Promised back in November 2014, Panasonic just released the latest firmware update for the GH4 – version 2.1. The latest update adds on the much-awaited Start Stop Record trigger via HDMI for use with recorders such as the Atomos Shogun and the Convergent Design Odyssey7Q+, as well as Timecode via HDMI, and 25p/30p recording in 1080p via HDMI – a necessity for PAL shooters. This latest firmware update comes after a series of updates this week we covered, starting with the firmware 2.0 for the Blackmagic URSA, and then the Samsung NX1 update, in case you missed it, you can read all about it here.
Firmware 2.1 Details:
- Time code can be embedded to the HDMI output signal – Selectable in Motion Picture menu : [Time Code]>[HDMI Time Code Output]
* Available when DMC-GH4 or DMW-YAGH are connected with the products of ATOMOS Global Pty. Ltd. or the products complying with the extended specifications of ATOMOS Global Pty. Ltd.
- RSS (Recording Start/Stop) signal can be embedded to the HDMI output signal – Selectable in Motion Picture menu : [HDMI Rec Output]>[HDMI Recording Control]
* Available when DMC-GH4 or DMW-YAGH are connected with the products of ATOMOS Global Pty. Ltd. or the products complying with the extended specifications of ATOMOS Global Pty. Ltd.
- FHD at 30p/25p native output via HDMI is available while recording video in FHD at 30p/25p – Selectable in Motion Picture menu: [HDMI Rec Output]>[1080/30p Set.] or [1080/25p Set.]
- Playback performance of recorded 4K video is improved.
- [Time Lapse Shot] Program is fixed to start recording at the designated time even when [summer time] is set.
GH4 shooters can download the firmware here. While the lack of a V-Log picture profile is disappointing, a Log profile as rumoured was seen tested on some cameras at InterBee in Japan at the end of last year. Hopefully, Panasonic will release a Log profile before NAB or at the show (who knows really?) which will place the GH4 in a more competitive position and in line with the Samsung NX1, and Sony A7s in terms of flat picture profiles for maximum dynamic range preservation.
Disclaimer: As an Amazon Associate partner and participant in B&H and Adorama Affiliate programmes, we earn a small comission from each purchase made through the affiliate links listed above at no additional cost to you.
Claim your copy of DAVINCI RESOLVE - SIMPLIFIED COURSE. Get Instant Access!
