If you had any doubt that Panasonic was committed to the Micro Four Thirds (MFT) format, the launch of the Panasonic Lumix GH5M2 and a development announcement for the GH6 should put those doubts to rest. And if you’re wondering why they included both the video-centric GH5M2 ($1,700) and GH6 in a single announcement, we’d like to think of that as a courtesy to customers, giving them a head’s up about the GH6 in case in case they prefer the higher end (approximately $2,500), with its more extensive video features over the GH5M2. Both hybrid cameras will, of course, appeal to videographers.

[Read: Panasonic Lumix S5 Review: In-Depth Lab Tests]

At the same time, Panasonic announced the development of new MFT lens, the Leica DG 25-50mm F/1.7. Upcoming firmware updates for the DC-GH5S, DC-G9 and DC-G100 will be available on June 8.

Although the GH5M2 has much in common with its predecessor, the GH5, one of the key updates of the GH5M2 is a new processor. This is key because it allows Panasonic to implement new features, expanded video capabilities and improved performance including faster and more accurate autofocus that adds head, body and animal AF. While the 20.3-megapixel Digital Live MOS sensor remains largely the same, Panasonic has added an anti-reflective coating to better control ghosting and flare, which is particularly important when shooting backlit subjects. You’ll also find a brighter LCD with enhance color reproduction for those sunny-day shoots. Image stabilization has been improved, too, and the GH5M2 promises to deliver up to 6.5 stops of stabilization (up from 5 stops).

[Read: Lumix S Pro 70-200mm F/2.8 Review: A Solid Zoom]

Equipped with a new battery and USB-C PD (Power Delivery), the camera can be recharged via AC or USB and continues to be powered for use when charging. The camera is backwards compatible with the GH5 battery.

Multiple live streaming options include a convenient wireless option using the Lumix Sync app that requires only the camera and a smartphone, with more options to come via a firmware update at the end of the year. Part of the upcoming firmware updates for the GH5M2 will also include Live View composite, which is particularly useful for night sky photography.

Like its predecessor, Panasonic’s Lumix GH5M2 will appeal to videographers and Panasonic has upped this camera’s video capabilities. For example, the GH5M2 can capture C4K/4K 60p 4:2:0 10-bit video recording with the ability to simultaneously output 4:2:2 10 bit over HMI to an external recording with 4K 60p 4:2:0 10-bit internal recording.

V-Log L is included at no charge, unlike the GH5, which required a $100 software key to unlock it. Like the Panasonic S1H, the new camera includes Cinelike D2 and the Cinelike V2 Photo Style gamma presets. The latter emphasizes contrast while the former prioritizes dynamic range. Users also have access to 35 downloadable conversion LUTs for free so you can match footage from the S1H/S1 and GH5/GH5S. And that’s just scratching the surface of video tools available in the GH5M2.

Most of the accessories for the GH5 can be use with this upgraded model, including the XLR Microphone adapter, Shutter Remote Control and Battery Grip.

Pre-order Panasonic’s Lumix GH5M2 for $1,700 between May 26 and July 5, 2021 to get a free Lumix Pro Services membership. For more information, click here.

Panasonic’s Lumix GH6

We don’t have many details on Panasonic Lumix GH6, which will become the flagship of the LUMIX G series when it launches with an end-of-year ETA. What we do know is that the camera will target videographers with its extensive video features and that the GH6 will be built around a brand new sensor and a band new image processor.

The GH6 is capable of 4:2:2 10-bit DCI 4K/60p recording along with 10-bit 4K 120p High Frame Rate (HFR) and Variable Frame Rate (VFR) options for slow an quick motion video. And thanks to the new sensor, the GH6 can deliver 10-bit 5.7K 60p capture. This is in addition to unlimited video recording, a variety of recording modes and shooting assist functions.

The GH6 is slated to retail for about $2,500. For more information, click here.