Panasonic introduces new hybrid cameras

Panasonic wants to further expand its portfolio in the full-frame segment. The company has now presented two GH models that are supposed to please photo and video fans this year. We take a closer look at the upcoming Micro Four Thirds cameras.

New hybrid models

The lineup in Panasonic’s GH series includes special hybrid models. These are intended to be an interface between photo and video cameras. Back in 2017, the company presented its first model in this line, the Lumix GH5. At least among makers of moving images, this device still enjoys great popularity today. Thus, the camera offers pleasing features like a high resolution in 4K and a frame rate of 60 fps. Panasonic is now going by the motto “make two out of one” and wants to release two successors for the GH5 at once.

The direct successor can already be identified by its name. The Lumix GH5 II is not an entirely new creation, but rather an update of the 2017 model. Thus, the company also installs the familiar Micro Four Thirds sensor here, which offers a resolution of 20 megapixels. However, Panasonic now gives the slightly dusty sensor an anti-reflective coating. This should not only increase the dynamic range, but also reduce light reflections. However, nothing is supposed to change in terms of image sharpness and fluidity. Here, razor-sharp recordings in 4K with 60 fps are still possible.

Improved image processing

Even though image sharpness and frame rate remain identical, the final results are supposed to turn out prettier. The reason for this is, among other things, the revised Venus Engine image processing. Thanks to the interaction with Panasonic’s latest in-house Deep Learning technology, you should be able to benefit from an improved autofocus in particular. Not only the software, but also the operation has changed a lot. According to Panasonic, the touch display of the camera has been revised.

The popular folding mechanism is still present, but the picture quality of the new display is said to be far better than its predecessor. The camera’s streaming feature also sounds particularly handy. Thanks to the larger battery, which now has almost 350 mAh more capacity with 2,200 mAh, even longer live streams should not be a problem. Panasonic plans to launch its new GH5 II in June. The MSRP for the basic configuration is 1,699 euros.

Thrilling preview of upcoming flagship model

But Panasonic isn’t just looking to launch an update to an older camera. A new series flagship is to be launched with the Lumix GH6. However, the company has not yet revealed much information about the new flagship model. However, the few key specs that have already been leaked read well. In addition to a high 4K resolution, the GH6 is supposed to be able to record moving images in up to 120 fps. Furthermore, features like HFR and VFR are supposed to provide great gimmicks like time-lapse or slow-motion recordings. At the heart of the GH6 is a newly developed Micro Four Thirds sensor.

The GH6 will also continue to be promoted as a hybrid camera. Still, it’s becoming increasingly apparent that Panasonic is making audible moviemakers happy, especially with the GH6 and the GH series in general. It is therefore possible that the company will fully focus on this niche for the next generation. Those interested in the GH6 will have to wait a bit longer than for the GH5 II. It is scheduled to go on sale at the end of 2021. On the other hand, it is still uncertain what the RRP will be for interested buyers. Panasonic has only emphasized that new lenses will also be released in the course of the release.