Panasonic L1 shutter count

Knowing the shutter count is useful when buying or selling a camera, as it provides an indication on how intensively the camera has been used. Unlike some other brands, Panasonic cameras do not store the information on the number of shutter releases in the EXIF data of the images taken, and no reference exists in the camera manuals on how to retrieve the shutter count. Nevertheless, the number of shutter actuations - along with related camera usage data - is stored within the camera's memory and can be accessed through hidden service menus. The latter are intended for Panasonic service personnel to help with the identification and resolution of camera errors.

Exploring hidden menus

Getting the shutter count, that is the number of times the mechanical shutter of the camera has opened and closed, on the Panasonic L1 is a multi-step procedure. The individual steps are described in detail below. No problems have been reported to date from accessing the hidden service menus, but kindly note that if you decide to perform the steps below, you do so at your own risk.

With your camera's battery well charged, perform the following steps in sequence.

1. Insert a memory card into the card slot;
2. Turn the camera ON and take a picture;
3. Turn the camera OFF ;
4. Set the shutter speed dial to "8";
5. Press and hold the AFL/AEL button, while turning the camera ON. You are now entering the Service Menus, which comprises several screens with information intended for repair staff;
6. To move to the actuations menu, press and hold the FUNC.2 button, while pressing the MENU/SET and LEFT ARROW buttons simultaneously. An error-code log display on white background will appear;
7. Again, press and hold the FUNC.2 button, together with the MENU/SET and LEFT ARROW buttons. A two-page operation history display will appear;
8. Press DISPLAY to toggle between the two information menus;
9. Write down the number to the right of PWRCNT. This is how many times the camera has been powered up;
10. Write down the number to the right of SHTCNT. This is the shutter activation count;
11. Write down the number to the right of STBCNT. This is the number of times the flash has fired;
12. Switch the camera off to revert back to normal operating mode. Congratulations, you have successfully retrieved the shutter count information!

Thinking of switching cameras?

In case you are considering an upgrade of your current camera, you might find the camera comparison app useful. Just enter two camera names into the search boxes below and you will promptly see a comparison of the two devices. Alternatively, you can jump directly to an existing comparison by clicking on any of the listed links.

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