Panasonic DMC-L1. Goog DRF alternative?

Bobfrance

Bobfrance

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Hi All,

I've just spotted a Panasonic DMC-L1 fitted with the Zuiko 25mm pancake lens. It looks like a neat (rangefinder-esque) little package (pic attached).

It seems like a fairly rare camera - particularly with non-kit lenses.
I'd really appreciate hearing views on the L1 from anyone who's used it.
I also notice there's a Sigma 30mm/1.4 lens available too.

All info gratefully received. 🙂

Bob.
 

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I have one and love it. I bought it specifically because it's laid out in a very familiar leica-ish way. I only use it when I need an SLR. For sports or table top work. I also plan on using it as my primary digital while my M8 is away for upgrade (When I have the spare cash in a month or so). I work freelance for two different papers and nothing I've ever done has been printed bigger than half a page so the resolution is not an issue. And I got used to 4/3rds format quickly. It's like shooting medium format.

The viewfinder is dim. But it's not the most horrid thing. Just don't expect to be able to focus very well in the dark. It's mostly a daylight camera. You'll find this out as most 4/3rds lenses aren't very fast. But for those situations I have my Leica and lenses. So I don't really care.

They're pretty cheap now. I got mine refurb from ebay for $800 after using a 10% paypal coupon. Not a bad deal considering the 14-50 2.8-3.5 Leica lens that comes with it sells for $900 brand new itself. It's like I bought a lens and the camera came with it. And having a collection of 4/3rds lenses, you can easily move to an E-3 if you ever find yourself wanting more camera. And those things are hardy and affordable.

One point I should add is that ISO performance is about the same as the M8. Maybe even better. Which is horrible for the M8 I know. Also the body is about twice as thick as your typical M. But it still fits nicely into a domke bag.
 
Thanks for the info swoop.

How does the size compare to the M8? I had the impression it was a little smaller, though maybe thicker.

What's the choice like in four thirds lenses? I've only spotted a handful on ebay.
 
I have one too and like the previous poster love it. But I also use conventional digital SLRs as, although this is an SLR, it is a little like a rangefinder to use due to the layout of its dials. In fact I bought it really just because I felt I could not afford an M8 and like you thought that maybe this would be a good substitute. I was also attracted to this camera's ability (as with other 4/3 cameras) to use just about any other camera lens with an appropriate adapter. I presently use it with the standard kit lens but have been toying with the idea of another lens for those occasions when a prime is needed. At the moment I make do with a Nikkor 50mm f1,4 and adapter as the main prime but really am hanging out for the wonderful summilux 25mm f1.4, (YUM!) One day maybe. Like the previous post says the viewfinder is famously a little dim. But I would not make too much of this, since as he says it mainly affects night shooting. In general the issue has been overstated by the pundits and if you have ever used a Leica screw mount camera - well this is no comparison. On the whole I would say go for it. They are very well made and as stated cheap at the moment. They have their limits but are an exceedingly good option for a traditionalist looking for a high quality camera.
 
I've included pics to compare the size. An M7, an M8, and the DMC-L1. Sorry for the crap quality. Quick and dirty job. Hope it helps.
 

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This is very encouraging. 🙂

The pics are extremely helpful swoop - I really appreciate your efforts - thanks!
It certianly is a fair bit chunkier than the M bodies.

Michael I assume that the Leica 25mm is R mount? Does that equate to 50mm when mounted on the L1?
 
I suppose one thing I have to consider is; how does the L1 compare to the Olympus E420?
The Oly is newer, considerably cheaper (possibly smaller?) and will take the same lenses.

I have handled an E-420 with the Zuiko pancake lens on it and it was nice. I can see it being a good carry-about camera. It just didn't have that rangefinder feel.

Anyone tried both?
 
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