Panasonic GH1 vs Sigma fp L

Following is a in depth review of the Panasonic GH1 and Sigma fp L, both Advanced Mirrorless digital cameras by companies Panasonic and Sigma. There exists a sizeable gap between the sensor resolutions of the GH1 (12MP) and fp L (61MP) and the GH1 (Four Thirds) and fp L (Full frame) offer totally different sensor sizes.

Photography Glossary

The GH1 was released 12 years earlier than the fp L which is quite a large gap as far as technology is concerned. The two cameras feature different body design with the Panasonic GH1 being a SLR-style mirrorless camera and the Sigma fp L being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera.

Before getting into a more detailed comparison, here is a concise summation of how the GH1 grades versus the fp L in regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Below is a sample of the gallery pictures for Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH1 and Sigma fp L. The complete galleries are viewable at Panasonic GH1 Gallery and Sigma fp L Gallery.

For anyone who is intending to carry around your camera frequently, you will need to factor its weight and dimensions. The Panasonic GH1 has got exterior measurements of 124mm x 90mm x 45mm (4.9" x 3.5" x 1.8") accompanied by a weight of 385 grams (0.85 lbs) whilst the Sigma fp L has dimensions of 113mm x 70mm x 45mm (4.4" x 2.8" x 1.8") along with a weight of 427 grams (0.94 lbs).

See the Panasonic GH1 and Sigma fp L in the latest Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Always remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary depending on the lens you use during that time. Following is a front view dimensions comparison of the GH1 versus the fp L.

Taking into account dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the GH1 and fp L is 81 and 83 respectively.

Quite often, it can be tough to visualise the gap between sensor sizes just by checking a spec sheet. The pic here will offer you a clearer sense of the sensor sizing in the GH1 and fp L.

As you can see, each of the cameras come with different megapixels and different sensor sizes. The GH1 featuring a tinier sensor will make shooting shallower depth of field tougher and the Sigma fp L will give you greater detail as a result of its extra 49 Megapixels. Greater resolution will also allow you to crop photos a good deal more aggressively. The more aged GH1 is going to be behind in sensor technology.