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Panasonic LUMIX GH5 4K Mirrorless Camera with Lecia VARIO-Elmarit 12-60mm F2.8-4.0 Lens (DC-GH5LK)
Brand | Panasonic |
Model Name | Panasonic LUMIX GH5 |
Photo Sensor Size | Micro Four Thirds |
Image Stabilization | Sensor-shift |
Min Shutter Speed | 1/8000 seconds |
Metering Description | Center-Weighted Average, Multiple, Spot |
Exposure Control Type | aperture-priority, shutter-speed-priority, manual-and-automatic |
Form Factor | Mirrorless |
Effective Still Resolution | 20.3 MP |
Special Feature | Brightness Control |
About this item
- Professional quality photo and 4K video performance in a durable magnesium alloy body.
- Includes the LEICA DG VARIO-ELMARIT 12-60mm F2.8-4.0 Lens (Power O.I.S. / 62mm Filter Tread / 4 ASPH / 2 ED)
- 20.3MP Micro Four Thirds sensor with no low pass filter.
- 5-Axis photo/video Dual I.S.. 2.0 up to 5 Stops with compatible LUMIX MFT lenses, plus In-body stabilization Support for classic non-O.I.S. lenses.
- 4K video: Internal recording at 4k60/50P (4:2:0 8bit) & 4k30/25P/24P (4:2:2 10bit).
- Lens Type: Macro
- Mounting Type: Bayonet
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This Item Panasonic LUMIX GH5 4K Mirrorless Camera with Lecia VARIO-Elmarit 12-60mm F2.8-4.0 Lens (DC-GH5LK) | Recommendations | dummy | dummy | dummy | dummy | |
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Price | $1,899.00$1,899.00 | -13% $1,997.99$1,997.99 List: $2,299.99 | $1,697.99$1,697.99 | -15% $1,697.99$1,697.99 List: $1,999.99 | $2,197.99$2,197.99 | $1,099.99$1,099.99 |
Delivery | Get it Mar 27 - Apr 1 | Get it as soon as Wednesday, Mar 27 | Get it as soon as Wednesday, Mar 27 | Get it as soon as Wednesday, Mar 27 | Get it as soon as Wednesday, Mar 27 | — |
Customer Ratings | ||||||
Picture quality | 4.8 | 5.0 | 4.7 | 5.0 | 4.7 | 4.8 |
Image stabilization | 4.7 | 4.9 | 4.4 | 4.9 | 4.6 | 4.7 |
Auto focus | 3.6 | 4.8 | 3.7 | 4.8 | 4.0 | 3.6 |
Value for money | — | 4.8 | 4.7 | 4.8 | 3.7 | — |
Battery life | 4.1 | — | 4.6 | — | — | 4.1 |
Sold By | 42nd Street Photo | Amazon.com | Amazon.com | Amazon.com | Amazon.com | Amazon.com |
display type | LCD | LCD | LCD | LCD | LCD | LCD |
display size | 3.2 inches | 3 inches | 3 inches | 3 inches | 3 inches | 3.2 inches |
lens type | Close-Up | Wide Angle | Wide Angle | Wide Angle | Wide Angle | Fisheye |
zoom type | Depth From Defocus | Optical Zoom | Digital Zoom | — | Optical Zoom | Depth from Defocus |
shooting modes | Expressive, Retro, Old Days, High Key, Low Key, Sepia, Monochrome, Dynamic Monochrome, Rough Monochrome, Silky Monochrome, Impressive Art, High Dynamic, Cross Process, Toy Effect, Toy Pop, Bleach Bypass, Miniature Effect, Soft Focus, Fantasy, Star Filter, One Point Color, Sunshine | Automatic | Automatic | Automatic | Bulb Mode, Time Mode,Aperture Priority, Manual, Program, Shutter Priority | Expressive, Retro, Old Days, High Key, Low Key, Sepia, Monochrome, Dynamic Monochrome, Rough Monochrome, Silky Monochrome, Impressive Art, High Dynamic, Cross Process, Toy Effect, Toy Pop, Bleach Bypass, Miniature Effect, Soft Focus, Fantasy, Star Filter, One Point Color, Sunshine |
connectivity tech | IEEE 802.11a/b/g/n/ac * 5GHz Wi-Fi is not available in some countries. | Bluetooth v4.2 (Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE)) | wired, wireless | HDMI, USB, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth | Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, HDMI, USB | HDMI, USB | Wi-Fi, Bluetooth |
Videos
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Panasonic GH5 - A Solid 4K Camera that is Customizable
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The BEST Camera I've Owned (4+ Years of Use & Examples)
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My Top Three Cameras for Creators #thisorthat
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GoPro HERO9 Black vs. Panasonic GH5 | #thisorthat
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What's in the box
From the manufacturer
PANASONIC LUMIX DC-GH5LK
Why settle for photo only?
You won't with the Panasonic LUMIX GH5. The photo / 4K video camera and LEICA DG Vario-Elmart lens built on Panasonic's next-gen mirrorless interchangeable lens camera standard [Micro Four Thirds].
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20.3 Megapixels
With the high-performance 20.3MP Digital Live MOS sensor that is low-pass filterless, you can confidently capture super-sharp images with a high-dynamic range that are artifact free.
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4K 60p/50p Smooth Quality Video
Record smooth 4K 60p/50p (QFHD 4K: 3840 x 2160 / MOV or MP4) video with excellent motion compensation plus slow down footage inside your timeline without losing detail.
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4:2:2 10-Bit Internal Recording
Game changing internal 4:2:2 10-bit 4K video recording renders all the subtleties of graduated skies, sunsets and more without the banding so prone to 8-bit.
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6K 30fps / 4K 60 FPS Photo Burst
6K Photo mode at 30fps captures perfect moments at a ~18-megapixel resolution. 4K Photo mode at 60fps freezes even faster motion, a feat not possible in conventional DSLRs.
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5-Axis Dual I.S. 2.0 Eliminates Blur
The GH5 nearly eliminates body and lens shake in both photo and 4K video recording. Its 5-axis Body I.S. corrects all lenses, including classic lenses not equipped with O.I.S.
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2 SD Card Slots. 3 Modes.
Increase capacity and efficiency with Relay mode to swap a full card for an empty one. Backup to record continuously on one card while recording on the other. Simultaneous to duplicate on both.
Pinnacle of Perfection
The experts agree. The award-winning LUMIX GH5 mirrorless 4K camera is tops!
In the Box
Includes LUMIX GH5 camera body, Leica DG 12-60mm f2.8-4.0 lens, caps, hood, cable holder, hot shoe cover, battery, battery charger, body cap, shoulder strap, USB cable, AC cable, basic owner's manual (English and Spanish), Quick Start Guide, 6K/4K Photo Quick Start Guide, product registration card.
Compare to other LUMIX
20.3MP | Sensor Size | 25.2 MP |
| 4:2:2 10bit interval | |
C4K/4K 60P/50P | | |
| Unlimited Recording | |
5-stop | Dual I.S. 2 | 7.5-stop |
Free-angle | LCD | Tilt & Free-angle |
725g | Weight | 823g |
20.3MP | Sensor Size | 20.3 MP |
| 4:2:2 10bit interval | |
C4K/4K 60P/50P | ||
| Unlimited Recording | |
5-stop | Dual I.S. 2 | 6.5-stop |
Free-angle | LCD | Free-angle |
725g | Weight | 727g |
20.3MP | Sensor Size | 10.2 MP |
| 4:2:2 10bit interval | |
C4K/4K 60P/50P | ||
| Unlimited Recording | |
5-stop | Dual I.S. 2 | No |
Free-angle | LCD | Free-angle |
725g | Weight | 660g |
Looking for specific info?
Product information
Auto Focus Technology | Eye Detection |
---|---|
Aspect Ratio | 16:9 |
Display Resolution Maximum | 1620K |
Photo Sensor Size | Micro Four Thirds |
Photo Sensor Technology | CMOS |
Effective Still Resolution | 20.3 MP |
White balance settings | Auto, Incandescent, Daylight, Color Temperature, Cloudy, Shade, Flash torch |
Self Timer Duration | 10 seconds |
JPEG quality level | Basic, Fine, Normal |
Camera Flash | Hotshoe |
Image Stabilization | Sensor-shift |
Flash Modes Description | Red Eye Reduction, Automatic |
Flash Sync Speed | 1/250 Second |
Supported Image Format | AVCHD, JPEG, MP4, MPEG-4, RAW |
Video Capture Format | 4k |
Video Capture Resolution | 4K UHD 2160p |
Video encoding | NTSC/PAL |
Video Input Format | NTSC/PAL |
Video Standard | MPEG 4 |
Video Output Interface | HDMI, USB |
Viewfinder Magnification | 0.76x |
---|---|
Viewfinder Type | Electronic |
Screen Size | 3.2 Inches |
Display Type | LCD |
Display Fixture Type | Articulating |
Mfg Warranty Description Labor | 1 Year |
---|---|
Manufacturer Warranty Description Parts | 1 Year |
Model Name | Panasonic LUMIX GH5 |
---|---|
Brand | Panasonic |
Model Number | DC-GH5LK |
Customer Reviews |
4.7 out of 5 stars |
Best Sellers Rank | #294,112 in Electronics (See Top 100 in Electronics) #707 in Mirrorless Cameras |
ASIN | B073X756P6 |
Number of Items | 1 |
Color | Black |
Included Components | Battery Charger (AC Cable included), Battery Pack, Body Cap, Hot Shoe Cover, Eye Cup, Flash Syncro Socket Cap, Cover for the Battery Grip Connector, USB Connection Cable, Shoulder Strap, Cable Holder, Lens Cap*, Lens Hood*, Lens Rear Cap* *Included with DC-GH5L kit, DC-GH5A kit and DC-GH5M kit. |
Lower Temperature Rating | 14 Degrees Fahrenheit |
Upper Temperature Rating | 40 Degrees Celsius |
Item Dimensions LxWxH | 11.38 x 5.83 x 6.14 inches |
---|---|
Item Weight | 2.3 Pounds |
Warranty & Support
Feedback
Lens Type | Close-Up |
---|---|
Aperture Modes | F2.8 |
Optical Zoom | 1 x |
Digital Zoom | 4 x |
Maximum Aperture | 4 f |
Minimum Aperture | 22 f |
Zoom Type | Depth From Defocus |
Photo Filter Effect Type | UV |
Camera Lens Description | interchangeable |
Compatible Mountings | Micro Four Thirds |
Focus Type | Depth From Defocus |
Maximum Focal Length | 60 Millimeters |
Minimum Focal Length | 12 Millimeters |
Photo Filter Thread Size | 62 Millimeters |
Expanded ISO Maximum | 25600 |
---|---|
Expanded ISO Minimum | 100 |
Min Shutter Speed | 1/8000 seconds |
Exposure Control Type | aperture-priority, shutter-speed-priority, manual-and-automatic |
Metering Description | Center-Weighted Average, Multiple, Spot |
Shooting Modes | Expressive, Retro, Old Days, High Key, Low Key, Sepia, Monochrome, Dynamic Monochrome, Rough Monochrome, Silky Monochrome, Impressive Art, High Dynamic, Cross Process, Toy Effect, Toy Pop, Bleach Bypass, Miniature Effect, Soft Focus, Fantasy, Star Filter, One Point Color, Sunshine |
Batteries Required? | Yes |
---|---|
Number of Batteries | 1 A batteries required. (included) |
Are Batteries Included | Yes |
Rechargeable Battery Included | Yes |
Battery Cell Composition | Lithium Ion |
Battery Description | Lithium Ion |
Battery Weight | 1 Grams |
Battery Capacity | 1750 Milliamp Hours |
Target Gender | Unisex |
Connectivity Technology | IEEE 802.11a/b/g/n/ac * 5GHz Wi-Fi is not available in some countries. | Bluetooth v4.2 (Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE)) |
Continuous Shooting Speed | 12 |
Controller Type | Remote |
Wireless Communication Technology | Wi-FiBluetooth |
Flash Memory Type | SDXC |
Memory Slots Available | 2 |
Special Feature | Brightness Control |
Water Resistance Level | Water Resistant |
Skill Level | Professional |
Microphone Form Factor | Built-In Microphone |
Shock Resistant | FALSE |
Supported Audio Format | AAC, Dolby Digital 2ch |
Water Resistance Depth | 1 Feet |
Form Factor | Mirrorless |
Hardware Interface | AV Port |
Audio Recording | Yes |
Diaphragm Blades | 9 |
Audio Output Type | Headphones |
Photo Sensor Technology | CMOS |
GPS | No |
Operating Humidity | 10 to 80% |
Product Description
This professional grade Panasonic LUMIX GH5 kit with LEICA DG VARIO-ELMARIT 12-60mm F2.8-4.0 Lens is part of a mirrorless camera system that offers over 30 LUMIX and Leica compact lens options built on the next-generation (ILC) interchangeable lens camera standard [Micro Four Thirds] pioneered by Panasonic. With the exclusive LUMIX 4K PHOTO (~8MP, 30/60 fps) & brand new 6K PHOTO mode (~18MP, 30 fps), simply pause that perfect moment from video to produce printable high-resolution photos. Its “mirrorless” design enables a lighter, more compact camera body that includes cutting-edge 4K 60p (4:2:0 8-bit) and 30p (4:2:2 10-bit) in-camera cinematic video, 5Ghz Wi-Fi + Bluetooth for fast connection and image transfer, lightning fast DFD focusing, Dual I.S 2.0 stabilization and exposure technologies not possible with traditional DSLRs.
Read about our customers' top-rated cameras and lenses on our review pages: Compact System Cameras, Lenses
Customer reviews
Customer Reviews, including Product Star Ratings help customers to learn more about the product and decide whether it is the right product for them.
To calculate the overall star rating and percentage breakdown by star, we don’t use a simple average. Instead, our system considers things like how recent a review is and if the reviewer bought the item on Amazon. It also analyzed reviews to verify trustworthiness.
Learn more how customers reviews work on AmazonCustomers say
Customers like the quality, speed, and value of the digital camera. For example, they mention that it takes great pictures and videos, has great image stabilization, and is fast. Some appreciate the high frame rate capabilities and the ability to record in super slow motion. That said, some are happy with features, and ease of use. That being said, opinions are mixed on autofocus, and brightness.
AI-generated from the text of customer reviews
Customers are satisfied with the quality of the digital camera. They mention that it produces great pictures and videos, with incredible video quality. They also say that the footage is unbeatable, and that it works wonderfully in 4K and 1080p resolutions. Customers also appreciate that it doubles as an excellent still photo camera, and can shoot at up to 180 fps.
"...However, the early results are very promising and I do believe that Panasonic has made a significant improvement in IQ over the GH4...." Read more
"...and press the shutter half way down to get it to lock on first it works very well. All in all this is an amazing camera for the price!..." Read more
"...The image is amazing, but that's not news. What is news - and hopefully will not be overlooked - is how much this camera is amazing to use...." Read more
"The video quality is incredible on this camera. Excellent seller" Read more
Customers are satisfied with the image stabilization of the camera. They mention that the in camera stabilization works well, and the 5 axis image stabilisation on the sensor and lens allows them to record rock steady videos. The camera holds up well after three years, and is a solid mirrorless camera.
"...Image stability - I am very excited for the improvements - but I definitely need to do a lot of testing to see how it really performs.-..." Read more
"...There is now 5 axis image stabilization on the sensor and if you are using a lens like the Leica 12-60mm it has power IOS...." Read more
"...Highlights:- great stabilization- ability to manual focus or use auto- second screen flips out and rotates-..." Read more
"...The stabilization is better than the A6500's as well. I took that to comic-con last year and didn't love the IBIS...." Read more
Customers like the speed of the digital camera. They mention that it is very fast on the point, has usable 120 fps, and amazing 5-axis stabilization. They also appreciate the high frame rate capabilities and the uncompressed video. Overall, customers are happy with the speed and quality of the product.
"...The ability to shoot at 180 FPS (you have first select a variable frame rate to get into this menu).-..." Read more
"...180fps in full 1080 FHD internally! The slow motion on this camera is buttery smooth! The size and grip is fantastic! What it's raining out?..." Read more
"...The post focus is a really rad feature. The high frame rate capabilites and the uncompressed video is the best thing about this camera though...." Read more
"...but be careful, not all computers are fast enough to edit that kind of video...." Read more
Customers appreciate the value of the digital camera. They say it's well worth the price and a great buy.
"...These high quality lenses are smaller and cost less than their full frame rivals to boot...." Read more
"...All in all this is an amazing camera for the price!..." Read more
"This camera is a powerhouse for the price...." Read more
"...This caught my attention as it seems to be the smallest and cheapest thing to do amazing 4k 60 video...." Read more
Customers are impressed with the features of the digital camera. They say it's packed full of features that are geared towards giving them more customization than they could ever need. They also mention that it'd be a great addition to their kit and has an amazing drop down menu.
"...This camera has a lot of features, and has well more auto focus features than I am use to...." Read more
"...I love using this camera it has such an amazing drop down menu...." Read more
"It's great for photos, video, and has cool features I never knew were possible. The post focus is a really rad feature...." Read more
"...It really is a powerhouse, packed full of features that are geared towards giving me the tools that I need to shoot excellent looking video...." Read more
Customers find the touch screen of the digital camera pretty easy to use. They also say the menus are very easy to navigate and well thought out. Customers also say that shooting manual is a breeze, and the camera has a plethora of easy to digest information.
"...it is easy to navigate WB and ISO settings without moving your eyes (much more difficult on my Nikon D750).- No built in flash...." Read more
"...The menus are very easy to navigate and well thought out!..." Read more
"...Luckily there is a plethora of easy to digest information for this camera.Highlights:- great stabilization-..." Read more
"...another one as a B Camera because it is such a versatile and user-friendly camera...." Read more
Customers have mixed opinions about the autofocus of the digital camera. Some mention that it's good, while others say that it is sub-par and has problems keeping the main subject in focus.
"...- My early footage is excellent. The continuous autofocus is improved (although I do need to run a lot more tests on this one)...." Read more
"...lowlight performance having only a slight improvement, and poor autofocus I could care less for...." Read more
"...Highlights:- great stabilization- ability to manual focus or use auto- second screen flips out and rotates-..." Read more
"...4K color depth video camera (prosumer) BUT for the autofocus problems in keeping the main subject in focus...." Read more
Customers are mixed about the brightness of the camera. Some mention that it does appear to be a substantial improvement in low-light from the GH4, while others say that it's not great in low light and high ISOs introduce lots of grain.
"...the view finder flips out, up, down and forward toward the lens is super bright and clear and also a touchscreen!..." Read more
"...Low light performance isn't great and high ISOs introduce lots of grain...." Read more
"...The ISO power blew me away, it can practically see in the dark now with no noticeable noise...." Read more
"...Cons:-Not Great in Low-Light (though improved over the GH4)..." Read more
Reviews with images
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Top reviews
Top reviews from the United States
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I run a small video production company, and for years I have used the GH4 for capturing high quality video. The problem is that every video shoot also requires several high quality/professional photographs. While the GH4 excelled in capturing video as a true camera it always came up short. As a result, I was always forced to lug my Nikon D750 around with me. I would travel with two cameras, and two sets of lenses. Occasionally, I would substitute the Nikon for my Fujix100T or I would substitute the GH4 for my Osmo Pro (recently it has been more of the later).
What I need... want... would love .... is camera to do all of it. I guess I could invest in the FF Sony, but the idea of investing in a 3rd set of lenses doesn't exactly excite me. At some point.... either the video on the Olympus will come up... or the photo stills on the Panasonic will improve...right? Based on my tests - I think the GH5 will become my Holy Grail of cameras. I have 0% doubt that it will perform for video (and my the couple of tests I have run look very favorable), but my worry was IQ. The new 20.3MP resolution has me hopeful that the GH5 will become my one camera for all purposes.
Photos - Again - I will update this as time goes on
- The upgraded sensor seems to make a large difference.In the photos I attached the 1st picture was taken at ISO 400 while the rest were at ISO 1600. Frankly, I always got nervous taking my GH4 above ISO 800 the noise and grain really started to become noticeable. The GH5 looks very usable at ISO 1600 ( I need to check ISO 3200 a little closer). For full disclosure the ISO 1600 shots were taken with the Panasonic Leica f1.2 42.5mm gem of a lens.
This is a good point for a tangent,. The reason why i like the MFT format (in addition to the cameras being physically smaller) there are some very excellent lenses out there. I would stack the Olymous Zuiko lenses up against the branded Nikon lenses any day of the week. In addition, ignoring the difference in focal length my Panasonic/Leica f1.2 42.5 rivals my Otus f1.4 55mm for my Nikon (plus it has vibration reduction AND autofocus - eat your heart out Sigma). These high quality lenses are smaller and cost less than their full frame rivals to boot. Now there are some poor lenses too, but if you are willing to pay a little more I have found all of the Panny/Leica and Olympus Zuiko lenses to be very, very good.
Other notes -
- If you shoot in RAW and use Lightroom you will have to update to 6.9.
- The autofocus really is improved. It is very fast on the point.
- Has the ability to do focus stacking - I haven't tried this yet - but it is a very interesting function.
- Shooting manual is a breeze - I am not sure why Nikon can't copy Panasonic's focus peaking, but if they could... they should. I mentioned I owned the Otus f1.4 55mm.... that lenses would be soooooo much more useful if Nikon offered a similar type of focus peaking.
- Low light performance - others may disagree, but I do think that it is better than the GH4. I have very good stills at ISO 1600. However, this might be a counter-intuitive since Panasonic is using the same sized sensor but increasing the resolution. In order for the camera to have better low light performance and higher resolution would require either significantly better algorithms and/or improvements on the actual sensor gathers the light.
- Button placement and layout are still very solid. it is easy to navigate WB and ISO settings without moving your eyes (much more difficult on my Nikon D750).
- No built in flash. Honestly, I can not remember the last time I used a built in flash.
- The camera is not too much larger than the GH4, but it is noticeably heavier. This camera is dense, and while it still has an advantage over my full frame it's losing ground here.
Video-
- My early footage is excellent. The continuous autofocus is improved (although I do need to run a lot more tests on this one). I loved shooting footage with my GH4, but I usually filmed in manual focus. I never fully trusted the GH4 autofocus - it seemed to spend too much time searching.
- The ability to shoot at 180 FPS (you have first select a variable frame rate to get into this menu).
- Out of the box it will allow you to record 10 bit straight to SD card (I recommend the new high transfer rate cards).
- Image stability - I am very excited for the improvements - but I definitely need to do a lot of testing to see how it really performs.
- In short... for video the GH5 will do everything that GH4 will do, but it adds the ability to capture 10 bit footage directly to a SD card, offers weather protection, and in-body stabilization
- The screen and viewfinder are excellent.
Final Verdict - Again, I will have to update this review - there is MUCH still to be covered (especially for video). However, the early results are very promising and I do believe that Panasonic has made a significant improvement in IQ over the GH4. I may be naive, but I just ASSUMED it would be great for video (minor improvements in the GH4 would have helped maintain its status). The GH5 is roughly double the price of the GH4 so you will need to understand if the photo improvements and the upgrades in video are really worth it to you. For me... it is a no-brainer.... and I am optimistic that for now on I will be carrying just one camera with me!
5 Stars
I run a small video production company, and for years I have used the GH4 for capturing high quality video. The problem is that every video shoot also requires several high quality/professional photographs. While the GH4 excelled in capturing video as a true camera it always came up short. As a result, I was always forced to lug my Nikon D750 around with me. I would travel with two cameras, and two sets of lenses. Occasionally, I would substitute the Nikon for my Fujix100T or I would substitute the GH4 for my Osmo Pro (recently it has been more of the later).
What I need... want... would love .... is camera to do all of it. I guess I could invest in the FF Sony, but the idea of investing in a 3rd set of lenses doesn't exactly excite me. At some point.... either the video on the Olympus will come up... or the photo stills on the Panasonic will improve...right? Based on my tests - I think the GH5 will become my Holy Grail of cameras. I have 0% doubt that it will perform for video (and my the couple of tests I have run look very favorable), but my worry was IQ. The new 20.3MP resolution has me hopeful that the GH5 will become my one camera for all purposes.
Photos - Again - I will update this as time goes on
- The upgraded sensor seems to make a large difference.In the photos I attached the 1st picture was taken at ISO 400 while the rest were at ISO 1600. Frankly, I always got nervous taking my GH4 above ISO 800 the noise and grain really started to become noticeable. The GH5 looks very usable at ISO 1600 ( I need to check ISO 3200 a little closer). For full disclosure the ISO 1600 shots were taken with the Panasonic Leica f1.2 42.5mm gem of a lens.
This is a good point for a tangent,. The reason why i like the MFT format (in addition to the cameras being physically smaller) there are some very excellent lenses out there. I would stack the Olymous Zuiko lenses up against the branded Nikon lenses any day of the week. In addition, ignoring the difference in focal length my Panasonic/Leica f1.2 42.5 rivals my Otus f1.4 55mm for my Nikon (plus it has vibration reduction AND autofocus - eat your heart out Sigma). These high quality lenses are smaller and cost less than their full frame rivals to boot. Now there are some poor lenses too, but if you are willing to pay a little more I have found all of the Panny/Leica and Olympus Zuiko lenses to be very, very good.
Other notes -
- If you shoot in RAW and use Lightroom you will have to update to 6.9.
- The autofocus really is improved. It is very fast on the point.
- Has the ability to do focus stacking - I haven't tried this yet - but it is a very interesting function.
- Shooting manual is a breeze - I am not sure why Nikon can't copy Panasonic's focus peaking, but if they could... they should. I mentioned I owned the Otus f1.4 55mm.... that lenses would be soooooo much more useful if Nikon offered a similar type of focus peaking.
- Low light performance - others may disagree, but I do think that it is better than the GH4. I have very good stills at ISO 1600. However, this might be a counter-intuitive since Panasonic is using the same sized sensor but increasing the resolution. In order for the camera to have better low light performance and higher resolution would require either significantly better algorithms and/or improvements on the actual sensor gathers the light.
- Button placement and layout are still very solid. it is easy to navigate WB and ISO settings without moving your eyes (much more difficult on my Nikon D750).
- No built in flash. Honestly, I can not remember the last time I used a built in flash.
- The camera is not too much larger than the GH4, but it is noticeably heavier. This camera is dense, and while it still has an advantage over my full frame it's losing ground here.
Video-
- My early footage is excellent. The continuous autofocus is improved (although I do need to run a lot more tests on this one). I loved shooting footage with my GH4, but I usually filmed in manual focus. I never fully trusted the GH4 autofocus - it seemed to spend too much time searching.
- The ability to shoot at 180 FPS (you have first select a variable frame rate to get into this menu).
- Out of the box it will allow you to record 10 bit straight to SD card (I recommend the new high transfer rate cards).
- Image stability - I am very excited for the improvements - but I definitely need to do a lot of testing to see how it really performs.
- In short... for video the GH5 will do everything that GH4 will do, but it adds the ability to capture 10 bit footage directly to a SD card, offers weather protection, and in-body stabilization
- The screen and viewfinder are excellent.
Final Verdict - Again, I will have to update this review - there is MUCH still to be covered (especially for video). However, the early results are very promising and I do believe that Panasonic has made a significant improvement in IQ over the GH4. I may be naive, but I just ASSUMED it would be great for video (minor improvements in the GH4 would have helped maintain its status). The GH5 is roughly double the price of the GH4 so you will need to understand if the photo improvements and the upgrades in video are really worth it to you. For me... it is a no-brainer.... and I am optimistic that for now on I will be carrying just one camera with me!
5 Stars
You see I ordered four Gh5's through Amazon. It explicitly states the USA version. The problem was of those four that I ordered only one was the USA version. The other's were the UK, Canada and Australia. Normally I couldn't care less. They are basically the same camera except for one big difference. If you look at your manual the non us versions state that the warranty is only valid in those other countries. Basically meaning those versions have no warranty in the U.S.
Once again, love the camera but CHECK YOUR MANUAL! Look on the second page of the manual for what country your camera is intended for or in the manual contents for what region the limited warranty is good for. Based on my experience you have a pretty good shot of getting a non-US version with absolutely no warranty and if you don't check now you might not realize this until it's too late.
Top reviews from other countries
There are plenty of complaints or negatives about the autofocus, but since the v2.4 firmware, it's greatly improved. While it can't compete with dual-pixel focussing, it can still hold its own and has many other merits over similarly priced bodies.
2020 Update: It's been a year since my review and my rating stands. I've found some things I'd wish this camera did, but doesn't (eg. charge or self-power over the USB-C connector, or the function to use it as a webcam - a vital tool for COVID-times), and many things that this camera DOES but the competition still has troubles doing in their latest and greatest models (such as not overheating when filming in 4K!) This is still a video powerhouse in 2020 and the still-photo capabilities are solid for the price.
What I like:
Great stabilization with the Leica 12-60 lens (even better on the mark 2 version)
Full HMDI out allowing 10 bit raw footage to an external recorder
Double card slot allowing either long recording sessions or a backup recording on one of the cards in case of card failure
Small but sturdy body
What can be improved:
The on/off button is THE weak point of the camera and I have had it break (after many many uses). should be made or better materials
Vlog should be included (is on the Mark 2 version)
Autofocus can be slower in low light / contrast situation
I bought the camera specifically for underwater and wildlife filming and it has served me very well. I recently bought the mark 2 version and still use the GH5 for my work.
Reviewed in Canada on October 20, 2023
What I like:
Great stabilization with the Leica 12-60 lens (even better on the mark 2 version)
Full HMDI out allowing 10 bit raw footage to an external recorder
Double card slot allowing either long recording sessions or a backup recording on one of the cards in case of card failure
Small but sturdy body
What can be improved:
The on/off button is THE weak point of the camera and I have had it break (after many many uses). should be made or better materials
Vlog should be included (is on the Mark 2 version)
Autofocus can be slower in low light / contrast situation
I bought the camera specifically for underwater and wildlife filming and it has served me very well. I recently bought the mark 2 version and still use the GH5 for my work.