Panasonic has announced a new firmware update for its three of their cameras: GX8, G7, and FZ300 cameras.
The new firmware update includes a new photographic function called Post Focus, which is basically an automated version of what is typically called focus bracketing. The camera takes several different photos in rapid succession while the lens travels through its focusing range. Users can get a number of photos taken in sequence, each one with a different section of the photo in focus.
Panasonic developed the feature for use with non-moving subjects, like portraits or landscapes. This is a pretty common technique used by macro photographers. Several photos are taken with slight differences in focus distance, and then the photos are later combined to make one sharp photo, according to Popular Photography Magazine.
The operation of Post Focus function is quite simple and easy. Users have to set the camera to Post Focus mode, and press the shutter button. The camera automatically holds the focus while capturing photos with varied in focus points. During playback, user can use the touch screen to select the in focus area desired, and save as a separate 8 megapixel photo file. They can also use Focus Peaking, 5x magnified view and fine adjustment functions and the process can be repeated to get multiple images as many times as desired from the original photo.
Post Focus will be available on the DMC-GX8, DMC-G7 and DMC-FZ300 through the version 2.0 firmware update that will be rolling out on Nov. 25, PetaPixel reported. Users can download it for free at LUMIX Global Customer Support Site.