I have two Panasonic digital point and shoot cameras the DMC-FX35 and the DMC-T250. These are nice cameras and I have shot a lot of good photos over the past couple of years with them. Years ago I had a Canon Eos Rebel that I loved and I have been thinking of getting a new SLR for some time. I have a gift certificate so I am thinking about the DMC-GF2K but I have to say I am confused about all the different models and numbers (G2,GH2, G3, GF3…). I understand that these are not true SLRs but I have seen some of the photos put up on this site and have been impressed. Are they a significant upgrade from what I am using now. I am coming to the experts here. Anyone have any comments or opinions. Should I be looking at one of the other models or should I consider –gasp!- another brand. I appreciate any and all comments.
JB

We have the DMC-G2K and are still learning about its capabilities.  It is based on micro 4/3 sensor technology.  It combines key SLR features-a large image sensor and interchangeable lens with the smaller size and weight of a point and shoot camera.  For us it is the next step up.  Love the swivel LCD screen feature.  Not too good in low light. Wonderful photos and easy menu.  Waiting for vacation and good weather to spend more time experimenting with this camera.  Easy to use menu, high resolution and great photos.  We just purchased the telephoto lens and can't wait to play with it.  Lots of bells and whistles and reasonably priced. Hope this helps.  There are so many models it does get confusing.

I have a Panasonic point and shoot, and still use it for times when I want to travel as light as possible.   But I've been using a GF1 for the past year as my primary camera, and it's really hard to ever bring myself to use anything else.  The larger sensor, combined with electronic anti-shake on most of the lenses, allows an amazing improvement in both shooting at extreme zoom lengths, and in low light.  I recently bought the 20mm pancake lens, and though it does not have anti-shake, the fast 1.7 rating allows great low light shooting as well.  The smaller size of the micro four thirds body, combined with the tiny size of the 20mm lens makes this combination MUCH smaller than any true SLR option.

Since the GF1 came out, there have been a wide range of newer models with similar size bodies, but varying features.  Frankly, I'd probably be happy with any of them, and if I were on the market for something new, I'd probably be using the 'compare' feature on the Panasonic site to get a feel for the differences between current models, and then use the results to decide which features were truly important to me.

Jun 29, 2011 -- 9:19PM, Beattie Family wrote:

Thanks everyone for your advice. It was, after all, your photos that really convinced me to try and move up. I had thought all along I would buy the GF2 and with it on sale last week I was tempted - but the new G3 is now available and at a price not that much higher so I have decided to go with that. Still confused at the differences between the different letters but I saw some great reviews of the new camera and I am excited about giving it a try. Thanks again for the help.

Looks like a great camera.  Enjoy!