In the end, the final image you would get was far from log/cinema-style, but was still very useable in post. This technique worked pretty well, as the flattest picture profiles that the GH2/GH3 offered weren’t all that flat to begin with so the really called for that extra contrast adjustment.
Essentially, the strategy was usually to use one of the flatter picture profiles available and then dial back the contrast all the way. Even so, when attempting to achieve a flat image on any of the GH4’s predecessors, you could only take things so far as the cameras didn’t have any sort of true log-style picture profile. A flat picture naturally means that there is a bit more dynamic range captured in the file, and that typically allows for a better grading process. On the GH2/GH3 and any other DSLR for that matter, the goal in the past has always been to get the flattest picture out of the camera possible. That said, I think that many users make the mistake of taking things way too far with some of these settings simply because they can, and I myself have fallen into that trap once or twice. Not only were there new cinema style picture profiles (Cine V and Cine D), but there were curve adjustments, master pedestal settings, and many other options that really allowed the user to dial in the look to their preference. When I first started shooting with the GH4, one of the things I was most impressed with was the level of control that was available in the menu system. Below, I’ve gone over the picture profiles and settings that I like working with most – and you might be surprised at how simple they are. As long as you understand how certain settings can fundamentally make or break your image, you will be able to capture images with this camera that can rival cinema cameras many times it’s price. If you haven’t already shot with the GH4, I’ll re-iterate here (as I’ve said many times before) that this camera is incredibly powerful when used properly… Especially considering the size and overall cost. Some DPs have had luck using very drastic setting combinations, but as far as my experience goes pushing the settings too far can result in some really noisy and low quality footage. Although the GH4 has been widely available for some time now, there is still no consensus on what combination of picture profiles/settings is best for achieving maximum image quality.