Panasonic Lumix DC-GH5

The Panasonic GH5, introduced in 2017, was the first mirrorless camera capable of shooting 4K video with 10-bit color and 4:2:2 croma subsampling. (Wikipedia) We bought it to compliment our GH5S, which is more specialized for video. The GH5 has better photo resolution and better stabilization, whereas the GH5S is better in low-light, with lower noise, and has better slow motion.

We primarily use the GH5 camera for b-roll, photos and for videos which require a gimbal. We occasionally also use it as an extra camera for long-form performances.

We recommend Intelligent Auto mode (iA on the mode dial on top of the camera) for photography and Creative Video mode for videography.

Link to the Manual.

Videographers who use the GH5 complain that focus can be slow and difficult and that brightness is difficult to control. Below is an intro video, as well as and tips for focus and brightness.

Introductory Video

Focus Tips

• These focus tips are for frequently changing/uncontrolled situations, not for something like filming an interview.
• Be sure the AFS/AFF focus mode lever on the upper rear of the camera is set to AFC.
• Press the Fn3 button on the rear right of the camera to bring up the auto focus mode options. Start with the “1-Area” option.
• Visit Panasonic’s web page and/or watch their video below.

Brightness Control Tips

Brightness is controlled by a combination of aperture, ISO and shutter speed. To monitor brightness, add a histogram and/or a zebra pattern on the monitor. (Menu, Cwrench, Exposure…)

The aperture can be changed by the dial on upper right of the camera. ISO can be adjusted via the ISO button on the top of the camera. The shutter speed can only be set in Shutter Priority mode (S on the mode dial).

The Lumix G-series cameras have an important difference from our CX360 camcorders – they don’t have an ND filter switch. You’ll need to screw an ND filter onto the lens when filming outside in bright light.

Note the image displayed on the LCD monitor and the one recorded in the camera are sometimes different. When experimenting with camera settings on important jobs, use the playback button on an early image or clip to double-check what is actually being recorded.

Case & Contents

We keep this camera in a smaller (12x17x7″) hard case. The case should contain:

• The camera itself with a 14-140 Panasonic lens and 2 128 GB SDXC memory cards
• Several charged batteries
• Vello remote shutter release
• AC adapter and DC coupler to power the camera during longer shoots
• Tiffen Variable ND Filter (link to manual)
• Misc. additional accessories