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Panasonic, a leader in Digital Single Lens Mirrorless (DSLM) technology, announced today pricing and availability of its much-anticipated LUMIX GH4. The GH4, the world’s first DSLM with 4K cinematic recording capability designed for both still photographers and cinematographers will be available for pre-order starting today.

The LUMIX GH4 camera body (DMC-GH4K) will be available at $1699.99 and the Video Adapter for cinematography (DMW-YAGH) will be $1999.99

This will inevitably leave some people torn. For a 4K shooter it’s practically a steal and the sample footage out so far seems to indicate that it performs very well indeed. But $1,700 for a Micro Four Thirds mirrorless camera body only is going to strike anybody NOT concerned with video as outrageously steep, no matter how good pros who have tried it say the stills are.

Panasonic GH4 4K sample

 

Description

Panasonic is proud to introduce the ultimate still/video Digital Single Lens Mirrorless (DSLM) camera for both photographers and cinematographers alike. The Panasonic LUMIX DMC-GH4 Body is the world’s first DSLM with 4K cinematic recording capability. The image quality for both still and video is dramatically improved by Panasonic’s cutting-edge technologies.

The newly developed 16.05-megapixel Digital Live MOS Sensor for the GH4 excels both in sensitivity and response and suppresses rolling shutter effect even when using the electronic shutter. The Venus Engine image processor has been newly developed dramatically boosting its performance with a new quad-core CPU that allows high speed signal processing that is required for rich 4K video recording. Integrating superior noise reduction systems, the GH4 enables shooting at maximum ISO 25,600. Sensitivity, gradation performance, resolution and color reproduction are dramatically improved to achieve even higher picture quality. The GH4 boasts high speed burst shooting at 12 frames per second (AFS) up to approx.40 (including RAW) / approx.100 (excluding RAW) and 7.0 fps(AFC) to capture fast moving subjects.

The new GH4 has evolved into a professional video camera. One of the most prominent advances is unlimited 4K video recording (Cinema 4K: 4096×2160 / 24 fps and QFHD 4K: 3840×2160 / up to 30 fps) in MOV/MP4. The GH4 is also capable of recording Full- HD video with ultra high bit rate at 200 Mbps (ALL-Intra) or 100 Mbps (IPB) without recording time limit. Users can freely choose the format from MOV, MP4, AVCHD Progressive and AVCHD at a variety of frame rates according to the usage. For professionals working globally, the system frequency can be easily selected between 59.94Hz (23.98Hz) / 50.00Hz / 24.00Hz. The GH4 is also capable of real-time image output to an external monitor via an optional micro HDMI cable simultaneously while recording video. For more unique video expression, VFR(Variable Frame Rate) or Time Lapse/Stop Motion Animation can be produced with GH4 without postproduction processing. In addition, a variety of practical functions required for professional video recording are newly integrated.

The high-precision Contrast AF system in the GH4 is further enhanced by Panasonic’s integration of DFD (Depth from Defocus) technology which shortens the time to focus to achieve ultra high speed AF of approx.0.07 sec. Not only speed but also the operability is enhanced thanks to the addition of Face / Eye Detection AF or 49-point AF with Custom Multi AF mode.

The GH4 boasts newly developed high-precision, high-speed dual OLED (Organic Light-Emitting Diode) displays of 2,359K-dot LVF (Live View Finder) and 1,036K-dot rear monitor. Both the LVF and rear monitor adopt an OLED to achieve high speed response with minimum time lag while enhancing the resolution. Notably, the OLED for the LVF in GH4 boasts 10,000:1 high contrast for superior color reproduction.

To be tough enough to withstand heavy field use, the main structure of the GH4 is composed of a magnesium alloy full die cast front/rear frame. It also features splash / dustproof construction by sealing every joint, dial, and button. The shutter unit allows a max. 1/8000 shutter release and is also redesigned to be even more durable for approx. 200,000 actuations.

16.05 Megapixel Digital Live MOS Sensor
The 16.05-megapixel Digital Live MOS Sensor achieves high quality, high sensitivity image recording with its quick response. An approximately 50% higher speed signal readout suppresses the effect of a rolling shutter when using electronic shutter or recording video. The Live MOS Sensor delivers an expanded gradation range by a maximum1/3 step at low ISOs. Superior noise reduction allows for exposures up to 60 minutes long.

Wi-Fi with NFC Technology
The Panasonic LUMIX DMC-GH4 integrates Wi-Fi connectivity with NFC (Near Field Communication) technology. With the Panasonic Image App, remote photo and video shooting is available with a compatible smartphone or tablet, and can easily add embed geotag data in an image after shooting. Even if a smartphone / tablet is incompatible with NFC, you can still be easily connect to the camera by scanning the QR code displayed on the GH4’s monitor from your mobile device.

VFR (Variable Frame Rate) Time Lapse Shot / Stop Motion Animation
The VFR (Variable Frame Rate) enables Full-HD video recording with slow/fast motion such as 96 fps / 4x. Time Lapse Shot and Stop Motion Animation produce a stop motion (stop frame) video with sequential pictures. Both are created in-camera without any postproduction process.

Selectable System Frequency
For the global business and professional user, the system frequency is flexible from 59.94Hz (23.98Hz) / 50.00Hz / 24.00Hz.

Superb Mobility & High-Speed Response
The Panasonic LUMIX DMC-GH4 delivers superb mobility and high-speed response. The high-precision Contrast AF integrates DFD (Depth from Defocus) technology to achieve ultra high speed AF of approximately 0.07 sec. The burst shooting power is boosted to 12 fps (AFS), and both 2,359K-dot LVF (Live View Finder) and 1,036K-dot rear monitor adopt OLED to minimize time lag while enhancing the resolution.

Superb Picture Quality for Lifelike Textures
The Panasonic LUMIX GH4’s Venus Engine image processor is equipped with a quad-core CPU that delivers high speed signal processing. Combined with the Digital Live MOS Sensor, you’ll enjoy dramatically improved sensitivity (maximum ISO 25600), gradation performance, resolution, and color reproduction while achieving exceptional picture quality with a natural look and feel that LUMIX is famous for.

Electronic Shutter & Silent Mode
The Panasonic LUMIX DMC-GH4 boasts an electronic shutter. The high-speed signal readout from the Live MOS Sensor minimizes rolling shutter effect. The Silent mode switches the shutter from mechanical to electronic and turns off sounds, while suppressing the AF assist lamp and flash with just a single setting for special shooting occasions.

High Performance Professional Shutter
The shutter unit boasts professional graded added durability delivering approximately 200,000 release times. You’ll be empowered with a maximum shutter speed of 1/8000 second, not only for capturing spur-of-the-moment fast moving subjects, but also using a high-speed lens with an open aperture even in outdoors to achieve the desired defocus effect. Both the built-in and external flash can be synchronized with a maximum 1/250 second shutter speed.

Reliable Durability
Tough enough to withstand even heavy field use, the Panasonic LUMIX DMC-GH4 is composed of a magnesium alloy full die cast front / rear frame. It also features splash/ dustproof construction with sealing on every joint, dial, and button. The shutter unit is designed for durability and delivers approximately 200,000 release times.

49-Area AF/ Custom Multi AF
Focus point is increased from 23 points in the LUMIX GH3 to 49 points in the LUMIX GH4 for more flexibility in your composition. Custom Multi mode extends that flexibility even more with the ability to freely select the blocks to focus out of the 49 focusing areas.

Real-Time Output with HDMI
The Panasonic LUMIX DMC-GH4 is capable of real-time image output (4:2:2 / 8 bit or 4:2:2 / 10 bit) to the external monitor via an optional micro HDMI cable. This is perfect for professional video making that requires serious monitoring. Choose to output only the recording content, or the content with the setting menus individually, depending on the display.

In-Camera RAW Data Development 
The Panasonic LUMIX DMC-GH4 delivers RAW images in-camera. The color space setting (sRGB / AdobeRGB), white balance, exposure compensation, contrast, highlight / shadow, saturation, noise reduction, and sharpness or hue can be flexibly adjusted while LUMIX’ s Photo Style, Intelligent D-Range Control, and Intelligent Resolution can also be applied.

Photo Style
You can choose color or texture type for photos and videos from Standard / Vivid / Natural / Monochrome / Scenery / Portrait. Contrast, sharpness, noise reduction, saturation, and hue parameter for each mode can be adjusted and even set into the camera’s memory.

Professional Video Functions

Time Code
SMPTE-compliant Time Code in Rec Run or Free Run makes it easy to synchronize multiple videos or sound sources in the postproduction process.

Color Bars & 1KHz Test Tone
Color Bars (SMPTE / EBU / ARIB Standard) are used as a benchmark for fixing color or brightness. 1KHz Test Tone is used as a benchmark for fixing sound or volume.

Center Marker
Center Marker works as a guide mark for video image composition. Simply display it at the center of the viewing angle.

Synchro Scan
Use Synchro Scan to suppress flicker over the TV / PC monitor, or when shooting under fluorescent lights.

Cinelike Gamma
“CINELIKE D” and “CINELIKE V” create a cinema-like tone to expand your creativity.

Master Pedestal
Use Master Pedestal to adjust the brightness balance ?15 steps based on the color black.

Zebra Pattern
Determine overexposed areas with the Zebra Pattern before or during shooting. This pattern can even be output to the external monitor too.

Pro Quality Video Creation
The Panasonic LUMIX DMC-GH4 continues to evolve delivering professional quality video. Take advantage of 4K (Cinema 4K: 4096×2160 / 24 fps and QFHD 4K: 3840×2160 / up to 30 fps) video recording in MOV/MP4, or ultra high bitrate video recording at 200 Mbps (ALL-Intra) or 100 Mbps (IPB) without a recording time limit.1 2 Discover a variety of high-end functions for professional video recording.

Focus Peaking
Focus Peaking shows the peak of focus in MF and AF+MF mode. Users can see the peak of focus while monitoring the subject in live view. Focus Peaking is also available in remote photo / video shooting with a smartphone or tablet via Wi-Fi.

Highlight / Shadow Control
Highlight and shadow can be separately adjusted with the front or rear dial. Three patterns of settings can be customized in addition to 3 preset patterns.

Dual OLED Displays – LVF & Monitor
The Panasonic LUMIX DMC-GH4 boasts high-precision, high-speed dual OLED (Organic Light-Emitting Diode) displays for 2,359K-dot LVF (Live View Finder) of approximately 1.34x / 0.67x, and 3.0-inch 1,036K-dot free-angle rear monitor. These superior displays achieve high-speed response with minimum time lag while enhancing resolution. The OLED for the LVF boasts 10,000:1 high contrast for superior color reproduction.
35mm camera equivalent

Venus Engine Advanced Image Processor 
The Venus Engine image processor dramatically boosts performance with a quad-core CPU, enabling high-speed signal processing required for rich video recording such as 4K. Integrating superior noise reduction systems, DMC-GH4 successfully shoots at a maximum ISO 25600. Sensitivity, gradation performance, resolution, and color reproduction are dramatically improved to achieve even higher picture quality.

Magnesium Alloy Body & Rugged Design
Tough enough to withstand even heavy field use, the Panasonic LUMIX DMC-GH4 is composed of a magnesium alloy full die cast front / rear frame. It also features splash / dustproof construction with sealing on every joint, dial, and button.

Professional 4K Video Interface Unit (Optional)
The Interface Unit (AG-YAGHG) is offered exclusively for professional / industrial workflows enabling more powerful video transmission. It complies with Full HD (4:2:2 / 10 bit) four parallel output, or 4K (4:2:2 / 10bit) output, both with time code. The 2ch XLR input terminals are equipped for a line or condenser microphone. Left / Right microphone volume can be controlled separately, and complies with 12V DC IN.

4K Video Recording with Simultaneous 8.8 MP Photo Capture
One of the most prominent features of Panasonic LUMIX GH4 is unlimited2 4K video recording in both Cinema 4K: 4096×2160 / 24 fps, and QFHD 4K: 3840×2160 / up to 30 fps in MOV/MP43. Print ready high resolution 8.8 megapixel still frames can be recorded during video capture, making future proofed Hybrid Photography a reality for any photographer. [4096×2160 – 8.847MP during Cine 4K].

Face / Eye Detection AF
In addition to the conventional Face Recognition AF, the DMC-GH4 incorporates Face / Eye Detection AF which automatically sets focus right on the face or on the eye within the face.

Seamless Magnification of 1-Area Focus Point
The 1-Area AF section can be seamlessly magnified not only in manual focus but also in auto focus mode.

Terminals for Expanded Connectivity
The Panasonic LUMIX DMC-GH4 comes with a variety of connection terminals including the 3.5mm microphone and 3.5mm headphone jacks. Take advantage of real-time image output on the external monitor via an optional HDMI micro cable while simultaneously recording video. AV outputs, flash sync terminal, and 2.5mm jack for remote controller are also available. The GH4 complies with the SDXC / SDHC Memory Card UHS Speed Class 3 (U3).

Expandability for Extreme Flexibility
The expansive flexibility of Panasonic LUMIX DMC-GH4 goes far beyond the limits of conventional Digital Single Lens Mirrorless cameras. The GH4 incorporates Wi-Fi with NFC Technology and in-camera RAW shooting. Expand your shooting options with an External Flash (DMW-FL580L), Stereo/Shotgun Microphone (DMW-MS2), or Battery Grip (DMW-BGGH3) for professional photography and videography.

Optimum Layout of Controls
For quick, intuitive control, 3 dials are equipped on the top and back of the camera, and the main dial is equipped with a lock structure. A dedicated button allows direct reach to exposure compensation, white balance adjustment, or ISO setting. A maximum of 5 settings can be assigned to the Fn button. These external components are designed for ease of use without taking your eyes off the viewfinder.

High-Speed Burst Shooting
The Panasonic LUMIX DMC-GH4 boasts high-speed burst shooting at 12 fps (AFS) with up to approximately 40 (including RAW) / approximately 100 (excluding RAW) recordable images, and 7.5 fps (AFC) to capture fast moving subjects in clear focus. Together with the quick start-up and short release time lag, the DMC-GH4 never lets you miss a shooting opportunity.

Contrast AF with DFD Technology
The advanced Contrast AF system with DFD (Depth from Defocus) technology shortens the time to focus. The Panasonic LUMIX DMC-GH4 determines the distance to the subject by evaluating 2 images with different depth of field, while consulting the data of optical characteristics by using the lens, all within a moment. As a result, ultra high-speed AF of approximately 0.07 sec is achieved.

Versatile Video Recording Formats
The Panasonic LUMIX DMC-GH4 is capable of ultra high bitrate video recording at 200 Mbps (ALL-Intra) or 100 Mbps (IPB), with no recording time limit1 2. Freely choose the format from MOV, MP4, AVCHD Progressive, and AVCHD at a variety of frame rates. In MP4 / MOV, high quality sound in LPCM (Linear Pulse Code Modulation) is recordable.

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