On February 15th, 2016, Panasonic announced the Lumix DMC-GF8, mirrorless Four Thirds camera that is the follow-up to the GF7, which was the model from last year. So, what has changed from the GF7? Essentially, the GF8 is virtually unchanged from the GF7, in terms of hardware specs. The updates are primarily software-based and focus on users that enjoy taking lots of selfies.
The 3.0” 1040K-dot touch screen tilt LCD can tilt up and reverse 180 degrees to accurately take photos of the subject holding the camera. In order to accommodate the selfie photographers out there, the GF8’s Self Shot Mode includes new features that are combined with the adjustable LCD screen.
Beauty Retouch provides users virtual touch-ups while also reviewing and editing the photos right on the camera. Aesthetic retouch can apply various effects to the user’s face, such as clearing the skin texture, digital facelifts, and teeth whitening. Make-up Retouch lets the user choose digital adjustments to their own makeup, such as foundation color, lip color, cheek color, and eye-shadow.
In addition to these new features, the Lumix DMC-GF8 comes equipped with a 16MP live MOS Four Thirds sensor and the Venus Engine image processor, with 1080/60p video, a max ISO of 25600, a contrasting autofocus system for improved speed and accuracy at a max of 240 FPS.
This entry-level camera also includes built-in Wi-Fi one button connect and 100 GB of storage on Google Drive, providing selfie-takers plenty of ways share and store their images.
Panasonic’s Lumix DMC-GF8 will be available in silver, brown, pink and (leather-textured) orange. Pricing and availability have yet to be revealed for the new model, but it was announced that there are no current plans for the GF8 to be released in the United States.
If you are an individual who enjoys taking your fair share of selfies with your smartphones and their front-facing functionality, the Lumix GF8 might be something to look into for improved selfie quality and more self-shooting options and adjustments.