When the GH5 was released, Panasonic prefaced the introduction by announcing two future firmware updates for the camera. The first came in April, bringing with it the ability to capture 10-bit 4:2:2 in 1080p and UHD 4K in a 4:3 anamorphic mode. Panasonic is now looking like it is making good on its promise with a second firmware update recently publishing the full notes for the 2.0 firmware. The new update brings new features to the flagship camera along with changes from user feedback.

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“At the launch of the GH5, we announced further key updates to come. Not only are we delivering on this functionality, but we have also added a number of other major improvements via this firmware release that we’re sure will satisfy our key GH5 customers,” said Doug Campbell, Category Manager AV and Imaging, Panasonic

As promised, the update brings 400Mbps All-I compression options in 4K (200Mbps in 1080) and higher resolution 4:3 video capture for shooting with anamorphic lenses.  Along with the new ALL-I codec, Panasonic released their new Hybrid Log Gamma, which provides greater dynamic range and image quality for footage shot for HDR TV and YouTube HDR.

Panasonic has been able to provided professional codecs without the use of XQD media or CFast cards; which Sony, Nikon and Canon incorporate in their cameras. Some of the new features require fast U3 cards and is recommend by Panasoinc to used V60 or V90 speed class cards to prevent pauses and dropped recording. Other features include:

  • Improved auto focus in low contrast situations
  • USB-based tethered shooting
  • Enhanced IBIS
  • Improvements to 6K and 4K Photo modes
  • “Open gate” anamorphic mode

There are also bug fixes and minor tweaks including improved time-lapse options, and ability to add crop marks to your display. The full published release notes can be found here.  Expected the firmware to drop at “the end of September 2017.”