Even though Panasonic has just announced the new full-frame Panasonic LUMIX S9, it appears that Panasonic wasn’t done unveiling new cameras. Panasonic has introduced its latest flagship micro four-thirds mirrorless camera, the Panasonic LUMIX GH7. The new camera is the successor to the popular Panasonic LUMIX GH6, which was released two years ago in 2022. So, what does the new Panasonic LUMIX GH7 have to offer video shooters? Let’s take a look.
25.2 MP sensor
The LUMIX GH7 has a newly developed 25.2 MP BSI (Back Side Illuminated) CMOS sensor. This is the same pixel count as the Panasonic GH6. BSI sensors are designed to increase the light-gathering efficiency of the sensor to deliver higher sensitivity and less noise in the image. The new sensor also features more than 13 stops of dynamic range with its Dynamic Range Boost. Panasonic says that when shooting video over 60 fps the latitude in the image drops to over 12 stops.
ProRes RAW
The LUMIX GH7 features a great range of video recording formats. The camera can internally record up to 5.7K 30p video in both ProRes 422 HQ and ProRes RAW HQ. You can also shoot DCI 4K or UHD 4K in 10-bit 4:2:2 at up to 60p and 10-bit 4:2:0 at up to 120 fps. In addition, the GH7 offers 5.8K full-sensor open gate recording at up to 30p. The camera has an internal cooling fan to avoid overheating. As a result, Panasonic says the GH7 delivers unlimited video recording up to C4K 60p.
Autofocus
The LUMIX GH7 features PDAF (Phase Detection Autofocus) for high speed, high precision autofocus performance. There is also newly added real-time autofocus recognition for airplanes and trains. In addition, the GH7 has improved image stabilization (IS) technology which includes perspective distortion correction for videos. The High mode in Active IS enables powerful compensation when shooting on the move.
32-bit float audio recording
The LUMIX GH7 is the world’s first interchangeable lens digital camera to offer 32-bit float audio recording. 32-bit float audio has such a large dynamic range that you don’t need to set recording levels. However, you will need to buy the optional DMW-XLR2 XLR microphone adapter to take advantage of this feature.
Other features
The Panasonic LUMIX GH7 features both CFexpress Type B and UHS-II SD card slots. You will need to use a CFexpress card to record ProRes 422 HQ and ProRes RAW. The camera also offers a Real Time LUT feature so you can load LUTs and apply them to your recordings. In addition, the GH7 offers proxy recording for an efficient workflow and supports native Camera to Cloud integration with Adobe’s Frame.io. The camera is designed to withstand harsh environments with dust and splash resistance as well as freeze-resistance down to 14o F (-10o C).
What we think
The LUMIX GH7 has an impressive video recording specification, worthy of its flagship moniker. Internal ProRes HQ and ProRes RAW recording ensure the highest quality video. The camera also offers a great range of high frame rate options for slow-motion recording. In addition, the option for internal 32-bit float audio is a welcome feature. Previously, ProRes RAW video and 32-bit float audio would have required you to attach a couple of extra pieces of kit to your camera. Having these features available internally will be welcomed, especially by solo shooters. The LUMIX GH7 is sure to be another very popular camera for micro four-thirds shooters.
Availability
The Panasonic LUMIX GH7 will be available as a body-only option for $2,199. It is scheduled to ship in July 2024. The DMW-XLR2 microphone adapter will retail at $499.
