The G1 is the first of Panasonic’s entries that is a cross between a digital SLR and a point-and-shoot camera. The G1 is smaller than most digital SLRs and looks more like a professional camera than one you can put in your pocket. However, besides the usual black, the G1 comes in red and blue, making it truly distinctive.

It is smaller because they have removed the mirror box that is typically used to reflect the picture into the view finder in a digital SLR. Instead Panasonic has added a live electronic viewfinder. While previous electronic viewfinders leave a lot to be desired, this one is terrific! The camera also has a 3″ flip-out rotating LCD display.

The G1 is based on a Micro Four Thirds lens system that also uses smaller lenses. All-in-all, the camera is more complex to use than a simple point-and-shoot, but it takes great pictures and may be a good entry into the semi-professional world of digital photography.

The G1 has a big brother called the GH1, which also takes high-def videos. Here are my Pros and Cons on the G1:

Pros

• Very good image quality
• Sturdy build
• Excellent electronic viewfinder
• Small & lightweight
• Snappy performance
• Automatic Settings
• Great dust reduction technology
• HDMI output
• Excellent LCD screen that flips out and rotates
• Comes in body color choices
• Good selection of features like digital red eye reduction, face detection
• Good image stabilization

Cons

• Limited lens selection
• Complex controls
• No movie mode

You can read my full review and view pictures on the Hardware Secrets website.