Panasonic GH5 is a fantastic filmmaking tool, no doubt about it. While it’s a bit easier to get more cinematic images straight out of the unit in comparison to its predecessor mainly due to the brand new 20.3 MP Micro 4/3 sensor, internal 10bit 4:2:2 recording, and higher bitrates, the camera still needs some further tweaking before you can get the optimal results in that regard.
In the video below, US-based filmmaker Tom Antos showcases the custom settings he utilizes to get the most cinematic images out of the Panasonic GH5. On top, you’ll also be able to download his custom LUT created with these particular settings in mind, thus simplifying the color grading process even further.
First and foremost, make sure you have installed V-Log L on your camera then access the Main Menu, go to your Image Profile and change that to V-Log L. Once you’re in the V-Log L menu, bring down the sharpness to -3 just as shown in the video above.
That’s basically everything you have to tweak in-camera to get not only the most dynamic range out of the Panasonic GH5 sensor but also more pleasant and natural looking colors once you apply the custom LUT later in post.
The rest of the workflow refers to post-production where instead of using the default V-Log L LUT that Panasonic recommends for this particular log profile, Tom Antos utilizes his own custom LUT that you can download at no additional cost by using the following link.
As opposed to the original LUT provided by Panasonic, Tom Antos LUT should give you less contrast in the mid range of the captured footage. This look-up table should also protect your highlights a bit better than the default LUT that tends to produce more contrasty, video-like images.
By downloading the zip file, you’ll get a standard .cube file that you can use in your favorite NLE, whereas you can upload the other .vlt file to be able to apply this specific look in-camera while shooting.
You just need to store the file into the root folder of your SD card so that you’ll be able to use it to monitor the video feed coming out of the camera in the field. Best of all, you can apply the Antos’ custom LUT to any footage as long as it’s been recorded in V-Log on the GH5, GH4 or any other Panasonic camcorder that supports the proprietary Log gamma curve.
[source: Tom Antos]
B&H Order Links:
Panasonic Lumix DC-GH5 Mirrorless Micro Four Thirds Digital Camera (Body Only)
Panasonic V-Log L Function Activation Code for DMC-GH4, DC-GH5, and DMC-FZ2500
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