The Panasonic GH4 captures stunning 4K video quality and exceptional color, rivaling cameras that cost significantly more. Having used the GH4 for underwater video since its release in 2014, I’ve gathered key insights to help others get the best results from this mirrorless camera. This guide shares optimal settings, techniques, and customizations that elevate underwater footage to professional levels.
GH4 Basic Video Settings
Format and Quality
Begin by selecting the appropriate recording format and quality in the GH4’s video menu. Choose either MP4 or MOV as your format. For the best underwater footage, select 4K-100MB/30P as the recording quality. This mode records Ultra High Definition (UHD) at 3840x2160 pixels, which matches the resolution of most modern 4K displays. The GH4 also supports Cinema 4K (4096x2160 pixels), which may suit those with specific cinematic requirements. However, Cinema 4K footage may appear with black bars or require cropping when played back on standard UHD TVs. The 30p framerate offers a smooth capture of aquatic motion, ideal for underwater life.
Photo Style
The GH4 offers multiple Photo Style presets designed for different filming aesthetics. To achieve the best in-camera image while maintaining flexibility in post-production, select the Cinelike V Photo Style. This setting produces a usable, vibrant image while preserving dynamic range, allowing for color adjustments and grading without sacrificing footage quality.
Exposure Mode
For underwater shooting, full manual (M) mode is preferred. It gives complete control over ISO, aperture, and shutter speed, ensuring consistent exposure across scenes and adapting to varying underwater lighting conditions. An exception to using manual mode is when filming fast-moving marine animals like sea lions. In such cases, shutter priority (S) mode can be more effective, compensating automatically for fluctuating background and ambient light.
Panasonic GH4 Focus Settings
After experimenting extensively with the GH4’s focus modes, I’ve concluded that manual focus offers the most control underwater. I frequently use the Olympus 60mm macro and the Panasonic 7-14mm lenses, both of which allow for manual zoom. Whether I’m shooting with these or the Olympus 12-50mm lens (my default choice when I’m undecided between macro or wide-angle), I initiate focus using autofocus to get close to the subject, followed by fine adjustments manually using the focus ring or by changing camera-subject distance. This method ensures sharp focus before I start recording. The GH4’s focus peaking feature makes this even easier by highlighting in-focus areas.
A helpful technique is to enable back-button focus. Many DSLR and Micro Four Thirds cameras support this function, which allows you to separate focusing from the shutter button. To configure back-button focus on the GH4:
Change the “Shutter AF” setting to OFF. This prevents autofocus when pressing the shutter button.
Set the “AF/AE Lock” option to AF-ON. This reassigns autofocus to the AF/AE LOCK button. When used in a housing like the Nauticam NA-GH4, the button is easily accessed via a thumb lever, which I keep my thumb on while filming.
This setup lets you autofocus even when shooting in manual mode. For static subjects or when I want locked focus for the entire shot, I stay in manual focus. For slowly moving subjects that remain within the frame, I use autofocus mode and engage focus tracking by holding the AE/AF LOCK button. In autofocus mode, use the Fn3 (AE Mode) button to select either Pinpoint or 1-Area focus. You can move the focus point anywhere on the screen depending on the subject’s position. Holding the AE/AF LOCK button enables continuous focus tracking with minimal hunting, which is especially beneficial in visually complex underwater environments.
Essential GH4 Menu Settings and Tips
Several additional menu settings significantly enhance the GH4’s video shooting capabilities. First is the focus Peaking setting in the Custom menu. Set this to ON to activate color outlines (yellow, blue, or green) that highlight areas in focus. This visual feedback is vital for manual focusing underwater. Next, enable Zebra patterns, which mark areas that are likely overexposed. The GH4 provides two zebra patterns, each with customizable sensitivity. Finally, turn on the Histogram display in the custom menu to monitor exposure levels in real time.
Although the GH4 offers helpful on-screen displays for exposure and settings, too much on-screen information can clutter the view. Use the DISP button to toggle between display modes, including one that removes all icons and only shows the live view along with optional grid lines for composition. This helps maintain focus on the subject and framing while still monitoring essential tools like peaking and zebra stripes.
Shooting Underwater with the GH4
These settings and tips are designed to help you maximize the potential of your Panasonic GH4 for underwater videography. Mastering them can dramatically improve your results. Furthermore, these recommendations serve as a starting point for personal experimentation and refinement, depending on your unique underwater environment and shooting style.
Advanced Techniques for GH4 Underwater Video Shooters
Lighting for Underwater Video
Lighting is perhaps the most critical element in underwater videography, even more so than camera settings. Light behaves differently underwater, and understanding its behavior is essential for creating impactful footage. Water absorbs light quickly, particularly reds and oranges. By the time you reach 10 feet below the surface, much of the red spectrum has already disappeared, leaving your footage looking blue or green if not corrected with artificial lighting.
To combat this, invest in high-quality underwater video lights. The Panasonic GH4 performs beautifully when paired with dual video lights that provide wide beam angles and consistent color temperatures. Look for lights that offer at least 2000 lumens each, with a color temperature around 5000-6000K to closely replicate daylight. Mount your lights on flexible arms that allow for dynamic positioning. This helps eliminate backscatter by keeping the lights positioned at a wide angle from the lens.
When working with macro subjects, use a tighter beam and lower power output to avoid overexposing delicate features. For wide-angle scenes, full power with the lights slightly angled outward creates balanced illumination. Always perform a test recording at depth before filming an entire scene. Water conditions, light diffusion, and subject distance all affect how your lighting behaves in real-time. Remember, proper lighting not only enhances colors but adds depth, shadows, and realism to your underwater films.
White Balance and Color Correction
The GH4 offers powerful manual white balance controls that are essential for underwater shooting. Auto white balance struggles at depth due to shifting light conditions. To retain natural colors, always use manual white balance. Set a custom white balance at the start of every dive, and recalibrate when lighting conditions change significantly.
Use a white slate or neutral gray card at the depth where you plan to shoot. Navigate to the white balance setting in the GH4 menu and set it manually while pointing the camera at the reference card under your lighting setup. For best results, redo this process whenever your distance from the reef or light source changes. Even slight variations in lighting distance or angle can throw off color accuracy.
For post-production, color correction software like DaVinci Resolve or Adobe Premiere allows you to fine-tune white balance, saturation, and contrast. Even if you start with great in-camera white balance, post-processing can help unify clips shot under different lighting and exposure conditions. For advanced users, shooting in flat profiles such as Cinelike D offers more control over highlights and shadows during grading.
Stabilization and Movement Techniques
Shaky footage can ruin an otherwise perfect scene. Underwater stabilization is tricky due to currents, buoyancy, and body movement. Fortunately, the GH4 has relatively low weight, making it easy to manage in water. Use a tray system with dual handles to maintain a steady grip. This distributes your hand movements and reduces micro-shake. Holding the camera close to your body and anchoring your elbows can also improve control.
When moving, try to glide with your fins or let the current guide you slowly past a subject. Avoid sudden directional changes or fast camera pans. If you must reposition, stop recording and reset your shot with stable framing. Smooth, deliberate movement gives your video a cinematic quality.
Advanced shooters often use slow motion to enhance movement. The GH4 can record in 1080p at 60 or 96 fps, which can be slowed down in post-production to smooth out footage and emphasize graceful aquatic movement. Use this technique sparingly to highlight key behaviors like a turtle swimming, a ray gliding, or fish schooling.
Neutral buoyancy is another stabilizing factor. Master your trim and avoid touching the reef or stirring up sand. Practicing perfect hovering allows you to stay motionless during filming, which is critical when capturing macro scenes.
Audio Recording and Monitoring
While the GH4’s built-in microphone is usable, it’s not ideal for underwater environments. In most cases, ambient noise underwater is distorted or non-existent unless captured using special equipment. If your housing allows, connect an external audio recorder or hydrophone system to record natural sounds like snapping shrimp or whale songs. However, this is typically more relevant for scientific or ambient projects.
Most underwater videographers add music or narration in post-production. Ensure the GH4’s audio settings are optimized even if you plan to discard the raw audio. Reduce wind cut and audio gain to prevent distortion. Use headphones connected through the camera or housing (if supported) to monitor during topside shots or when recording surface interviews or scenes on boats.
Lenses and Composition Tips
Lens selection dramatically impacts your footage style. For macro video, the Olympus 60mm macro lens delivers crisp close-ups of nudibranchs, seahorses, and small crustaceans. For wide-angle and reef scenes, the Panasonic 7-14mm or Olympus 8mm fisheye lenses are excellent choices. These lenses capture vast scenes with minimal distortion when used correctly.
Always consider your background and negative space. A busy reef can distract from your subject. Try positioning your subject against open blue water or using depth of field to isolate it. The GH4 allows for some background blur, especially when shooting at wide apertures. Get as close to your subject as possible, not just to reduce backscatter but to enhance image clarity and perspective.
When framing your shot, use the rule of thirds. Position the subject slightly off-center to create visual interest. Capture behavioral moments—feeding, hunting, mating, or interaction between species. These moments tell a story and captivate viewers beyond technical quality alone.
Creative Control and Post-Production Workflow
Working with Cinelike Profiles
The Panasonic GH4 offers two flat profiles for video shooters: Cinelike D and Cinelike V. Cinelike D is designed for users who want the most latitude in post-processing, while Cinelike V offers a more contrast-rich image that can be used with minimal grading.
Cinelike D is recommended if you plan to color grade extensively. It provides a flatter image with less contrast and more detail in shadows and highlights. However, footage straight out of the camera may look washed out until processed. If you prefer a vibrant look straight out of the camera, Cinelike V is a better choice. It captures rich color and contrast while retaining enough dynamic range for minor tweaks.
For underwater video, Cinelike V is often preferred because it balances the need for color and clarity with post-production flexibility. Be mindful of your histogram and zebra patterns while shooting in these profiles. Slight overexposure can lead to clipped highlights that are difficult to recover.
Slow Motion and Frame Rates
One of the standout features of the GH4 is its ability to shoot slow-motion footage. Use 1080p at 60, 96, or 120 fps to capture high-speed marine life in beautiful slow motion. This allows you to emphasize grace and detail, especially in scenes where movement is fast and fluid.
Always use a high shutter speed to match the increased frame rate. For example, when shooting at 96 fps, set your shutter speed to at least 1/200. Combine this with a wide aperture and higher ISO when necessary. Test these settings in shallow dives first to see how the camera responds to changing light.
Slow motion should be used creatively. Don’t overuse it—reserve it for dramatic or behaviorally rich moments. A jellyfish pulsing, a nudibranch extending its gills, or a ray lifting off the sand are ideal scenes for slow motion. Paired with music and minimal narration, these clips become centerpieces of underwater film narratives.
File Management and Workflow
Shooting in 4K generates large files. Develop a reliable workflow to manage, back up, and edit your footage. Use high-speed UHS-3 SD cards with ample capacity. After each dive day, offload your footage to a dedicated hard drive. Label folders with dive numbers, dates, and locations to streamline the editing process later.
In your video editor, create proxies for 4K footage to make real-time editing smoother. Color correct your clips first, adjust exposure and white balance as needed, and apply any necessary noise reduction or sharpening. Add music, titles, and voiceovers to enhance storytelling. Organize sequences by subject or dive site to help build a compelling final video.
Export your final video in high bitrate 4K or 1080p formats depending on your intended audience. For social media, downscale to 1080p and compress accordingly. For festivals or presentations, maintain 4K resolution and use a higher bitrate for maximum quality.
Troubleshooting and Real-World Challenges
Underwater shooting is unpredictable. Expect fogged lenses, drained batteries, and unexpected behaviors. To minimize disruptions, perform a pre-dive equipment check. Ensure batteries are full, cards are empty, and housing seals are clean. Bring backup O-rings and silica gel packs to combat fog.
Pay attention to current, surge, and buoyancy. Practice holding your position and shooting in different water conditions. Use dive logs and environmental notes to plan repeat dives more effectively.
If your footage looks too blue, too noisy, or improperly exposed, don’t panic. Post-processing can solve many issues if the file retains enough data. Learn to adjust contrast, shadows, highlights, and color balance gradually. Sometimes minor tweaks yield dramatic improvements.
Mastering Field Techniques and Storytelling with the Panasonic GH4
Capturing professional underwater video is as much about preparation as it is about technical skill. Every dive is an opportunity, and successful videographers treat each one as a production. Planning begins with research. Study the dive site, know what species are expected, and understand the layout and current patterns. This helps you choose the right lens, lighting setup, and camera settings before you even enter the water.
Consider the time of day and visibility conditions. Morning dives often provide better lighting and calmer seas. Be aware of thermoclines, particulate matter, and potential surge. Each of these factors influences your shot choices and camera stability.
Create a shot list before the dive. While flexibility is essential, knowing you want to capture a clownfish colony, a passing turtle, or macro life on a coral head gives your filming a sense of direction. The more intentional your footage, the easier the editing process becomes. Discuss your goals with your dive buddy or guide. Inform them if you plan to remain in a specific area to shoot. Coordination helps avoid surprises and maintains safety.
Managing Air, Depth, and Time for Video Shoots
Filming underwater consumes more than just memory cards and battery life—it consumes air and time. Video shooters often use more air than recreational divers because of the physical effort of holding positions, adjusting lighting, and managing equipment. Monitor your air closely and practice efficient breathing techniques to extend bottom time.
Avoid rapid movements and stay neutrally buoyant. This conserves energy and minimizes disturbance to the environment. Many successful videographers invest in larger tanks or use nitrox to extend bottom time at moderate depths, though this requires proper certification and planning.
Prioritize your subjects. If you have a single tank, do not chase every opportunity. Focus on a few quality clips instead of many rushed ones. Aim to shoot several takes of each scene from different angles—wide, medium, and close. This gives you more flexibility during editing and helps tell a cohesive story.
Environmental Awareness and Ethics
Respecting marine environments is not just ethical—it’s essential to long-term access and conservation. The GH4 and its housing can handle rugged conditions, but that does not mean you should invade delicate ecosystems for the sake of a shot. Avoid touching or kicking coral, disturbing sand beds, or blocking the path of marine life.
If you’re shooting macro, position yourself so your fins do not stir up sediment. For wide-angle subjects, approach slowly and avoid direct eye contact that may startle fish or mammals. Learn the behavioral patterns of species to anticipate their actions rather than forcing interactions.
Never harass or manipulate animals for the camera. Responsible footage is more valuable than forced behavior. Show viewers the beauty of the ocean without intrusion. Use your platform to inspire conservation, not exploitation.
Working with Guides and Dive Operators
If you’re diving in unfamiliar territory, working with local guides can enhance your results significantly. Guides know where to find species, the best times to dive, and how to approach marine life without spooking it. Before your trip, communicate your filming goals and ask if certain dive sites are better suited for macro or wide-angle.
Some dive operations cater specifically to photographers and videographers. These operators provide more time at depth, slower dive plans, and customized support. Choose boats and locations that respect marine life and understand creative needs. Ask about camera rinse tanks, storage areas, and recharge facilities before booking.
Tipping your guides and showing them your finished video helps build long-term relationships. It also educates others about the value of respectful underwater videography and encourages operators to protect dive sites.
Editing for Impact and Storytelling
Great footage is only the beginning. The story comes together during editing. Begin by organizing your clips. Label and categorize them by dive site, subject, or sequence. Trim clips to eliminate motion blur or camera shake at the start and end of each take. Synchronize clips to music or narration, and plan your pacing to match the energy of the footage.
Use natural sound when available. Even if it is minimal, it adds texture and realism. If not, select a soundscape that suits the mood—peaceful for reef scenes, dramatic for pelagics, or playful for behavior like cleaning stations or reef interactions. Narration or text can help convey context, especially in educational or conservation-focused videos.
Use transitions sparingly. The best underwater stories flow naturally from clip to clip. Overuse of effects can be distracting. Color correct for consistency, and apply gentle sharpening if needed. If clips were shot at different depths or lighting, adjust white balance and contrast to match. Aim for cohesion in tone and color.
Finish with credits, music attribution if required, and your name or production label. Consider creating multiple versions of your video—a full-length version for presentations, and shorter edits for social media.
Publishing and Sharing Your Work
Once you have your final video, the next step is sharing it with the world. Upload your work in high resolution to platforms that support 4K playback. Include detailed titles and descriptions, listing dive sites, camera settings, and subjects. Viewers and fellow shooters appreciate transparency and learning from your process.
Join online communities of underwater videographers to share your work and receive feedback. Participate in video contests, film festivals, or marine conservation campaigns. Your footage can educate others, promote awareness, and contribute to scientific research when shared thoughtfully.
Create a professional portfolio website or YouTube channel showcasing your best clips. Consistent branding, clear presentation, and high-quality content attract followers, clients, and potential collaborators. Consider watermarking your videos to protect your intellectual property.
Use social media strategically. Short teasers on platforms like Instagram or TikTok can draw traffic to your full videos. Engage with your audience by sharing behind-the-scenes insights, gear reviews, or travel tips. Keep your messaging authentic and aligned with your values.
Conclusion
The Panasonic GH4 remains a powerful and accessible tool for underwater videography, even years after its release. With proper settings, thoughtful technique, and creative vision, this camera can capture stunning visuals that rival footage from much more expensive systems. Mastering the GH4 is not about having the most gear—it’s about knowing how to use it effectively in dynamic underwater conditions.
Throughout this guide, we’ve explored the best video settings, manual focus techniques, lighting strategies, and field methods for using the GH4. We've also covered how to prepare for dives, handle environmental variables, and tell compelling stories through editing and presentation. These practices are built from real-world experience and are designed to empower you with confidence and skill.
Great underwater videography requires patience, adaptability, and a deep respect for the ocean. Every dive presents new challenges and new beauty. By approaching your craft with discipline and curiosity, you not only improve your footage—you build a stronger connection with the underwater world.
Whether you're documenting marine science life, creating films for conservation, or simply capturing memories from your travels, the Panasonic GH4 gives you the tools to bring your vision to life. Let your footage speak for the oceans, inspire others, and preserve the fragile beauty that lies beneath the surface.
Dive safe, shoot with intention, and never stop exploring.