Some G2 questions

[Peter_S]

So,

I narrowed my choice for second camera system down to
- Panasonic Lumix GF1 vs
- Contax G2

Yes, different beasts, that may serve the purpose what I need them for similarly well, but with different approaches: To complete my digital Sigma DPs It has to be a small camera with interchangeable prime lenses, fast operation, but with high dynamic and tonal range (I shoot a lot b/w). All has been said about the GF1, no doubt a very neat little camera that may work just fine.
However, I love film look and 3D feeling in photos, and went pretty fully digital only after discovering Foveon sensors and prime lenses, and have not looked back to "normal" small digitals. Analog and Foveon seems to work better for the way I see and shoot things.

Now there is the beautiful Contax G2 - sounds like an OK investment since I can get a m4/3 body at some point (but not necessaily now and I am waiting for better sensors) and exchange the G lenses back and forth via adapter. But my questions/concernes are:

- what about AF speed? IOne reads different things. What about AF speed when photographing a skier in motion, for example (we do mostly mountain adventure/sport/landscape photography - see my Ziforum gallery for examples) would the G2 be OK to focus and stay in focus? I used various compacts, Contax TVS and now Sigma, so I am not used to DSRL speed. If it focuses like a Canon G9 or Sony V3 (that was an exceptional fast camera though) all is good.

- how reliable is metering?

- what if I give the G2 an unexperienced photographer to use it as a P&S - will he do alright or will he struggle with the G2's AF?

- how does Illford XP2 and G2 work together? That may be a good combination for a hybrid workflow.

- I was thinking to get the 45mm and 90mm lenses with it, with the 45mm staying on almost all the time. Any comments about the 45mm vs 35mm, especially when relying on the cameras auto mode abilities (35mm may make mis-focusing less problematic, perhaps?).


Thanks,
Peter

[Peter_S]

Now I can find it out myself - I just bought a black GII with 28mm, 45mm and 90mm Lens. What a beauty! - and likely the perfect camera for me. I am surprised at its handling and speed, I expected worse. And the lenses...a dream. I a looking so forward to head into the mountains and fire the first films through. I am excited at being back to analogue, and will post first photos when they are in - likely not until April though. M4/3 is off my mind for good. It is analogue (which is full frame and everything that comes with it) and Foveon from here on.

Cheers!
Peter

[wilson.c]

Peter,

You won't be disappointed with the Contax G lenses! I've got some of them working with my GF-1 now (well only the G35, G45 & G90 work with the adapter).

I've got a G2 and I rarely had problems with the AF.

[whitecat]

The G2 system is a timeless system. I originally had the G1 system and was amazed with that but the upgraded G2 had some improvements. The lenses are in a class by themselves. The only small pique I had with the lenses is "where are the f stops".