While this Panasonic camera option is no longer available for rent, here’s a link to our current selections.
16MP Live MOS sensor
Fast, high-precision autofocus system
Full HD 1080i video capture at 24, 50, and 60 fps
Compact, durable build
The Panasonic GM5 is an ultra-compact mirrorless camera and update to the Panasonic GM1. Key features include:
Ultra-Compact Size. Like its predecessor, the GM5 is extremely small. While it’s technically just a bit taller and deeper than the GM1, you’re still getting a large-sensor mirrorless camera that’s sized similarly to a pocket point-and-shoot. Oh yeah, and you can change lenses!
16MP Live MOS Sensor. The GM5 features the same Micro 4/3-sized sensor from the GM1 and GX7, providing great low-light/high-ISO performance. The contrast-detection autofocus system is fast and accurate, and its 240 fps exchange signal supports Panasonic’s latest-generation lenses.
Built-In Electronic Viewfinder. The primary addition to the GM5 is the integrated 1,166k-dot electronic viewfinder (EVF), which is well worth the slight increase in size. It’s not the largest on the block, but considering how small the camera is, it’s amazing they got it to fit.
Full HD Video Recording. You can record Full HD 1080i video at 24, 50, and 60 fps with a 23 Mbps maximum bit rate. It records in AVCHD and MP4 formats, depending on the intended output and editing workflow. The built-in microphone captures stereo sound, and you can use full-time continuous-autofocus and tracking-autofocus modes during recording.
Build and Controls. Despite its small size, you’re still getting a sturdy magnesium-alloy body like those of large, durable DSLRs. The GM5 gives up the pop-up flash to make room for the hot shoe mount, but this allows much more flexibility for external flash use (a small removable fill-flash is included). The 3-inch touchscreen rear LCD works well for image review and composition, although its 16:9 ratio is a little odd for viewing 4:3 images. The rear control dial has moved from circling the D-pad to next to the EVF, providing easier access to exposure adjustment.
Other Notable Features. Built-in Wi-Fi connectivity allows remote transferring and control of the camera from mobile devices when using the Panasonic Image App. The GM1 includes 22 Creative Control modes for quick, in-camera effects while shooting, as well as multiple Intelligent Auto (iA) modes like HDR and Handheld Night Shot for advanced automated exposures. The camera records images and video to SDHC/XC memory cards, and the included rechargeable battery is rated for about 230 shots per charge.