Panasonic announces 4K-capable Lumix DMC-GH4

Panasonic has announced its latest flagship Micro Four Thirds camera, the Lumix DMC-GH4. It’s designed as a ‘hybrid camera’ that can shoot both stills and videos, and the emphasis of the improvements is clearly on the latter. Its revised 16MP Live MOS sensor and Venus Engine IX processor allow for 4K video, 12 fps continuous shooting and 1080p shooting at bitrates as high as 200Mbps.

The GH4 uses a new ‘Depth from Defocus’ autofocus system which offers focus times as quick as 0.07 sec and less hunting, according to the company. You can compose photos and videos on either a 3″ 1.04M dot fully articulating OLED display or an OLED EVF with over 2 million dots. Other highlights include Wi-Fi with NFC, as PC sync port, highlight and shadow control, and a ‘silent mode’ which uses the electronic shutter only.

The real story here is the GH4’s video recording capabilities, which include 4K and 1080p, with support for the IPB and ALL-Intra codecs. Shooting aids include focus peaking, zebra pattern, luminance level adjustment, and cinema gamma presets. An optional ‘interface unit’ adds five SDI and two XLR terminals, and permits 10-bit 4:2:2 output with time code.

Pricing and availability will be announced at a future date.

Read our summary of the GH4’s top features

Jump to:

• Press Release
• Specifications

Press Release:

The Panasonic LUMIX GH4 DSLM (Digital Single Lens Mirrorless) Camera is the World’s First* DSLM with 4K Video Recording Capability

Designed To Meet Professional Needs for Both Still and Video Capture

Panasonic is proud to introduce the ultimate still/video Digital Single Lens Mirrorless (DSLM) camera for both photographers and cinematographers alike. The Panasonic LUMIX DMC-GH4 (GH4) is the world’s first DSLM with 4K cinematic recording capability. The image quality for both still and video is dramatically improved by Panasonic’s cutting-edge technologies.

The newly developed 16.05-megapixel Digital Live MOS Sensor for the GH4 excels both in sensitivity and response and suppresses rolling shutter effect even when using the electronic shutter. The Venus Engine image processor has been newly developed dramatically boosting its performance with a new quad-core CPU that allows high speed signal processing that is required for rich 4K video recording. Integrating superior noise reduction systems, the GH4 enables shooting at maximum ISO 25,600. Sensitivity, gradation performance, resolution and color reproduction are dramatically improved to achieve even higher picture quality. The GH4 boasts high speed burst shooting at 12 frames per second (AFS) up to approx.40 (including RAW) / approx.100 (excluding RAW) and 7.0 fps(AFC) to capture fast moving subjects.

The new GH4 has evolved into a professional video camera. One of the most prominent advances is unlimited 4K video recording (Cinema 4K: 4096×2160 / 24 fps and QFHD 4K: 3840×2160 / up to 30 fps) in MOV/MP4*2. The GH4 is also capable of recording Full- HD video with ultra high bit rate at 200 Mbps (ALL-Intra) or 100 Mbps (IPB) without recording time limit*2. Users can freely choose the format from MOV, MP4, AVCHD Progressive and AVCHD at a variety of frame rates according to the usage. For professionals working globally, the system frequency can be easily selected between 59.94Hz (23.98Hz) / 50.00Hz / 24.00Hz. The GH4 is also capable of real-time image output to an external monitor via an optional micro HDMI cable simultaneously while recording video. For more unique video expression, VFR(Variable Frame Rate) or Time Lapse/Stop Motion Animation can be produced with GH4 without postproduction processing. In addition, a variety of practical functions required for professional video recording are newly integrated.

The high-precision Contrast AF system in the GH4 is further enhanced by Panasonic’s integration of DFD (Depth from Defocus) technology which shortens the time to focus to achieve ultra high speed AF of approx.0.07 sec*3. Not only speed but also the operability is enhanced thanks to the addition of Face / Eye Detection AF or 49-point AF with Custom Multi AF mode.

The GH4 boasts newly developed high-precision, high-speed dual OLED (Organic Light-Emitting Diode) displays of 2,359K-dot LVF (Live View Finder) and 1,036K-dot rear monitor. Both the LVF and rear monitor adopt an OLED to achieve high speed response with minimum time lag while enhancing the resolution. Notably, the OLED for the LVF in GH4 boasts 10,000:1 high contrast for superior color reproduction.

To be tough enough to withstand heavy field use, the main structure of the GH4 is composed of a magnesium alloy full die cast front/rear frame. It also features splash / dustproof construction by sealing every joint, dial, and button. The shutter unit allows a max. 1/8000 shutter release and is also redesigned to be even more durable for approx. 200,000 actuations.*4

1. The World’s First Digital Single Lens Mirrorless (DSLM) Camera Recording High Quality Video in 4K – To Meet Professional Quality and Standards

One of the most prominent advances is unlimited*1 4K video recording (Cinema 4K: 4096×2160 / 24 fps and QFHD 4K: 3840×2160 / up to 30 fps) in MOV/MP4*2. The GH4 is also capable of Full- HD video with ultra high bit rate at 200 Mbps (ALL-Intra) or 100 Mbps (IPB), which does not have limit of recording time. Users can freely choose the format from MOV, MP4, AVCHD Progressive and AVCHD at a variety of frame rates according to the usage. In MP4 / MOV, high quality sound in LPCM (Linear Pulse Code Modulation) is recordable.

The GH4 is also capable of real-time image output to an external monitor in 4:2:2 / 8-bit*5 via an optional micro HDMI cable simultaneously while recording video. Even 4:2:2 / 10-bit is available which is suitable for the professional requiring serious monitoring of the footage. Users can choose to output only the recording content or the content with the menus individually depending on a display.

Plus, the VFR (Variable Frame Rate) enables recording video with slow/fast motion such as 96 fps, 4x, all in Full-HD*6. Time Lapse / Stop Motion Animation video can be produced in camera, too.

For more precise control over video image quality, the GH4 integrates Zebra Pattern to prevent white wash-out and Focus Peaking to aid with manual focusing. The GH4 even offers a Master Pedestal Adjustment with 15 steps. Gamma presets exclusively for video recording are now available in Creative Video mode – “CINELIKE D” and “CINELIKE V” for rich video expression. Synchro Scan mode is also newly available to reduce and suppress flicker. It is possible to display a Center Marker while recording.

The GH4 is equipped with functions that meet global standard for synchronous video recording. A 1KHz Test Tone and Color Bars (SMPTE / EBU / ARIB Standard) are available on the GH4. The camera 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*7. When recording the video in MOV, AVCHD Progressive, AVCHD or MP4 (LPCM), the GH4 automatically generates multiple seamless files for continuous recording. During playback, the AVCHD Progressive / AVCHD files are reproduced with seamless, interruption-free continuity.

A total of 22 LUMIX G digital interchangeable lenses offer any creative perspective according to the scene, including HD lenses allowing silent, high performance AF control suitable for video recording.

2. The Newly Developed 16.05-Megapixel Digital Live MOS Sensor and Venus Engine Achieving High Speed, High Sensitivity Image Recording

Panasonic developed a new 16.05-megapixel Digital Live MOS Sensor for the GH4 that achieves high quality, high sensitivity image recording with quick response. Approx. 50% higher speed signal readout suppresses rolling shutter effect even when using an electronic shutter or recording video. Taking full advantage of the Live MOS Sensor, dynamic range is expanded by max.1/3 stop at low ISO sensitivity.

The Venus Engine image processor is newly developed boosting its performance with a quad-core CPU that lets high speed signal processing required for rich video recording such as 4K. The advanced Multi-process NR (Noise Reduction) applies effective noise reduction and edge processing according to each component frequency. Plus, a newly added Random Filter granulates chromatic noise to be blended into the image even more naturally. As a result, a max. ISO 25,600 has been achieved. On the other hand, optimizing the combination design of new sensor, new imaging engine and low pass filter enhances the limit resolution by more than 5% while suppressing moire. A newly adopted aperture filter is capable of controlling over a wider frequency range. It adjusts the amount of sharpness according to the frequency level, resulting in faithful stereoscopic effect. The Venus Engine also improves color reproduction with accurate evaluation of each color even if it is similar not only in color phase but also in saturation and luminosity.

3.　High Speed Response Required for Professionals and Practical AF Options

All LUMIX G cameras use the Contrast AF for its focusing system. Compared with the Phase difference system AF, the Contrast AF boasts higher accuracy especially in shooting with a bright lens with a small F value. With a LUMIX G digital interchangeable lens capable of digital signal exchange at max. 240 fps, the focusing is stunningly quick and smooth. The Contrast AF system in the GH4 is further enhanced by Panasonic’s integration of DFD (Depth from Defocus) technology which even shortens the time to set focus. It calculates the distance to the subject by evaluating 2 images with different sharpness level while consulting the data of optical characteristics of the current lens. As a result, the GH4 achieves ultra high speed AF of approx.0.07 sec*8. This improvement benefits more as focusing distance increases. The burst speed of shooting is dramatically faster than its predecessor, the DMC-GH3, boasting high speed burst shooting at 12 fps (AFS) up to approx.40 (including RAW) / approx.100 (excluding RAW) and 7.0 fps (AFC) to capture fast moving subjects in-focus.

In addition, the stability of continuous focusing is improved by minimizing wobbling in both still and video recording. Together with the quick start-up and short release time lag, the GH4 never lets photographers miss fleeting shooting opportunities. 

The GH4 incorporates Eye Detection AF which automatically sets focus right on the eye of human face. Focus point is increased from 23 (GH3) to 49 points for more flexible composition together with Custom Multi mode in which users can freely select the blocks needed to focus out of the 49 points. Now the 1-area AF area can be seamlessly magnified not only in manual but also in auto focus mode. Tracking AF is also advanced in the point of tracking accuracy by estimating the subject’s movement. Focus point can be set on any part of the 100% field of view. The time to show magnified image can be selectable in Pin-point AF. Focus point can be magnified either with the MF ring or with cursor key in MF Assist mode. In the Touch Pad AF, the position can be set either on absolute/relative coordinate. Together with the Eye Sensor AF which starts focusing by just looking into the viewfinder, the AF/AE lock button works for AF for quick auto focusing even when using the LVF.

4. Stunning Mobility Supported by Mechanical Advancements

The GH4 boasts newly developed high-precision, high-speed dual OLED (Organic Light-Emitting Diode) displays for LVF (Live View Finder) and rear monitor. Increasing the resolution of display area to 2,359K-dot, 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. Thanks to the newly designed large eyecup, the visibility of LVF is dramatically improved. 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 false operation during touching on the rear monitor. The 3.0-inch 1,036K-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. This rear monitor adopts static touch control for more smooth operation either in shooting or in playback. Both LVF and rear monitor adopted OLED to achieve high speed response with a minimum time lag while enhancing the resolution. Notably, the OLED for the LVF in GH4 boasts 10,000:1 high contrast for superior color reproduction. Now the excellent visibility comes closer to OVF. On the other hand, live view image can also be displayed in monochrome through the LVF enabling concentrating on contrast.

Even a moment’s waste matters in professional shooting, but it is possible to make target setting intuitively with the GH4. Three dials are equipped on the top and back of the camera and the main dial is now comes with a lock structure. A dedicated button allows direct reach to exposure compensation, white balance adjustment or ISO setting and max.5 settings can be assigned to the Fn button. All these external components are designed to be operated easily without taking eyes off the viewfinder.

Both built-in/external flash can be synchronized with max.1/250 second shutter speed.

5. Expandability for A Variety of Workflows

Easy Wireless Connectivity via Wi-Fi® / NFC with Smartphones
The GH4 integrates Wi-Fi® connectivity (IEEE 802.11 b/g/n) with NFC (Near Field Communication) technology camera to offer a more flexible shooting experience and instant image sharing with easy operation. With the Panasonic “Image App”, remote shooting of both photo and video is available by using the smartphone/tablet as a remote shutter with a monitor. Not only releasing the shutter, but zooming, focusing and settings of shutter speed, aperture, exposure compensation are all controllable with a smartphone / tablet. All these flexible shooting / browsing / sharing styles are made possible with the GH4 and the Panasonic’s dedicated application software, the Panasonic Image App for iOS / Android smartphones / tablets. It is also easy to embed geotags in the image after shooting. For the smartphone/tablet without NFC, the camera can display a dedicated QR code on its monitor to complete pairing easily by reading the code.

Output/Input Terminals
The GH4 comes with a variety of connection terminals for more flexible shooting options. The 3.5mm microphone jack is for high quality audio recording using an external microphone and the 3.5mm headphone jack which enables monitoring the audio while shooting video real-time. It is also capable of real-time image output on an external monitor via an optional HDMI micro cable simultaneously while recording video. In addition to these, the GH4 complies with AV outputs (Audio 2ch, Composite), flash sync terminal and 2.5mm jack for remote controller.　
For reliable recording of rich video, the GH4 complies with UHS Speed Class 3 (U3) which is the new speed class standard of SD memory card. The UHS Speed Class 3 (U3) guarantees a constant minimum write speed of 30MB/s to respond to market needs for 4K video.

Optional Accessories
A GN58 is a powerful External Flash (DMW-FL580L) and is newly added to the LUMIX G optional accessories which allows high speed charging of approx.1.7 sec. Not only with wireless control but also LED video light function are available. The Stereo / Shotgun Microphone (DMW-MS2) which enables stereo/shotgun switch even allows more precise sound recording with selectable Super Shotgun / Lens Auto / Manual option on GH4.

6. Other Features

Luminance Level Adjustment
Just as the concept of “the ultimate hybrid DSLM camera” identifies, the GH4 supports smooth postproduction for photographers migrating to videography. In addition to the standard luminance level of 16-235*9 and 16-255*9, GH4 offers 0-255*9 which is equivalent to photo standard.

Focus Peaking
For more practical control over focusing, the GH4 incorporates Focus Peaking function that shows the peak of focus in MF and AF+MF mode. Users can see the peaking of focus while monitoring the subject in live view. It can be set to HIGH / LOW / OFF and the color can also be changed to blue, white or orange according to the color of the shooting scene during live view. Users can take advantage of this function when controlling the camera with a smartphone / tablet via Wi-Fi in both photo / video recording.

Silent Mode
This mode switches shutter from mechanical to electronic and turns all sound (AF, operation) off while suppressing the emission of the AF assist lamp and flash with just a single setting for special shooting occasions.

Highlight/Shadow Control
The Live View function is also advanced digitally making it possible to adjust highlight / shadow separately with the front/rear dial. Three patterns of settings can be customized in addition to the three presets.

RAW data development in Camera
The GH4 is capable of developing RAW images in camera. In addition to the color space setting ( sRGB / Adobe RGB ), the parameter of white balance, exposure compensation, contrast, highlight/shadow, saturation, noise reduction, sharpness or hue can be flexibly adjusted while LUMIX’s Photo Style, Intelligent D-range Control, Intelligent Resolution can also be applied.

Interface Unit (DMW-YAGH)
Panasonic offers an new optional Interface Unit (DMW-YAGH) exclusively for professional/industrial workflow with GH4 that enables more powerful video transmission. It complies with Full HD (4:2:2 / 10-bit) offering four parallel outputs and these can be used for 4K (4:2:2 / 10-bit) output – both with time code*10. The XLR input terminals (2ch) are also equipped to connect line or condenser microphone. When connecting with microphone, volume can be controlled for L and R separately, which can be monitored LED audio level display on the back of the unit. The 12V DC IN is highly compliant with large-capacity industrial battery and continuously supplies the GH4 with power*11.

Footnotes:

*For a digital single lens mirrorless camera as of February 7, 2014.
*2 Use SDXC/SDHC Memory Card compatible with UHS Speed Class 3 (U3) when using high bit rate video recording mode over 100 Mbps.
*3 In AFS, With LUMIX G VARIO 14-140mm / F3.5-5.6 ASPH. / POWER O.I.S. or LUMIX G X VARIO 12-35mm / F2.8 ASPH. / POWER O.I.S.
*4 Panasonic in-house testing.
*5 Setting the HDMI output picture quality
[4:2:2 10bit]:You can output the image through the HDMI connection in higher picture quality, but you cannot record it as a motion picture or still pictures. Ideal when the HDMI output is to be saved on external devices.
[4:2:2 8bit]:You can record the image while outputting it through the HDMI connection. Ideal for recording while checking the motion picture on an external monitor. When using 4:2:2 / 8-bit output, video is recorded in 4:2:0 / 8-bit on SDXC/SDHC Memory Card.
*6 In 24p playback. Effect value varies depending on the recording format and frequency.
*7 When system frequency [59.94Hz] is selected
*8 In AFS, With LUMIX G VARIO 14-140mm / F3.5-5.6 ASPH. / POWER O.I.S. or LUMIX G X VARIO 12-35mm / F2.8 ASPH. / POWER O.I.S.
*9 8-bit
*10 Setting the HDMI output picture quality [4:2:2 / 10bit]
You can output the image through the HDMI connection in higher picture quality, but you cannot record it as a motion picture or still pictures. Ideal when the HDMI output is to be saved on external devices. When using 4:2:2/10-bit output, simultaneous video recording on SDXC/SDHC Memory Card in the camera is not possible.
*11 HDMI output from the camera is not possible when the camera is mounted on the Interface Unit.

Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4 specifications

Comments

4K video but I can’t see any Cinema format 1 : 2,35

Even on a 1080p screen 4k looks better because there is less compression artifacts, but hardware is not up to task of streaming it yet. You need h.265 and VP9 hardware video accelleration to play it back smoothly. So this is really a film makers toy and not really usefull for most people. It will take 3 to 5 years for hardware to catch on and 4k screens to become cheaper. By then there will be much more 4k capable camera’s.

Good initiative. They had to do this, there was no other way to further push the m4/3 in the “photo” direction. So the name of the game is VIDEO (let’s bet: the first 4K “affordable” FF DSLR will come from…)! Cheers! 🙂

Imagine, take a shot of the ambient indoors, do a stop or two higher in 4K, then downsample it to standard HD and viola! an extra stop or so of DR!

At least that would be the theory. Can’t wait to see the tests.

GH4….not a good number…..bad luck….I’ll wait for GH5

I guess all 4K video is bad luck then, you’ll have to wait for 8K video which is good luck 🙂

finally they use number 4. I dont believe that mitos

Which means no more support of any kind for GH3 users! The only way to get anything is buy GH4 and in less than 6 months time the same story, they’ll have to buy GH5… it’s a joke! I learned my lesson when I bought a GFG-1, we are not on GF-6 and counting…

Thanks but no way I’ll even consider this…

So how does this release make someone’s GH3 any worse?

Do you expect the development of new models to stop as soon as you have bought a camera? Use what you have, and when the time comes to replace it, see what’s available in the market then.

Very impressive beast of a video/photocamera. I wonder though if this isn’t overkill for most home videographers intending to shoot video with people in it – good luck getting the make-up look good at that resolution…

Given that Panasonic have started adding decent video with manual controls to their prosumer models I think the G6/GX7 are now taking the place of what used to be the GH line (GH1/2)

Have been running Panasonic since chopping in my Nikons a few years ago.

No technical issues at all, just good quality performance, though dropped my much-loved FZ50 in the sea. Replaced it with a not-so-ergonomic FZ150, in turn with a GM1.

Now looking forward to the GH4 to partner my iPhone 5s, itself a little miracle.

Besides significant improvements in the GH4 video capabilities –even in comparison with already impressive GH3, G6 and GX7– GH4 offers drastic improvements for still-image photography as well, considering its new hardware and software resulting in:
* decent improvements in AF speed be means of new Depth from Defocus method;
* less rolling shutter effect in silent shooting mode due to 50% faster sensor read-out speed;
* 1/8000 sec minimum shutter speed;
* much faster continuous shooting speeds — up to 12fps at full 16Mpix;
* significantly improved LCD and EVF,
+ focus peaking, zebra pattern, and luminance level adjustment benefit still imaging, too.

FZ50 rating [-1] http://www.dpreview.com/forums/post/52339583

Almost a match! the 14-150 lens does not reach the 420mm equivalent of the FZ50. With several superzoom lenses available to APS-C cameras, why none have been produced for a 4/3 mount is baffling.

The GH4 looks stunning on paper; a top flight camera.

Nice, but still haven’t fixed that horrible rear dial where your finger gets jammed against the rubber grip that encompasses the right side of the dial. Major ergonomic mistake Panasonic! (I love their stuff otherwise.)

Micro !!!?

*almost* a home run. I’m disappointed that theres no slo-mo on the lower resolutions. If it could do 1080 at 120 or higher, THEN I might just switch from Canon.

Not 120fps, but 96 at 1080p :
The VFR (Variable Frame Rate) enables Full-HD video recording with slow/fast motion such as 96 fps / 4x.

Read more on PhotoRumors.com: http://photorumors.com/2014/02/06/panasonic-lumix-gh-4-announcement/#ixzz2sccKkaCT

A look at the dock and some 4K footage, enjoy watching on your 4k monitor
http://cheesycam.com

Videographers wet dream.

I also have to applaud Panasonic for making this a GLOBAL camera.

Arghhhh…. just when I thought I would not have to buy another new camera for a while. Sigh.

This pretty much seals MFT as my system of choice in mirrorless.

Although, one has to ask why we have to use HDMI/SDI out to get 4:2:2 footage? Why not save in camera to SDXC card?

I love u Panasonic, no, I really really do, especially if this camera is around $2000,

If it’s not around $2000, we may have to start seeing other people…..

Impressive Video Capabilities, M4/3 has become a very very mature system.

small sensor, sorry

The sensor is bigger than the Black Magic Cinema’s sensor

Everything smaller as MF is not usable. I agree with dzukela!

So the Black Magic Cinema, with it’s 2.4x crop sensor, is “not usable”? You’d better let all those videographers using the Black Magic cameras know!

APS-C is minimum sensor size nowadays, sorry, this isnt in 2007 anymore. Also, this thing should record pictures, you know?

@dzukela So a 1080p APS sensor will give you better quality than the Black Magic Cinema’s 4K 2.4x crop sensor just because it’s bigger?

The “sensor size queens” need to get over themselves. I switched from Full Frame and APS-C Nikon to m43 and couldn’t be happier. Sensor size isn’t the end all/be all of image and video quality.

Just for their gusto, I feel like giving them all my money.

Venus IX? Did they skip Venus VIII?

But it is sick pro camcorder in an innocent photo camera shape…

Probably the same logic for skipping GX2-GX6?

Ramsay “wow wow wow”

Ooooh, SNAP! I did not see that coming. A couple of other birds just got pushed out of the nest.

12fps is very impressive. Are we verging on the ability to shoot sports with mirrorless?

7fps for continuous AF, 12fps for single shot AF

You already can shoot sports with the GH3. You just have to have the right lenses like the 35-100mm F2.8.

money take

I love this upgrade, but I’m wondering about what is NOT being said. HDMI output has a maximum of 4:2:2 10bit quality, but what about the in-camera files themselves? And what of useable dynamic range?

While the 4k output and 200mbps and 100mbps ratings should be excellent, what about the bit depth and dynamic range of the in-camera files? Surely Panasonic would make something of quantifiable advances in those areas?

1/3 stop dynamic range at ISO 200. I believe that is for stills only though. in Camera video is 4:2:0 8 bit I believe. 4:2:0 8 bit at 100 mb/sec IBP will be plenty for all but the strictest pixel peepers.

I’m thinking about grading latitude in high bit depth files. If I’m shooting very high contrast scenes, I want all the dynamic range I can get. Not to mention the subtle richness that comes from increased colour depth.

I’m hoping for 11-12 stops of dynamic range in the 4:2:2 10bit mode. Guess I’ll have to get used to a bigger rig after all.

I just found the answer in the CNET preview:

“Note that you can’t just pick up the camera, stick a card in, and shoot best-quality 4K. In-camera you can only record 4:2:0/8-bit video; to record 4:2:2/10-bit video you to need run it through the HDMI connector to an external recorder via the horribly named but practical Interface Unit (DMW-YAGH), a powered dock that addstwo XLR inputs with audio controls, SDI output, and various time-code options. To record any video at 100Mbps or higher in camera you need a UHS Class 3 (U3)-rated SD card for a minimum sustained write speed of 30MBps.”

So unless I get that XLR dock and connect a third party external recorder, I can only record in 4:2:0 8bit in-camera.

If you want to do any real grading, 4:2:2 is a MUST.

The BMPCC camera records ProRes 4:2:2 at 220 Mbps to high end SDXC cards, and even RAW video at 60-65 MB/s to higher end SDXC cards.

So Panasonic could have done it they had wanted. So I am guessing that the 4:2:0 in camera is to force users to buy the XLR dock.

What about FullHD, is it 4:2:2 10-bit in camera?

Canon is left scratching its head. Wondering how they did this.

Canon’s success in the indie video market with the 5D Mark II pushed them in the wrong direction. Instead of beefing up the DSLR range, they created the cinema range for a whole lot more money, alienating the very users who inspired them to create it.

As a long time Canon user, I had been giving a lot of thought to buying a $15,000 Canon C300. But after using the GH3 extensively, and with the announcement of the GH4, Canon isn’t going to get my money again for quite a while.

And Panasonic’s presence in the Cinema industry is how big exactly.
Canon has initially chased the big dollars, but do not think video isn’t a major focus for them in consumer cameras. Canon could have easily produced cameras like GH-4 if they wanted, but I’ll bet they keep 4K video out of that market for at least another generation. And frankly in 2014 there is almost no need for it by 99.99% of us. Come 2015/16 this will change of course when 4K TVs and monitors have some presence and a bit of content is available, but people still have to upgrade BR players, receivers and I can’t see that happening very fast at all.

Searching here:
http://www.indiewire.com/article/how-they-shot-that-heres-what-this-years-sundance-filmmakers-shot-on
Gets three hits for Panasonic and a big bunch for Canon.
Arri still owns the serious film market though, mostly with the 2.5K Alexa:
http://nofilmschool.com/2014/01/which-cameras-were-used-on-the-oscar-nominated-films-of-2014/

wow. That’s it.

Video Resolutions in the Specifications is missing 4096 x 2160 (24p).

Good catch, thanks.

Which is interestingly “Movie 4K” not “4K TV” resolution, and so a good thing IMHO…
Update – Ah, I see it can do both…

This camera is a Beast! Well done, indeed.