Panasonic Lumix S1RII: A Full-Frame Camera for Stunning 8K Video Capture

Panasonic has introduced an upgraded version of its 2019 Lumix S1R camera, named the Lumix S1RII. This new model features several improvements, including a new sensor, a more compact design, faster autofocus, and enhanced video recording capabilities that can reach 8K at 30 frames per second. Although the Lumix S1RII has a 44.3-megapixel back-side illuminated CMOS sensor, which is smaller than the 47.3-megapixel sensor of its predecessor, the enhancements in video recording, especially the ability to capture 5.8K Apple ProRes RAW HQ or ProRes RAW without needing an external recorder, make it an attractive choice for those looking for a versatile camera.

The Lumix S1RII is expected to hit the market in late March, with a price tag set at $3,299.99. One of the standout features of this camera is its faster hybrid autofocus system. This new system combines phase-detection autofocus with the previous contrast autofocus, resulting in improved eye and face detection. It also offers better tracking of moving subjects, making it a useful tool for photographers working with dynamic scenes. The camera can automatically recognize and focus on a wide range of subjects, including animals and various vehicles.

For still photography, the Lumix S1RII can shoot full-resolution images in 12-bit RAW format at impressive speeds of up to 40 frames per second with its electronic shutter. When using the mechanical shutter, it can capture up to 10 frames per second (or nine frames when taking 14-bit RAW images) in its “High Speed Plus” mode. For those who desire even greater resolution, the S1RII comes with a handheld high-resolution mode. This mode allows users to capture images at an astonishing 177-megapixels by slightly shifting the sensor and merging multiple exposures.

The stabilization features in the Lumix S1RII have also seen significant improvements. It offers up to eight stops of shake reduction, which helps in delivering steady images, even in challenging shooting conditions. When paired with a compatible telephoto lens that has its own stabilization, the system provides seven stops of shake reduction. For video recording, the camera includes cropless electronic image stabilization with distortion correction, which helps to maintain the original angle of view while minimizing any peripheral distortion.

In terms of display, the Lumix S1RII is equipped with a high-quality 5.76 million-dot OLED viewfinder and a three-inch articulated touchscreen LCD display with 1.84 million dots. The touchscreen can flip out and rotate up and down, making it particularly useful for video shooters. Although the new touchscreen is slightly smaller than the one used in the original S1R model, the overall size and weight of the S1RII have been reduced, weighing in at just 1.75 pounds compared to the 2.24 pounds of its predecessor.

For storage options, the S1RII includes both SD USH II and CFexpress Type B card slots, providing flexibility for photographers and videographers. Additionally, it features a 10Gbps USB-C port, allowing videos to be recorded directly to an external SSD if desired. A full-sized HDMI port is also available for connecting to larger displays, enhancing the camera’s usability in various shooting scenarios.

Overall, the Lumix S1RII presents a promising update with a range of features that cater to the needs of both photographers and videographers.