After months of anticipation and V-Log footage from beta testers around the world, Panasonic US released details on the much awaited V-Log L firmware update for their Lumix DMC-GH4 4K camera. The firmware update costs $99 and can be purchased only in the US at this moment, however we expect the update to be posted on the UK and EU Panasonic websites as well as an official press release from the company. In addition, Panasonic just released a new version of the popular GH4 - called LUMIX DMC-GH4R The only difference from the GH4 being the inclusion of V-Log L gamma. the GH4R will be available from 7th September 2015 and will RRP at £1199. V-Log L is also available to existing LUMIX DMC-GH4 users, via a paid software upgrade. By purchasing the DMW-SFU1 Upgrade Software Key and updating the camera’s firmware to version 2.3, users of the original LUMIX DMC-GH4 can also enjoy the benefits of V-Log L functionality for a one off cost of £79. This info from our friends at Holdan UK. VLOG L MAIN IMAGE Here is what you can expect from the firmware update:
  • LUMIX GH4 function enhancement for film production/professional videographers
  • Increases dynamic range from 10 stops to 12 stops
  • Makes color grading easier with improved compatibility between LUMIX GH4 and Panasonic Varicam
  • V-Log / V-Log L were developed to feature similar characteristic to Cineon
In response to the demand from the film production market, log video recording (V-Log L) is now available for the LUMIX GH4, and offers exceptional flexibility as well as wider dynamic range for color grading in post-production process. V-Log / V-Log L were developed to feature similar characteristics to Cineon, which is a characteristic curve for film digitalization. Taking full advantage of Four Thirds sensor, V-Log L boasts a log characteristic with 12 stops. Both V-Log and V-Log L have the same characteristic curve, and LUT (Look Up Table) can be utilized.
The image below from Panasonic US, demonstrates the upgrade procedure - the customer will receive the firmware update in a physical box and perform the update via the serial number of the camera, which means each V-Log L firmware update is tied to a specific GH4. This means, that if you have 2 GH4 cameras for example,  you need to buy 2 firmware updates, a bit of a bummer, but still at $99 the update offers tremendous value to shooters. UK Pricing for the V-Log L update to existing GH4 owners is £79, and for those who want to by the GH4R - it will cost £1199. Availability for both is September 7th. We are taking pre-orders for both - so if you are interested, give us a call at 0208 977 1222. Upgrade Process v2 Instructions V-Log L Capture