The Panasonic GH4 is a highly-acclaimed mirrorless camera that has made a significant impact in the world of photography and videography. Released in 2014, this camera has been a game-changer for many professionals and enthusiasts alike. In this article, we will delve into the history of the GH4, its key features, and what made it so popular among users.
The Pre-History Of The GH4: Understanding The GH Series
To appreciate the GH4, we need to understand its predecessors and the evolution of the GH series. The first camera in this series was the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH1, released in 2009. This camera was a significant step forward in the development of mirrorless cameras, offering a compact and lightweight design, advanced autofocus, and Full HD video recording.
The GH1 was followed by the GH2 in 2010, which improved upon its predecessor with a higher-resolution sensor and enhanced video capabilities. The GH3, released in 2012, further refined the design and added features such as Wi-Fi connectivity and weather-sealing.
The Emergence Of 4K Video: A New Era For The GH Series
The GH4 marked a significant milestone in the GH series, as it was the first camera to offer 4K video recording at a cinematic 24/30p and an ultra-wide bit rate of 200 Mbps. This feature was made possible by the camera’s new quad-core Venus image processing engine, which enabled faster data transfer rates and improved overall performance.
What is 4K Video, and Why is it Important?
4K video, also known as Ultra HD (UHD), is a resolution of 3840 x 2160 pixels, offering four times the resolution of Full HD (1920 x 1080). This increased resolution provides a more detailed and immersive viewing experience, making it ideal for applications such as cinematography, documentary filmmaking, and high-end advertising.
The introduction of 4K video in the GH4 was a significant innovation that made it an instant hit among videographers and filmmakers. The camera’s ability to capture high-quality 4K footage at an affordable price point made it an attractive option for professionals and enthusiasts alike.
Key Features Of The Panasonic GH4
So, what made the GH4 so special? Here are some of its key features:
- 16.05-megapixel Live MOS sensor: This sensor provided excellent image quality, with reduced noise and improved low-light performance.
- 4K video recording: The GH4 was one of the first cameras to offer 4K video recording at 24/30p and an ultra-wide bit rate of 200 Mbps.
- Venus image processing engine: This quad-core processor enabled faster data transfer rates and improved overall performance.
- Weather-sealing: The GH4 featured a sealed magnesium alloy body that protected the camera from dust and moisture.
- Built-in Wi-Fi: This feature allowed users to transfer images and video wirelessly to their smartphones or computers.
- 3-inch OLED monitor: The GH4 boasted a high-resolution OLED monitor that offered improved color accuracy and contrast.
Pros And Cons Of The GH4
While the GH4 was a groundbreaking camera, it did have some limitations. Here are some of its pros and cons:
- Pros:
- Excellent image quality
- 4K video recording capabilities
- Fast and accurate autofocus
- Weather-sealing for improved durability
- Cons:
- High price point (especially when compared to Full HD cameras)
- Limited battery life (due to high power consumption)
- No built-in ND filter (for videographers)
When Did The GH4 Come Out?
The Panasonic GH4 was announced on February 7, 2014, at the CP+ 2014 camera show in Yokohama, Japan. It began shipping in May 2014 and was widely available by June 2014.
Pricing And Packages
When the GH4 was released, it was available in several packages and bundle deals. Here are some of the original prices and configurations:
- Body only: The GH4 body was priced at $1,498 (USD).
- Kit with 14-140mm lens: This bundle included the GH4 body and a 14-140mm f/3.5-5.6 ASPH OIS lens, priced at $1,998 (USD).
- Deluxe kit: This premium bundle included the GH4 body, 14-140mm lens, and a variety of accessories such as a battery grip, a memory card, and a lens cleaning kit, priced at $2,498 (USD).
Legacy Of The GH4: A Game-Changer In The Camera Industry
The Panasonic GH4 was a groundbreaking camera that played a significant role in shaping the camera industry. It introduced 4K video recording to a wide audience, making it an attractive option for professionals and enthusiasts alike.
The GH4 also inspired a new generation of mirrorless cameras, with many manufacturers (such as Sony, Fujifilm, and Canon) following suit with their own 4K-capable offerings.
Impact On The Camera Industry
The GH4 had a significant impact on the camera industry, driving innovation and pushing the boundaries of what was possible with mirrorless cameras. Here are some ways in which the GH4 influenced the industry:
- Cinematic 4K video recording became a standard feature in high-end cameras.
- The demand for mirrorless cameras increased, driving growth in the market.
- Manufacturers began investing in research and development, leading to improved camera technologies and new features.
In conclusion, the Panasonic GH4 was a groundbreaking camera that made a significant impact in the world of photography and videography. Released in 2014, it introduced 4K video recording to a wide audience, becoming a game-changer in the camera industry.
What Is The Panasonic GH4 And Why Is It Significant?
The Panasonic GH4 is a mirrorless digital camera that was announced by Panasonic on February 7, 2014. It is significant because it was the first camera to offer 4K video recording at a consumer-level price point, making it accessible to filmmakers and videographers who previously could not afford high-end professional cameras.
The Panasonic GH4 has been widely praised for its excellent video quality, impressive autofocus, and durable build. It has been adopted by many professional filmmakers and videographers as a primary or secondary camera, and has been used on a variety of high-profile productions, including feature films, TV shows, and commercials.
When Was The Panasonic GH4 Released?
The Panasonic GH4 was officially released in the United States on May 5, 2014. However, it was available for pre-order on March 5, 2014, and some retailers began shipping the camera before the official release date.
In other regions, such as Japan and Europe, the Panasonic GH4 was released slightly earlier, with some retailers shipping the camera as early as April 2014. Overall, the camera was widely available to consumers in the spring of 2014.
What Features Made The Panasonic GH4 So Revolutionary?
The Panasonic GH4 was revolutionary for several reasons, but primarily because it offered 4K video recording at a relatively low price point. It also featured a 16.05-megapixel Micro Four Thirds sensor, a 3.0-inch touchscreen LCD, and a high-speed AF system.
Additionally, the Panasonic GH4 included a wide range of advanced features, such as a weather-sealed magnesium alloy body, excellent low-light performance, and a built-in Wi-Fi module for wireless connectivity. The camera’s combination of high-quality video and stills, along with its advanced features and affordable price, made it a game-changer in the world of digital cameras.
Did The Panasonic GH4 Have Any Major Competitors At The Time?
Yes, the Panasonic GH4 had several major competitors at the time of its release. One of its main competitors was the Sony A7S, which was also capable of recording 4K video and offered excellent low-light performance.
Another major competitor was the Canon EOS 1D C, which was a professional-grade DSLR camera that offered 4K video recording at a much higher price point. However, the Panasonic GH4 offered a unique combination of features, quality, and affordability that made it stand out from its competitors.
What Kind Of Accessories Were Available For The Panasonic GH4?
A wide range of accessories were available for the Panasonic GH4, including lenses, batteries, grips, and external microphones. Panasonic offered several lenses that were specifically designed to work with the GH4, including a range of Micro Four Thirds lenses.
Third-party manufacturers also offered a variety of accessories for the Panasonic GH4, including external recorders, grips, and cages. These accessories allowed users to customize and add functionality to their cameras, and enhance their shooting experience.
Is The Panasonic GH4 Still A Relevant Camera Today?
Yes, the Panasonic GH4 is still a relevant camera today, despite the fact that it was released several years ago. Its 4K video recording capabilities, weather-sealed body, and advanced autofocus system make it a versatile camera that can still produce high-quality footage.
Many filmmakers and videographers still use the Panasonic GH4 as a primary or secondary camera, and it remains a popular choice for professionals and enthusiasts alike. Additionally, the camera’s firmware has been updated several times since its release, which has added new features and functionality to the camera.
What Legacy Has The Panasonic GH4 Left In The World Of Filmmaking?
The Panasonic GH4 has left a lasting legacy in the world of filmmaking, primarily because it democratized 4K video recording and made it accessible to a wide range of filmmakers. Its release marked a turning point in the adoption of 4K technology, and paved the way for the widespread use of 4K-capable cameras in the film and television industry.
The Panasonic GH4 also influenced the design and development of subsequent cameras, including several models from Panasonic and other manufacturers. Its legacy can be seen in the many cameras that have followed in its footsteps, offering advanced features, high-quality video, and affordability to filmmakers and videographers.