Panasonic Lumix DC-G97

This is my first foray into M4/3 photography. Previously i had the FZ2000 bridge camera, which is also an excellent camera, with many mid level DSLR features. The G97 is of course a step up in almost every regard, save some video features. But I'm predominantly a stills photographer, thus the video features on this can are a 'bonus / nice to have' . As a camera, the G97 meets and exceeds my needs. The ability to swap the glass, to match the photographic requirements, is expanding my abilities and creative processes. The build, and feel of the camera are spot on. and weather sealing is a big plus over my previous FZ. The lens format being 4/3 means smaller lenses compared to their full frame equiv., thus easier to carry and use. Premium features like, in camera pixel re-mapping (hopefully won't need to be used for a long time, if ever), and a proper Bulb mode (30 minutes), make for a higher end user experience. Overall i am a very happy customer.

I'm sure that this camera is probably very good and everything I expected from it. I have used Lumix MFT before and they have always produced good results. The trouble is I CAN'T use this camera! Why? Because Panasonic in their infinite wisdom have seen fit to not only not supply a battery charger, although I realise that this is the norm nowadays, but they have failed to include a USB-C cable. So I can't use my camera because I can't charge the battery until I have obtained this lead. Contrary to what Panasonic might think I do not have a house full of equipment using the 'universal' USB-C for charging. Would it really have cost that much to include this cable?

Critics will complain that the Lumix G97 is little changed from the G95/G90 that went before it. That’s true. But strange shifts in the camera market, and a growing realization that cameras launched five years ago are still fine, has led to a bit of a renaissance for beginner-level cameras like this, with features that have hardly aged. Even better, a new and competitive price point for the G97 makes it a very appealing camera for novice photographers and vloggers.