The photographers’ smartphone?

Panasonic has announced July release of the Lumix CM1, its hybrid smartphone/large sensor camera.
The good news is that it will be retailed via camera stores. The not-so-good news is that Panasonic hasn’t yet decided which camera stores will have access to the CM1.

The CM1 sports the same 20-megapixel, 1-inch (12.8 x 9.6mm) High Sensitivity MOS image sensor as used in the Lumix DMC-FZ1000 camera, and can shoot in RAW file format.

The CM1 can record high resolution 4K video, as well as still images captured with the camera’s 4K Photo modes. These include the same 4K Pre-Burst and 4K Photo settings as found on the latest G-series cameras.

Shooting modes include an iA (Intelligent Auto) mode plus a selection of scene pre-sets. A ring on the lens barrel allows control over aperture, shutter speed, ISO settings, white balance, exposure compensation and focus. Focus peaking is available in manual focus mode, assisted by a live image view.

And you can make phone calls to boot! Smart-phone functionality is driven by a  Qualcomm 2.3 GHz quad-core processor and the latest Android 5.0 (Lollipop) OS. A dedicated shutter button is provided as well as a slider for instant switching between camera and smartphone.

The Leica DC Elmarit lens has a 28mm equivalent focal length and maximum aperture of f2.8. The 4.7-inch, 6220K-dot, full HD-display is used for shot composition and playing back images, and the CM1 offers a range of photographers’ screen displays including an integrated digital spirit level, a histogram and fast access to the main settings.

The CM1 has a dedicated imaging processor, ensuring fast response times for picture-taking. The 16GB internal memory can be expanded to up to 128GB with an optional Micro SDXC card. A fast internet connection is assured via LTE (Long Term Evolution) capability. The CM1 also provides standard wireless connections via  Bluetooth, WiFi and NFC.

The Panasonic Lumix DMC-CM1 will be available from selected retailers – including some camera stores – mid July, at an RRP of AU$1399.