Product Announcement: Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ1000, 4K Under $900

Shooting 4K footage with a Leica designed lens, the Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ1000 might be a great entry level camera.

If you’re a filmmaker or a photographer I’m sure this happens to you all the time…

You’re at a social gathering, typically a wedding, and people see you with your big fancy camera. Which prompts them to ask you something like “I was looking to get a new camera, do you know of any good ones?“. In reality this question makes about as much sense as saying “I was looking for a new car, do you know of any good ones?” Even so, we might have found the perfect go-to camera for individuals looking to buy their first “serious” camera, the Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ1000.

FZ1000 Quick Look

The FZ1000 is what’s known as a “bridge camera” meaning it is a step up from a point and shoot and one step below a DSLM/R camera like the GH4. Definitely the most incredible feature included in the FZ1000 is the ability to capture 4K footage. The footage isn’t RAW but that shouldn’t be a problem for someone just entering the filmmaking world. The camera also comes with a Leica designed 25-200mm f/2.8-4 lens, which is a pretty decent kit lens for the price.

The FZ1000 features a 1″-type MOS sensor. The unit also has built-in Wi-Fi connectivity, allowing for users to offload their photographs without connecting their camera to a computer. An OLED viewfinder enables users to see 100% of the image frame.

Pricing and Availability

The FZ1000 is is going for $897.99 on the B&H website, which includes the camera body, built-in lens, rechargeable battery with charger, lens hood, & a one year warranty. The FZ1000 is expected to be available by July 31, 2014.

FZ1000 Technical Specs

What do you think of the Panasonic FZ1000? Would you recommend it to someone just starting out in the photography/video world?  Share in the comments below.