What’s New? The GH4 was quite advanced for a hybrid photo/video mirrorless camera, and the GH5 does everything it did but better. Now, the GH5S addresses the video specific complaints of the users of Panasonic’s p0. Dual native ISO of 400 & 2500 extends dynamic range in more shooting situations, especially when paired with the GH5S’s preinstalled V-Log L.

DCI 4K At 60 Frames Per Second. Even with the reduced resolution of the sensor, Panasonic made sure users can still shoot in DCI and UHD 4K. The camera supports 4K/60p in 4:2:0 8-bit, but drop the frame rate to 30p for glorious 4K 4:2:2 10-bit at 400Mbps. High frame rate shooting gets a boost to 240 fps in 1080p.

V-LogL Upgrade Pre-Installed. Panasonic did everyone a solid and decided to preinstall the V-Log L upgrade on all GH5S cameras. This provides an extremely flat gamma curve and image that’s capable of 12-stops of dynamic range for additional latitude when grading your footage.

But What About Still Photography? While headlining feature upgrades are primarily video-centric, the GH5S adds 14-bit raw for photos and at 14 fps. The improved Depth From Defocus system offers faster, more accurate performance in low-light situations with sensitivity from -5 EV. We wouldn’t recommend this over other cameras for print work, but these additions will be welcome for web-centric shooters.

Timecode In/Out. What? BNC Timecode in or out on a mirrorless camera? Panasonic added this feature, usually only found on professional camcorder systems, by way of a sync port to BNC converter cable. We don’t include the adapter cable by default. If you need it, let us know in the special instructions when you place your order.

Q & A

What kind of card do I need to shoot 4K 10-bit 4:2:2 video?

• In order to use the 400Mbps 4K recording mode without a record limit, Panasonic recommends V90 rated cards. Currently, this is what we recommend.

Do you include the cable holder adapter?

• Since this is not a required accessory, we do not include the cable holder with the rental. However, if you need this accessory, you can request it be sent in the special instructions box at checkout.

Does this camera have V-Log L?

• Yes. All GH5S cameras come pre-installed with V-Log L.

Do you recommend this camera for still photographers?

• In most aspects, this camera is inferior to the GH5 for still photography, and we wouldn’t recommend it.

Does this rental include the BNC timecode adapter cable?

• We don’t include the adapter cable, but if you need it, just request it in the special instructions at checkout.

Check out some thoughts on this camera from our sister company Lensrentals!