Announced this month, the LUMIX GH6 has a lot of new features, based on state-of-the-art technologies to enhance video quality even higher, starting with the sensor.

Panasonic has developed a new 25.2-megapixel Live MOS Sensor without LPF (Low-pass Filter) that boasts high resolution, high-speed signal readout that reduces rolling shutter problem and achieves wide dynamic range. The new Venus Engine delivers approximately twice the processing power (in comparison with DC-S1H), enabling high-speed processing of the new sensor’s higher pixel counts, higher-resolution and higher-bit-rate video. It has evolved with three key technologies: New Intelligent Detail Processing, New 2D Noise Reduction and High Precision 3D Noise Reduction for video.

According to the information shared by Panasonic, “the new Intelligent Detail Processing detects the edges and flat and detailed parts in a frame more accurately, resulting in highly realistic images. The new 2D Noise Reduction suppresses chromatic noise and improves the texture of luminance noise to make photo clear and natural even when shot at high sensitivity. With the High Precision 3D Noise Reduction for video, the detection capability of still and moving parts has been advanced, which makes it possible to optimize noise reduction while minimizing afterimages. As a result, the image quality of video with dynamic motion is enhanced. In addition, high-precision Dual 3D Color Control enhances color reproduction by brightness level, saturation level, and hue level for rich, faithful color expression.”

The combination of the new advanced sensor with the enhanced saturation performance and engine makes it possible to render clearer images even in 25.2-megapixel high resolution and lower minimum ISO sensitivity at ISO 100 [Photo: ISO 50(Extended) – 25600 / Video: ISO 50(Extended) -12800].

A new high-precision 5-axis gyro sensor

Here is more information about the technological aspects of the LUMIX GH6 as shared by Panasonic:

Dynamic range measures the luminance range that a digital camera can capture. The LUMIX GH6 provides 12+ stops of wide dynamic range for pre-installed V-Log recording capability. Even 13+ stops can be achieved using Dynamic Range Boost mode. With the new Dynamic Range Boost mode, saturation-priority image generated from low ISO circuit and low noise image generated from high ISO circuit are synthesized at each pixel. The composite image achieves both low noise and high saturation, resulting in a clear and smooth HDR video with rich gradation.

For agile handheld shooting, the LUMIX GH6 has adopted a new super high-precision 5-axis gyro sensor with a new algorithm to achieve 7.5 stops of Body I.S. and Dual I.S.. Thanks to this powerful image stabilization, even 100-megapixel high resolution images 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 Stabilizer) 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 RAW and JPEG images.

With its high mobility achieved by the compact, lightweight design and powerful Body I.S., the LUMIX GH6 makes previously impossible shooting, such as handheld ultra-telephoto shooting, possible. The 5-axis Dual I.S. also works for video recording, including 4K video 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.

Professional-quality video performance

The LUMIX GH Series has created an epoch-making industrial sensation by achieving outstanding video recording performance with advanced features that meet professional quality levels and standards. The LUMIX GH6 again evolves to achieve 4:2:2 10-bit C4K 60p unlimited video recording time.1 4:2:0 10-bit 4K120p (Equivalent to 5x slow motion2) and 4:2:2 10-bit FHD 240p HFR (High Frame Rate) video recording with audio also available to enable impressive expression such as speed ramping. FHD maximum 300fps (Equivalent to 12.5x slow motion2) and VFR (Variable Frame Rate) reproduce the dynamic motion of the subject.

In addition to 4:2:0 10-bit 5.7K 60p, 4:2:0 10-bit 5.8K 30p (4.4K 60p) anamorphic 4:3 video can be recorded utilizing the full area of the sensor. It is possible to display de-squeezed footage on the monitor in real time. 5.7K 30p internal video recording is available in ProRes 422 HQ and ProRes 422 for the first time in the LUMIX series using the CFexpress Type B card, which enables non-linear editing without transcoding. DCI4K, FHD ProRes 422 HQ and ProRes 422 will be supported with a future firmware update.

The LUMIX GH6 is capable of 4:2:2 10-bit C4K 60p internal recording and simultaneous output in 4:2:2 10-bit C4K 60p over HDMI. Since it is HDMI 2.1 compliant, it will support C4K 120p HDMI video output with a future firmware update. Moreover, capability of C4K 120p RAW output to Atomos Ninja V+ monitor recorder over HDMI 2.0, is under development, which also will be available with a future firmware update.

V-Log/V-Gamut capture and VariCam colorimetry

The LUMIX GH6 contains V-Log/V-Gamut capture to deliver a high dynamic range and broad colors. V-Log renders a very flat image while maintaining all the color information within the image. This means that there is a greater level of play when the images are put through post-production processes. The Live MOS sensor of the LUMIX GH6 achieves a wide color gamut known as V-Gamut, which is the GH6’s optimum color space and provides a color space that is wider than BT.2020. V-Log has log curve characteristics that are somewhat reminiscent of negative film and V-Gamut delivers a color space even larger than film.

The LUMIX GH6 offers the renowned colorimetry of the VariCam line of cinema cameras and uses their V-LOG picture profile and wider V-Gamut. For monitoring your work and to see an image that is no longer in LOG, the GH6 includes the V709 LUT (Look Up Table) with Rec.709 standard in the camera by default, this LUT can be output over HDMI or to the cameras monitors or both. It is possible to install your own LUT’s into the GH6 and access them from the V-Log View Assist menu. For users of the Varicam and EVA1 the GH6 can support LUT’s in their .vlt format, and for users of other camera systems we also support the .cube format.

The LUMIX GH6 offers a host of practical features. There are a variety of settings in Photo Style including different Cinelike gamma presets. “Cinelike D2” and “Cinelike V2” have similar gamma setting characteristics for film production. In response to requests from professional users, video assist functions such as Waveform Monitor, Zebra Pattern, Luminance Spot Meter, Frame Marker, Anamorphic Desqueeze Display, Red REC Frame Indicator and Tally lamps are available. The Safety Zone Marker, a new feature on the LUMIX GH6, shows a guide of 95%, 90% or 80% recording area to secure safety zone for the composition and for the subtitles. Center Marker now allows you to choose the type of the marker. In Color Temperature Setting, the kelvin values can now be displayed on the recording screen.

Firmware updates planned

By using both an XLR microphone connected via the XLR Microphone Adaptor DMW-XLR1 (Ch1 Ch2) and built-in microphone (Ch3, Ch4), 48/96kHz 24-bit high-res audio can be recorded.3 Users can combine several types of external microphones that fit the recording situation such as outdoor interviews where the voice of the speakers and ambient sound need to be recorded. The channel to use for the headphone can be switched during video recording and audio menus can be directly accessed with the Fn1 button on the camera top for easy sound level check during 4-channel audio recording. For the external microphone, a Φ3.5mm stereo jack is provided.

4K 60p Time Lapse videos can also be produced inside the camera. With the Exposure Leveling function, the exposure is automatically adjusted to prevent large changes in brightness between adjacent frames to produce equable time lapse footage.

USB host capability will be added with a future firmware update, making it possible to write the data directly to the SSD.

Agile mobility for professional use

With the incorporation of the new 25.2-megapixel Live MOS Sensor and new Venus Engine, the auto focus performance of the LUMIX GH6 has been improved. With higher speed signal processing by the Venus Engine and an improved AF algorithm, subject detection performance has been dramatically enhanced to achieve higher precision AF.

To support high precision focusing, the LUMIX GH6 provides practical options for manual focusing. While focus is shifted by a variable amount according to the rotation speed of the focus ring for non-linear setting, it is shifted with a designated amount according to the rotational quantum of the focus ring for linear setting. Sensitivity (amount of focus shift per rotational quantum) can be selected from 90 to 360 degrees by 30-degrees to enable intended focus operation. The MF Assist, which enables the focus point to be enlarged, is now available photo shooting and video recording (up to 60p. Does not work in Variable Frame Rate mode).

The LUMIX GH6 is capable of high-speed burst shooting at 14 (AFS) / 8 (AFC) fps with a mechanical shutter and 75 fps with an electronic shutter.

The LUMIX GH6 adopts the 3.0-inch free-angle touch-control monitor in 3:2 aspect with 1,840K-dot high resolution. It does not cause interference even when both the HDMI cable and USB cable are connected by adjusting the tilt/rotation angle of the monitor. A large, 3,680K-dot OLED (Organic Light-Emitting Diode) LVF (Live View Finder) features a high magnification ratio of approx. 1.52x / 0.76x (35mm camera equivalent).

Unlimited video recording time

Overheating is a fatal issue to continuous video recording especially when the resolution and the frame rates are increased. However, the LUMIX GH6 achieves unlimited video recording time in C4K 60p 4:2:2 10-bit by optimizing the heat dissipating path with a forced-cooling mechanism and allows video recording of VFR/HFR, ProRes and high-resolution footage exceeding 4K for an extended time.

To ensure the GH6 can withstand heavy field use, it is composed of a magnesium alloy full die-cast front / rear frame, splash-resistant, dust-resistant, and freeze-resistant down to -10 degrees Celsius/14 degrees Fahrenheit. The shutter unit also is durable for approx. 200,000 cycles. The Rec button is located on both the top and front of the camera, which makes it easy to start and stop recording even when shooting at a low angle or with a shoulder rig.

The LUMIX GH6 is equipped with double card slots. The CFexpress card (Type B) supports internal recording of high bitrate video at 800Mbps or more including 5.7K 30p ProRes 422 HQ and C4K 60p ALL-I. The SD Memory Card UHS II V90 supports internal recording of video at 600Mbps or less. It also is possible to choose the recording method from Relay Recording, Backup Recording, Allocation Recording using both the SD Memory Card and CFexpress Card.

For the terminal, HDMI Type A is provided. Plus, a cable lock holder for the HDMI/USB cable is bundled to prevent issues such as unplugging on location. The LUMIX GH6 supports USB 3.2 Gen 2 for high-speed writing and readout. The 2200mAh high-capacity battery can be recharged either via AC or USB. It also complies with USB PD (Power Delivery) when the corresponding Battery Charger DMW-BTC15 (sold separately) is used. The LUMIX GH6 is compatible with Time Code IN/OUT synchronization through the flash synchro terminal and bundled BNC converter cable with BNC cable. This makes the non-linear editing of footage shot with multiple cameras easy.

A wide variety of LUMIX G lenses

Wi-Fi 5 GHz (IEEE802.11ac)3 is effective in addition to 2.4 GHz (IEEE802.11b/g/n). This provides secure and stable connection with a smartphone, tablet and other devices on location for smooth remote control. The transmission speed of photo/video data is increased by using the 5 GHz band. Compatibility with Bluetooth 5.0 (called BLE: Bluetooth Low Energy) enables constant connection with a smartphone or tablet with minimum power consumption. The settings of a LUMIX GH6 camera can be copied and transmitted wirelessly to other GH6 cameras when using multiple GH6 cameras. The LUMIX Sync application for iOS/Android devices allows remote control of the camera using a smartphone or a tablet via easy wireless connection. In addition to wireless control via a Remote Shutter DMW-RS2 (sold separately), application software LUMIX Tether enables tethered shooting via USB. Users can control the camera by connecting it to a PC via USB. It lets them view the image on a large PC screen while shooting.

The Panasonic LUMIX G Series boasts a total lineup of 30 Micro Four Thirds lenses to choose from according to the purpose. Above these, the LEICA DG VARIO-SUMMILUX 10-25mm / F1.7 ASPH. (X-H1025) and the LEICA DG VARIO-SUMMILUX 25-50mm / F1.7 ASPH. (H-X2550) zoom lenses features full-range F1.7 large aperture and are favored by professional film creators as well as other single-focal- length F1.7 or F2.8 lenses. In addition, the LUMIX GH6 memorizes the name and its focal length of analog lenses such as anamorphic lenses or old lenses to provide suitable setting of camera’s in-body image stabilizer automatically when those lenses are used.

The LUMIX GH6 will be available at valued channel partners for $2,199.99 (body only) and $2,799.99 (body + L-kit package) in mid-March.