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| FZ1000.2 |
The main difference between the original FZ1000 and the Mk2 version is the user interface including the external layout and controls. The original was decently well designed but the user interface of the Mk2 is better in every respect.
In fact the FZ1000.2 is one of the most user friendly cameras I have owned providing an enjoyable, streamlined operating experience.
Setup Phase
The FZ1000.2 has Panasonic’s latest mid range Menu system with a My Menu and subheadings in the Custom menu, very nice graphical user interface and easy navigation.
It is one of the better menu offerings among currently available cameras but could still be substantially improved.
In my view all the camera makers need to undertake a root-and-branch re-design of their menu systems using photographer relevant categories. Old style submenus like [camera symbol] and [Custom] really mean nothing.
In addition Panasonic could improve navigation to enable whole page jumps.
Setup score 11/15
Prepare Phase
This is well managed on the FZ1000.2 with plenty of well chosen access points for setting up the camera to meet changing conditions.
However as I commented with the G95 I have shifted my view on the subject of Prescribed Purpose Modules. Having run a lot of motion studies I now take the view that the Drive Mode Dial and Focus Mode lever should be removed and their functions allocated to a Fn button or similar.
This would enable more streamlined shifting between Custom Modes on the Mode dial.
As it stands if I want to shift gears from general photography to say, sport/action I have to select one of the pre-programmed C Modes on the Mode Dial and change the setting on the Drive Mode Dial and change the setting on the Focus Mode lever.
Get rid of the Drive Mode Dial and Focus Mode lever and it can all be done with one action which is turning to the pre-set Custom position on the main Mode dial.
Prepare score 12/15
Capture Phase, Holding
The FZ1000.2 has one of the better shaped handles in the business for a very secure, comfortable hold. The thumb support is a big improvement over that on the original giving excellent support and seamless access to the rear dial.
Holding score 16/20
Capture Phase, Viewing
The FZ1000.2 has Panasonic’s latest mid range EVF and touch enabled monitor and they are excellent. Both provide a natural view of the world, both are highly adjustable and both can be configured to look and function the same.
The monitor is fully articulated and the touch functions implemented effectively.
The EVF has an excellent eyecup.
You need to look a long way upmarket to find a better viewing experience than this.
Viewing score 16/20
Capture Phase, Operating
The FZ1000.2 has a classic Mode Dial and Twin Dial control layout. The front dial is in the standard Canon location, behind the shutter button.
I have over the years done many motion studies on actual and mockup cameras comparing various control dial locations and configurations and come to the conclusion that the arrangement seen on the FZ1000.2 is the most effective. By this I mean it enables full control of exposure and focus parameters while looking continuously through the viewfinder and without having to shift grip and it does this with the fewest possible actions each of low complexity.
Manufacturers including Panasonic are forever tinkering with the location of the front dial but I have yet to see any improvement over where it is right now on the FZ1000.2.
All other aspects of the operating experience are well implemented. Most of the controls are all well positioned, with good haptics. Those which are not, for instance the three buttons on the lens barrel, can be disabled.
Operating score 17/25
Review Phase
The camera manages all the essential tasks of Review Phase with no problems. If there was a jump-to-100% at the focus point that would further improve the experience.
Review Score 5/5
Total score 77/100
Comment
The FZ1000.2 represents a worthwhile ergonomic upgrade to the original version and is a very enjoyable camera to use. The score of 77 makes it best of the cameras which I have evaluated to date.
It could be even better with Sony Style Auto ISO Min.SS, a more streamlined version of the Q Menu with twice as many items visible on screen, more photo relevant menu categories, a thumb stick and removal of the Drive Mode Dial and Focus Mode lever with three separate C Mode positions on the Mode dial.
Reduced EVF blackout would also be welcome but that is not exactly an ergonomic issue.