Panasonic GH5s – Still a Formidable RAW Video Workhorse

Panasonic GH5s – Still a Formidable RAW Video Workhorse

The Panasonic GH5s, released in 2018, may not be the newest camera on the market, but it remains an incredibly capable RAW video camera for those on a budget. With used bodies available for around £700, it’s one of the most affordable entry points into high-quality RAW workflows, making it an excellent choice for filmmakers, content creators, and videographers.

Why the GH5s Is Still Relevant in 2024

✅ Full-Size HDMI Output – Unlike many cameras in this price range, the GH5s offers a full-size HDMI port that can output RAW video, making it compatible with a variety of external recorders.
✅ Usable Autofocus – While Contrast Detect AF isn’t the best compared to modern mirrorless cameras, it’s still functional in many scenarios with proper technique.
✅ Affordable Rig Building – When paired with an external recorder, the GH5s becomes a RAW-capable powerhouse without the high cost of a dedicated cinema camera.

Recording RAW: ProRes RAW vs. Blackmagic RAW (BRAW)

To record RAW video, you’ll need an external recorder. Here are your main options:

1️⃣ ProRes RAW via Atomos Devices

🔹 Ideal for Final Cut Pro X (FCPX) users.
🔹 Can be transcoded to CinemaDNG for DaVinci Resolve (but adds an extra step).

2️⃣ Blackmagic RAW (BRAW) via Blackmagic Video Assist

🔹 Natively supported in DaVinci Resolve for a seamless editing and grading experience.
🔹 Adds extra on-set tools like waveforms, focus peaking, and zebras.
🔹 Future firmware updates improve performance over time.

Best Workflow? Blackmagic RAW with the Video Assist

After testing ProRes RAW vs. BRAW, the best workflow for most users is recording directly to BRAW with the Blackmagic Video Assist. Why?

✅ No need for extra transcoding – Saves time in post-production.
✅ Perfect for DaVinci Resolve workflows – Native BRAW editing, grading, and exporting.
✅ High-quality external monitoring – Helps with focus, framing, and exposure adjustments.

Why the GH5s Is Still a Great Choice

📷 Affordable entry into RAW video production.
📷 Compact and lightweight – Easy to rig or use handheld.
📷 Reliable color science – Panasonic’s V-Log delivers excellent dynamic range.
📷 Still relevant for indie filmmakers, YouTubers, and content creators.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a budget-friendly RAW camera rig, the Panasonic GH5s paired with a Blackmagic Video Assist for BRAW capture is a fantastic option. It delivers high-end features at a fraction of the cost of cinema cameras, making it a solid investment for filmmakers who prioritize image quality over cutting-edge autofocus and extreme resolutions.

📷 Have you shot RAW with the GH5s? Let me know in the comments!

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