Panasonic LUMIX GH6: A cinematographer's beast reimagined

When Panasonic unveils a flagship mirrorless camera, heads turn, you see it's not often the Japanese brand announces a replacement of their flagship cameras. The GH5 has certainly been one of the most popular mirrorless camera bodies due to its mix of incredible features and excellent price point. Now, Panasonic takes its technology a step further to re-impress the market. The Panasonic Lumix GH6 Mirrorless Camera Body will change the game for cinematographers and photographers.
When you first pick up the camera, you'll be pleased to know there's improvement internally and externally. Throughout this article, we will touch on some stand-out features.

The Panasonic GH6 Has Powerful Processing

When it comes to processing power, the new Panasonic LUMIX GH6 surpasses all expectations thanks to the next generation Venus Engine. The purpose built processor offers faster readouts and the computational capacity for fast paced shooting. The new Venus Engine processor is twice as fast as its previous version. Panasonic has invested serious brainpower into evolving the chip to include improved Intelligent Detail Processing, 2D Noise Reduction, High Precision 3D Noise Reduction and High Precision 3D Colour Control technologies 

Videographers and cinematographers will adore the newly unlocked video codec options, V-Log/V-Gamut, and the impressive 13+ stops of dynamic range.

Apple ProRes Meets Phenomenal Video

Panasonic users have enjoyed a 10-bit 4:2:2 system in the previous flagship GH5; however, the GH6 takes video to a new level. Users can still obtain the pro-grade cinematic system with a difference - Apple ProRes 422 HQ is now available with a 5.7K resolution at 30p. Best of all, there's no need to record externally as cinematographers can achieve this format in camera. Or there's always the option to output C4K 120p 12-bit RAW to the Atomos Ninja V+ (via a future firmware update). The advantage of this new codec compatibility is a huge amount of time saved in post-production as transcoding is now a thing of the past.

If you plan on using the camera for commercial use, then you'll be pleased to know there's outstanding C4K 120p 10-bit 4:2:0 available without a fallout in crop or image quality. If you have come from another system, heat dispersion was most likely a common problem. Panasonic addresses overheating by introducing their latest heat management tech, designed to dissipate the heat when recording at C4K 60p 10-bit 4:2:2ii.

Cinematographers will undoubtedly want to get their hands on the new GH6 for its widescreen anamorphic recording ability. With these features, DOP's can gain a full-sensor 5.8K 30p 10-bit recording using dedicated anamorphic lenses or filters.

Panasonic has also been listening to its end-users. There's essential video assist functionality in the camera that includes Waveform Monitor, Luminance Spot Meter, Anamorphic Desqueeze Display, Tally lights, and, most importantly, a Zebra Pattern. The Japanese brand has gone a step further to include a Safety Zone Marker setting which will show the recording area in either 95%, 90% or 80% coverage. 

Image Stabilization Without a Rig

Regardless of your preference for photography or videography, the Panasonic LUMIX GH6 features a staggering 7.5 stops of image stabilization. The multi-mode image stabilization supports both wide and telephoto focal lengths adding significant exposure control. The Dual IS 2 features allow gimbals, tripods, and shaky handheld shooting to ensure that hyper-smooth images and footage are captured every time. The LUMIX GH6 Venus Engine adopts fast and responsive super high-precision algorithms to drive optimal performance in another technological advancement.

A Live MOS Image Sensor That's Next Level

The Panasonic Lumix GH6 is the first Micro Four Thirds camera to break the megapixel ceiling. It sports a brand spanking new 25.2-megapixel Live MOS Sensor that's a huge leap up from the Panasonic Lumix GH5's 20.3-megapixel MFT sensor. The new Lumix GH6 Live MOS sensor features both high resolution and high-speed signal readout with a wide dynamic range with advanced HDR technology for all lighting conditions. The MOS sensor reduces the image of rolling shutter, making it ideal for sports and wildlife photographers and, of course, the videography crowd.

One of the stand-out performance features of the Panasonic LUMIX GH6 is the High-Resolution Mode. The GH6 utilizes the fast readout of the Live MOS sensor, the new Venus Engine image processor and the class-leading image stabilization to capture a single 100-megapixel RAW image comprising either individual shots. As a result, the High-Resolution Mode performs seamlessly when capturing fast paced action in rich and sublime detail.

Focus Performance To Die For

The Panasonic LUMIX G series cameras have a solid reputation for focusing on hybrid shooters. The new LUMIX GH6 takes that reputation and sets a new standard that will suit enthusiasts and professionals. The GH6 combines the powerful new 25.2-megapixel Live MOS sensor and the improved Venus Engine to deliver class-leading focus performance. Thanks to high-speed signal processing and a vastly improved Autofocus algorithm, the new Panasonic masters subject detection and responsiveness.

To further optimize the capabilities in both still image capture and videography, the LUMIX GH6 features a newly developed AF Focus Limiter. The clever feature allows you to set a near and far focal range, and the autofocus system will work within that range. What's more, the focus mechanism also supports manual focus thanks to the MF Assist mode. The MF Assist mode enlarges the focus point to support accurate manual focus while recording video. A final noteworthy improvement is the linear focus control to allow repeatable focus pulls by adjusting the degrees required for the lens to move through the focus Range.

A Body Design That You're Use To

Photographers, videographers and cinematographers will be pleased to know the GH6 shares the same design principles as the GH5. The main difference is in the inner workings of the camera. The camera body is rugged and will perform in harsh environments where professionals demand results. Turning your attention to the top of the camera, you'll notice a similar dial setup compared to the GH5. This ergonomic design ensures photographers and cinematographers can rely on their muscle memory to focus on composition rather than fumbling around for controls.

Final Thoughts on the Panasonic GH6 and a Glimpse Of The Future

The announcement of the newly developed Panasonic Lumix GH6 has more than meets the eye. Panasonic has its eye set on the horizon with plans for future firmware updates to meet the evolving needs of hybrid Panasonic content creators. A few of the promised updates include DCI4K ProRes 422 HQ / ProRes 422, USB-SSD direct recording, and DCI 4K 120p HDMI RAW Video Data Output to ATOMOS Ninja V+.

The beauty of these further enhancements is that they can all be effortlessly downloaded with the LUMIX Sync app. Speaking of firmware updates, in anticipation of the launch of the Panasonic LUMIX GH6, Panasonic plans to roll out firmware updates to its impressive range of precision pro-grade lenses from 1 March 2022.

The good news doesn't stop there! Panasonic Australia has the following to add for LUMIX shooters:

"In tandem with the GH6 launch, Panasonic Australia is excited to introduce LUMIX Professional Services (LPS).

We understand the requirement for high reliability in the challenging shooting situations that professionals often face. LPS is a dedicated support service designed to provide an even greater level of service and support for professionals who rely on their LUMIX equipment every day. This program provides peace of mind so creators can spend more time focusing on their creative projects. The LPS program delivers a range of benefits including fast turnaround for repairs, complimentary access to loan equipment and dedicated support services. Members get exclusive access to extra perks such as free sensor cleans and the ability to trial some of the latest product releases."

The Panasonic LUMIX GH6 will be this year's hot ticket item with photographers and videographers keen to get their hands on one. At Georges Cameras, we have pre-orders open for the LUMIX GH6 along with a further three kit options. The Kits include the Panasonic GH6 Kit with the 12-60mm LEICA DG lens, GH6 Kit with the 12-35mm LUMIX G lens, or the GH6 Kit with the 12-60mm LUMIX G lens. Jump online or head in-store now to secure yours today!