Panasonic Lumix GH5 - First Look
A manufacturer that’s never scared to pump as much technology into their cameras as possible and Panasonic have done it again. Internal recording at 4k/60fps, 4.2.2/10-bit broadcast quality with no recording limit, 20.3MP LIVE MOS sensor with dual 5-axis image stabilisation and a brand new engine processor, the GH5 is shaping up to smash the video market and be the must have camera to get!
Key Features
- 4K 60p video, 6K Photo Burst Mode
- 20.3 LIVE MOS Sensor without low-pass filter
- New Venus engine processor
- 5-axis Dual IS system
- Internal 4.2.2/10-bit video recording
- DFD and Contrast AF technology
- Double SD card slots
The World’s first 4k/60fps internal recording compact system camera the GH5 is pushing boundaries not seen in any other manufacturer’s products. The new Venus Engine 10 processor allows users to not only capture stunning video, up to 4.2.2/10-bit for broadcast level recording, but when coupled with the 20.3MP LIVE MOS sensor the GH5 packs a punch with excellent colour reproduction, natural texture expression, intense bright and contrasting images and a high level of detail due to the removal of the low pass filter.
Seen in more recent previous models the GH5 has adopted the 5-axis dual image stabilisation using both in body and lens stabilisation. This will not only keep your photos and videos shake free but allow you to shoot up to 5 stops slower shutter speeds.
With a dual SD card slot you will never have to stop recording. We no longer have the 29.59 minute limiter so once your card is full the GH5 will automatically switch and record on to your second SD card. Swap out card one and once your second card is full the GH5, yes you’ve guessed it, will switch across to your next card. Unlimited video recording!
Continuing on the success of 4K Photo Mode the GH5 brings 6K Photo Mode and allows you to capture that perfect moment at 30fps. From this you will get approximately an 18MP still image from the 6K Mode and if 30fps isn’t quick enough you can drop back to 4K and now shoot at an incredible 60fps giving you the chance to freeze even the fastest subject. Connect to a smart device for wireless control and image transfer via Wi-Fi, previously seen, or via the new Bluetooth feature giving a low energy connection and saving your batteries life for more shooting.
Able to withstand tough environments being dust, splash and freeze proof you will never have to leave your GH5 at home when out exploring. This is capable due to its weather seals and being built from a magnesium diecast armour frame.
Panasonic have taken the time to listen to feedback from GH4 users and have made subtle differences which make huge differences when shooting. From trimming down the rear thumb grip to allow the spin dial more freedom, a relocation of the focus selector switch and the repositioning of the video recording shutter button all help to speed up the experience and make controls smooth, slick and easy.
Being a user of the GH4, which we use to shoot nearly all our product videos on, I love what Panasonic have created and I’m excited to get more hands-on testing out these new features in my normal shoot environment.
