Panasonic introduced its new Lumix DC-BGH1 , a camera with a square format and without a screen that makes many wonder what is so interesting about this. The truth is that a lot, although it is not an ordinary camera and for any type of user. Even so, you are still interested in knowing her if you dedicate yourself to certain topics.
Lumix BGH1, a camera for you
To understand the new Panasonic camera, the first thing to know is what type of cameras are used when recording video, especially in professional settings. There cameras like these new Lumix proposal are the usual thanks to the enormous versatility they offer. And no, it is not a format at all new.
For years brands like RED or Blackmagic Design have had cameras of this type. Some recent examples are the RED Komodo or the URSA Micro and they share this square or box-style form factor as it is commonly called. But why is it so attractive? Because of the possibilities it offers.
Not including screen, grip or a more classic distribution of the keypad and controls make each one can adapt it according to their own needs . That you want to mount it on a drone, then do it and avoid all those other elements that do not need and only add weight or make it difficult to use. If you want to put it in places that are not easily accessible or where there is little space -such as the interior of a car-, go ahead. And if you want to use it as a conventional camera with its external monitor, grip, etc., too.
As you will be seeing, that versatility and its ability to create the rig that you want or need is the main attraction of this camera at the design level. So since you already know why this is the case, let’s talk about its capabilities.
Professional video quality
The Lumix BGH1 is a camera focused on the professional market and the most demanding users. For this reason, it offers a 10.2 MP sensor with Dual Native ISO and the Venus Engine processor that it shares with models focused on the Pro sector.
Thanks to Dual Native ISO, the captor performance is substantially improved by being able to process the signal more efficiently in low light. The rest allows to capture video internally with a 10-bit depth and 4: 2: 0 scheme at C4K / 4K resolutions 60p / 50p maximum and both in REC.709 and HLG (Hybrid Los Gamma) for a higher quality at the level of color, saturation, etc. And all without forgetting as slow motion recording options, etc.
Thus, as you can imagine, Panasonic’s new proposal provides an interesting tool for all types of content creators, even those who do it from home through platforms such as Twitch. Because that’s one of the focus of this product, offering a streaming device with a professional finish.
In addition, this is one of those cameras that includes an ethernet connection so that it can be operated remotely over a wired network. Again, a feature designed for very specific uses, but which in turn can make a difference compared to other options. And others such as double SD card slot, WiFi connectivity, Bluetooth, 3G_SDI, LANC connections, 3.5mm jack microphone inputs, headphone output among others.
Lumix BGH1, price and availability
The only weak point is its price if it is going to be your first and only camera. Because with a price of 2,100 euros only the body, taking into account that you have to add lenses, monitor and other possible accessories, the total price shoots up compared to what cameras such as the Lumix S5, Sony a6600, Canon EOS R6 or similar offer .
Anyway, as we said, if you dedicate yourself to the world of streaming and are looking to level up, the same with other accessories like the ATEM Mini Pro you can take that leap. If you are interested, it will be available in stores this month.