New Panasonic GH5 Official

[Dylan Couper]

I'll spoil the read... no it doesn't shoot 8k, nor 6k, nor 4.5k. But pretty sweet 4k!

News: Panasonic shows LUMIX GH5 at CES2017 at DV Info Net


Panasonic LUMIX GH5 DSLM camera featuring the World’s First 4K 60p/50p[1] and 4K 30p 4:2:2 10- bit[2] Video Recording Function
Panasonic once again pushes still and video boundaries with the LUMIX GH5

Las Vegas, NV (January 4, 2017) - Panasonic has today announced the LUMIX GH5, the latest flagship model of LUMIX G DSLM cameras based on the Micro Four Thirds system standard. The new camera delivers a high-end, hybrid performance to photo enthusiasts and professional videographers looking to capture moments in 4K 60p/50p video and 6K PHOTO.

Defying all the general concepts of what a mirrorless camera can do, the LUMIX GH Series has reached a number of milestones with this introduction. Packing a host of innovative advancements in picture quality, response and performance into an unimaginably small-sized body, the new LUMIX GH5 opens the door to a new stage of photographic and cinematographic culture.

Unprecedented Picture Quality in the History of LUMIX Cameras

The LUMIX GH5 is able to achieve high-quality images with real-life details through excellent resolution, image rendering and color reproduction. Its new Digital LIVE MOS Sensor increases the pixel count by 25% compared to the GH4, from 16.05 to 20.3 megapixels, while also removing the low-pass filter.

The camera also comes with a new image processor Venus Engine, which achieves improvement especially in natural texture expression. The engine’s Multi-pixel Luminance Generation renders clear, sharp images by referring to a 9x larger area of pixel information during the de-mosaic process for precise detail reproduction. With Intelligent Detail Processing, the characteristic of every single pixel is analyzed to detect whether the pixel is located at a flat, detail or edge part of the picture. Optimum processing according to the characteristic of each pixel is then applied. This results in high-precision yet natural images with stunning detail suppressing false colors at its edges.

Also, Three Dimensional Color Control detects not only hue and saturation, but also brightness, and applies optimum control according to the value of each factor. This achieves rich color reproduction from shadows to highlights of the image. The conventional Multi Process NR (Noise Reduction) is upgraded to High Precision Multi Process NR. It boasts 4x the noise identification accuracy compared to the previous engine and preserves details even after the noise reduction process. As a result, photos can be clearly shot even at high sensitivity ISO values of up to 25,600.

The LUMIX GH5 also incorporates the 5-axis Dual I.S. (Image Stabilizer) 2[3], which suppresses blurring in more powerful and advanced ways for both photo and video recording, including 4K video. Combining an O.I.S. (Optical Image Stabilizer, 2-axis) and B.I.S. (Body Image Stabilizer, 5-axis), it compensates for larger movements which were conventionally uncontrollable. The LUMIX GH5’s high-precision gyro sensor controls both the O.I.S. and B.I.S. compensation by studying the focal length and shooting conditions, making it possible to use a max. 5-stop slower shutter speed[4]. This is highly beneficial not only for wide-angle and telephoto shots, but also in adverse situations, such as at night-time or when shooting with one hand.

The world’s first DSLM camera that meets professional quality standards

The LUMIX GH Series created an epoch-making industry sensation by achieving outstanding video recording performance with advanced features that meet the needs of professional quality levels and standards.

With the LUMIX GH5, the signal readout speed has been accelerated by max 1.7x in the new Digital Live MOS Sensor, and the new Venus Engine processes signals at max 1.3x higher speed. This synergy realizes 4K 60p/50p ultra high-definition, smooth, video recording for the first time in a DSLM camera. It is also capable of internal 4:2:2 / 10-bit video recording, which is the color subsampling commonly used for film production, for even more faithful color reproduction[5].

The high-sensitivity MOS Sensor and Venus Engine effectively suppress rolling shutter distortion and realize high-speed readout of full digital signals. This ensures an outstandingly high image quality for every single frame. In addition, the focal length in video recording is kept the same as that in photo shooting (no cropping).

Users can freely choose between MOV, MP4, AVCHD Progressive and AVCHD formats at a variety of frame rates, and there is no recording time limit for both FHD and 4K video. Professional users working globally can set the system frequency to 59.94Hz, 50.00Hz or 24.00Hz.

While ‘Cinelike D’ and ‘Cinelike V’, which have similar gamma setting characteristics for film production, are available in Photo Style for video recording, the LUMIX GH5 also provides ‘Like 709’ for compatibility with HDTV. A paid software upgrade to support V-LogL video recording is also available.

In response to requests from professional users, the LUMIX GH5 comes with a Waveform Monitor and Vector Scope. It also embeds SMPTE-compliant Time Code either in Rec Run or Free Run count-up methods, which makes it easy to synchronize multiple video footage or sound sources in the post production workflow. Luminance levels can be selected between 64-1023 / 64-940 / 0-1023 (10-bit). Synchro Scan mode suppresses flicker and Color Bars (SMPTE / EBU / ARIB Standard) are also available.

New AF system with advanced DFD Technology never misses a once-in-a-lifetime moment

The LUMIX GH5 comes with a newly improved Depth from Defocus[6] and Contrast AF technology, which not only calculates the distance to the subject by evaluating two images with different sharpness levels, but also analyzes the form, size and even motion of the subject comprehensively. Thanks to the new Venus Engine, the time for measuring the distance to the subject is 6x faster, while factoring the distance into in-plane or in-depth is 2x faster.

The speed of sensor drive during auto focusing in photo shooting mode has been increased to 480 fps, which is 2x faster than that of the GH4. Consequently, the LUMIX GH5 realizes ultra-high-speed AF of approximately 0.05 sec [7] and 12 (AFS) / 9 (AFC) fps high-speed burst shooting using a mechanical shutter in full resolution. By analyzing every single frame precisely, it achieves a maximum 200% higher precision frame detection with minimum motion detection error for higher tracking tolerance against moving subjects.

For even more precise focusing, the number of focus areas has been increased from 49 to 225. Users can create a group of focus areas depending on the composition and can control it easily with a new joystick located on the thumb position, without taking your eyes off the subject. This is possible even when using the LVF or releasing the finger off the shutter button.

If focus is not exactly as the user intended when the shutter is pressed, the LUMIX GH5’s Post Focus function [8] enables users to select the specific focus point even after shooting – particularly helpful in situations like macro shooting where severe focusing is required. In addition, the camera also features a Focus Stacking function. Taking a single macro photo with specific areas in focus can sometimes be difficult, Focus Stacking enables users to take multiple images of the same frame with different focus points. You can then combine them into one image with the defocus as you like.

The LUMIX GH5’s new 6K PHOTO[9] function makes it possible to capture unmissable moments at 30 fps by extracting the frame with the best timing out of the 6K burst file (in 3:2 or 4:3 aspect) to save as an approximately 18-megapixel equivalent high resolution photo. 4K PHOTO has also been upgraded enabling 60 fps high speed capture in approximately 8-megapixel equivalent resolution. In 6K/4K PHOTO, three exclusive modes are available to choose from depending on the situation; 6K/4K Burst, 6K/4K Burst (Start/Stop) and 6K/4K Pre-burst.

By compensating the signal information between the frames, the Venus Engine makes it possible to apply Post Recording Refinement over the pictures to correct distortion and reduce noise when playing back or cutting images out of the 6K/4K burst file. As a result, the picture quality of 6K/4K PHOTO shot at high shutter speed in high sensitivity or those shot in panning are dramatically improved.

High mobility in rugged design for heavy field use

To be tough enough to withstand even heavy field use, the LUMIX GH5’s main structure is composed of a magnesium alloy, full die-cast front/rear frame. Secure construction and the sealing of every joint, dial, and button makes the camera not only splash/dust-proof, but also freeze-proof down to -10 degrees Celsius.

The LUMIX GH5 is equipped with a double SD Memory Card slot compatible with high-speed, high capacity UHS-II for the first time in the LUMIX digital cameras. Users can flexibly choose the recording method either in Relay Rec, Backup Rec or Allocation Rec.

The LUMIX GH5 has a large LVF (Live View Finder) with a stunningly high magnification ratio of approximately 1.52x / 0.76x (35mm camera equivalent). The high-precision, high-speed OLED display features 3,680K-dot high resolution and 100% field of view. Adopting a static-type touch control system, the 3.2-inch free-angle rear screen in 3:2 aspect with 1,620K-dot high resolution achieves approximately 100% field of view.

Finally, the shutter unit is durable for approximately 200,000 releases.

Expandability, optional accessories, other features

The LUMIX GH5 integrates Bluetooth 4.2 and Wi-Fi® 5GHz (IEEE 802.11ac) connectivity to offer a more flexible shooting experience and instant image sharing with easy operation.
The LUMIX GH5 is compatible with the new Battery Grip DMW-BGGH5. By using two batteries, one in the camera and the other in the grip, the DMW-BGGH5 extends the battery life for longer time shooting.
The optionally available microphone adaptor DMW-XLR1 is a plug-in type adaptor for XLR microphone to record high quality stereo sound.
To save power, the camera automatically enters sleep mode after detecting the eye is off the LVF sensor. Various shutter systems are available with the LUMIX GH5: A mechanical shutter with maximum 1/8000 sec, an electronic-first curtain shutter with maximum 1/2000 sec which can be used with flash while suppressing the shutter shock, and an electronic shutter without shutter shock with maximum 1/6000 sec. Firmware updates will add: Full HD 4:2:2 10bit video recording capability (scheduled for April 2017); 400Mbps 4:2:2 10bit All-Intra video recording in 4K 30p/25p/24p; Full HD, high resolution video recording in Anamorphic mode; Hybrid Log Gamma in Photo Style mode which enables popular 4K HDR video recording and USB tethering (all scheduled for second half of 2017).
The Lumix GH5 will be available (body only) in late March for $1999.99. For more information please visit LumixLounge.com. Panasonic is proud to share that the GH5 is a CES 2017 Innovation Award Honoree.

[Alan Henderson]

Hands-on preview from Imaging Resource:

Panasonic GH5 Review: Hands-On Preview

[Noa Put]

This one shot with the gh5 looks very nice:

YouTube (Short URL)

[Cliff Totten]

My God.....this is a dagger in Sony's heart.

4:2:2, 10bit internal recording at 400Mbp/s?...full size HDMI, dual SDXC cards and no recording time limit? Holy crap!!

"Could" Sony technically match this?....absolutely. However, Sony doesnt "want" to match this. To get these specs they make you buy an FS7. Sony's XDCAM group would NEVER allow it's Alpha division to build a camera to compete with this GH5....not with those specs. They would protest that vigorously at the boardroom meeting table at Sony HQ.

So....this GH5 is a major industry disrupter. How will the others deal with this Panasonic attack? Wow.

Who makes this Micro 4/3rd sensor? Are they buying Sony's new Micro 4/3 chip that they are selling? If so, this is verry odd because Sony doesnt blindly sell its sensors. Sony contractually required their buyer to state the specs of camera that its going into. If Sony doesnt agree, they reufuse to sell that sensor.

"IF" it really is that new Sony chip, that means they were fully aware this was comming down the pike and agreed to it. Wow!

What does Sony have up its sleeve???

CT

P.s...its being said that the GH5 is using Sony's IMX269 model image sensor. Wow....this camera is shocking for both Panasonic AND Sony. If Sony does sell its IMX269 to Panny, they must have some plan to fight the GH5 with "something" new on their side.

[John McCully]

Sony no longer has their heart in this market, they won't feel a thing! I would not be at all surprised to see a 'For Sale' sign on their door any time soon.

Cheers.

[Noa Put]

Yeah, also who cares what Sony will do in response to this, let them have their camera that can shoot at moonlight. :)

[Ronald Jackson]

Still not a proper video camera. I wish Panasonic would do a 4K upgrade to their AF-101.

Ron

[Noa Put]

I wish Panasonic would do a 4K upgrade to their AF-101

I have a feeling the GH line is a much more lucrative market which most likely will outsell any af101 update. That might be a reason why Panasonic doesn't feel the need to update.

[Ron Evans]

I think they have been quite smart. If you want long zoom lenses buy the camcorder DVX200, UX180. If changing lenses is OK then the GH5 actually outperforms all the camcorders I think. If you are happy with a 5:1 zoom I expect the stock lens will be just great. The GH5, a couple of lenses, the XLR unit and an Atomos Inferno would be a very nice setup.

Ron Evans

[Dylan Couper]

Yup, would be a total Sony pro camera killer, except for one teeeeeeny tiny mistake a long time ago by Panny.
MFT.
Small sensors don't sell pro cameras anymore.

[Cliff Totten]

I partially agree with you on this about sensor size. However, large full frame sensors are not considered "pro" either. (this is coming from an A7s-II lover.) The only real "pro" size has been super35.

Also, if the GH5 truely does use Sony's IMX269 Exmor sensor, that sucker is going to look VERY good for it's size. I also think that, yes, people care about professional ergonomics but they also care about the "end-result" just as much, if not more.

With that CODEC and sensor combo? I really think it's capable challenging ANY camera below 1600 ISO.

No, in low light (high ISO) the A7s-II will smoke the GH5. 10bit 4:2:2 at any CODEC bitrate wont help the GH5 at all in low light against a full frame beast like the A7s-II.

I do think the GH5 is an "Oh $hit!!" moment for every other company in the industry. This camera is going to brutally twist everybody's arm on opening up very high end features on low priced cameras.

The GH5 is the proverbial gun to Sony and Canon's head. And this die-hard Sony fanboy just pre-ordered the GH5 15 min ago! (what a weird feeling that was)

CT

[Tom Roper]

I pre-ordered one too. The thing is, it doesn't ship for 3 more months followed by up to 4 months more before all the promised firmware updates are available, VLogL costing $100.

So why does it take so long for the firmware after the camera is already shipped?

Also, pay attention. This doesn't look like a 14 stop DR camera. Hard to know for sure, but the videos of the ice carving while clean had major highlight clipping in some scenes with crushed blacks devoid of detail in the shadows.

[Cliff Totten]

My guess would be 11-12 stops with V-LOG?? All footage today is supposedly with a beta firmware.

No way to know until folks get the production GH5 on some charts. I do have high hopes for it but I'm guessing it wont be as good as, let's say an A6500 or something.

Man,..I just cant wrap my head around this: "IF" that is the Sony IMX269 chip....why would they sell it to Panny for use in a fully loaded 10bit camera with a heavy duty internal CODEC like the GH5?? It just seems like Sony is shooting itself in the foot on this one. It's bizarre!

I dont get it.

[Pete Cofrancesco]

Wow Panasonic really included everything anyone could have hoped for: 422 internal, dual card, 60p, etc

It's an over reaction to proclaim the demise of Sony. MFT and FF have their respective users and as impressive as the GH5 there will still be a market for full frame cameras like the A7.

[John McCully]

I don't think it is too complicated. Sony is an electronics focused business organization and they have experienced less than satisfactory profitability of recent times. That can not continue. I see their core competency as manufacturing and the closer they get to retail the less profitable they become. It makes sense for them, obviously, to focus on sensor manufacturing and leave the downstream action as that area is outside their core competency. For instance the "BionzX" processor was, as I understand it, a purchased chunk of electronics and not manufactured in house.

One thing they did NOT do is shoot themselves in the foot. You don't get it Cliff but you may rest assured they do. Understand their decision making behavior is driven by profitability and the potential lack thereof. It's not that complicated. The exact details as in the product management team's discussion and decisions we can only guess but a bunch of gun-happy-itchy-trigger-fingered-foot-shooters they are decidedly not, in my opinion.

Their current behavior is aimed at preventing the demise of the corporation and not competing where they can not profitably do so is focused in that direction.

My opinion - a long term Sony fanboy too :-)