Panasonic Lumix DC-G97 Review:
If you’re looking for a feature-packed mirrorless camera that’s perfect for both photography and videography, the Panasonic Lumix DC-G97 might be just what you need. With its user-friendly design, great image quality, and impressive video capabilities, it’s ideal for enthusiasts, aspiring content creators, and even professional photographers who want something compact yet powerful. In this review, I’ll dive into what makes the Panasonic Lumix DC-G97 stand out in the crowded mirrorless camera market.
Overall Rating for the Panasonic Lumix DC-G97
Here’s a breakdown of the rating based on the review:
Camera Performance: ⭐ (4.5/5)
The 20 MP Four Thirds sensor delivers sharp, vibrant images, and the Venus Engine processor ensures fast and accurate image processing. The in-body image stabilization and excellent autofocus system make it a solid performer for both photography and videography.
Videography Features: ⭐ (4.5/5)
4K video recording with 30p and 100 Mbps bitrate ensures high-quality video. The slow-motion options (1080p at 120fps) make it great for creative work. The microphone and headphone ports enhance audio quality, but the lack of 10-bit color output limits it for more advanced videographers.
Ease of Use: ⭐4/5)
The fully articulated touchscreen and user-friendly interface make it easy for both beginners and more advanced users to handle. The intuitive controls are designed to accommodate a variety of shooting styles. However, the lack of subject/scene modes may be a downside for those used to automatic settings.
Portability: ⭐(4/5)
The Panasonic Lumix DC-G97 is compact and lightweight (530g), making it easy to carry around. The weather-sealed body adds durability for outdoor use, but its size and weight may be a bit much for ultra-portable users who prioritize the smallest form factors.
Connectivity: ⭐ (4.5/5)
The built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth 5.0 ensure seamless connectivity for file transfers and remote control via smartphone. The USB charging feature is also a huge plus for travel and on-the-go use.
Build Quality: ⭐ (4/5)
Weather-sealed and sturdy, the Panasonic Lumix DC-G97 is built to last. However, some users may miss the additional 5-axis in-body stabilization for stills. It is well-constructed and ready for outdoor shooting, but not as rugged as higher-end models.
Overall Score: ⭐ (4.5/5)
The Panasonic Lumix DC-G97 is a well-rounded mirrorless camera perfect for both photography and videography. It excels in image and video quality, with a solid autofocus system and useful connectivity options. While it might not be as advanced in some areas like in-body stabilization or advanced video options, it offers a fantastic value for enthusiasts and content creators looking for a versatile and easy-to-use camera.
Design and Build Quality
When you first pick up the Panasonic Lumix DC-G97, you’ll notice its comfortable and compact design. Weighing just 530g (including the battery), it’s lightweight enough to carry around for hours without feeling fatigued. The camera has a robust feel thanks to its weather-sealed body, which adds durability and peace of mind for those who like to shoot outdoors in various conditions.
The layout is intuitive, with buttons and dials placed ergonomically for easy handling. The 3-inch fully articulated touch screen is a standout feature. Whether you’re shooting low to the ground or trying to capture a selfie, the flip-out screen makes framing your shots a breeze. If you’re into vlogging, the ability to see yourself while filming is a massive advantage.
Image Quality
One of the key selling points of the Panasonic Lumix DC-G97 is its image quality. It comes with a 20-megapixel Four Thirds sensor that delivers sharp, vibrant images with accurate colors. The Venus Engine processor ensures fast image processing, reducing noise and improving overall performance, even in low-light situations. The camera offers a maximum resolution of 5184 x 3888 pixels, meaning you’ll get crisp, detailed shots whether you’re shooting portraits, landscapes, or action shots.
Thanks to its sensor-shift image stabilization system, you can expect smooth results even when shooting handheld. This works in tandem with stabilized lenses for even more effective shake reduction. The CIPA-rated 5 stops of image stabilization are particularly useful when you’re working in less-than-ideal lighting or trying to capture fast-moving subjects.
Autofocus and Performance
The Panasonic Lumix DC-G97 features a 49-point autofocus system that uses contrast detection, which ensures fast and accurate focusing. You’ll appreciate the various autofocus modes available, including multi-area, selective single-point, and tracking. This gives you full control over how the camera locks onto your subject.
For fast-moving subjects, the continuous autofocus mode does a solid job, keeping everything sharp even during action shots. Whether you’re shooting wildlife, sports, or children, the Panasonic Lumix DC-G97’s autofocus system will help you capture the perfect moment without missing a beat.
One of the standout features for photographers and videographers alike is the camera’s ability to shoot 9 frames per second in continuous mode. This makes it a great choice for action shots or fast-paced environments where you need to capture multiple frames in a short period.
Videography Features
Vloggers and videographers will love the video capabilities of the Panasonic Lumix DC-G97. It supports 4K video recording at 30p/100 Mbps, 25p/100 Mbps, and 24p/100 Mbps, which gives you excellent flexibility in terms of frame rate and video quality. You can record in either MP4 or AVCHD formats, depending on your preferences.
For those who want to get creative, the camera also supports 1080p video recording at 120fps, allowing you to capture slow-motion footage. Whether you’re shooting tutorials, travel videos, or creative projects, the Panasonic Lumix DC-G97 offers a wide range of video options that can cater to any content creator’s needs.
Audio quality is another important consideration for video work, and the Panasonic Lumix DC-G97 doesn’t disappoint. It has both a microphone and headphone port, so you can easily monitor and control the sound while recording. The built-in stereo microphone does a decent job, but for professional-quality sound, using an external microphone will make a noticeable difference.
Connectivity and Storage
In terms of connectivity, the Panasonic Lumix DC-G97 is equipped with a variety of options. It has built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth 5.0, which makes it easy to transfer photos and videos to your smartphone or tablet. This is especially useful if you need to quickly share content to social media or back up your files while on the go. You can also control the camera remotely via your smartphone, which is great for self-portraits or shooting from difficult angles.
The camera supports SD, SDHC, and SDXC memory cards, including UHS-II cards, ensuring fast data transfer and reliable storage for high-resolution images and 4K videos. Whether you’re shooting for an extended period or capturing high-speed action, you won’t have to worry about running out of space or having slow write speeds.
Battery Life
Battery life is always a crucial consideration, and the Panasonic Lumix DC-G97 holds up quite well here. With a CIPA-rated battery life of 290 shots, it should be enough for a full day of shooting, especially if you’re not constantly using the LCD screen. You can also charge the battery via USB, which comes in handy if you’re traveling or on the move and don’t have access to a power outlet. This feature is particularly beneficial for content creators who need to keep their gear powered throughout the day.
User Experience
The Panasonic Lumix DC-G97 is designed to make your photography experience as smooth and enjoyable as possible. The touch screen is responsive, and the viewfinder provides 100% coverage, so you can see exactly what you’re shooting. The camera’s fast startup time ensures you won’t miss any spontaneous moments. The overall handling is comfortable, even for extended periods of shooting.
If you’re new to mirrorless cameras, you’ll find the menus and settings easy to navigate. The camera comes with several customizable buttons, allowing you to set up the controls according to your shooting style. You can adjust things like ISO, white balance, and exposure compensation on the fly, making it easy to adapt to changing conditions.
- Great image and video quality
- Fully articulated 3-inch touch screen
- 4K video recording with slow-motion options
- Fast autofocus system with 49 focus points
- Image stabilization works well for handheld shots
- Weather-sealed and durable build
- Compact and lightweight design
- Good battery life with USB charging
- Limited subject/scene modes
- No 5-axis in-body stabilization for stills
- Slow autofocus in some low-light conditions
Final Recommendation
The Panasonic Lumix DC-G97 is an excellent choice for photographers and videographers looking for a versatile, feature-rich camera that’s easy to use. It offers impressive image quality, 4K video capabilities, a reliable autofocus system, and great battery life—all wrapped up in a compact, weather-sealed body. Whether you’re an enthusiast or an aspiring content creator, this camera provides plenty of room to grow and experiment with different styles of shooting.
I highly recommend the Panasonic Lumix DC-G97 to anyone looking for a well-rounded mirrorless camera that delivers exceptional performance in both photography and videography.