For the latter half of 2012, Panasonic has created the most rugged G-series model to date: the Lumix DMC-GH3. On top of offering their latest and greatest technologies, like a newly developed 16-megapixel Live MOS image sensor and updated Venus Engine processor, the GH3 also boasts a first for a G-series camera: weatherproofing. That’s right, the GH3 is both splashproof and dustproof, thanks to weather sealing around its magnesium alloy frame, making it even more appealing to those who live active lifestyles.
Other notable features include built-in Wi-Fi, with the ability to remote control the camera via your iOS or Android powered device, as well as your choice of AVCHD or MP4 full HD video recoding, a swiveling 3.0-inch OLED display, a high-quality EVF with OLED technology, a more powerful built-in flash unit (GN 12/17), enhanced noise reduction with 3DNR (3D Noise Reduction) and MNR (Multi-process Noise Reduction) technologies, and so much more.
Panasonic also released some sweet new accessories for the GH3, like an optional Shotgun microphone, a detachable battery grip (another first for Panasonic), and a new external flash unit with built-in LED video light.
The Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH3 appears to be one wicked camera. Pricing and availability will be announced at a later date. For further details, read the press release below.
THE
ALL NEW GH3 – CHANGING PHOTOGRAPHY
Engineered
For The Multimedia Photographer
September
17, 2012 (Secaucus, NJ) – Panasonic
is proud to introduce the new Digital Single Lens Mirrorless DMC-GH3.
The LUMIX GH3 is not just a compact, lightweight camera. It is an
attractive, top-of-the-line mirrorless single lens system camera that is
tough enough to withstand the extreme conditions of heavy field use.
The new
Live MOS Sensor achieves high-resolution images with minimum noise. And
the new Venus Engine attains high-speed, high-quality signal processing.
These features combine to maximize shooting fun and operating ease.
Another prominent feature of the LUMIX GH3 is a tough body that is
rugged enough to stand up to professional use. It features a magnesium
alloy full diecast body and advanced splash / dustproof construction
that was achieved by sealing the sections of the camera body to enable
shooting under extreme conditions. Although the LUMIX GH3 integrates
features a class above other G Series models, it is still compact when
compared with an SLR camera featuring equivalent performance and
functions. The body has enabled a new control layout with three dials on
the front and back as well as single-function buttons. The LUMIX GH3
allows users to capture images in extreme environments and provides
superb mobility. It also records still images consecutively at a rate of
about 6 fps. The LUMIX GH3 is proud to assume the role of Panasonic’s
flagship digital single-lens mirrorless camera.
The video
recording capability, which is highly acclaimed in the GH2, now comes
with more variety of options in its format and bit rate to meet
wide-ranging needs. It is packed with advanced technologies developed by
Panasonic for professional video creation.
The
LUMIX GH3 uses OLED displays both in its viewfinder and in the rear
free-angle monitor. Panasonic has also developed optional accessories to
expand the shooting possibility of DMC-GH3. A detachable battery grip
DMW-BGGH3 for vertical viewing angle, integrates control featuring
splash/dustproof design. The external TTL flash DMW-FL360L comes with
wireless function and even integrates LED for video recording. A Stereo
Shotgun microphone DMW-MS2 is also available. They represent a first of
their kind for Panasonic LUMIX cameras.
Panasonic also offers a full lineup of lenses that reinforce the LUMIX
GH3. The LUMIX G X VARIO 12-35mm / F2.8 ASPH. / POWER O.I.S. (H-HS12035)
is currently on the market. In addition to this, Panasonic is releasing
a new fast F2.8 telephoto zoom lens LUMIX G X VARIO 35-100mm / F2.8 /
POWER O.I.S. (H-HS35100) to introduce with the LUMIX GH3. These two
lenses achieve high resistance performance against splash and dust when
combined with the LUMIX GH3.
The LUMIX G
lens lineup includes a variety of models with superb image rendering,
such as Leica lenses and smooth, silent power zoom lenses suitable for
video recording. *This is the largest lineup of interchangeable lenses
for a digital single lens mirrorless camera*. And Panasonic will
continue to develop and introduce new lenses with distinctive features.
*As
of 17, September 2012.
1. Delivering
the highest ever picture quality with a new Live MOS sensor
The
DMC-GH3 realizes high-quality photo images with real-to-life details
through excellent resolution, image rendering and color reproduction;
high-grade lens and precision AF achieves high resolution, optimal
balance of resolution and noise reduction achieves lifelike image
rendering and high precision auto exposure and white balance with live
light metering results in faithful color reproduction.
The newly
developed 16.05 effective megapixel Live MOS sensor boasts wide dynamic
range and high sensitivity image recording even at ISO 12,800 or ISO
25,600 in extended mode. The key point here was reducing noise, for
which Panasonic focused on the following three areas: (1) minimizing
noise in the sensor, (2) preventing sensor noise from entering the
output signal, and (3) preventing noise from entering the signal
processing circuit, power supply line and grounding line. To reduce
noise, it is also important to design the power supply wiring and the
signal wiring connected to the engine to be as close to the same length
as possible. These measures not only suppress noise but also help to
improve processing speed. Standard sensitivity is from ISO 200 to ISO
12,800, but the user can set sensitivity to ISO 125 or ISO 25,600 by
using an extension function. The LPF (Low Pass Filter) has been also
newly designed to minimize generation of moire while drawing maximum
resolution of the image out of the sensor.
The image
processor Venus Engine is also refined to achieve superior noise
reduction. With a combination of 3DNR (3D Noise Reduction) and MNR
(Multi-process Noise Reduction), both bright area and dark area are
faithfully reproduced with minimum noise across the entire focusing
range in high sensitivity image recording.
The
built-in flash is enhanced to feature more power and flexibility. The
new built-in flash of GN12 equivalent (ISO 100 •m) / GN17 equivalent
(ISO 200 •m) covers 24mm wide angle of view. Synchronization for flash
dimming and exposure compensation is available with adjustment of 1/3EV
Step ±3EV. Manual control and a sync terminal are newly added for more
versatile use of external flash.
The GH3
also integrates HDR (High
Dynamic Range) to cope with the extreme
bright and dark contrast that you get, for example, with backlighting,
or when consecutive photos are taken with different exposure levels and
overlapped. Blown highlights and blocked shadows are then deleted and a
single photo is composed. All processing is done in the background, so
you can take your next shot without having to wait, ensuring that you
don’t miss a photo opportunity.
Other
practical shooting functions including Time Lapse Shot or Multiple
Exposure are available on DMC-GH3. The electronic shutter with silent
operation prevents pixel declination which is undesirable in
photographing of commercial products.
2. Awesome
quality of video for unlimited expressions – versatile recording
formats, bitrate and frame rates
Panasonic
defies the conventional boundaries of a digital camera elevating the
potential of video recording capability even higher. Users can freely
choose the format from AVCHD, AVCHD Progressive, MP4 or MOV with the
frame rate at 60p(NTSC), 30p(NTSC) or 24p according to the usage*. The
DMC-GH3 is capable of recording ultra high bit rate video recorded at 72
Mbps (ALL-Intra) or 50 Mbps (IPB). And it is capable of recording
continuously for an unlimited time**.
Heat
generated during long continuous recording can cause problems. It not
only affects internal components but can also degrade image quality.
Effective thermal diffusion is an essential design challenge. By drawing
on the expertise accumulated through its many years of developing
camcorders, Panasonic has revamped and redesigned the electronic parts
arrangement and internal structure to achieve the optimum layout. This
has eliminated heat problems in the LUMIX GH3.
When
recording the video in MOV, AVCHD Progressive and AVCHD, the DMC-GH3
automatically generates multiple seamless files for continuous
recording. During playback, the AVCHD Progressive / AVCHD files are
reproduced with seamless, interruption-free continuity. The DMC-GH3 also
embeds SMPTE-compliant Time Code either in Rec Run or Free Run count-up
methods, which makes it easy to synchronize the multiple video footage
or sound source in the post production workflow. Time Code Value can be
started at any point of [Reset], [Manual Input] and [Current Time]. Drop
frame or Non Drop Frame time code is selectable***.
For high
quality sound recording, DMC-GH3 adopts Dolby Digital® for AVCHD Progressive
/AVCHD videos and linear PCM(LPCM) for non-compressed video recorded in
MOV. In addition to the built-in stereo microphone, the GH3 is equipped
with two 3.5mm terminals for an external microphone and headphones to
facilitate sound recording.
The
DMC-GH3 also features Creative Video mode: Exposure mode and
Slow/Fast-Motion mode. In the Exposure mode, four manual video modes:
Program AE / Aperture-Priority / Shutter-Priority / Manual Exposure can
be selected and they will faithfully reflect your shooting intent, and
give you a wide range of video images. The Slow/Fast-Motion mode enables
slow-motion (40% / 48% / 80%) and fast-motion (160% / 200% / 300%), all
in Full-HD.
Not only
full-time AF, AF Tracking and Face Recognition AF are also available.
The Touch AF in video recording also lets users enjoy professional-like
rack focusing. Just by pointing at the subject, the focus is shifted to
it and lets it stand out to attract attention.
*60p(NTSC)
video recording is not available in AVCHD and MP4 video recording.
**In
the model for PAL areas, motion image can be recorded up to 29 min 59
sec.
***Available
in the model for NTSC regions.
3. Intuitive
response with nimble movement
All
cameras in the LUMIX G assortment adopt Contrast AF for their focus
system. Compared with the Phase difference system AF, the Contrast AF
boasts higher accuracy when shooting with a bright lens with a wide open
aperture.
The
DMC-GH3 features ultra-high-speed AF which makes it possible to capture
fast-moving subjects clearly. Both accuracy and speed are improved over
high-end DSLRs with Phase difference AF with the GH3’s advanced Contrast
AF system. The camera and the lens exchange the digital signal at 240
fps to minimize the time to focus. Together with the quick start-up and
short release time lag, the DMC-GH3 never lets photographers miss
fleeting shooting opportunities.
The
DMC-GH3 boasts high-precision, high-speed dual OLED (Organic
Light-Emitting Diode) displays
for LVF (Live View Finder) and rear monitor. Increasing the resolution
of the display area to 1,744K-dot equivalent, the new 16:9 Wide Screen
LVF boasts approx.1.34x / 0.67x (35mm camera equiv.) magnification
and 100% field of view and eye point of approximately 21 mm. By
adopting the OLED display, the time lag is minimized dramatically
compared with the predecessor DMC-GH2. The image output between the LVF
and the rear monitor is switched automatically with the eye sensor on
the LVF, which features options of sensitivity – high, low and off – to
reduce accidental activation of the rear monitor.
The
3.0-inch 614K-dot free-angle OLED rear monitor (3:2 aspect) with
wide-viewing angle rotates 180° to the side and tilts 270° up and down
offers approx. 100% of field of view. The OLED rear monitor adopts
static touch control for smoother operation either in shooting or in
playback.
The
DMC-GH3 captures moving subjects clearly with the burst shooting at 6
fps in full resolution (max. 18 consecutive shots of RAW+JPEG) and 20
fps in 4-megapixel recording using an electronic shutter(max. 80
consecutive shots of JPEG).
The
DMC-GH3 comes with a Level Gauge which lets the camera detect the
horizontal/vertical angle of view with its internal level working with
the acceleration sensor. Photos shot in a portrait aspect will be
automatically displayed vertically whichever lens is used.
4. Superb
controllability and rugged design
Panasonic
developed DMC-GH3 in pursuit of the best-balanced body design possible
with the ergonomic grip and optimum layout of control buttons and dials.
Each button has a single function to allow intuitive operation. Major
controls such as shutter speed, exposure compensation, ISO and white
balance settings can be quickly adjusted with the front/rear dials and
rear jog dial. Users can customize a total of 7 function buttons (5 in
buttons and 2 in the touch menu tab) by allotting a function they use
often. The control panel is fully redesigned enabling even more
intuitive operation. Using the LUMIX G Series’ first detachable battery
grip with integrated controls for vertical shooting angle, which was
developed concurrently with the LUMIX GH3, the user can operate the
dials and buttons easily in virtually the same way when shooting
horizontally.
The new
LUMIX GH3 is tough enough to withstand heavy field use. The main
structural features of the LUMIX GH3 are its magnesium alloy full
diecast frame and splash / dustproof construction.
Like
previous models, the LUMIX GH3 has many moving parts, such as the
free-angle OLED rear monitor. Thus, ensuring a high level of splash /
dust resistance was not an easy task.
In particular, careful attention was given to the popup flash. To
prevent vignetting caused by the lens, the popup flash incorporates a
sliding mechanism that raises the flash to its operating position.
Panasonic has taken thorough measures to prevent the entry of dust and
water from this section. There are also splash/dust-proof
interchangeable lenses (LUMIX G X VARIO 12-35mm / F2.8 ASPH. / POWER
O.I.S. and LUMIX G X
VARIO 35-100mm / F2.8 / POWER O.I.S.) and the
new Battery Grip DMW-BGGH3 to secure its high resistance.
5. A
variety of interfaces
The
DMC-GH3 comes with a variety of connection terminals for more flexible
shooting options. The newly added 3.5mm microphone jack allows high
quality audio recording using an external microphone. It also comes with
a 3.5mm headphone jack enabling monitoring the recorded audio while
shooting video real-time. The DMC-GH3 is also capable of real-time image
output not only on the OLED display (LVF or the rear monitor) but also
on the external monitor via an optional HDMI mini cable simultaneously
while recording video. It is suitable for professional video that
requires serious monitoring of the imagery. Users can choose to output
only the recording content or the content with the setting menus
individually depending on the display.
In
addition to these, the DMC-GH3 offers remote control with optional
Remote Shutter DMW-RSL1 and AV output (Audio 2ch, Composite). The
compatibility with the UHS-I (Ultra High Speed I) SDXC/SDHC Memory Card
allows faster data writing even in RAW recording mode.
6.
Wireless connectivity via Wi-Fi
®
The
DMC-GH3 integrates a built-in Wi-Fi® module for wireless connectivity
(IEEE 802.11 b/g/n) to expand shooting possibilities. A smartphone or a
tablet can be used to remote control and a remote monitor. What the
camera is seeing is displayed live smoothly on the smartphone/tablet,
and it is possible to set various controls including focus, exposure
compensation, ISO, WB and Photo Style in addition to shutter release via
live view using Wi-Fi.
After
shooting, images including RAW files can be transferred to a smartphone
or tablet immediately. Users can choose to upload images to the LUMIX
CLUB Cloud Sync. Service via Wi-Fi- tethering and to send them to the
DLNA (Digital Living Network Alliance) -compliant AV equipment via a
wireless router at home. In addition, it is possible to tag the location
information to the image by utilizing the GPS (Global Positioning
System) log of a smartphone/tablet. All these flexible shooting /
browsing / sharing styles are made possible with the DMC-GH3 and
Panasonic’s dedicated application software “LUMIX LINK” for Android /
iOS smartphones.
Archiving
of images can be accomplished wirelessly with the DMC-GH3. Users can
save precious images to the Panasonic’s exclusive “LUMIX CLUB Cloud
Sync. Service”. In this cloud service, a personal folder is allotted to
the GH3 users to upload image data anytime to transfer the image saved
at this space to Facebook™, Flickr™, Picasa™, Twitter™ or YouTube™.
With the LUMIX CLUB Cloud Sync Service, not only full-resolution photos
but also HD quality videos can be synchronized among the compliant
electronic devices you are using (e.g. PC, smartphone and AV equipment)
or transferred to the websites you like. The Wi-Fi function also allows
playback of images on the DLNA-compliant VIERA HDTV for viewing in
private or public*.
*The
wireless access point (router) is required.
7. Creative
Expression
The
DMC-GH3 incorporates Photo Style and Creative Control for more unique
expression tailored for the photographer.
With Photo
Style, users can manually choose from 6 color types to get even more
detailed image settings, or to match the shooting situation. In
addition, the contrast, sharpness, saturation or noise reduction for
each mode parameter can be customized in 11 steps and stored in memory.
In Custom Mode, finely customized settings can be stored for easy recall
and use.
The
Creative Control lets you enjoy making the image even more impressive. A
total of 14 filters are available – Expressive, Retro, High Key, Low
Key, Sepia, Dynamic Monochrome, Impressive Art, High Dynamic, Cross
Process, Toy Effect, Miniature Effect, Soft Focus, Star Filter and One
Point Color. Most of the filters can be used in video recording, too.
With the new GUI and menu tabs, switching filter effect is extremely
easy and is possible to preview via the Live View. Effect parameter,
defocusing area and exposure compensation are also adjustable.
8. Rich
options for further expandability
Micro Four
Thirds System products provide customers with even higher levels of
performance in a digital interchangeable lens camera. In addition to
LUMIX G lenses, the LUMIX DMC-GH3 can use any interchangeable lens that
complies with the Four Thirds System standard via an optional mount
adaptor DMW-MA1 and with the prestigious Leica M/R Lenses via DMW-MA2M
or MA3R. This gives the user access to an unlimited number of lens
properties.
Also, the
LUMIX DMC-GH3 offers a wide variety of options to choose from to match
every shooting situation and shooting style.
New Battery Grip DMW-BGGH3
The
ergonomically designed Battery Grip DMW-BGGH3 enables the GH3 to offer a
longer battery life of more than 1,000 pictures*. It offers comfortable
grip and easy handling even when shooting vertically.
*When
using LVF and the battery inside the body.
New
External Microphone DMW-MS2
The new
plug-in power type External Microphone DMW-MS2 with windjammer enables
high quality audio recording. Directional control Stereo/ Shotgun is
switchable in the menu. The holder is designed with a vibration
absorption mechanism. This advanced external mic suppresses the camera’s
motor noise and handling noise, to capture the sound that you’re aiming
for.
New
External Flash DMW-FL360L
The new
GN36( ISO100・m) flash
complies with useful bounce lighting. A wireless capability is handy for
multiple-flash shooting. The LED light is especially useful for video
shooting. Charging is fast at only about 2 seconds, to provide
comfortable and easy flash shots.
•
“AVCHD Progressive”, “AVCHD”, the “AVCHD Progressive” Logo and the
“AVCHD” Logo are trademarks of Panasonic Corporation and Sony
Corporation.
•
Dolby and the double-D symbol are trademarks of Dolby Laboratories.
•
HDMI, the HDMI logo and High-Definition Multimedia Interface are
trademarks or registered trademarks of HDMI Licensing LLC.
•
All other company and product names are trademarks of their respective
corporations.
•This
unit is compatible with both SD/SDHC/SDXC Memory Cards. You can only
use SDHC Memory Cards on devices that are compatible with them. You
cannot use SDHC Memory Cards on devices that are only compatible with SD
Memory Cards. (When using an SDHC Memory Card on another device, be
sure to read the operating instructions for that device.)
•
Some accessories are not available in some countries.
•
The use of recorded or printed materials that are protected by
copyright for any purpose other than personal enjoyment is prohibited,
as it would infringe upon the rights of the copyright holder.
•
Design and specifications are subject to change without notice.
About
Panasonic Consumer Marketing Company of North
America
Based
in Secaucus, N.J., Panasonic Consumer Marketing Company of North
America, a Division of Panasonic Corporation of North America, the
principal North American Subsidiary of Panasonic Corporation (NYSE: PC)
and the hub of Panasonic’s U.S. marketing, sales, service and R&D
operations, offers a wide-range of consumer solutions in the U.S. and
Canada. The Company’s portfolio of innovative consumer products ranges
from VIERA Full HD 3D Flat Screen TV’s, Blu-ray players, LUMIX Digital
Cameras, Camcorders, Home Audio, Cordless Phones, Home Appliances,
Wellness and Personal Care products and more.
Panasonic
is pledged to practice prudent, sustainable use of the earth’s natural
resources and protect our environment through the company’s Eco Ideas
programs. Panasonic was the only Consumer Electronics company to be
listed in the top ten brands on the Interbrand Best Global Green Brands
2012 ranking.
Follow Panasonic @panasonicdirect, and additional company information
for media is available at www.panasonic.com/pressroom.
