Lumix GH7

New and improved AF make this one of the best hybrids around

- Gareth Bevan

£1,999/$2,199 (body only)
www.panasonic.​com

For many people, when they think of Panasonic cameras, the GH line might be the first model that pops into their heads. The GH lineup of hybrid cameras has long been renowned for its video pedigree, with the Lumix GH6 especially being a fan-favourite for independent filmmakers.

However, despite the GH6's brilliance, there was one glaring omission - phase detect autofocus.

The GH6 was released just a few months prior to the Lumix S5 II, which debuted Panasonic's modern autofocus system and finally brought Lumix AF into competition with the likes of Sony and Canon. But this left many observers and potential buyers, wondering why Panasonic didn't delay the GH6 release to include this feature.

Panasonic is finally on course to correct this misstep with the GH7, which features a brand new sensor, processing engine and, yes, phasedetect autofocus. With the GH6 basically getting everything else right though, then surely this is an open goal for Panasonic?

Design & handling

If you don't spot the logo, you might not even notice this is a new model.

The Panasonic Lumix GH7 recycles the previous model's design, although there is nothing wrong with that, as the GH6 made some strides with robust and ergonomic design.

Panasonic's GH cameras are not my favourite for their style, I find them unexciting to look at, but it doesn't take away from the fact that the camera's ergonomics are well-thought-out. The layout of buttons and dials is intuitive, there is a button for practically every setting I could think of changing, which meant I didn't have to go diving into the menu every few minutes. Thankfully, when you do use the menu, Panasonic's user interface is one of the most user-friendly and accessible to both novices and experienced photographers.