Panasonic Lumix GH6 review

Panasonic’s latest release cements the Panasonic’s Lumix G range as the absolute standard for Micro Four Thirds cameras. Packed to the brim with new features and capabilities, the Panasonic Lumix GH6 leaves nothing to the imagination.

 The question of full frame versus Micro Four Thirds sensors has been a hot topic for filmmakers and cinematographers for as long as I can remember. While the past few years has seen full frame pull ahead, this addition could serve as the defining pillar of the Micro Four Thirds format.

Need to know
This interchangeable lens camera offers unlimited C4K/4K 60p 4:2:2 10-bit recording, 7.5-stops 5-axis Image Stabilizer, 4-channel XLR audio recording, and an adjustable monitor to ensure that no attachment will inhabit you capturing the perfect scene. If you are a filmmaker and none of that excites you, simply nothing will.

Design and Body
As technology evolves, sleekness and size become main concerns for designers. This means connectivity and adaptability can be amongst the first victims in favor of aesthetics. This is not the case with the GH6.

A full-size HDMI port allows you to output the aforementioned C4K/4K 60p 4:2:2 10-bit recording, as well as headphone and microphone ports and a USB-C port that can be utilized for charging, transferring files and an upcoming firmware update will even allow you to record directly to an external SSD.

There are two memory card slots. One for your standard SD card and one for a CF express Type B card.

 As stated, the monitor is completely adjustable and bendable allowing you access to all of these ports without the worry that you are obstructing your view. The touchscreen monitor displays 3:2 aspect with 1,840K-dot high resolution for a clear, crisp picture.

The OLED viewfinder features a high magnification ratio of 1.52x / 0.76x (35mm camera equivalent).

A second record button has been added, with vlogging specifically in mind, making it easy to record yourself on the go as easily as possible.

The lightweight DSLR-inspired body is reminiscent of Panasonic’s past designs, which works in its favor as the familiarity works in conjunction with the new features to allow for an experience that remains exciting without being overstimulating.

Autofocus
The GH6’s contrast based DFD autofocus setup allows for a wide range of features. Panasonic’s face detection and tracking feature works incredibly well here to ensure that even when moving, constant adjustments don't have to be made so that you can move and record freely.

As this is a popular product amongst filmmakers, manual focus is always an option. The GH6 has this in mind and introduces a feature in which the viewfinder or monitor will preview a zoom-in image of your subject as you adjust the lens, to ensure that your image is perfect. This makes perfect use of the camera’s high-tech hardware without trampling your auteur spirit. 

A Filmmaker’s Camera
Panasonic are aware of who exactly their market is for this camera. They are making their move on the filmmaker’s market with this model, while not abandoning their photographers. All the same favorites that have secured the Lumix G range amongst seasoned photographers are still there and more, but massive and subtle differences alike make this camera stand out for those capturing video.

Another hole has been placed in front of the tripod threads which allow for the use of anti-rotation pin, this seemingly small addition can yield massive results for filmmakers and is typically found on camera’s intended purely for cinematic filmmaking.

This can also be hugely beneficial for vlogging, given your content that extra-professional look. As well as the second record button, The Lumix-6’s facial recognition software allows the focus to adapt appropriately to facial movements meaning that your video will be flawless and able to stand on its own in an increasingly competitive field.

Out and about
The sheer number of features built into this camera’s relatively small frame means one thing: You will never be caught ill equipped to capture that perfect moment. Timing is everything in filmmaking and you need to know that you will be ready to film at a moment's notice. With the Autofocus capabilities mentioned as well as the user-friendly layout, there’s no need to waste precious time adjusting when you rest assured that your preferences are ready to go, and your vision can be captured.

Verdict
What more can be said about this powerhouse of a camera. The sheer adaptability of this model cannot be denied. While some may turn their heads at the idea of Micro Four Thirds over Full Frame, see how those critics when your footage is uploaded. I recommend the option that includes the Leica 12 -60 F2.8-4 Lens (always best to be absolutely confident that your attachments and equipment gel together), but even on its own, the Panasonic Lumix GH6 is sure to be one of the defining pieces of equipment for the next generation of filmmakers and photographers.