Help me choose Panasonic GF1 or Olympus E-P2

[tml]

I am shopping for a compact camera/video since my son has piano recitals quite often and I do not want to lug around a video cam and a camera.

[groovyone]

I wish you could get the GF1 with the EP-1 sensor stabilization.

[revjvegas]

First, I'd ask what is your priority:
-shooting video, or
-shooting stills

Usually, a camera unit will not do an excellent job on both. It will do one very well and the other ok.

No doubt the two cameras you listed will take good photos, but I'd want to see samples of the video they take, including shots made while panning, before making a choice.

[tml]

Thanks, guys. I am leaning more towards the Panasonic because of the better screen and cheaper. It is not going to be my primary camera so the EVF will not be necessary... another item that can break, or fall off...

[Some Idiot]

I would suggest a used t1i or maybe the new t2i, only because you can take video AND use the lenses that you already own !!!

[venchka]

Wait for the Sony?

[groovyone]

Originally Posted by venchka

Wait for the Sony?

That's my plan. APS-C and almost guarentee a great LCD.

[d2creative]

I've had both the EP1 and the GF1 and I can't really recommend one over the other.
There was something about the look of the EP1 pics that made me choose it over the GF1 in the end, even though the GF1 was faster to focus. But that was more of a personal preference thing. Both take very nice pics. I now own neither.

[tml]

I thought about the upcoming Sony's. However, my son has an important recital this Saturday at Rice University and I want to video it with some still shots. I am thinking of the Panasonic with the 20mm f/1.7 pancake lens.

[groovyone]

Originally Posted by tml

I thought about the upcoming Sony's. However, my son has an important recital this Saturday at Rice University and I want to video it with some still shots. I am thinking of the Panasonic with the 20mm f/1.7 pancake lens.

That may be tough to pull off just because that kit seems to be hard to come by.

[bgpro611]

I worried about the same thing then decided to go with the EP-1; its a great camera. The auto focus was a concern until I took it on vacation with no problems. Great pictures from a pocket camera (with the 17mm). I'm happy that I went with it.

[tml]

Thanks everyone for your inputs. I went with the GF1 and bought from a fellow TPF member, Ken74... I also went ahead and ordered a Voigtlander adapter for my M lenses. Tri. This will serve as a nice backup with video capability!

[dryicerx]

I am kind of drooling over the GF1 with the 17 pancake too... sometimes feel that I would get more/better shots since it's so mobile and can take anywhere (as compared to lugging a big ass dslr/glass everywhere and looking out of place in many situations). Wish I had some extra cash laying around.

[groovyone]

E-PL1 now shipping

Amazon.com: Olympus PEN E-PL1 12.3MP Live MOS Micro Four Thirds Interchangeable Lens Digital Camera with 14-42mm f/3.5-5.6 Zuiko Digital Zoom Lens (Slate Blue): Camera & Photo

Looks dang good in Slate Blue