I never do video with my Panasonic Lumix G85 but I love to photograph with it!

We already know that many videographers love to work with the Panasonic Lumix G85 (G80/G81) because it is a very competent camera to do animated image recording. Its successor, the Lumix G95, have tried to increase to that deserved reputation by upgrading the image sensor from 16MP to 20MP and by adding some practical features like the possibility of plugging a sound monitoring headphone. Although the Lumix G85 is rightly praised among the vloggers of this Web world, I have never considered it on this particular point of view because the Lumix G85 stays for me mainly a photographic camera.

How can we definite the Panasonic G85 as a photographic tool? First you can appreciate its good ergonomic (at least for right-handed people!) and the fact that the camera body is weather resistant increase the confidence to use under many more environmental harsh conditions. Most basic functionalities are easy access with the aid of different dials, push buttons or of the touch screen. Even the menu and quick menu interfaces are mostly comprehensive and can be settled without consulting a long operating manual.

The viewfinder and the rotative back LCD screen are image detailed and data informative. I just wish that the data can rotate automatically from horizontal to vertical framing like with the Fuji models. The (post) viewing push button is position on the back-right side to facilitate a one hand operability. The picture output is good and the Lumix G85 exposure metering system is very predictive. The autofocus works well and is capable to cope with most of the subject situations.

The Panasonic Lumix G85 may look bigger that it is in reality, but it is in fact a moderate size compact camera especially if you compare it to 24X36mm so called Full Frame image sensor camera models. And it is more obvious when equivalent lenses are mounted onto their different sized respective camera models (FF vs MFT). For sure a rangefinder style model such as the Panasonic GX9 is smaller and will give you a maximum of discretion especially if you couple it with a "pancake" lens such as the Lumix G Vario 12-32mm or the Lumix G 20mm F1.7 but the handling between these two type of camera design (off center and centered viewfinders) will also differ noticeably, the G85 giving you a more secure operating feeling.

My modest experience over the years since the first G85 copy that I have owned reveals the good quality of construction of the camera body and the constant ability to produce nice pictures. I cannot emphasize enough the excellent results obtained by selecting one or another of the two monochrome modes available. With its 16MP image sensor the picture is precise and detailed providing you are using a good optic and pay attention to the exposure and focus setting. This camera G85 model always surprise me and deliver fine image renditions.

The big today (2020) question: is it pertinent to go ahead and buy a Panasonic Lumix G85? There are many aspects to consider but the comfort ergonomic, the good quality of its weather resistant construction, a very interest image output and the extended diversity of the lens offer give an edge to the Lumix G85 considering its affordable price level, especially coupled with the Lumix G Vario 12-60mm F3.5-5.6 Power OIS. I won’t push anybody to choose any particular camera model or system because, at the end, it is a very personal choice but if the Lumix G85 seems attractive to you, there is no reason to prevent yourself to buy one!