Firmware Upgrade Adds V-Log Capture to Panasonic AK-UC4000 4K HDR-Capable Studio Camera System

The latest free firmware upgrade to Panasonic’s AK-UC4000 4K/HD HDR-capable camera system has added V-Log output, incorporating the full power of the renowned colorimetry of the company’s line of VariCam and AU-EVA1 cinema cameras and making the camera useful for postproduction workflows. With the inclusion of V-Log, the AK-UC4000 has earned approval of the Netflix Post Alliance for creating Netflix-approved content, joining the VariCam 35, VariCam LT, VariCam PURE, and EVA1 on the sanctioned list.

V-Log delivers a very flat image (if observed on a standard monitor) while maintaining all of the camera imager’s color and contrast information. This means that there is a greater level of play when images are put through postproduction processes. The sensor of the AK-UC4000 achieves a wide color gamut (which is the complete color space of the camera) and achieves a color palette that is wider than BT.2020. ISO-recorded V-Log content has log characteristics that are somewhat reminiscent of scanned film, and V-Gamut delivers a color space even larger than scanned film.

With the AK-UC4000 in the V-Log mode, the AK-UCU600 CCU will output 4K and HD signals as V-Log, so that they can be recorded as V-Log or run through an appropriate LUT box to be shown live to a display. Meanwhile, the camera head outputs and viewfinder will show a standard ITU 709 Image suitable for standard HD displays,

“The AK-UC4000 camera system has now unlocked V-Log to deliver high dynamic range and broad colors for live or near-live productions, where the camera contents are recorded for a later post process,” says Michael Bergeron, Product Manager for Studio/Systems Cameras, Panasonic. “The ability to deliver accurate colors and rich skin tones is a must for any filmmaker, and now that same outstanding cinematic performance is available with the AK-UC4000.”

With available V-Log, the AK-UC4000 becomes fully compatible with the CINELIVE workflow of the VariCam LT, as well as the EVA-LIVE workflow of the AU-EVA1. This allows for accurate camera color matching across productions and fosters creative options.

The AK-UC4000 has rapidly become an especially popular choice for camera rentals and fly packs by leading rental/staging companies — Clark Media, Fuse, Freeman, Hartford Technology Rentals, Rentex, TV Pro Gear and others — and excels in live production scenarios. With the ability to use long broadcast lenses, B4 mounts and build-up units while maintaining a cinematic look and post workflow with V-Log, the AK-UC4000 becomes an ideal choice for postproduction workflows as well.