Compact 4K Super 35mm Cinema Camera

VariCam LT

4K High End Camera Recorder

Key features

Compact and lightweight magnesium body with a weight of 2.7kg
Super 35mm Native 4K sensor that provides true 4K images with a dynamic range of 14+ stops for HDR image capture
Dual-native ISO settings of 800 and 5000 which achieves much higher sensitivity without increasing noise
Expansive colour gamut that exceeds BT2020 - the colour space required for HDR content delivery
EF mount as standard offers a wide array of lens choice, but can also be removed by the end-user and replaced with an optional PL mount

“What you don’t see is what you get”

Compact Size, Light Weight and Top Cinema Quality — The VariCam LT!

The VariCam LT has a compact and lightweight magnesium body and offers same picture quality specifications as the larger VariCam 35 cinema camera. The super 35mm image sensor, which is the same imager as VariCam 35, features wide dynamic range, an expansive color gamut, and high sensitivity for 4K image acquisition. It has dual native ISO settings of 800 and 5000. The native 5000 ISO allows for clean shooting in very low light situations. Its size and design facilitate a wide array of shooting styles including comfortable ergonomic shoulder mounted operation or use on gimbals and drones.

One new feature that has been added to the VariCam LT is the EF lens*1 mount which offers a wide array of lens choices. The EF mount*1 can be removed by an end user and replaced with a PL mount (optional). This allows for even greater versatility in lens selection when shooting with the VariCam LT. The VariCam LT workflow is very similar to that of the VariCam 35. Both cameras have a dual codec recording function that allows the user to record a primary or “main” codec as well as a smaller proxy file. In addition, each camera offers an in-camera color grading function and support for AVC-Intra 4K and Apple ProRes*2 codecs.

Join the “REVOLUTION” and achieve your perfect “VISION”.

*1: Panasonic does not guarantee the compatibility or performance of all EF lenses.
For more details, to be updated on the Panasonic website.
*2: ProRes is licensed from Apple Inc. Apple ProRes codec is from Atomos under license.

The Cinematic VariCam Look, Stunning Image Quality

Same Imager as VariCam 35

The VariCam LT is equipped with the super 35mm single-chip MOS sensor developed especially for the VariCam 35. It offers 4K (4096 x 2160) and UHD (3840 x 2160) resolution, and boasts high sensitivity, low noise, wide dynamic range and cinematic depth of field. This sensor received The Hollywood Post Alliance Engineering Excellence Award 2015.

14+ Stops of Wide Latitude

The camera has a dynamic range of 14+ stops. This wide dynamic range assures accurate image rendering over the entire image, from dark areas to highlights. Even in very dimly lit scenes, which are particularly important in movie production, the VariCam LT provides low-noise images without any compromise in picture quality. “V-Log” is capable of creating the 14+ stops of dynamic range offered by the VariCam LT image sensor, greatly enhancing look creation capability

Dual Native ISO of 800/5000

The VariCam LT has two native ISO settings: 800 and 5000. This means the VariCam LT achieves very high sensitivity while maintaining a low noise level at 5000 ISO. The noise level at 5000 ISO is nearly identical to that seen at 800 ISO. In order to achieve this function two dedicated analog circuits are implemented on every pixel of the imager of the the VariCam LT for each native ISO before gain processing. This allows the camera to achieve much higher sensitivity without increased noise. Normally noise is introduced in the gain process of rating ISO in digital cameras. This functionality is revolutionary for low light scene shooting. The ISO 5000 setting enables continued recording in low natural light levels, maintaining a natural look without the need for artificial light to ensure more realistic scenes and footage

Expansive Color Gamut

The VariCam LT is equipped with "V-Gamut," giving it a wider color gamut than that of film. V-Gamut also encompasses the entire BT. 2020 color space.

Scene Files and V-LOOK

The "V-Log" gamma curve offers 14+ stops of dynamic range and facilitates advanced color grading adjustments in post production. The five position scene file function is new to the VariCam LT. The VariCam-LOOK (V-LOOK) mode is a newly developed setting for creating cinematic images without color grading. A newly designed gamma curve that allows detail to be maintained over a greater tonal range within the Rec 709 color space has also been included in the VariCam LT. The "V-709" gamma setting provides a tone suitable for viewing on standard monitors while the "BC-LOOK" creates a look that mimics traditional TV broadcast images.

Monitoring Output Terminals

The VariCam LT provides down conversion to Full HD via two 3G HD SDI outputs and one VF output (BNC) while shooting in 4K. Your look with in-camera color grading and information overlay can be applied to each output.

Varicam LT ready for Live

The latest firmware upgrade for Varicam LT (ver.6.0) sets the light and compact 4K cinema camera up for live and ‘near live’ multi-cam use within concerts, events, TV shows and corporate productions.  

Multi-camera live productions will benefit from extended control from the RCP, which includes full paint features - from standard ‘shading’ processes to LUT and CDL management – as well as scene file selection, remote REC control and call function.

For ‘near live’ production, such as theatre, concerts, comedy, fashion shows and corporate events that don’t involve live broadcast, users can take advantage of 4K VariCam LT multi-cam capture through internal P2 recording with final grading done in post-production.

Key Features (Ver.6.0): 

  • Multiple Shooting Modes: SHADING MODE, SCENE FILE MODE, V-LOG MODE;
  • HRP1000 (HRP1005) Support: IRIS, PAINT SETTINGS, REC, CALL, SCENE FILES, CDL,LUT SELECTION
  • Return video can be displayed in EVF and LCD panel from user button or lens ret switch
  • Tally “On Air Tally can be displayed in EVF and output from camera dc out connector
  • Fan Speed setting for live: keep the camera as silent as possible even when camera is not recording
  • Shading raw output
  • 4K raw output can be converted to 4K422 on 12G SDI output with converter from dts
  • Support external live grading software: Create and remotely upload LUT and remote live grading with CDL
  • Varicam ROP Simulator Update

Advanced Shooting Functions for Film Making

Native 4K/60p Shooting

The maximum frame rate when recording in 4K (4096 x 2160) or UHD (3840x2160) resolution is 60p (60fps). This produces smooth, high-resolution images when recording fast-moving action scenes.

2K/HD 240p Slow Motion

When shooting in 2K (2048 x 1080) and HD (1920x1080) resolution, high-speed 240 fps recording can be used to produce an extreme slow-motion effect. This is achieved by cropping the image sensor recording area in order to achieve a faster scanning speed. Variable frame rates are available from 1 to 120 fps in AVC-Intra 2K422 and from 120 to 240 fps in AVC-Intra 2K-LT. The frame rate can be changed while recording.

Infrared Shooting (IR)

The Cinema VariCam LT has an integrated, detachable IR cut filter. User can do the IR shooting to record 4K images in dark unlit nightscapes. This is ideal for capturing nocturnal wildlife and other scenes with no illumination. Also, the IR filter can be used in daylight as a creative tool for achieving a unique look.

Detachable Control Panel with Monitor

The supplied control panel has a built-in 3.5 type LCD display panel. It can be used for menu operation or as a live/preview monitor. The keys and dials are laid out around the display for quick and accurate operation. Frequently used settings can be accessed directly. The detachable structure allows the camera to be operated from a distance of up to 90 cm.

Standard HD SDI Interface for EVF

The VariCam LT has a regular BNC connector for the View Finder. Users can select from various HD monitors or viewfinders in addition to the new Panasonic View Finder (AU-VCVF10G). The DC power and command control connectors for the Panasonic VF are also provided.

Toughness, Durability and Reliability

  • The lens mount is made of stainless steel, and designed to prevent flange back deviation due to temperature changes.
  • The camera body is made of strong rigid magnesium.
  • The top and bottom panels have been made flat for easy installation of various plates and accessories.
  • Mounting holes are provided on both sides as well as on the handle for convenient mounting of accessories.
  • New accessories include the new Shoulder Mount (AU-VSHL2G) and Grip Module (AU-VGRP1G).
  • The new Shoulder Mount (AU-VSHL2G) installs directly on a base plate.

Revolutionary Workflow — Multi-Codec and Dailies in Camera

Multiple Codec 4K/UHD/2K/HD Recording

AVC-Intra 4K is a 4K-compatible version of the AVC-Intra, intra-frame compression codec that is suitable for cinema production. Using this codec, the VariCam LT can record 4K (4096 x 2160) or UHD (3840 x 2160) resolution. For 2K recording, the VariCam LT supports AVC-Intra 2K444/2K422/2K-LT. For HD recording, the VariCam LT supports AVC-Intra 444/422/100/LT and Apple ProRes 4444/HQ. Using the 256 GByte expressP2 card, the camera can record approximately 90 minutes of 23.98p 4K video with AVC-Intra 4K422.

In-camera Color Grading

The VariCam LT features an in-camera color grading function (3D LUT/CDL). This enables color tuning on set as well as in the field when using the camera control panel or 3rd party software. This means dailies which had been created after shooting can now be produced on set with the camera. Grading information such as 3D LUT files and CDL files can be recorded together with the image data, allowing you to provide the same vision that you created on set to the editorial staff.

Main and Proxy Recording

In addition to the main codec recording the VariCam LT has the ability to record files to an SD memory card. This feature lets you record an ungraded 4K master with V-Log in the main expressP2 card recorder while simultaneously recording graded HD files on the SD memory card. The primary recording data is used to create deliverables while the proxy recordings are used for viewing or off-line editing. The file name and time code of each file will match exactly

 

 

Flexible System Configuration

VariCam LT - RAW Recorder

   
PartnerProduct NameVersionNote
ATOMOSSHOGUN INFERNOVersion: 8.31 NEWVariCam LT - RAW recording test results
SHOGUN FLAMEVersion: 7.2VariCam LT - RAW recording test results
Convergent DesignOdyssey 7Q+v. 2017.06.1706 NEWVariCam LT - RAW recording test results
Odyssey 7Q Convergent Design setup information

Key Features (Ver.6.0)

  
Multiple Shooting Modes: SHADING MODE, SCENE FILE MODE, V-LOG MODE  
HRP1000 (HRP1005) Support: IRIS, PAINT SETTINGS, REC, CALL, SCENE FILES, CDL,LUT SELECTION  
Return video can be displayed in EVF and LCD panel from user button or lens ret switch  
Tally “On Air Tally can be displayed in EVF and output from camera dc out connector  
Fan Speed setting for live: keep the camera as silent as possible even when camera is not recording  
Shading raw output  
4K raw output can be converted to 4K422 on 12G SDI output with converter from dts  
Support external live grading software: Create and remotely upload LUT and remote live grading with CDL  
Varicam ROP Simulator Update  

Specifications table

General Specification
PowerDC 12 V (11.0 V - 17.0 V)
Power Consumption47 W, with body only 77 W, with all optional accessories connected and maximum power supplied from each output terminal
Operating Temperature0 °C to 40 °C (32°F to 104°F)
Operating Humidity10% to 85% (relative humidity)
Storage Temperature-20 °C to 60 °C (-4°F to 140°F)
WeightApprox. 2.7 kg (6.0 lb), excluding handle and accessories Approx. 3.0kg (6.6 lb), including handle,excluding accessories
Dimensions (W x H x D)184.0 mm x 230.5 mm x 247.0 mm (7-1/4 inches x 9-3/32 inches x 9-3/4 inches) Body only, excluding protrusion and accessories

Accessories & Software

Microphones & Holders

AJ-MC900G

Stereo Microphone

Microphones & Holders

AJ-MH800G

Microphone Holder

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Metadata Handling

AJ-WM50P

The AJ-WM50 is the dual band, compact wireless module for P2HD and AG-DVX200 camera recorders. The WM50 dual band (2.4GHz and 5GHz) makes for a more reliable, stable connection to a network in various environments yet its compact size enables it to fit in the wireless module compartment of the P2HD cameras. 2.4GHz offers strong connection through obstacles and compatible with many devices whereas 5GHz offers stability from radio wave interference (Microwave, Bluetooth, etc).

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Metadata Handling

AJ-WM50P

The AJ-WM50 is the dual band, compact wireless module for P2HD and AG-DVX200 camera recorders. The WM50 dual band (2.4GHz and 5GHz) makes for a more reliable, stable connection to a network in various environments yet its compact size enables it to fit in the wireless module compartment of the P2HD cameras. 2.4GHz offers strong connection through obstacles and compatible with many devices whereas 5GHz offers stability from radio wave interference (Microwave, Bluetooth, etc).

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Remote Unit / Controller

AK-HRP1000

1/4-type rack size remote operation panel which supports PoE+ and IP control

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P2 Cards

AJ-P2E030FG

This P2 card offers up to 30Gb of storage capacity. A single P2 card can record up to 30 minutes with the DVCPRO HD or AVC-Intra 100 codec or up to 60 minutes with the AVC-Intra 50 codec. This large capacity provides sufficient recording time even for a handheld camera recorder or portable recorder with two card slots. With an updated generation of internal flash memory on this P2 card, it ensures that high file transfer speeds and secure data transfer are maintained. This memory card is also impact, vibration and temperature resistant to ensure reliability and uninterrupted recording. 

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P2 Cards

AJ-P2E030FG

This P2 card offers up to 30Gb of storage capacity. A single P2 card can record up to 30 minutes with the DVCPRO HD or AVC-Intra 100 codec or up to 60 minutes with the AVC-Intra 50 codec. This large capacity provides sufficient recording time even for a handheld camera recorder or portable recorder with two card slots. With an updated generation of internal flash memory on this P2 card, it ensures that high file transfer speeds and secure data transfer are maintained. This memory card is also impact, vibration and temperature resistant to ensure reliability and uninterrupted recording. 

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Viewfinder

AU-VCVF20GJ

The AU-VCVF20GJ Viewfinders is successor to the AU-VCVF10G VariCam Viewfinders, which are highly acclaimed in the cinema production industry. The addition of a newly developed 1080p OLED panel has enabled a high-definition (1920x1080) display. This combines with low latency and sharp, accurate colors to meet the high-end needs of the movie industry for uncompromising image creation. A large-diameter 38-mm eyepiece lens and wide field angle with viewfinder magnification of 0.78x, which are popular with current models, achieve comfortable viewing with Panasonic's unique optical zoom lens inside the viewfinder. Versatile exposure assist and focus assist tools are also featured. Panasonic will continue contributing to video production advances by developing equipment and systems that respond to the needs of the cinema production industry, which is expanding on a global scale. The company will also contribute by supporting high-quality image content as well as efficient production operation.

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System Product Collaboration

KST-CamBot.system

The CamBot.system is composed of a robotic arm, a control software and a remote controller

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System Product Collaboration

KST-CamBot.system

The CamBot.system is composed of a robotic arm, a control software and a remote controller

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Related resources

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