GH6: Next-Generation LUMIX
- Unlimited recording up to 5.7K/60p, 4:2:2 10-bit
- ProRes HQ internal recording for best details and fastest workflow
- 4K/120p high frame rate for smooth motion
- 300 fps for dynamic slow-motion movements
Panasonic is proud to announce the LUMIX GH6 – the latest flagship model in the LUMIX G series of digital mirrorless cameras, based on the Micro Four Thirds system standard.
In 2009, Panasonic introduced the DMC-GH1, the first model in the LUMIX GH line with a hybrid photo/video concept. Since then, the GH line has evolved with many innovative features introduced at the request of users, and now the models in the series are popular among creators worldwide as premium tools, thanks to their performance, mobility, and robust construction. The LUMIX GH6 is the latest addition to the line, once again pushing the boundaries of digital mirrorless cameras.
The GH6 will be available from March 2022 for €2,199.99 (RRP) for the body only, or from €2,799.99 (RRP) for a kit including a 12-60mm lens.
Powerful, Professional Video Capabilities
Panasonic's LUMIX GH line created an epoch-making sensation in the industry with its exceptional video recording performance and advanced features meeting professional levels and quality standards. The new LUMIX GH6 continues this tradition and, for the first time in LUMIX cameras, enables recording of 5.7K 30p video in ProRes 422 HQ or ProRes 422 format, which allows non-linear editing without transcoding.
With 5.7K 4:2:0 10-bit 60p/50p and 5.8K 30p/25p/24p (4.4K 60p) 4:2:0 10-bit anamorphic 4:3 modes, the LUMIX GH6 offers higher resolution and higher bit rates than ever before, and provides the latest high image quality, flexibility, and range needed for film, television, and all other types of video production.
The LUMIX GH6 also offers 4:2:2 10-bit Cinema 4K 60p internal recording, as well as simultaneous 4:2:2 10-bit Cinema 4K 60p video output via HDMI.
The ability to record 4:2:0 10-bit 4K 120p video (equivalent to 5x slow motion*1) and 4:2:2 10-bit FHD 240p HFR (High Frame Rate) video with sound is also provided to enable impressive expression, such as speed ramping. And FHD VFR (Variable Frame Rate) video recording with a maximum of 300fps (equivalent to 12.5x slow motion*1) allows for the recreation of dynamic subject movements.
Overheating is a fatal issue in prolonged video recording, especially when resolution and frame rate are increased, but the LUMIX GH6 achieves unlimited video recording time*2 by optimizing heat dissipation with a forced-cooling fan mechanism.
*1 At 24p
*2 In a guaranteed operating environment. When using a battery. Recording time depends on battery capacity and recording media.
Panasonic's Commitment to Continuous Improvement
Panasonic continues its commitment to continuously improve its LUMIX range through firmware updates to expand capabilities and enhance performance. The following new features will be available in a future GH6 firmware update:
- Cinema 4K ProRes 422 HQ / ProRes 422
- FHD ProRes 422 HQ / ProRes 422
- USB-SSD direct recording
- 4K 120p video output via HDMI during Live View
- Cinema 4K 120p HDMI RAW video data output to ATOMOS Ninja V+
Unmatched Image Stabilization
For easy and high-quality handheld shooting, the LUMIX GH6 is equipped with a new high-precision 5-axis gyro sensor and a new algorithm to achieve 7.5 stops of stabilization from Body I.S. (In-Body Image Stabilizer)*1 and Dual I.S.2 (Dual Image Stabilizer)*2.
The 5-axis Dual I.S.2 (Dual Image Stabilizer) works seamlessly during video recording to capture beautiful and pleasant-to-watch footage. It performs appropriate compensation, depending on the type of shake, precisely assessing its cause – whether generated by panning, tilting, or hand tremors. The in-body image stabilizer compensates for camera shake, even when using an interchangeable lens without optical image stabilization (such as a mechanical cinema lens).
Thanks to powerful image stabilization, even high-resolution images can be captured without a tripod in High Resolution mode. In this mode, eight consecutive images are automatically captured, with the 25-megapixel sensor shifted by the Body I.S. mechanism, and from them, an equivalent 100-megapixel image (11552 x 8672 pixels) with precise details is synthesized in RAW or JPEG format. With its high mobility, achieved thanks to its compact and lightweight design, and its powerful in-body image stabilizer, this LUMIX G digital mirrorless interchangeable lens camera allows shooting with techniques previously impossible, such as ultra-telephoto handheld shooting.
*1 Based on CIPA standard [vertical/horizontal axis: focal length f=60mm (35mm camera equivalent f=120mm), using H-ES12060 lens]..
*2 Based on CIPA standard [vertical/horizontal axis: focal length f=140mm (35mm camera equivalent f=280mm), using H-FS14140 lens].
Incredible Dynamic Range
The LUMIX GH6 provides a wide dynamic range of over 12 stops with its pre-installed V-Log recording technology. Even over 13 stops can be achieved when using Dynamic Range Boost*1 mode. In the new Dynamic Range Boost mode, the image is synthesized from a saturation-priority image generated by a low ISO circuit and a low-noise image generated by a high ISO circuit. The composite image is characterized by both low noise and high saturation, resulting in clean and smooth HDR*2 video with rich nuances.
For the first time in LUMIX G Micro Four Thirds cameras, the LUMIX GH6 is equipped with V-Log/V-Gamut technologies to provide high dynamic range and wide color gamut. V-Log creates a very smooth image while retaining all color information. This means a higher level of reproduction is provided when images are used in post-production. The LUMIX GH6's Live MOS sensor achieves a wide color gamut, known as V-Gamut – the GH6's optimal color space, much wider than BT.2020.
Users will enjoy the impressively accurate color reproduction of the GH6, with subtle gradations from dark to highly lit areas and precise control of color data in post-production.
The LUMIX GH6 borrows the proven colorimetry from Panasonic's VariCam cinema cameras. V709 LUT (Look Up Table) conversion tables to Rec.709 standard are available by default in the camera. Video with applied LUT conversion tables can be viewed not only live but also during playback using the V-Log View Assist function, and in addition to conventional .VLT conversion tables, .CUBE conversion tables can also be applied.
*1 Available only in Creative Video mode, minimum ISO2000 in V-Log/HLG.
*2 MP4, MOV, and ProRes, all available with Dynamic Range Boost, can be shot in V-Log, HLG, or other LUMIX Photo Style
4-Channel Audio Recording Capability: A LUMIX First!
The LUMIX GH6 offers significant improvements in audio recording, enabling 4-channel 48kHz or 96kHz 24-bit recording* when an XLR microphone adapter is connected. This provides greater flexibility when shooting outdoors, for example, where there are multiple audio sources, or when recording backup audio. 2-channel 48kHz 24-bit recording with the built-in microphone is also possible, as well as 2-channel 96kHz 24-bit high-resolution audio recording * with an external microphone.
The channel used for headphones can be switched during recording, and audio menus can be accessed directly via a function button on the top of the camera for easy checking of audio levels. A Φ3.5mm stereo jack is provided for connecting an external microphone.
* 4-channel audio recording is possible in ProRes and MOV formats.
Practical Functions for an Easier Workflow
The LUMIX GH6 offers numerous practical functions. Various settings are provided in the Photo Style menu, including pre-installed Cinelike gamma settings. For example, “Cinelike D2” and “Cinelike V2” have characteristics similar to film production gamma settings.
In response to requests from professional users, various video assist functions are provided, such as Waveform Monitor, Zebra Pattern, Luminance Spot Meter, Frame Marker, Anamorphic Desqueeze Display, Red REC Frame Indicator, and Tally Lamp.
New to the LUMIX GH6 is the Safety Zone Marker, which marks 95%, 90%, or 80% recording areas, so you can anticipate a safe zone for composition and subtitles. The Center Marker indication now also allows you to choose the type of marker displayed. And when setting the color temperature, Kelvin values can now be displayed on the recording screen.
The camera can perform Time Lapse 4K 60p video recording. With the Exposure Leveling function, exposure is automatically adjusted to prevent large changes in brightness between adjacent frames and to achieve smooth interval recording.
The MF Assist (Manual Focus Assist) function, which magnifies the focus point, is now also available during video recording*. It allows the user to magnify the screen up to 6 times to check focus. Using AF-ON or touching the screen in MF Assist mode triggers automatic focusing on the selected area – also possible during recording.
* Up to 60p. Does not work in Variable Frame Rate mode.
Next-Generation Imaging Sensor and Processor
Panasonic has developed a new 25.2-megapixel Live MOS imaging sensor without a low-pass filter (LPF). The sensor features high resolution and high-speed signal readout, which reduces the rolling shutter problem and achieves a wide dynamic range.
The new Venus Engine processor also utilizes advanced image processing technologies to recreate realistic images with high resolution and rich colors, which is a hallmark of LUMIX cameras.
The new Venus Engine processor has approximately twice the computational power*1, allowing high-speed processing of signals from the new sensor's larger number of pixels and video recording with higher resolution and higher bit rates. The processor was developed based on three key technologies – Intelligent Detail Processing, 2D Noise Reduction, and High Precision 3D Noise Reduction for video. The new Intelligent Detail Processing technology more accurately detects and analyzes flat parts, detailed parts, and contour parts in the frame to recreate a highly realistic image. The new 2D Noise Reduction technology suppresses chromatic noise and improves the texture of luminance noise to make the image clearer and more natural, even when shooting at high sensitivity. High Precision 3D Noise Reduction technology for video improves the recognition of static and moving parts in the frame, making it possible to optimize noise reduction while reducing residual images. As a result, the quality of images with dynamic movements is significantly improved. In addition, high-precision Dual 3D Color Control improves color reproduction by controlling brightness levels, saturation, and hue to achieve rich expressiveness and color accuracy.
The combination of the new advanced imaging sensor and the new processor makes it possible to recreate clearer images, even at a high resolution of 25.2 megapixels and a lower minimum ISO sensitivity of ISO 100 [Photos: ISO 50(Extended) - 25600 / Video: ISO 50(Extended) -12800].
*1 Compared to DC-S1H
Intuitive Operation
The LUMIX GH6 is equipped with a 3.0-inch free-angle monitor, touch control, 3:2 aspect ratio, and a high resolution of 1840K dots. Rotating/adjusting the monitor angle does not cause interference or inconvenience, even when an HDMI cable and USB cable are connected.
To ensure high-precision focusing, the LUMIX GH6 offers a number of practical manual focus functions. Users can choose non-linear or linear focus ring adjustment. In non-linear adjustment, focus shifts variably depending on the rotation speed of the focus ring. In linear adjustment, focus shifts at fixed intervals depending on how much the ring is rotated. Sensitivity in linear adjustment (the degree of focus shift per rotation) can be set between 90 and 360 degrees in 30-degree increments to achieve the desired focus operation.
The Live View viewfinder with 3680k dots and a magnification of 0.76x uses a high-speed OLED display with excellent visibility to enable capturing even fast-moving subjects with fine details. The display contrast is very high (approximately 10,000:1), thanks to which objects are rendered with fine gradations and high clarity throughout the frame.
With the high-speed signal readout from the new imaging sensor and the powerful computational power of the new Venus Engine processor, the LUMIX GH6 provides a high continuous shooting speed of 75 frames per second with 25.2 megapixels resolution, AFS autofocus, and an electronic shutter. The higher signal readout speed from the sensor also reduces the rolling shutter problem and captures images faster than the human eye can assimilate them.
Highly Reliable Construction for Professional Use
To be robust enough to withstand demanding professional use, the main structure of the GH6 is built with front and rear frames made of die-cast magnesium alloy. The camera is not only splash-resistant*1, but also dustproof and freeze-resistant down to -10 degrees Celsius. The shutter is also extremely reliable, designed for approximately 200,000 operating cycles. A Rec button is located on both the top and front of the camera, making it easy to start and stop recording, even when shooting from a low angle or over the shoulder.
The LUMIX GH6 is equipped with two card slots. The CFexpress (Type B) card supports internal video recording at a high bit rate of 800 Mbps or more, including 5.7K 30p ProRes 422 HQ and C4K 60p ALL-I recording. The SD Memory Card UHS II V90 supports internal video recording at speeds up to 600 Mbps. The two slots allow for Relay Recording, Backup Recording, or Allocation Recording when using an SD card and a CFexpress card.
An HDMI Type A terminal is used as the main connector. Additionally, a cable holder is provided with the camera to prevent accidental disconnection of HDMI/USB cables and damage to the connectors. The LUMIX GH6 supports USB 3.2 Gen 2 for high-speed recording and reading. For user convenience, the high-capacity 2200 mAh battery can be charged via AC power or USB. It also complies with the USB PD (Power Delivery) specification when used with the appropriate DMW-BTC15 charger (sold separately). The LUMIX GH6 also supports Time Code IN/OUT for synchronization via the flash sync terminal, BNC cable, and supplied BNC adapter. Time code synchronization significantly facilitates non-linear editing of footage captured with different cameras.
Wi-Fi 5-GHz (IEEE802.11ac)*2 is an effective addition to the 2.4 GHz (IEEE802.11b/g/n) frequency band. It provides a stable and secure connection not only with a smartphone/tablet but also with other devices for smooth remote operation. The transmission speed of photo/video data also increases when using the 5-GHz band. Compatibility with Bluetooth 5.0 (named BLE: Bluetooth Low Energy) enables a constant connection with a smartphone or tablet with minimal power consumption. The settings of one LUMIX GH6 camera can also be wirelessly sent and copied to other GH6 cameras when more than one GH6 camera is used. The LUMIX Sync app for iOS/Android devices allows easy remote control of the camera from a smartphone or tablet via a wireless connection. In addition to wireless control via the DMW-RS2 remote shutter (sold separately), the LUMIX Tether application software allows remote control of the camera from a computer via a USB connection, as well as viewing images on the large computer screen during shooting.
*1 Splash Resistant is a term used to describe the additional level of protection this camera offers against exposure to a minimal amount of moisture, water or dust. Splash resistance does not guarantee that damage will not occur if this camera comes into direct contact with water.
*2 5GHz Wi-Fi is not available in some countries.
Wide variety of available lenses
Panasonic's LUMIX G series boasts a wide range of 30 Micro Four Thirds lenses to choose from according to your needs. The latest LEICA DG VARIO-SUMMILUX 10-25mm / F1.7 ASPH. (X-H1025) and LEICA DG VARIO-SUMMILUX 25-50mm / F1.7 ASPH. (H-X2550) zoom lenses feature a wide F1.7 aperture throughout the zoom range and are favored by professional filmmakers, as are other F1.2, F1.7 and F2.8 fixed focal length lenses. In addition, the LUMIX GH6 stores the name and focal length of analog lenses, such as anamorphic lenses or older lens models, to automatically provide the appropriate setting for the in-body image stabilizer when these lenses are used.
With future use with the LUMIX GH6 in mind, Panasonic has revised and updated the lens firmware. Autofocus operation can be controlled by half-pressing the shutter button or by pressing the AF-ON button when [200.00p] is set in high frame rate video mode and H-E08018/H-X1025/H-X2550/H-ES12060/H-ES50200/H-RS100400/H-XA025/H-ES200/H-HSA12035/H-FS12060/H-HSA35100/H-FSA45200/H-FSA100300 lenses are used. A similar update is also planned for the H-NS043/H-X012/H-X015 lenses, which will also have focus ring control and improved autofocus operation in 24.00p/23.98p mode. The firmware update for H-NS043/H-X012/H-X015 is scheduled for March 1, 2022.
For more information on lens firmware updates, please refer to the global LUMIX customer support website.
