For those of you who are interested in one of the best entryways into digital filmmaking, Panasonic has a treat for you – the all-new, LUMIX GH7. It’s real, it’s officially announced, and if we’re to believe their announcement video, they’re looking to undo the missteps of the GH6.
Panasonic LUMIX GH7 Key Features
- 25.2-megapixel Micro Four-Thirds sensor
- Phase Detect Autofocusing with Improved Subject-Detection
- ISO 100 and ISO 500 in V-log
- Native range ISO 800-2000
- Internal ProRES RAW video recording
- 5.7K/30fps in ProRES
- CF Express Media
- 13-stops dynamic range and Log C3 color profile (with upgrade)
- Frame.io compatibility
Why It Matters
When Panasonic released the LUMIX GH6 in 2022, it felt like it was a rushed product that didn’t quite meet the needs of its video creator audience. To make things worse, the release of the LUMIX G9 II shortly after made the GH6 seem like a bad buy all around. Today’s announcement of the LUMIX GH7 changes this. For starters, the GH7 is packed with features that are a must for video/filmmakers. For starters, the ability to process internal ProRES RAW files is a world’s first. Panasonic has seemingly responded to criticisms of the GH6 with offering Phase Detect autofocusing – which should provide a serious improvement in autofocusing speeds and subject detection. Additionally, with features like native ISO range of 800-2000 and the ability to shoot at ISO100/500 in v-log, the GH7 is the workhorse camera that lives up to the line’s reputation.
Last Thoughts
The Panasonic LUMIX GH7 has been overdue in the very niche world of Micro Four-Thirds filmmaking cameras. There are options like the Blackmagic Design Cinema Camera 6k but don’t offer quality-of-life features like Panasonic’s Active I.S. or the ability to choose between media formats and connecting an external SSD. Add to the fact that it’s a substantially smaller kit that can easily do double duty as a stills camera and it stands to reason that this camera will be the top of the heap in terms of features to price. The LUMIX GH7 is available now for pre-order for $2200. (Panasonic)
