a photography course at college. I was wondering I have used these types of cameras before but am still a novice, would this be a good choice for a beginner? If no....do you have any other recommendations?
    
    Amy asked on 09 Oct 2011
    1. I think it would be a good choice for you, I am not very skilled with cameras but have found mine easy to use and the user guide is easy to follow. I have already taken some lovely photo's with my camera and that is without reading all the instructions. It seems to be very versatile. I am so pleased that i have already invested in a telephto lens to go with my camera. I hope that if you do decide to buy this camera that you have as much success and fun with it as I have already had.
       
       Catherine replied on 10 Oct 2011

        
21. Hi,
    im only 14 years old but when im older i would be like to be a part time photographer,
    and i have been saving up for quite a long time now and i know there are other camera's but i just don't have enough money for the other one's
    and i came across this one but some of the comments are good and some are not as good?
    so my questions are;
    Has it got a good image quality?
    Is it worth the money?
    And is it easy to use?
    
    
    Becca asked on 24 Oct 2011
    1. The image quality is very good for a camera of this price even when set to auto and the camera is very easy to use, has lots of useful touch screen functions. A cool camera and a wise investment
       
       john replied on 26 Oct 2011

        
    2. Image qualityis goodfor this camera.
       The price was right for me.
       It's is easy to use.
       And i'm please i have this camera.
       
       Percy replied on 27 Oct 2011

        
    3. The image quality is very good for a camera of this price even when set to auto and the camera is very easy to use. great first time camera,with plenty of manual features to keep you interested.
       
       Mick replied on 30 Oct 2011

        
    4. I agree with the previous comments but you need to factor in the costs of SD cards and additional lenses in particular (which can cost more than the camera). Without these your photographic range is seriously compromised.
       
       Brian replied on 01 Nov 2011

        
22. just wondering how good the effects are ? what is there? black and white pop art? Also how is the camera with pictures of people?
    
    sarah asked on 30 Nov 2011
    1. I haven't got around to looking at the effects yet due to other commitments but have taken loads of family photo's also pets, wildlife and views. I have been pleased with most of what I have taken and any that have not been so good have been user error. I tend to try first and then read up on any problems I have and have found the manual really easy to read and to help diagnose the reason for my errors. My husband bought me a telephoto lens which I am enjoying using. I hope this is helpful for you in considering purchasing a panasonic camera, my G2 is an upgrade from a smaller panasonic which I was also really pleased with.
       
       Catherine replied on 01 Dec 2011

        
23. how do i download movies from the camera to a disc
    
    aidan asked on 24 Jan 2012
    1. The easiest way is to remove your SD card from your camera and insert it into your computer or that of the photo lab. A Laptop will have a slot for an SD card, or you can purchase a card reader for very little from your computer shop. The alternative is to attach a usb lead from your camera to your computer. Same result.
       
       Angela replied on 28 Jan 2012

        
    2. I haven't tried downloading any movies from the G2 yet. I have downloaded photos and would assume that you would download movies in the same way and then transfer them to disc. Sorry I can't be move helpful.
       
       Tony replied on 30 Jan 2012

        
24. looking at this or the samsung nx11? any suggestions?
    
    caroline asked on 12 Mar 2012
    1. Didn't compare the Panasonic with the Samsung. Have found the Panasonic lives up to expectations, although the instruction manual is complex. If you do buy the Panasonic invest in the Rocky Nook guide ( much easier to understand). Great camera, reasonable price.
       
       Graham replied on 13 Mar 2012

        
25. Firstly, what is the zoom with the 14-42mm lens?
    Secondly does it take photos in quick succession, like how quick is the burst mode?
    And is this alright for taking photos of moving subjects, e.g. pets?
    
    
    
    Gabriella asked on 14 Mar 2012
    1. I like the zoom on the 14-42 mm although I am not a professional photographer, I only use it for social and family events.
       
       The quick burst is great it takes quiet a few shots in a matter of seconds, I don't know exactly how many.
       
       I have only had my camera for a short time and I haven't tried taking pics of moving objects ie pets.
       
       I hope this helps you.
       
       Gina replied on 15 Mar 2012

        
26. What different lenses can i use with this camera ? Cheers
    
    James asked on 16 Mar 2012
    1. There is a vast range of 'two thirds' lenses available for this camera from different manufacturers, they range from wide angle to powerful zoom lenses. Check the web and fill your boots and your new G2
       
       john replied on 19 Mar 2012

        
27. Does this camera shoot pictures in the RAW format
    
    John asked on 22 Mar 2012
    1. Hi John .
       I am not sure if my first email was sent so i am repeating it to make sure.
       Yes the G2 has a Raw and Raw+ setting according to the handbook, plus software for Raw conversion on the user dvd which comes with the camera also mentions that it takes Raw & JPG combined which seems to be similar to other makes of cameras.
       As i havent used RAW myself i cannot give you any detailed info on the subject.
       Best Wishes
       
       William replied on 22 Mar 2012

        

Got a question? Get an answer from someone who actually owns the product.
We'll publish your question and the answer here to help other shoppers.