Panasonic Lumix DC-GH5

WHILE photography and film-making used to be distinctly different disciplines, the addition of high- quality video modes to cameras of all shapes and sizes has blurred this distinction, encouraging many photographers to start working with moving images, too. If there’s one range of cameras that’s become synonymous with this convergence, it’s Panasonic’s GH series.

With the GH5, Panasonic has upped the ante for a stills/video hybrid camera in several key respects. Not only can it record 4K video at 60fps – something none of its competitors can match – it’s also capable of recording internally with broadcaststandard 10:2:2 colour at 30fps. Last, but definitely not least, the addition of five-axis in-body image stabilisation and its compatibility with Panasonic’s latest Dual IS 2 when used with optically stabilised lenses make it very usable for handheld video shooting.

The chunky grip, weather-sealed body and extensive external controls make the GH5’s handling and

reliability difficult to fault, while its large, highresolution electronic viewfinder is simply superb. The GH5 is also a very capable stills camera, with image quality that’s competitive with its APS- C rivals. But ultimately it’s the comprehensive video features that stand out, making the GH5 the leader of the pack for those with a specific interest in movie making.