A Review of the Panasonic GH4 Micro Four Thirds Camera

[@danielbatts9386]

Whenever I'm looking for an Olympus or Panasonic review, I always look for your videos first. They beat every other video on here. Thanks for all your time and effort to produce them.

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

I'm happy that you appreciate it, Daniel, thank you.

[@mikhailalexandrovich482]

It shows how much time and effort you put into the production of your videos. What an excellent example of how camera reviews should be made.

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

Mikhail Alexandrovich Thanks Mikhail - music to my ears!

[@IslandFilmMaker]

Thanks David for this great review. I am a retired Professional Photographer. I live on Vancouver Island. The only thing I miss about the big city, is the ability to handle the latest in camera gear. As an outdoorsmen, I trail ride, hike, kayak, windsurf, and cover community events. I'm so tired of carrying my big Nikon D cameras, flashes, and lenses. A Micro four thirds systems is my answer. One camera, 2 or 3 lenses, all for about the weight of a Nikon D2x camera body alone and more space to carry other things... or not! Now, I live in a place where I can no longer go and handle or test pro camera equipment. I rely totally on KZbin to be my eyes to see what I'm buying before I order. I have seen many of your reviews over the past year on the Panasonic Lumix line of cameras and lenses. They are informative, well done, and the honest truth. I have decided to sell all my Medium & 35mm DSLR cameras and most of my old equipment and investing in a system that serves me for hopefully a couple more decades. Thank you for taking the time. Cheers

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

Thank you, Richard. The MFT equipment could have been designed for someone like you. And as a retired pro like you, I've said many times that MFT put the fun back in photography for me. Given your remote locations and testing conditions of your pursuits, it might be worth while investing in the tiny GM1 body at some time. As a backup camera but also so small that it might be able to go places with you where even a GH might be a bit bi - up trees, for example.

[@IslandFilmMaker]

David Thorpe Thank you for your reply. it's greatly appreciated and your advise on picking up the smaller GM1 pocket camera, I can take to places no man has not gone before is a good second choice. Also it's useful as a simple less expensive backup to the GH4 for 2 camera shooting if I want to run video.

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

Richard James Milne Yes. The GM1 doesn't have the same video capabilities as the GH4, of course but it does have 1080p 20mbps which is more than good enough for KZbin.

[@Check-it-out]

Hi David, I posted this comment earlier but it actually belongs here, now that your GH4-review is out. Thx for inspiring me to take a look at the MFT-system as a substitution for my 12KG backpack. I have recently received my GH4 and i couldn't have imagined how much pleasure this little camera has already brought back to me. I was quite fed up. What struck me most is the sheer fun this camera brings to photography. It is very easy to operate and it is a complete, very well built and light package. I ordered a panasonic 35-100 lens today and i am already very happy with my 12-35. The smoothness of the focus and zoom-ring are a joy and a relief to use during filming if you compare them with Canon lenses. The only drawback so far is a little loss in dynamic range for stills and less DOF. But hey, the AF on the 5DII is an embarrassment compared to the GH4 so at the end of the day, the success-rate with the GH4 is much higher dan with the 5DII. Add the weight, price and versatility on top of that and i am a very happy camper ! Last but certainly not least; the GH4 is VERY unobtrusive ! When i take it out of my bag, i am just another guy with a camera. Awesome !! Nobody even notices me walking around, taking ambush-shots on the streets of... wherever ! One of the biggest drawbacks of the big Canon (hence the name i guess), is that whenever and wherever you present it, it draws everybody's attention to it. It is an attention-magnet ! Not only to the common people but also for the shady people. When you travel with a big Canon with several lenses to for instance Africa or anywhere outside Europe, you need to be focussed on your stuff all-the-time. Because when it's gone, it's bad luck and the insurance won't cover the damage. You need to think about what hotel you go to, if the safe is big enough, are the windows sturdy, etc, etc, etc. But i am back now and i am enjoying photography again ! Thank you !

[@Tadthepole1]

Great video David, loved the style of it! It was very informative and now I'm so deliriously excited to get my hands on my new GH4! Never owned a proper camera before and I got it for shooting video. I expected it to not have that competitive of a stills capacity because of it's prowess in video, but your review has been a very welcome surprise :)

[@haji727]

Mr. Thorpe, although I am not on the market to purchase a new camera, I really enjoy just watching your reviews. You leave nothing to guess. Your reviews are thorough and to the point. I wish more reviewers would incorporate your style into their reviews. If I were considering to buy a new camera, I would certainly put your camera reviews at the top of my purchase list. Thanks.

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

Wow! Thank _you_ Haji.

[@oldschoolwarrior]

David, thank you very much. I can't tell you how many reviews I've looked through that spend the first 95% of the review talking about the 4K video. I keep thinking "does this camera even take photos". This review is exactly what I'm looking for.

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

Yes, I'm a stills man basically and good as the GH4 is for video - and it certainly is - it gives nothing away to any others as a stills camera.

[@oldschoolwarrior]

+David Thorpe Im very excited to get one soon. Since this is my first DSLR/DSLM camera, I don't yet know what lens to get. I think the 1.7 prime lens you reviewed in your other video would be a good lens but is there a different beginner lens I should start with in your opinion?

[@farouk6564]

This review is so cool I watched it 4 times and enjoyed it every time. Fantastic story telling skills David. We are all waiting for your next one.

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

***** Thanks! I'll see what I can do :-)

[@chrislfm]

Hi David and thanks for taking the time to sow us your respected thoughts on the GH4. It's refreshing to get such a no nonsense review these days. One comment regarding the lack of built in OIS on the GH series cameras.... According to Panasonic they are unable to use a system similar to the Olympus 5 axis technology because the sensor on the GH models is fixed to a large heat-sink and the whole body itself to prevent overheating when using video. So unless they can come with a OIS that also allows for long recording times we may never see it as a built in camera feature. I understand the UK GH4 still only allows 30mins maximum continuous shooting but many similar spec cameras from other manufactures will only allow for 10-15 mins continuous. I also own a Sony NEX-5n and it will often shut down after 20 mins or so due to sensor overheating. Especially in warm environments.

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

That's very interesting, Chris.I wouldn't personally swap the IBIS for video capability but I guess many would. You can't please everyone! It does make you realize that the technology in these cameras is right at the cutting edge of what's possible. I applied a hack to my GH2 which meant it would shoot video until the card ran out, overcoming the daft EU regs. I wondered why nobody had done that to the GH3 but heat is obviously the reason. That'll be why Olympuses don't have the video capabilities of the Panasonics, then.

[@ThePhotoShow]

Thanks for the video, it's really good to see a review that shows the stills aspects of the GH4 and not just the 4K video side.

[@davidthorpe7732]

The Photo Show Yes, a number of people have said that. I suppose the 4K is the headline attribute of the camera and that normally gets all the attention but the GH4 is second to none as a stills camera.

[@ThePhotoShow]

There is definitely a cross over happening now with stills cameras that take amazing video but are not really ergonomically designed for video shooting. Is there a time limit on the video recording as with DSLRs?

[@davidthorpe7732]

The Photo Show There's a time limit which is imposed under stupid EU rules of half an hour (it could be hacked), Otherwise, no, shoot until the card is full including 4K.

[@jaffarbh]

Panasonic has released a firmware update to the GH4 (v2.5). Post focus and more importantly (for videographers) the ability to use the back focus button in video mode. It's great to see more updates coming for the great camera.

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

Thanks for the heads-up. Yes, I took it for granted that since the GH4 has been around for a while they wouldn't do any more firmware changes. I'm too cynical - yes it is great,

[@ryanmartinage]

Thank you for a review based on stills. I've been interested in this camera series but all the reviews have been video based. Thanks!

[@JoelTurrell]

David, Congratulations on yet another superlative review and teaching video. You have captured the essence of the GH4 for those who may be trying to decide on their next purchase. And yet. you are not playing fanboy, so your assessment CAN be trusted. Like you, I gambled on the GH4 because my own video work is quite limited. I am highly pleased with the camera for the very reasons you so well articulate. I have never looked back after selling all my Nikon and Leica reflex gear and switching to the mirrorless bodies, although I also use the Fuji X-Pro and X-T1 cameras. By contrast with you, I would tell any GH3 owner, who is mainly a stills shooter, to move to this new body. The upgrades and improvements are too important to do without.

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

You have a good point Joel. if the camera had come in at the originally rumoured £1800 or more I'd have passed on it until the price came down _a lot_. But given the extensive upgrading it is good value at the price it is. Even so, value or not, it's lot of money and I'd hate to recommend it without encouraging someone to think about it first.

[@kolifx]

Excellent video David, just like the other ones on your channel. I really enjoy your of style reviewing. You focus on important aspects that matter in real life. As a photography beginner I find it very helpful. Also your blog is incredible, really simple but powerful ideas. Thank you for taking time to share your knowledge and experience with us.

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

Marek Kolesar Thanks, Marek. It's replies like yours that make the videos and blog so enjoyable for me.

[@TITAOSTEIN]

I just watched your GH4 video again after 5 years and looking for reasons not to sell mine. I love my GH4! The size is ideal, the battery life is fantastic !! And it's a great Camera B for my GH5. However, I miss IBIS and a Joystick ... Once we get used to these little luxuries it's hard to be without. On the other hand, I try to distance myself from this consumerist wave that tends to change equipment every year. But I have to admit that the G9 for less than 1000 Euros here in Germany is almost irresistible! :) Thanks again for the video David! I love your work and the dedicated and competent way you present your Reviews. A true inspiration! Greetings from an increasingly snowless Black Forest ...

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

Thanks for the kind words! It's easy to disparage upgrading but some advances are well worth having, IBIS and the Joystick being among them. The G9, with the latest firmware is not that different in video capability from the GH5 and I'm seeing some real bargain prices now. Climate change seems to be getting more and more apparent and at an alarming speed now. Strange to think that in years to come if you want to see a snow covered Black Forest it will have to be in a photograph :-(

[@FoxHoundADAM]

Thanks for the video David. I love your videos. I'm an Olympus user myself (E-P5) but I really like your insight to photography and specifically the micro 4/3 platform.

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

FoxHoundADAM Thanks! So much of what applies to one MFT camera applies to another. They _are_ different but they have a lot in common too.

[@baronlacat2990]

Great Review David. You may be interested to know that many GH4 users are shooting 4K video and then using certain frames as still images, rather than using burst mode and hoping to capture that instant moment in time. With 4K video, each and every frame is clear and crisp.

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

Haha! That's not what it's for :-) It reminds me of SMS, where there was a bit of spare capacity in the system and someone thought about adding a text facility. And it became bigger than the voice system. Maybe that'll happen with 4K and stills. I wouldn't like to edit the still results of 5 minutes shooting at 25 or 30 frames per second, though.

[@rondeblok]

Oooo now I ask so many....... hope you have olso the time to tel how to use the tracking AF. Yes I ask so many but you explane tings so clear it easy to understand. Thanks !!!

[@bighorncountry]

David, 3-4 months ago I bought a OMD EM1. To my surprise, I found it to be a bit hyped. Yes, the viewfinder is excellent, and 5 axis stabilizer is amazing, but the "Vintage" styling, handling/button layout, and strange menus system made the EM1 too fussy (for me). Enter the GH3... I sold the EM1 and bought a used GH3. The logical button layout, large grip, 360* swiveling LCD, battery life, makes the GH3 a true companion in my photography. The Panasonic is intuitive, and seems to works with me. I'm loving it!! Shooting with the 45mm, 75mm, 12-35mm, 35-100mm. Stills only. Thanks for the superb videos, Cheers! Aaron

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

bighorncountry Hi Aaron. My feelings are much like yours. The Panasonic for me feels a photographic tool and the Olympus more like my old SLRs. Both superb cameras - as you know from your own experience - and many photographers prefer the Olympus. Very personal things, cameras. What's good is to have the choice. That's a nicely chosen outfit you have there. The two zooms cover almost everything with the 2 Olympus primes to sprinkle their bit of magic on your images when you choose.

[@bjnslc]

You have a great narrative voice and you crafted an excellent review. I'd like a GH4 but I'm happy with the GH3. No new camera is in the cards for me. I'm consoling myself with a new Metabones optical adapter and experimenting with the possibilities provided by my fast Nikon glass.

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

The Nikon lenses will be interesting with the Metabones. The GH3 remains the excellent camera it always was - the GH3 to 4 isn't the the big step up that the GH2-3 was. Though for me, the GH2 marked the point at which M43 became the system I'd go with after selling my DSLRs. Any advance on the GH2 was welcome but not crucial.

[@alfabravo80]

Another delightful review! One almost forgets how to the point and informative it is.

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

A great compliment and much appreciated. Thank you.

[@AmirAli-qh3ve]

Jack of all trades that mastered all of them? Buying one!

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

Amir Ali You'll love it! Does a lot of thinmgs so it takes a bit of getting to used to but it is well worth it.

[@JimNicholls]

Thank you for an excellent review. Your reviews are the best I've seen, full of common sense, and giving the information we really need.

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

Jim Nicholls Thanks very much Jim, that's good to hear.

[@electricpictures100]

Excellent! Great to watch and listen to all your videos. Paul

[@davidthorpe7732]

Paul H Thanks, Paul!

[@rondeblok]

can not wait until you publish the focus part and thanks all raedy

[@Check-it-out]

Great review, David ! This is an excellent starting point for anybody who is still on the waiting lists of the camera-stores and wants to do something else than biting nails ;-) Here in Holland the camera is still very hard to get and sold out all over the place. As you know i already have it and i like it more by the day. Thx for the tip about the ISO 100 capability. I'm gonna use it as much as i can. Since one needs to double the ISO numbers as well as the focal length for MFT, it is still in effect ISO 200, but that's a welcome improvement over ISO 400. Cheers !

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

powermichiel It seems to be in short supply in a lot of places. I'm surprised that a camera at this price is so popular. Either that are Panasonic holds back supplies to create a demand - I _think_ I'm joking when I say that :-)

[@bokeflo]

Great review on the Panasonic GH4 camera. I bought the Panasonic GH4 camera and I'm very happy with it. It's my first Panasonic and micro four thirds camera but won't be my last :-)

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

+bokeflo Handles like a dream!

[@svenadrian8885]

I finally upgraded from my Gh3 to Gh4 too. I hope there is no wabbly display issue again ^^

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

+Sven Adrian I haven't heard of any so it looks like Panasonic heard about it and corrected it. Probably a high tech solution like a dob of glue on the screw head!

[@tonylouisvisionvideography3469]

Something even more interesting.. When I magnify using manual focus assist (focus peaking turned off) The point of focus reached is not clear at all. Even after using the dioptre adjustment, I still get a unclear image and cannot focus manually like I can on the GH2. My GH2 manual focuses like a dream. There may be a fault with my camera

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

There definitely is. The GH4 EVF is better than the GH2's - when working properly!

[@tonylouisvisionvideography3469]

Thanks for the info. My Faulty GH4 is going back

[@ChrisWilliams-rc9ic]

Nice review David! Having picked up that bargain GH3 recently and owning an EM1, you've persuaded me I don't really need this. I think overall I prefer the handling and interface of the Panasonic, but I like the tracking, IBIS and one or two other features on the Olympus - some of which Panasonic have now matched [like the faster shutter speed and focus peaking]. I suppose there's always going to be strengths and weakness from either marque so long as they have different approaches even to their high end bodies [I really dislike the short battery life on the EM!, even with grip]. It just goes to show there's no such thing as a perfect camera and in a way that's a relief. I've counted up I now own seven m43 bodies. Time to fire up eBay. I'll keep the GH3 and EM1 and also the GM1 [perfect for portability and for stealth], but the rest has to go!

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

+Eugene Li Sorry about that Eugene! I thought the original looked like a review of a tiled roof :-)

[@mlseawell]

Fantastic review of a great camera! I own the GH3 but handled a GH4 about a week ago and it was superb. If I didn't own the GH3/GX7 I would purchase one. That and the fact I want to stay married! ;)

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

Mark Seawell Be a man, Mark, just tell her your'e going to to buy it and that's that! That's what I....sorry, hold on....sorry must go, oh no, my wife has found the bill for my GM1..:-)

[@mlseawell]

Oh dear! And it started on some a promising note! Do be brave!

[@mlseawell]

David Thorpe Oh dear! And it all started looking so nicely...at least through the lens! Do be brave!

[@ovuoostudio4382]

Hi David, Just got Olympus 45 mm f1.8 for panasonic GH4K. When I use in Aperture mode, I can see the aperture size changing in view finder BUT there is no change in lighting i,e small aperture and large aperture does not do bright and darken in viewfinder. IS this normal. I got this used lens from Amazon.

[@sverthSolaris]

I agree with what was said by others - you tell a great story. I have no plans to buy the GH4 (I enjoy my GF3 + 25mm 1.4), but nonetheless enjoyed your review immensely - thank you, and keep them coming!

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

sverthSolaris I'm glad you lke the reviews and thanks for letting me know. GF3 and the 25mm f14, a great combination. Small but amazing quality.

[@sverthSolaris]

Yes, the combo is more fun than my DSLR (and RX100), lighter, and I am constantly surprised by the quality. M4/3 has been a joy to use so far.

[@nufrontierpictures5228]

As always exceptional review, David. Thanks for the intel!

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

Thanks!

[@eugeneli2254]

Aww.. You just changed the thumbnail. I thought it was a new video. So sad. Great work! Keep it up! I always look forward to your new videos.

[@BeautifulNorfolk]

Great review, thanks David! I'd love to upgrade my trusty G6 to this!

[@TheShanahg]

David, I always enjoy your reviews, cheers!

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

Benjamin Hanggai And I enjoy remarks like that! Thanks Benjamin

[@GreatguyCA]

Hi David , Great detailed review, this definitely helped me, I only wished you had added a bit about low light and noise levels, I am trying to compare with Sony A7S I really like the GH4 but only thing holding me back is the size of sensor and noise levels, but anyway, great review thanks!

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

Thanks Guy! The low light and noise levels are pretty much identical to any other MFT camera, the GX7, E-M1 and so on. The differences between all of them are such that it's a matter for test benching rather than practical performance. The Sony A7S will have much better noise performance with a smaller pixel count and larger sensor. The cameras are not really competitors, the Sony being much, much more expensive and with a much more restricted range of native lenses, again at much higher prices and much bigger and heavier. Basically, if low light noise levels are your main criterion, the Sony will be better for you. If cost and size and weight matter, the GH4 provides a good compromise on price/ size/ performance. We can have a lot but we can't have it all!

[@tonylouisvisionvideography3469]

I just noticed a interesting difference between the GH2 & GH4. I have both cameras turn on and they both have a 50mm lens on them. When I look into the GH2s Viewfinder and then go to the GH4's finder (looking through the eyepiece) The GH4's view is much smaller than the GH2's. On the GH2 I can see so much better. I am now on the GH4 and am picking up the GH2 and now looking through it and it's a beauty to judge focus. I wonder what the GH5's view is like?

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

It has an excellent EVF, one the very best on any mirrorless camera.

[@tonylouisvisionvideography3469]

Nice to hear. I know I have definitely got a fault

[@conradososa6238]

I believe you are spot on with the 4k being a deciding factor for videographers but for stills I still much prefer an olympus body. In body stabilization opens the frontier to less expensive lenses with no need for in lens stabilization plus you can put older manual focus lenses and still have them stabilized. For me with the grip and all, you are literally just one step away from a dslr and having the dslr problems (weight and bulk mainly). But none the less a great leap for micro four thirds.

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

Yes, I'd love to have IBIS but it's not possible with the video capability for heat dissipation reasons (and thank to +Chris Moy) for that explanation). My reason for the GH4 over the E-M1 is highly subjective, I just prefer the less traditional feel of it. But I'd be perfectly happy with an E-M1. Your point on the dslr problems is one I am constantly aware of. The Olympus 12-40mm and Panasonic f1.2 42.5mm both overstep that mark for me, lovely lenses that they undoubtedly are.

[@tipdrinker]

David Thorpe if you shot at high shutter speed would 4k video not be handy for pulling stills? I've read a lot of photographers were doing that with canon's 1dc

[@conradososa6238]

I heard you can do that, but I doubt you would be able to pull a raw file. And your compositions might be different compared to regular stills.

[@jordonsoper9483]

David, out of curiosity what makes you prefer micro four thirds and the GH4 over full frame and other DSLRs? I'm shooting on an old panasonic dmc g2 and planning to upgrade soon

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

Bobby Tables Can't reply directly for some reason, Bobby. Yes, the reviews will be upcoming. I'm still keeping the Panasonic GX7 and GM5 but that 40-150mm f/2.8 lens is unique - no equivalent at all even in FF as far as I now. It does need stabilzation, though, hence my swapover. I'd like to keep everything but I can't afford it!

[@davidthorpe7732]

Bobby Tables It's great to hear I get your enthusiasm up! When I picked up a GM1 for the first time I was taken aback by just how small it really is.

[@IdrisShenaee]

+David Thorpe Hi thanks for the review its really helpful but I'm struggling to decide between GH4 or Canon 70D I need this camera for my youtube channel wich one would you recommend to me buy it please get back to me

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

+Idris Shenaee Both will do the job. The GH4 is more video slanted and has many more options for format and th availabilty of motorized zooms. On balance I'd go for the GH4 which is future proofed to some extent with 4K video.

[@drchrisnorris]

Great review, photographic rather than video emphasis is really helpful to m e

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

Glad to hear that, Christopher, thanks.

[@datapro007]

Hi, David, Are you going to review the GX8? I'm hoping. You reviews are the best.

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

+datapro007 It's coming up soon!

[@alanmccaw8672]

David, due to back problems I am thinking of switching from a Canon full frame outfit to Panasonic GH4. My only concern is picture quality with a smaller sensor. Can you advise on this point please?

[@luciedelaney3546]

Cool Video. Most all of the reviews I have found for this camera are about 4K video. I agree that is a very cool feature, but my reason for buying the camera was as an all around great camera -- smaller than the DSLRs of similar capability and also future proof with the great video features. However, I haven't been able to find anyone offering advice about settings and how to make the most of the stills features of this camera. And any of the videos that mention those features seem to imply the ability to get the photos is either self explanatory or should already be known by someone buying the camera. Can you offer advise on your favorite basic settings for inside, outside, portraits and high speed shots? I know that is asking a lot, and so much is just subjective feel... but while I am learning I am also often confused about what I am trying to do. Also, advice about other resources would be appreciated. Thanks.

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

Lucie DeLaney Hi Lucie. I'm embarrassed to say this but I have a book on Amazon (and can order a print version) called 'The GH4 Menu System Simplified'. I did it for exactly the reasons you describe, a basic guide to the GH4 and settings which can be overwhelming if you're new to the camera. The headline 4K seems to grab all the interest but in fact its stills capabilities are state of the art too.

[@luciedelaney3546]

David Thorpe Thank you David. The $5 was well spent. I followed your pre-sets and everything is functioning a bit better. I still have a lot to do to learn the uses for each option, but they seem to be very concisely explained in your book. I appreciate the help!

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

Lucie DeLaney You're welcome Lucie and thanks for letting me know.

[@danielbatts9386]

I rarely shoot video so all the hype over 4K, which most people can't watch anyway haha, is of no interest to me. My only interest at least for now is photos not video. I agree that too much emphasis is being put on 4K and not the photo capabilities of cameras in most videos. David keeps a nice balance in his reviews, which is why I search his posts first.

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

I actually use 4K but purely making my review videos. Usually I just do shoot in FHD but the 4K is handy for zooming in or moving around the frame in editing. For my purposes it is no different to cropping a still frame really. I don't make video for myself or generally for my review in 4K because it really does need specialist equipment to handle all that data. Also, most people don't have the TV or monitors to show 4K properly (including me). Even more, it makes me smile when people talk about Netflix and BBC 4K. I have a 160Mbps cable connection (measured speed) and at 8 in the evening that struggles to show FHD reliably. 4K, I'd need to find the drama in the spinning 'loading' icon because that's what i'd spend most of the time watching. It's a bit like making 200mph cars for a country with a 70mph speed limit.....oh hold on, we do that, don't we? :-)

[@Redreefmedia]

Also, do you know what lenses are best for underwater in a housing? The Oly 60 is considered the best macro. But for wide zooms, it is toss up between the 9-18 Oly and 7-14 Panny. The Panny is almost double the price.

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

The 7mm of the Panasonic really is a lot wider than the 9mm of the Olympus and since the Olymus is f5.6 at the longer end whereas the Panasonic is a constant f4, I'd have said the Panasonic was more useful under water and well worth the extra money. I haven't done under water photography but I understand it narrows the angle of view of a lens, so 7mm would be even more valuable than on dry land.

[@Mrcherrardcohen]

I was wondering would you consider the Olympus EM-1 over the GH4 for stills? I know the EM-1 doesn't hold a candle to the GH4 as far as video but does the GH4 compare to the EM-1 concerning stills?

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

Yes, I would. The results from both cameras are pretty much identical (I've read that they may have the same sensor). I'd like the in body stabilizer of the E-M1 but I use the electronic shutter of the GH4 all the time - especially for time lapse which hammers the Copal shutter - and it extends battery life enormously and I use the wifi app extensively. Plus I prefer the bigger body. So for me personally, the GH4 suits, especially with the 12-35 and 35-70 f2.8 zooms. The E-M1 type will never have the video capability of the GH4 or the GH4 type the stabilizer of the E-M1 since the video requires a large heat sink on the sensor, I am told.

[@Mrcherrardcohen]

Thanks David. I am going GH4 shopping

[@Bobster986]

Nice GH4 review. I just order mine, it should be here tomorrow and I'm so excited. Didn't buy a lens yet, but I did order a Canon to 4/3 adapter to play with it until I can determine which to buy. I'm a videography by profession, I also bought the DJI Ronin to mount my GH4 on. I really can't decide which lens to buy first., maybe I'll just pickup a Lumix G Vario 14-42mm f/3.5 -5.6 to get my feet wet, any suggestions would be greatly appreciated. Thanks!

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

For getting the feel of the GH4 before committing to any expensive glass I'd definitely get a standard zoom as you suggest. If you find the 14-42's f3.5-5.6 fast enough for your needs the 14-140 is a good lens that covers most of what you need for video. And don't forget the Ex.Tele.Conv.facility! (The 14-42 and 45-175s with power zooming could be useful for video) It's not my area of expertise but since manual exposure and focus are the preferred choice for video, I think I'd experiment with the Canon lenses you have which may be as well suited as anything else. Your biggest trouble will be with getting wide-angle with FF lenses because of the crop factor but the standard zoom gives a decent wide angle.

[@Bonecrusher27WTF]

Thanks for this review. It is frustratingly difficult to find a review on the GH4 from the point of view of taking stills, which is still one of those questions that I need to answer to decide if I should get Canon 70d or this. It's a tough choice. Video obviously GH4, EXCEPT the problem with autofocus which I think has to be the 70d. So it had to come down to the still performance.

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

Bonecrusher27WTF There's no problem with autofocus with the GH4 and on single focus it is probably faster than any DSLR whatever the price. On continuous focus on a moving fast object it gives way to a some DSLRs (not all) but not by enough for that to be the deciding factor. Unless you shoot sequences and fast moving objects as the major part of your works, of course. But if you look at my shots of the cyclists, I don't think you could call that a problem. For me, the EVF is so much better than the optical finders of DSLRs that when I pick up my friends D3 it feels like stepping backwards in time and that is the kind of thing on which I'd base a decision. Good fun weighing it all up, though, isn't it?

[@Bonecrusher27WTF]

David Thorpe Haha tell me about it! I've lost sleep for a couple weeks now doing all the research. But people like you are a real boon here for this type of endeavour. Thanks for the time David appreciate it! PS: You make a point many reviews do not - one important thing is for developers NOT to make changes for the heck of it. I get frustrated with every new iteration of Microsoft Office, Adobe Acrobat, etc. Totally UNnecessary!

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

Bonecrusher27WTF I suppose they have to change something to make an 'upgrade' and keep the money coming in but I'm sure it puts as many people off as it brings in money. The sheer frustration sometimes when you go to do something you've done without thinking for ages...and its changed. Its so much more difficult to unlearn something than learn it. I'm glad you found the video useful, as you say most concentrate on video and 4k but the GH4 is as good a stills camera as it is video.

[@robbyboyo]

Another great review. I am waiting patiently for the gh4 to arrive.

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

I thought you said patiently. Stop tapping your fingers on the table :-).

[@robbyboyo]

6 weeks waiting. Fingers crossed and the UK will get some more very soon. It does look like the wait will be worth the upgrade from the GH2.

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

robbyboyo Yes, I think you'l find it worth it. The GH2 was the camera that persuaded me to flog all my other camera gear and go mover to MFT completely. That camera marked the point for me at which any future improvements would be welcome but not _necessary_.

[@mlseawell]

Great review of the GH4!

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

Thanks Mark

[@mlseawell]

David Thorpe Love your reviews mate! When I was with the American forces I was stationed close to Cambridge at Lakenheath. Anyway, I have been shooting M43 since day one and love it. Started with the G1, then the GH2, in November the GH3 and two months ago the GX7.

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

Mark Seawell Thanks Mark. Looking at the GX7 and what it can do, it's amazing to think that the first M43 camera, the G1 that you bought was sold in 2008. just years ago,

[@mlseawell]

David Thorpe It sure is! I mean my best selling print is called "Heaven's Gate" taken on a back road close to my village in Germany. I sell it as a large canvas and photographers are stunned when I tell them it was the G1 12mp M43! But the GX7 is a marvel. I think I'll wait till the new organic sensor comes out before I upgrade again. I want to see if they'll push through to 20-24 megapixel since I print large. Going to miss Germany. We are moving to Utah at the end of the month!

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

My personal feeling is that MFT will stay with 16 megapixels but I don't know any more than anyone else. If a new sensor makes possible more pixels, who knows? You do get around, don't you? I have great memories of the Utah landscape...

[@AdamLoretz]

Cool video David. Thanks for sharing it.

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

Adam Loretz Thanks, Adam!

[@fisherboom]

Nice review David was worth the wait.

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

Thanks! It took me longer than I'd hoped. I find I can't fopce my opinion, I just have to use the gear until it forms my opinion for me.

[@fisherboom]

I totally agree ! its a great camera that is for sure. by the way i bought the 12mm 35mm on your recommendation and its excellent ! I also bought the 35mm 100mm and Leica Nocticron 42.5mm f1.2 .

[@tonylouisvisionvideography3469]

FINAL TEST. Manual focus Problems with the GH4 The EVF of my GH4 has a "smearing" appearance towards the edges of the frame & the centre is not sharp, if the eye is not held exactly centred and/or the diopter adjustment is a bit off. Even When I adjust the dioptre wheel "smearing" is still visable in the EVF viewfinder. Apparently the glass is too soft or has not been hard coated. That is what I have heard. The preview/review image on my GH4's EVF is not really sharp on my GH4, making accurate focus determination before or after capture very difficult.

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

I had a similar - though much worse - problem with a G80. It isn't characteristic of the camera at all - send it back.

[@tonylouisvisionvideography3469]

Thanks. I will. It's already packed and ready to go back. I'm considering purchasing the GH5s

[@williamsnyder4361]

David Thorpe I'm really hoping you can help me out seeing as no one else I ask knows what to do. My GH4 is absolutely lovely except for one problem, I'm getting really unattractive unfocused blurring. My GH4 has the Metabones Speedbooster on it so that I can use my Canon glass, and I usually use a Tamron 24mm-70mm or a 35mm sigma. Items that are very far away and very out of focus look fine, but any object that is slightly out of focus develops a very gross doubling type thing. I did a couple comparisons with the same lens on my canon 60D and I get no such thing. If it helps I could send you a sample, as I'm really hoping you can help me here!

[@glennsak]

Another great review! Thanks, David.

[@davidthorpe7732]

Shaka Thanks very much!

[@dasuweng]

Hi does anyone know if Panasonic GH4 can take photos while taking video?

[@rawiyahsphere]

Great video David! thanks for sharing! I plan on getting an additional indoor video camera for shooting cooking videos and for the field and this one looks promising. I do have few questions? Since it doesn't have in-body stabilization, what would be an affordable lens that has stabilization and is good for shallow depth of field? Also I remember DSLR Cameras having a time limit per clip on video recording of 20 or 30 minutes. Is this limit on the GH4? Thanks!

[@mrychel]

Hi David, Wondered if you use the electronic shutter to overcome "shutter bounce" or just to extend battery life since you use wifi a lot. Thanks

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

***** Hi Mark.Actually, I have the electronic shutter set as default on my Custom settings for all the reasons you mention, I use it with the quieter of the two loudness levels. I'm not often using shutter speeds longer than 1 second or the flash so I just switch in that case or if I have a fast moving subject. But in general, the jello effect has been cut to the point where for my general use it's not an issue. Except when I'm with family and want a quick snap - I need to get it through my thick head that the reason the flash won't work is the ES - _I always_ forget. What I should do is just flip to iA on the grounds that It's more intelligent than I am.

[@SurvivalRox]

Cant ,but have to, wait for the your GH5 review,

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

:-) Looking forward to getting one some time in March. The new My Menu looks to be a thoughtful addition.

[@oldschoolwarrior]

I'm more interested in the GH-4 than the GX8, but that 20 megapixel sensor on the GX8 compared to the 16 on the GH-4 has my attention. I mostly shoot stills; video would be an afterthought. What about the GH-4 is worth choosing over the GX8 that makes up for the difference in sensors? Does the GX8 have focus peaking, and if not, is that in itself worth staying with the GH-4?

[@davidthorpe7732]

Leaving aside the video, the GH4 doesn't do anything the newer GX8 doesn't. The GX80 would be the better buy for stills with its in body stabilization and dual stabilization with Panasonic lenses. The 20mp sensor is a plus point too. The two cameras handle very differently because of their body design so you'd need to be sure you were happy with the rangefinder styling. If you are, the GX80 is a great camera with a better EVF than the GH4 and the dedicated exposure compensation dial which I really like. Peaking, yes the GX8 has that.

[@studioviper3016]

Great review, as always. Always look forward to your reviews :)

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

Thanks!

[@eltawtee8104]

Wil buy the book now but when is the print version coming out? Its just cos the manual is such a long notes to read. Now i have the camera but dont know where to start lol too many function. Hopefully the book will help.thanks

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

elvis tawiah I'm just proofing the print edition now, so it should be out in a couple of weeks. It's good fun finding out how a camera works - but the modern ones are so complicated it's hard without a bit of help. I still find myself coming across new things all the time!

[@Redreefmedia]

Do you know what the difference is between shooting in .MOV and MP4 LPCH? I am editing in Premiere Pro CC

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

They are pretty much the same but MOV is proprietary to Apple and although anyone can use it, they could change it at any time (not to say they will). MP4 LPCM does the same job but is an ISO standard and so more reliable long term.

[@tonylouisvisionvideography3469]

I have purchased this camera 4 years later since it was released. I wanted to purchase the GH5s but instead went for the GH4 so I could also buy a Voigtlander 10.5mm F/0.95 and other needed equipment. How do you find focusing using the EVF viewfinder? Compared the GH2, I find it difficult to judge focus. This is of course without focus peeking switched on. I find the focus peeking not that accurate. I can see and focus so much easier manually on the GH2. I also find that the GH4 has a less smooth image and is very shaky. This camera really needs some kind of stabilization whereas the GH2 produces more acceptable results hand held.

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

I never found any particular problem with the focusing on EVF, maybe you just need to get more familiar with it? You could try upping the EVF contrast or brightness but there's no intrinsic reason it should be better or worse than the GH2. The problem with peaking on any Micro Four Thirds camera is simply that there is relatively speaking so much depth of field and useful as it is, peaking can only reflect that. High setting can be more accurate than Low. Personally, I find magnifying the EVF image more certain. With the f/0.95 I'd think that Pinpoint focusing would be necessary and that will magnify the image automatically. Again, there;s no reason the GH2 and GH4 should be different, both being unstabilized - maybe it is a matter of familiarisation again?

[@tonylouisvisionvideography3469]

Thanks David for that advice. You must be right because you have had lots of experience with both cameras. I better familiarise myself with it more . Your info was very much appreciated Thanks again

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

Following on from your other comments, it really sounds as if the camera is faulty and should be returned. You should just be able to pick it up and use it without problem. Sounds like a loose element in the EVF array somewhere. You have experience with the GH2, the GH4 should be better. If it isn't, there is a problem with the camera.

[@worldwed]

Amazing review, very easy to understand for a novice, keep it up

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

I try to keep in mind that for some people something I am thoroughly familiar with may be their first MFT camera - maybe even their first camera. It's nice to know it's noticed. Thanks.

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

William Snyder Yes, send me a sample. It sounds bizarre, as if there is a mismatch between the MetaBones and the lens. That seems unlikely, though. Does it alter on stopping down?

[@ValladaoMateus]

Could you use it for stills professionally? And how's the battery life?

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

For most professional requirements, IQ would be just fine. If you want to do fast moving night time sport or some really specialized work, you'd do better with a DSLR but it'd be 4x more expensive.

[@ValladaoMateus]

David Thorpe Alright, thanks. So what's the battery life?

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

As with all mirrorless cameras, less good than you'd like, maybe 300 shots but if you use the electronic shutter (as I mostly do), three times that.

[@ValladaoMateus]

David Thorpe What's the difference? Between electronic shutter and other kinds?

[@UncleAwesomeRetro]

I'm waiting for my gh4..I am watching everything related to gh4 on youtube and vimeo :P Perhaps I could sell my good old nex5n and it's lenses, but I discovered I have gotten attached to it. Perhaps the nex have an advantage for pictures in low light as it has a bigger sensor.

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

UncleAwesome If you don't need the money from selling the Nex, I'd keep it and see if you find yourself using it.I don't think you'll find the GH4 (or any MFT camera from the last year or so) wanting in bad light but it's worth finding out for yourself before ditching the Nex system. We all have different requirements from our cameras. If you do sell the Nex, a high speed MFT lens would go some way to neutralizing any low light quality loss you perceived.

[@UncleAwesomeRetro]

David Thorpe Yeah I will take your advice :) Also, I found out, I need a new gimbal on my hexacopter to support the gh4 but it does cost a lot, so I still need my nex for now.

[@robj1366]

Really enjoying all your reviews and thoughts on mft. I am currently using a G6 with 14-140 and Olympus 45 1.8 shooting stills but considering a move to the GH4 however I feel I will be spending money on video technology that I don't require. So I have been tempted to switch to the OMD EM-1 and save some money, do you have any wise words to help me decide.

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

Rob J Glad you enjoy the reviews! The GH4 is just as capable a stills camera as the E-M1 but as you say, more expensive. If you really are not bothered by the video, the Olympus is a better buy and I'd buy that. You have the in body stabilization with it too, for the 45mm. For myself I prefer the feel and handling of the GH4 but that really is personal and for everyone who prefers the GH4 there will be someone who prefers the E-M1.

[@mp4podcastDOTcom]

Thanks for the review from a photographers point of view:)

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

Thanks - a photographer is what I am and a photographer is what I will remain! I'

[@TheNerdyJock]

Excellent review, thanks for that! Do you have any lens recommendations for both stills AND video? I'm currently considering the Panasonic Leica DG Summilux 25mm f/1.4 as a first over some of the other primes merely because I prefer its standard focal length vs. the WA and telephoto ones.

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

You won't go wrong with that lens. One of the best lenses for video is the 14-140 zoom, quiet and versatile and sharp - and light in weight, That and the 25mm together give you a lot of scope. If you prefer the standard focal length. you won't do better than the Pan-Leica. You might take a look at the Olympus 25mm simply because it is cheaper.

[@TheNerdyJock]

David Thorpe The 14-140 seems like a reasonable compromise, I may just have to get that instead of the other two f/2.8 zooms. Then I can use the 25mm when I need a more shallow DoF or better low light performance. It's unfortunate, however, that the Summilux 25mm doesn't offer image stabilization... Does this seem like a fairly wise decision based on cost and versatility?

[@tonylouisvisionvideography3469]

GH2 & GH4 which is the best for Stills photography? They both shot at 16 mega pixels RAW

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

The GH4 is better overall - more recent sensor and much improved focusing. An improvement in every way, really. Except size, depending on your likes.

[@tonylouisvisionvideography3469]

Thanks David. I've gone for a GH5s for video and will purchase a GH5 as my Stills and B camera

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

You can't get better than that!

[@tonylouisvisionvideography3469]

Thanks

[@tonylouisvisionvideography3469]

Great review. Very well put together

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

Thanks - glad you found it useful.

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

Alan McCaw I can't reply to you directly for some reason, Alan, no reply button. There is no question that no MFT camera can provide the ultimate image quality of a FF camera, just as no FF camera can provide the image quality of an IQ250 back on a Hasselblad. It's all about compromises. Where MFT scores is in providing _enough_ IQ in a compact system with a large and high quality lens range. In terms of versatility, you can do pretty much anything with an MFT that you can with FF. It's less good at some things but because of its size better at others. Only you can decide if the trade-off between IQ and not having back pain is worth while. I use my MFT cameras for selling to publications and stock. They more than meet the requirements for these markets, as they do for prints up to A3 and bigger and web. screen use. In the end, I'd say that MFT will provide all the quality that most people _need_, the question is whether it will provide the quality they _want_. I went into MFT because of the problems hauling big cameras on my bike and out walking. I got back ache. When I bought my first MFT, my sheer pleasure in taking pictures came in through the front door and my back ache went out the back. As an example, I now carry two camera bodies and fast zooms lenses covering the FF equivalent of 14 - 400mm. They, my accessories and backpack weigh in at less than 4kg! It works for me.

[@alanmccaw8672]

Thanks for your reply, very helpful. I thoroughly enjoy your reviews of Panasonic kit.

[@REP96st]

Another great review. Thanks for sharing.

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

Thanks!

[@moenlighted7681]

Hey! I currently use an olympus camera but I have come to the conclusion that a panasonic body is necessary like so many others, my question is which one would you recommend out of g80,gx8,g7 and gh4. Most of my lenses are not stabilized since I only shoot olympus at the moment, will I be able to get great stills and video with the panasonic bodies in terms of stabilization.

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

No hesitation here - I'd go for the G80. It has excellent stabilization, a sweet shock free shuter and does just about everything you could want at a fair price. I use Olympus lenses on mine most of the time. They work just as well on either make body so no need for concern there.

[@stylesfilmsatl3570]

when u filming whats that green noise and white n black noise is

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

Styles Films Sorry, I don't understand.

[@mpess8569]

Looking for a good recording camera for video production only, which one you suggest me, GH3 or GH4? Regards

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

M Pess It's not my specialist area but I'd say the GH4 for its 4K capability. It gives a degree of future proofing plus has many more possibilities for tailoring video to your particular needs. And focus peaking and so on.

[@rondeblok]

Thank you for the good review, but I have some questions about the electronic shutter. How to use it and what is the differents with the mecanic. Is it olso possible that you explane when to use AFF ore AFC it looks for me the same.Hope you you understand my bad engelish. keep on te good review I learn a lot of it.

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

Ron de Blok Thanks for those suggestions, Ron. Good ideas and I'm working on the focusing one now.

[@DimitriD71]

Great video David. I watched your reviews of the GH3 and the GX7 prior to buying both of those which helped in my decision making. I was intrigued that you mentioned that you use the e-shutter primarily. I seem to recall seeing someone mention that the image captured when using the e-shutter was of a lower bit depth and therefore IQ that the mechanical shutter. Is there any truth to this that you know of? Also I don't understand why the e-shutter resulted in less rolling shutter artefact compared to the mechanical shutter - is it more akin to a global shutter in it's action that the mechanical shutter? Finally, do you still get the lines/bars in the image under certain indoor lighting conditions that I get sometimes when using the e-shutter on my GH3 or perhaps GX7 - can't recall which I saw it on last. Thanks and keep up the great work! :)

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

PrometheusDrago I believe the image captured is a lower bit depth but I don't do much post processing, I shoot RAW and then just top and tail them to my preference in Lightroom so the lower bit depth doesn't really matter to me. I'll crop if necessary, adjust contrast and sharpen a little. Basically, I try to capture what I want in camera. For people who do a lot more post processing, the higher the bit depth the better. The bending of lines, jello, you get it with any focal plane shutter to a small and usually unnoticeable extent. It's more with the e-shutter _but for the kind of work I do_ it rarely matters and I like the power saving and feel of the e-shutter, plus the freedom from any shutter shock effects. I don't recall getting any lines or bar effects on my GX7 or GH4 (or GM1). Possibly the sensor readout time is fast enough on these to mask it. It'd be interesting to see the effects of different shutter speeds under artificial light. I tend to whack up the ISO and use the lens wide open to get a high shutter speed. I'm an ex film guy, so a bit of noise doesn't faze me. I've been known to _add_ it, in fact.

[@eltawtee8104]

I am a newby whats the best setting for stills you can get out of gh4?

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

elvis tawiah It's too complicated to list here, really. I have a book on the subject on Amazon (The Panasonic GH4 Menu System Simplified) and a print version coming out soon. As a simple basis, Aperture Priority, JPG, auto ISO.

[@DayleThackeray]

Hi David, again a great video. I am currently using a Pentax K5-2, and it couldn't be prized from my hands for anything. However I know that you have a Pro background and appreciate your view. This looks like a refinement of an already good tool ( this is a very Pentax thing). My current project is surveying for communications companies. I take maybe 5-600 photos a day for the surveys. The Pentax is a tough camera, small as well for its capabilities. Is there that much of a weight saving when you start to go with long lenses. I use my 120-400 sigma a lot for details of mast installations. Could it take the knocks and bangs that my Pentax gear puts up with?

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

Dayle Thackeray Funnily enough, I was using a Pentax K5 up to the point I sold it for M43 equipment. My sole reason for selling it was the weight and size of the lenses. Either of the two MFT maker's top bodies are tough enough for your use. You're using a 120-400 zoom which would equate to a 90-300 in MFT so the nearest equivalent would be the Panasonic 100-300mm f4-f5.6. I doubt you would notice much difference in IQ between that combination and your present one in real word use. In terms of weight, a GH4 plus 100-300mm weighs in at 1080gm or 2.3lbs whereas the K5 plus 120-400 weighs 2526g or 5.6lbs. In point of fact the GH4 and lens don't weigh much more than the 120-400 lens alone. It's a huge weight saving!

[@1iceskating]

David, great review

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

+Ilox L Thanks! Much appreciated.

[@john_wagner]

What lens was used at 9:45? The depth of field is stunning!

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

+john wagner Hi John - that was the 60mm Olympus Macro lens wide open at f/2/8. I've kept it as far from the background as possible. So basically the GH4 was 1 metre from me and the background 5 metres behind that. I kniw people say you can't get the shallow DoF effect with MFT lenses but you can. You just have to work a little harder to get it!

[@ThePhotoSoup]

Another good video. I love my GH3!

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

Thanks!

[@eltawtee8104]

Will the print version have more stuffs on it or the same with the amazon one?well for now i will the amazon one then wait for the print also for any more updates. Thanks

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

elvis tawiah Yes, same as the e_book. Thanks elvis.

[@ariaydin8501]

Hello David.Thanks for your video..can you explain how to get good photo..i can good imege..if basible make video how to set up camera for video and photo..Thanks

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

It'd be a bit of a long video. I do a lot in the set-up in my books on Amazon.

[@ariaydin8501]

Thank you David..But my English poor to write and read.video is more easy to understan..Any way thks for kind respons..

[@reticulan5]

About the only disappointment I have with this camera is I would prefer the 4K data to be recorded at least at 200mb/sec. I mean it does at 1080P, But drops to half that at 4K. If anything the 4K needs much more than HD. Oh well external recorder it is. Lets hope theres a hack on the way soon.

[@bariti86]

Can you comment more on gh4 vs em1? I am also a stills shooter and I have a gx7. Want a more Pro weather sealed camera and keep gx7 add my second shooter. I am considering em1 because of ibis. Otherwise I like Panasonic and want to stay with it but I have some Olympus primes and they do not have stabilization. What would you reccomend for stills gh4 or em1?

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

The cameras are as good as one another in a technical sense. My choice is based heavily on my preference for the feel and design of the GH4. I like the menu system better, too. The big difference between the two technically for the stills shooter is the IBIS of the Olympus but if you can forego that and use your primes on the GX7, it's a big advantage to have your first and second cameras using the same basic control layout and menu, especially if you put a 12-35 zoom on one and 135-100 on the other. But when push comes to shove, if someone told me I had to use the E-M1 in future, I wouldn't be upset.

[@bariti86]

David Thorpe thx a lot.

[@robertsanchez1813]

This is a great camera ! Awesome review.

[@davidthorpe7732]

Robert Sanchez Thanks Robert! Yes, a great camera. If they did 2 models, one with in body stabilization and whatever compromise needed to be made on video _and_ this one they would have the ultimate MFT camera.

[@peterhitchcock6444]

What's is the maximum size prints would you make from the GH4 stills mode and 4K photo mode?

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

+toronto pete In general for the very best printed reproduction 300ppi is advised. The GH4 has a lateral pixel count of 4608 so that divided by 300 gives you a possible print size of 15 inches wide. I personally cannot see any difference whatsoever between 300 and 200ppi, so I'd be happy to make a print about 24 inches across. I'd be interested in anyone else's _practical_ observations.

[@peterhitchcock6444]

Thanks for the info David

[@peterhitchcock6444]

Oh and I see your in New Malden I used to live in Ditton Hill in the 60's

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

+toronto pete You should see the price of flats and houses there now! I used to cover the Paris fashion week for the Toronto Star years ago. Really nice people to work for.

[@peterhitchcock6444]

I love Paris was there in 2013. Prices here in Toronto are high too. The Toronto Star is going digital. A lot of the newspapers are having a hard time due to the internet. I used to work on Stingray & Thunderbirds. Hope to return & discover Britain again with my GH4 which I love.Cheers Peter. peterhitchcock.ca

[@arbiter569]

David, do you have a website or some place I can view your work?

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

+arbiter569 www.dthorpe.net is my home page but there's mostly old stuff on there. Apart from anything for KZbin, my stuff goes through an agent, Rex Features in London.

[@ShinobiVlog]

Great review as always

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

Thanks!

[@BarefootMediaTV]

dang i want the battery grip bc it looks cool but this camera has such good battery life id never need it lol

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

PeglegMedia You have that the wrong way round - you need it because it looks good :-) Actually, I wish they'd put a slot for a spare SD card in it like Pentax do.

[@dawhitecastle]

Thanks for the review David. Is there no Live View for stills mode? Only video mode?

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

I'm not sure I follow you - MFT cameras only have Live Mode, everything you see is a direct feed from the sensor. If I've missed your point though let me know.

[@dawhitecastle]

Well, when I am in video mode and make changes to ap., iris, shutter speed, etc. I see the changes on the screen in real time. When I do the same in photo mode, I don't see those changes/effects, only after I take the picture.

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

dawhitecastle You're shooting video in Manual, right? If you want to see the changes the same way in stills Manual Mode, go to the Custom menu P5 and switch _on_ Constant Preview. You can't do it in A or S modes, of course because when you alter the shutter speed in S mode, the aperture changes to keep the exposure correct Technically, live view means you are seeing what the sensor sees rather than an optical view via a mirror, which is different from the Constant Preview that you are referring to. I'm not being a smart-arse, it's just that it might make it clearer to someone else reading this.

[@dawhitecastle]

Ahh gotcha. Thank you! And I know you aren't being an ass, i appreciate the help :)

[@DeutschKurzhaar]

Which lens would you recommend / prefer? 12-35 or 14-140? I can only afford one of them is me. (powered by goggle translater)

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

I would prefer the 14-140. When I go through my pictures on Lightroom it is the lens I find I use the most. Image quality is amazingly good and in day to day use little different from the 12-35. It has the same fast focusing and smooth zoom action as the 12-35 and would, for many people, be the only lens they would ever need. Ich würde lieber die 14-140. Wenn ich durch meine Bilder auf Lightroom gehen es ist das Objektiv ich finde ich am häufigsten verwenden. Bildqualität ist erstaunlich gut und im täglichen Gebrauch wenig anders aus dem 12-35. Es hat die gleiche schnelle Fokussierung und glatt Zoomvorgang als 12-35 und würde für viele Menschen die einzige Linse sie jemals brauchen würde.

[@IljaSara]

The in-body IS is a bit downside. Articulating screen is great feature. But does it have internal GPS? Great video again, BTW!

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

Ilja Sara No, it doesn't have internal GPS. You can use the Image App for it but it's a lot more clunky than a built in chip would be.

[@IljaSara]

Yeah. The image app should automatically stamp shots with GPS coordinates when connected to camera. I don't think that would be much of an effor for a Panasonic programmer. A side note about Image App: I've been doing some investigation how the Image App shares the content. Because I only have Linux operating system, it's a currently impossible to copy image to my computer using wireless connection.

[@motomassacre6888]

Would the D80 be better or this?

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

The GH4 would be overall better than the D80, being a much more modern design.

[@Federico84]

i cannot wait for the GH5

[@DavidThorpeMFT]

+Tecnovlog I seem to remember seeing somewhere that it might be out in September. I have no idea whether that's true or not, though.

[@tonylouisvisionvideography3469]

I am going to return my camera and go for a GH5s and see where I go from there