Having spoken earlier about a pro body from Panasonic got me thinking about my images with the GF1 and the G1. Both produce very good images and just because they now seem to be old hat doesn't mean that they should be discarded for new bodies. The image above was taken out of plane window on my way down to Spain in March of 2010. Quality can hold up against the newer bodies as it was taken at ISO 100. Where most newer bodies are better is at higher ISO, but if you have noticed I rarely use ISO above 800. So this for me has no value. These older bodies should do me fine and I shouldn't be considering upgrading my bodies. But, being me, and being a bit of a gear nut I just can't help myself and I will be purchasing new equipment at some time.
the reason for this post is the fact that Panasonic have now brought out the 12-35 f2.8 lens (24-70 f2.8 35mm equivelent). The 35-100 f2.8 (70-200 f2.8 35mm equivelent) has also been announced but not yet on the market. This for me is the beginning of the pro lenses for the m4/3 format. I don't think that Panasonic would be bringing these out without a pro body on the drawing board. That is what I have been waiting for.
The 12-35 seems to be a lovely lens and reviews have shown that it is highly regarded. I'm sure that the 35-100 will be of the same quality and if I'm honest with myself, those two lenses and a fast prime should cover my shooting needs quite well. I just hope Panasonic aren't sitting on the fence or twiddling their thumbs about this, I'm sure I'm not the only one eagerly awaiting a new high end body from Panasonic.