Sections
- Page 1 Panasonic Lumix LF1 Review
- Page 2 Design and Performance Review
- Page 3 Image Quality and Verdict Review
Panasonic LF1 – Image Quality
The generally solid level of performance continues with regards to image quality.
Click the photo above for the full gallery of sample images
Metering is reliable, offering even exposures in most conditions. In bright conditions there is a slight tendency towards overexposure with a view towards saving shadow detail, and as a result an exposure compensation setting of -0.7 is sometimes necessary.
The reliable narrative is continued when reviewing the colours of images produced with the LF1. Although images can appear a touch muted out of the camera, the general palette is pleasingly natural and ready for any post-production tweaks if and when they’re required.
Despite packing more megapixels into the same sensor as the LX1, the LF1 handles noise well.
Click the photo above for the full gallery of sample images
Images are pleasingly clean at lower ISO settings, with noise only really becoming apparent at ISO 800. Above this noise does begin to impinge on image quality, with image detail at ISO 6400 really suffering.
This is only truly an issue if you’re shooting JPEGs though, as Raw files retain a lot more detail and thus are more receptive to imparting your own noise control in post production.
Should I buy the Panasonic Lumix LF1?
The enthusiast compact market is increasingly competitive, with most manufacturers having at least one model at a similar price point to the LF1. The good news is that the LF1’s compact size, good image quality and general level of performance all mark it out as a contender, and its EVF gives it a unique feature that rivals lack.
Whether you should buy the LF1 comes down to how much you value its built-in EVF. If you’ve bemoaned the lack of viewfinders in compacts recently, it’s a no brainer. It takes very good photos and, unlike the Canon Powershot G12 and its kin, it actually fits in your pocket.
If not, well it’s still a very good camera you should seriously consider. Some will prefer the Panasonic Lumix LX7 due to its faster lens, but the LF1 is slightly cheaper and has a longer zoom. The Sony RX100 is fantastic, too, but a lot more expensive.
Verdict
The Panasonic Lumix LF1 delivers a good level of performance and impressive image quality at a very good price. Some may be better off with the LX7, but the LF1 still comes recommended.
Trusted Score
Score in detail
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Value 8
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Design 9
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Features 9
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Image Quality 8
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Editorial independence means being able to give an unbiased verdict about a product or company, with the avoidance of conflicts of interest. To ensure this is possible, every member of the editorial staff follows a clear code of conduct.
Professional conduct
We also expect our journalists to follow clear ethical standards in their work. Our staff members must strive for honesty and accuracy in everything they do. We follow the IPSO Editors’ code of practice to underpin these standards.
Editorial independence
Editorial independence means being able to give an unbiased verdict about a product or company, with the avoidance of conflicts of interest. To ensure this is possible, every member of the editorial staff follows a clear code of conduct.
Professional conduct
We also expect our journalists to follow clear ethical standards in their work. Our staff members must strive for honesty and accuracy in everything they do. We follow the IPSO Editors’ code of practice to underpin these standards.
