Our Exposure Latitude test delves into the deep shadows of base ISO images to test the degree to which you can underexpose to protect highlights, then exploit the camera’s full dynamic range. The GH6 is showing significantly more noise when given the same exposure as the OM-1. In principle this represents deeper shadows because of the difference in their respective base ISOs, but the difference is pronounced enough that you can comfortably conclude that the GH6 has less usable dynamic range than the OM-1.
The ISO invariance tells a similar story: above ISO 800, where the GH6’s Dual Output Gain system kicks in, the two camera look very similar, but push the lower ISOs and the Panasonic shows increasing noise levels in the very deep shadows. This suggests you should probably raise the ISO on the Panasonic, when shooting in low light, at least until you get to ISO 800. Above that point, you can keep ISO pinned at 800, underexpose and brighten in post, if you want to include extra highlights in your image.
The GH6’s dual output gain is one of the few times where there might be a significant change in dynamic range in the highlights. However, unlike in video mode, we’re not seeing an extra stop of highlight capture in the stills we’ve shot, so it could be that stills mode is set up differently, to give a shadow benefit instead of additional highlights. We’ll look more closely at this as we shoot more with the camera.
Caleb Hoover posted this video with 3 Things You NEED to Know About the Panasonic GH6:
Should You Buy It? Absolutely, yes. If you’re a sports or wildlife photographer, the combination of speed, durability, and the diminutive size of the lens (compared to APS-C or full-frame) makes the OM Digital Solutions OM System OM-1 one of the best cameras on the market. If you do slower work, like landscapes, and already have one of the more recent E-M1 models, you may want to wait to see what OM Digital comes up with next.
Today deals at Amazon, BHphoto, Adorama, Amazon DE, Amazon UK, Amazon FR, Amazon IT.
Jim’s alternative to the OM System Zuiko Digital 20mm f/1.4 PRO (Jim Chung).
CT scans reveal that iconic, affordable instant cameras are more complicated than they appear (Dpreview).
Godox SL300II LED Video Light Brings More Punch to the SLII Series (Explora).
Tips for Filming in the Winter and Snow (42West).