Netflix approves the LUMIX BGH1 and makes history

It’s been just a little over a year since the LUMIX S1H received Netflix’s approval as a primary camera. Now, the LUMIX BGH1 has made history by becoming the first four-thirds camera that’s earned Netflix’s approval.

Costing less than $2,000, the LUMIX BGH1 is the most affordable camera Netflix has approved as a primary camera. This is great news for independent filmmakers because it will cost less to meet the eligibility requirements. Even with its lower price, it’s quite a capable camera. It houses an M4/3″ 10.2MP sensor with Dual Native ISO, allowing it to operate well in low-light settings. Additionally, it’s capable of recording 4K 60p 10-bit video with unlimited recording. For those that use drones or gimbals during shoots, the BGH1 is less than 4-inch and all sides and weighs just 1.2 lbs. It offers 13 stops of dynamic range, with anamorphic video, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth support. Also, the LUMIX BGH1 uses an MFT lens mount.

Netflix’s preferred shooting settings

Netflix does recommend a few settings to filmmakers looking to use the LUMIX BGH1 for their Netflix projects. Here’s a list of what Netflix recommends for Netflix 4K Originals:

  • System mode: .MOV 4096 x 2160 or 3840×2160
  • Color space: V-Log L
  • Codec: 422/10bit/ALL-I 400 Mbps
  • Anamorphic 4:3 Capture: Academy 4:3→ 4K-A/60p/420/8-L, 4K-A/30p/422/10-I, 4K-A/24p/422/10-I
  • High speed: 4:2:2/10-Bit Uncompressed HDMI output: With an external recorder 60fps 4096 x 2160 or 3840×2160 422/ 10BIT

If you want to look at the full list of Netflix’s camera requirements for the LUMIX BGH1 and other cameras, you can check them out on Netflix’s help page.

Image courtesy: Panasonic

Sean Berry
Sean Berry
Sean Berry is Videomaker's managing editor.

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