Panasonic GH6 Samples
Why Should One Upgrade from the Panasonic GH5 to the GH6 & to the GH7
Bonus for 2024 – Recording to External SSD & using it as a Webcam
With the Panasonic GH6 you can record to Pro Res Video Format now, but there are some catches. You need the expensive CF express card or with the firmware update you can record to a more cost effective external SSD hard-drive. See my post for more details on this. Another bonus is you can use your GH6 as a webcam properly without the annoying tether workaround with the Panasonic GH5. These 2 upgrades are definitely game changers over the GH5.
Improved Image Quality
The Panasonic GH6 boasts a new 24-megapixel sensor, which is a significant upgrade over the 20-megapixel sensor found in the GH5. The new sensor has improved dynamic range and better low-light performance, resulting in clearer and more detailed images with less noise. Additionally, the GH6 has a new Venus Engine processor, which further enhances image quality and sharpness.
Can use the same lenses and Adaptors with the GH6
Most experienced GH5 users ended using the famous Canon Lens the Sigma 18-35mm F1.8 paired with a Metabones or Viltrox lens adaptor. This was a winning combination for videographers. You can use the exact same setup on the GH6 so you can save money and just buy the GH6 body and you’re good to go!
Advanced Autofocus System
The GH6 features a new autofocus system that is faster and more accurate than the one found in the GH5. The new system uses deep learning technology and can track subjects more effectively, making it ideal for shooting fast-moving subjects. Additionally, the GH6 can now autofocus in low-light conditions down to -6EV, which is a significant improvement over the GH5’s -4EV.
Improved Video Capabilities
The Panasonic GH5 was already a powerful video camera, but the GH6 takes things to the next level. The GH6 can shoot 4K video at up to 120fps, which is double the frame rate of the GH5. It also supports 10-bit 4:2:2 internal recording, which provides more color depth and flexibility in post-production. Additionally, the GH6 has improved image stabilization and can shoot 5.9K video when paired with an external recorder. You can even upgrade the firmware so unlock recording to Pro Res HQ to an internal SSD hard-drive with the GH6.
Enhanced User Experience
The GH6 has several new features that make it a joy to use. It has a larger and more detailed electronic viewfinder, a fully articulating touchscreen, and improved controls with more customizable buttons. The camera also has a new “Live View Composite” mode, which allows you to preview long exposures in real-time, making it easier to get the perfect shot.
In conclusion, the Panasonic GH6 is a significant upgrade over the GH5 in terms of image quality, autofocus, video capabilities, and user experience. If you’re a professional videographer or photographer who values the latest technology and wants to produce the best possible results, upgrading to the GH6 is a no-brainer.
Adding to the previous points, the GH6 also has a better battery life, allowing you to take more shots or record more videos without worrying about the battery running out. The camera also has a new heat dissipation system, which prevents overheating during prolonged use. This is particularly beneficial for videographers who often shoot for extended periods.
Moreover, the GH6 has a new multi-aspect sensor, which means you can shoot in different aspect ratios without losing resolution. This feature is particularly useful for photographers who want to experiment with different compositions.
Finally, the GH6 is compatible with the L-Mount lenses, which expands your options for lenses that you can use with the camera.
All in all, the GH6 is a worthwhile upgrade for those who want the latest technology in their camera and value high-quality output. With its improved image quality, advanced autofocus system, enhanced video capabilities, and user-friendly features, the GH6 is a great investment for professionals and enthusiasts alike. Check out some of the footage I’ve shot in New York and Vancouver with the Panasonic GH6. I should also share that I sold my GH5 body for $1000 and the Gh6 body cost me about $2100 on facebook marketplace.
Comprehensive Analysis of Major Reasons to Upgrade from Panasonic GH5 to GH6 and GH7
Background and Release Timeline
Major Reasons to Upgrade from GH5 to GH6
- Higher Resolution Sensor:
- The GH6 features a 25.2MP Live MOS sensor, compared to the GH5’s 20.3MP Digital Live MOS sensor. This increase in resolution provides higher detail in still images, allowing for better cropping and larger prints. It also enhances video quality, especially in higher resolution modes.
- Enhanced Video Capabilities:
- The GH6 supports 5.7K 30p in Apple ProRes 422 HQ, a significant upgrade from the GH5’s 4K 60p (4:2:0 8-bit at 60p, 4:2:2 10-bit at 30p). This higher resolution and codec option offer superior video quality and more flexibility in post-production, particularly for professional editing workflows.
- Both cameras have unlimited video recording, thanks to built-in cooling systems, so this is not a differentiating factor. However, GH6’s advanced video features, such as V-Log and anamorphic support, build on GH5’s capabilities, providing better color grading options.
- Improved Autofocus:
- Both the GH5 and GH6 use contrast-based autofocus (DFD AF), but the GH6 benefits from an updated Venus Engine processor, which enhances focusing speed and accuracy, especially in video mode. This improvement is notable for users shooting fast-moving subjects or requiring precise focus tracking.
- Better Dynamic Range:
- The GH6 has an improved dynamic range, reported at around 12 stops, compared to GH5’s approximately 11 stops. This allows for better capture of detail in both highlights and shadows, which is crucial for high-contrast scenes in both photography and videography.
- Design and Ergonomical Improvements:
- The GH6 has a more robust magnesium alloy body, with enhanced weather sealing, making it more durable for outdoor shoots. It also features an improved user interface, including a larger 3.68m-dot OLED viewfinder and a 3.0″ 1.84m-dot free-angle touchscreen, compared to GH5’s similar but slightly less advanced options.
Major Reasons to Upgrade from GH6 to GH7
- Phase Detection Autofocus:
- The GH7 introduces Panasonic’s Phase Hybrid AF, a significant upgrade from the GH6’s contrast-based AF. This system, combining phase detection and contrast detection, offers faster and more accurate focusing, especially for tracking moving subjects, making it ideal for video and sports photography. This is a major leap for users needing reliable autofocus in dynamic shooting scenarios.
- BSI CMOS Sensor:
- The GH7 uses a 25.2MP BSI CMOS sensor, compared to the GH6’s Live MOS sensor. Back-illuminated sensors generally offer better low-light performance and higher dynamic range, with tests showing GH7 achieving a maximum photographic dynamic range (PDR) of 10.17, compared to GH6’s 8.79 (The Panasonic GH7’s Dynamic Range Is Much Better Than the GH6’s). This improvement is crucial for shooting in challenging lighting conditions.
- Advanced Video Features:
- The GH7 supports internal ProRes RAW recording, a feature not available in the GH6, which is essential for professional video production requiring high-quality raw footage. It also offers 32-bit float audio recording when using Panasonic’s DMW-XLR2 adapter, eliminating the need for audio level adjustments during shooting. Additionally, GH7 includes Open Gate recording and compatibility with Arri LogC3 (via an optional $200 upgrade), enhancing color grading options.
- Color Science and Image Quality:
- With the new BSI sensor and updated Venus Engine, the GH7 delivers enhanced color accuracy and image processing. While some users note a shift in color science compared to GH6, with GH7 appearing more traditional, it generally offers better overall image quality, particularly in video, due to improved dynamic range and noise handling.
- Connectivity and Compatibility:
- The GH7 has improved integration with Adobe Cloud, allowing for seamless workflow with Adobe software, and supports real-time LUTs for on-the-fly color grading. It also maintains compatibility with existing GH6 accessories, such as cages, due to the same body design, but is 18 grams lighter, enhancing portability. This unexpected detail of weight reduction, while maintaining design, is beneficial for users upgrading without needing new gear.
Feature | GH5 | GH6 | GH7 |
|---|---|---|---|
Sensor | 20.3MP Live MOS | 25.2MP Live MOS | 25.2MP BSI CMOS |
Video Max Resolution | 4K 60p | 5.7K 30p ProRes 422 HQ | 5.7K 30p ProRes RAW |
Autofocus | Contrast-based DFD AF | Contrast-based DFD AF | Phase Hybrid AF |
Dynamic Range | ~11 stops | ~12 stops | ~10.17 PDR (improved) |
Audio Recording | Standard | Standard | 32-bit float (with adapter) |
Weight | ~725g (body only) | ~823g (body only) | ~805g (body only) |
Release Date | January 2017 | February 2022 | June 2024 |
Conclusion
GH7 Footage Sample