Something In The Box From Panasonic
Panasonic has launched its first boxform video camera, the Lumix BGH1, which uses the Micro Four Thirds lens mount. The compact cube shape is very versatile in video-making and cinematography, enabling the camera to be more easily configured in a cage with accessories such as an external monitor and recorder. It’s also easier to use with a gimbal or mount in a pro-grade drone. The construction employs a combination of magnesium alloy and aluminium, so the BGH1 weighs in at a very modest 545 grams.
However, on the inside the BGH1 has the capabilities of a pro-level video camera, starting with 4K DCI and 4K UHD recording internally at 50/60p with 10-bit 4:2:0 colour. It delivers a 10-bit 4:2:2 output via its HDMI output. The camera records video with a designated gamma curve compatible with ITU-R BT.2100, and Hybrid Log Gamma (HLG) is available for C4K/4K recording with the efficient HEVC/H.265 compression. The camera is pre-installed with the V-Log L gamma profile, giving a dynamic range of 13 stops. The Variable Frame Rate function is available for overcranked/undercranked (i.e. slow/ quick) video in C4K/4K (60fps for
2.5x slower in 24p) and FHD (240fps, representing 10x slower in 24p).
The minimum frame rate for quick motion video is 2fps. A special heat dissipation arrangements allows for unlimited recording durations. Internal recording is to an SD memory card and the camera has two slots that support UHS-II Video Speed Class 90 devices. The slots can be configured for relay or backup recording.
The BGH1 has a 10.28 megapixels (effective resolution) M43 Live MOS sensor employing Panasonic’s Dual Native ISO technology. The dual base ISOs are set at 160 and 180, with the full sensitivity range extending from ISO 160 to 51,200 (and extendable to ISO 80 and 204,800). The
Dual Base ISO arrangement uses dual gain read-out modes from the sensor that gives improved performance at the higher ISO settings, derived from a significant reduction in noise levels.
The camera’s contrastdetection autofocusing uses subject recognition, based on deep learning algorithms, for identifying and tracking people’s faces, and fast-moving animals. In addition to eye-, face- and body-detection options, a head can also be separately recognised by real-time detection technology to provide more precise focusing.
Connectivity is obviously key to a camera like this, so the BGH1 has USB 3.1 Type C, 3G-SDI and HDMI Type A terminals that can be used for simultaneous output. GenLock In and time code in/out functions allow for multiangle synchronised video recording. Up to 12 BGH1 cameras can be controlled using the Lumix Tether for Multicam and Lumix Sync. A future firmware update will additionally support wired IP streaming (RTP/RTSP). The camera has both Wi-Fi and Bluetooth 4.2 wireless connectivity. There’s also an XLR microphone connection.
The Lumix BGH1 is available now priced at $3,099 body only. For more information visit www.panasonic. com.au