Revolutionize Your Filmmaking with the Panasonic Lumix DC-GH5S

In this blog post, we explore the powerful features and capabilities of the Panasonic Lumix DC-GH5S camera. Designed specifically for professional videographers and content creators, this camera offers stunning 4K and 6K video quality, unparalleled low-light performance, and a range of advanced video functions.

Written by Victor Chan | Updated: Mon May 01 2023

Panasonic Lumix DC-GH5S article cover photo

Key Features

Jan 08 2018

Announced

10 megapixels

Resolution

BrandPanasonic
Sensor TypeFour Thirds
SensorCMOS
Weight660g
MSRP$2499USD

Other similar cameras

Panasonic Lumix DC-GX9 thumbnail

Panasonic Lumix DC-GX9

Released Feb 13 2018 | 20MP resolution

Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH5 thumbnail

Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH5

Released Jan 04 2017 | 20MP resolution

Panasonic Lumix DC-G9 thumbnail

Panasonic Lumix DC-G9

Released Nov 08 2017 | 20MP resolution

Overview of the Lumix DC-GH5S

If you're looking for a camera that can take your filmmaking to the next level, look no further than the Panasonic Lumix DC-GH5S. This impressive camera is packed with powerful features that make it an ideal choice for professional videographers and content creators. From its stunning 4K and 6K video quality to its advanced video functions, the Lumix DC-GH5S is designed to help you capture every moment of your creative vision. Plus, with its unparalleled low-light performance, you'll be able to shoot in any lighting condition with ease. So, let's dive into the world of the Panasonic Lumix DC-GH5S and see how this camera can take your films to the next level.

Panasonic Lumix DC-GH5S Pros and Cons

Now, we will look more closely at our review of the Panasonic Lumix DC-GH5S camera. We will see what it can do and compare it to other cameras like it. We will tell you what's good about it and what's not so good. This way, you'll know if it's the camera for you!

Pros

Excellent low-light performance
4K video at 60fps
Strong build quality
High dynamic range (HDR) video
Wide range of compatible lenses
Accurate and fast autofocus
Image stabilization
Digital Cinema Standard (DCI) 4K

Cons

Expensive
No built-in flash
Small battery life
No in-body image stabilization
Limited touchscreen functionality
No phase detection autofocus
Heavy and bulky

Build and Construction

Body and dimensions

Panasonic Lumix DC-GH5S

Weather sealed
Dimensions139 x 98 x 87mm
Weight660g
Thickness87mm
Weight
Min
Avg
This
Max
Thickness
Min
Avg
This
Max

Weather Sealing

The Panasonic Lumix DC-GH5S camera is equipped with environmental seals that make it resistant to weather, preventing water and dust from entering the camera. If you enjoy outdoor photography and need a camera that can handle extreme conditions, the Lumix DC-GH5S is an excellent choice.

Design and Handling

Main design features

View FinderElectronic
Screen TypeFully Articulated
Screen Resolution1,620k dots
Body typeSLR-style mirrorless

Suitable for:

PhotographyAbove Avg.
VideographyAbove Avg.
TravelAbove Avg.

LCD Screen

This camera has a fully articulated 3.20" screen, with a display resolution of 1,620k dots. This makes the Panasonic Lumix DC-GH5S very suitable for those looking for a vlogging camera as you can view yourself while shooting selfies. The camera also features a touch screen, which adds to its ease of use.

Viewfinder

Lumix DC-GH5S includes a electronic viewfinder with 3,680k dots of resolution with a coverage of 100% and a magnification of 0.76x. This feature enhances the camera's suitability for outdoor photography in bright conditions.

Image Quality

Panasonic Lumix DC-GH5S has a 10MP sized CMOS sensor. You can shoot at maximum resolution of 10 pixels. Panasonic Lumix DC-GH5S has a native ISO range of 160 - 51200 which can be boosted to 80 - 204800. It can also save files in RAW format which gives you a wider room for post processing.

Key Features

Jan 08 2018

Announced

160 - 51200

ISO Range

SensorFour Thirds
Extended ISO80 - 204800
Max resolution3680 x 2760 pixels

DXO Sensor Scores

Overall

not tested

Color Depth

not tested

Dynamic Range

not tested

Low Light ISO

not tested

DXO mark sensor scores

The DXOmark rankings indicate that the Panasonic Lumix DC-GH5S camera has excellent color depth performance, which refers to the number of colors the sensor can distinguish. Additionally, its dynamic range is also excellent, allowing it to retain high amounts of details in both bright and dark areas of a scene. The camera's low light ISO performance is excellent, which is an important factor to consider if you plan to use it in dimly lit indoor environments or at night. Overall the image quality of the Lumix DC-GH5S is excellent

Crop Factor

Camera crop factor (or focal length multiplier) refers to how a camera's sensor size affects the apparent field of view of a lens. Crop factor is determined by comparing the size of a camera's sensor to that of a full-frame sensor, which is a standard reference size for camera sensors.

Size comparison

Medium FormatFull FrameAPS-C (Sony, Nikon)

Crop factor calculator

Crop factor

2x

Full frame equivalent

48mm

This camera: Four Thirds

24mm

850100150200

Connectivity, storage, battery

StorageDual SD/SDHC/SDXC cards (UHS-II V60 cards supported)
Battery Life440 shots
Battery ModelDMW-BLF19
HDMI
USD
Wireless Connectivity

Storage

The Panasonic Lumix DC-GH5S supports Dual SD/SDHC/SDXC cards (UHS-II V60 cards supported) with 2 slots for storage. Having dual SD card slots on the Panasonic Lumix DC-GH5S is highly advantageous as it mitigates the risk of losing footage due to memory card malfunctions. This feature is particularly beneficial for wedding photography and other professional settings.

Battery

The Panasonic Lumix DC-GH5S uses the DMW-BLF19 model of battery pack. This is rated for 440 shots shots which is high. If you intend to take photos or record videos for an extended period, it might be a good idea to bring along additional batteries.

Photography Features

Flash

The Panasonic Lumix DC-GH5S does not have a built-in flash, but it does offer a flash shoe that allows you to attach external flashes. This provides more versatility in your lighting choices.

Shutter

The Panasonic Lumix DC-GH5S boasts a maximum mechanical shutter speed of 1/8000s, which is ideal for shooting fast-moving subjects in bright environments, such as in sports photography. Faster shutter speeds enable you to freeze the action and capture every detail, making it easier to get the perfect shot.

With a continuous mechanical shutter speed of n/a or an electronic shutter speed of n/a, this camera is not capable of capturing the perfect moment more easily, making it not as suited for wedding, sports, and wildlife photography. Higher shutter speeds make it easier to capture fast-paced action, ensuring that you never miss the perfect shot.

Autofocus

The Panasonic Lumix DC-GH5S includes contrast detection autofocus (AF), with 225 number of focus points.

While contrast detection is generally more accurate and precise, phase detection autofocus is faster and more effective in most situations, particularly when photographing moving subjects.

Phase detection autofocus works by dividing the incoming light into pairs and then analyzing how they intersect on the camera's sensor. This method allows the camera to determine not only if a subject is in focus but also the direction and distance needed to adjust the focus to achieve perfect sharpness.

On the other hand, contrast detection autofocus works by analyzing the contrast of an image and adjusting the focus until the highest contrast is detected. While this method is very accurate, it can be slow, especially in low light conditions or when photographing moving subjects.

View on Amazon

FAQ

What is the sensor size of the Panasonic Lumix DC-GH5S?

The Panasonic Lumix DC-GH5S features a CMOS sensor

Is the Panasonic Lumix DC-GH5S weather sealed?

Yes the Lumix DC-GH5S does have weather sealing.

When was the Panasonic Lumix DC-GH5S announced?

The Panasonic Lumix DC-GH5S was announced on Jan 08 2018

Does the Panasonic Lumix DC-GH5S have in-body image stabilization?

No the Lumix DC-GH5S does not have in-body image stabilization that can compensate for camera shake, making it easier to shoot handheld in low light conditions.

What is the ISO range of the Panasonic Lumix DC-GH5S?

The Lumix DC-GH5S has a native ISO range of 160-51200, which can be expanded to ISO 80-204800 for even greater sensitivity in low light conditions.

View on Amazon

Similar Camera Reviews

Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH5 article cover photo

Blog Unleashing The Power of Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH5: The Ultimate Camera for Professional Videography

The Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH5 is a cutting-edge camera that has taken the world of professional videography by storm. With its stunning image quality, outstanding performance, and outstanding features, this camera is a game-changer in the field of videography. In this article, we explore the features of the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH5 and how it can help take your videography to the next level. From 4K video recording to high-speed autofocus, this camera has everything you need to create cinematic masterpieces.

Panasonic Lumix DC-G9 article cover photo

Revolutionize Your Photography Skills with the Panasonic Lumix DC-G9 Camera

In this blog post, we will explore the features and capabilities of the Panasonic Lumix DC-G9 camera and how it can help you take your photography skills to the next level. We will cover everything from its fast autofocus system to its high-resolution image quality, making it a top contender for both professionals and hobbyists alike.