Pro video blog…Produced by Philip Johnston DoP/Editor

In 2009, Panasonic introduced the DMC-GH1, the first model of the LUMIX GH series, with a hybrid photo/video concept. Since then, the GH series has evolved with innovative features demanded by users, and now, it has become renowned by creators worldwide as a first-choice tool thanks to its performance, mobility, and rugged design. The LUMIX GH6 is the latest addition to the series that again breaks the boundaries of mirrorless cameras.

The GH6 will be available from March 2022 for £1,999.99 RRP for body only or from £2,199.99 RRP for a kit including a 12-60mm lens.

Powerful, Professional Video Performance

Panasonic’s LUMIX GH Series is widely considered an epoch-making sensation, achieving outstanding video recording performance with advanced features that meet professional quality levels and standards. The new LUMIX GH6 continues this, with 5.7K 30p internal video recording available in ProRes 422 HQ and ProRes 422 for the first time in the LUMIX series using a CFexpress Type B card, which enables non-linear editing without transcoding.

With 5.7K 4:2:0 10-bit 60p/50p and 5.8K 30p/25p/24p 4:2:0 10-bit anamorphic 4:3 modes recorded utilising the full area of the sensor, the LUMIX GH6 offers higher resolution and higher bit rates than ever before and delivers the latest in high image quality, versatility, and range needed for film, TV, and all types of video production.

The LUMIX GH6 also achieves 4:2:2 10-bit Cinema 4K 60p internal recording as well as simultaneous output in 4:2:2 10-bit Cinema 4K 60p over HDMI. 

4:2:0 10-bit 4K 120p (equivalent to 5x slow motion*1) and 4:2:2 10bit FHD 240p HFR (High Frame Rate) video recording with audio is available to enable creativity such as speed ramping.  FHD maximum 300fps (equivalent to 12.5x slow motion*1) VFR (Variable Frame Rate) enables dynamic motion of a subject.

Overheating can be a fatal issue to continuous video recording especially when the resolution and the frame rates are increased but the LUMIX GH6 achieves unlimited video recording time*2 in all modes by optimising the heat-dissipating path with a forced-cooling fan mechanism.

*1 In 24p

*2 Under the guaranteed operating environment when using a battery. The recording time depends on the capacity of the battery and the recording media.

Panasonic’s Commitment to Continuous Improvement

Panasonic continues its commitment to continuous improvement of its LUMIX range via performance-enhancing firmware updates. In the future, a firmware update for GH6 will be released to support:

  • Cinema 4K ProRes 422 HQ / ProRes 422
  • FHD ProRes 422 HQ / ProRes 422
  • USB-SSD direct recording
  • 4K 120p HDMI Video output during Live View
  • Cinema 4K 120p HDMI RAW Video Data Output to ATOMOS Ninja V+

Unrivalled Image Stabilisation

For agile handheld shooting, the LUMIX GH6 adopts a new super high-precision 5-axis gyro sensor with a new algorithm to achieve a powerful 7.5 stops of Body I.S.*1 and Dual I.S.2*2.

The 5-axis Dual I.S. 2 works seamlessly to record natural, comfortable-to-see video footage. It applies appropriate compensation according to the type of movement by precisely judging the cause – whether it was generated by panning, tilting, or hand-shake. The B.I.S. compensates for camera movement even when an interchangeable lens without O.I.S. (e.g. a cine lens) is used.

With this powerful image stabilisation, even a 100-megapixel high-resolution image can be shot using the High Resolution mode without a tripod. In High Resolution mode, eight consecutive images are automatically shot while shifting the sensor using the Body I.S. (Image Stabiliser) mechanism and synthesized into a 100-megapixel equivalent (11552 x 8672-pixel) image that faithfully reproduces precise details to be saved as beautiful, highly realistic images not only in RAW but also in JPEG. With its compact, lightweight design and powerful Body I.S., the LUMIX GH6 makes shooting that was previously deemed impossible –such as handheld ultra-telephoto shooting– possible.

*1 Based on the CIPA standard [Yaw/Pitch direction: focusing distance f=60mm (35mm film camera equivalent f=120mm), when H-ES12060 is used.

*2 Based on the CIPA standard [Yaw/Pitch direction: focusing distance f=140mm (35mm film camera equivalent f=280mm), when H-FS14140 is used.

A LUMIX First in Audio Recording Capability

The LUMIX GH6 delivers much improved audio recording performance, with 4ch 48kHz or 96kHz 24-bit recording made possible* when an XLR microphone adaptor is attached. This provides greater flexibility when shooting outdoors, for example, where multiple audio sources are present, or when recording backup audio. 2ch 48kHz 24-bit recording is also supported with the built-in mic as well as 2ch 96kHz 24-bit high-resolution recording* with an external mic.

The channel to use for headphones can also be switched during video recording and audio menus can be directly accessed with the Fn1 button on the top of the camera to easily check sound levels during 4-channel audio recording. For an external microphone, a Φ3.5mm stereo jack is provided.

* 4-channel audio recording is available in ProRes and MOV.

author

Having been working in the video business since 1988 I have amassed a great amount of knowledge of both the kit and production values over the last 30 years.

One thought on “NEW Panasonic GH6…£2000 body only

  1. It does look like a great camera for events work leaving a lock off in 6k and finishing in HD and not having to battle to keep things in focus is great.

    I can’t see it persuading people to join the M43 community though, without being bold enough to bring out a “proper” camera that people can get invested In I do wonder if Panasonic are going to find themselves in a loop of diminishing returns and I say that as someone that absolutely loves their S1, but if I was looking for a camera with similar spec now it probably would be the A7s just to easily fit into other organisations workflows easier.

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