Panasonic launches Lumix S1RII full-frame camera
The S1RII is lighter, more compact and more powerful than its high-resolution predecessor. The camera is designed to inspire photo and video enthusiasts.
(Image: Panasonic)
Panasonic has introduced the Lumix S1RII full-frame mirrorless camera as a new high-resolution model in its camera portfolio. The camera has a newly developed 44.3-megapixel BSI CMOS sensor and offers 8K video recording for the first time in a Lumix camera, with a dynamic range of 14 f-stops.
The backside-illuminated sensor comes from the L2 technology – a collaboration with Leica – which, according to Panasonic, should ensure natural color reproduction, among other things. The camera's native ISO range extends from 80 to 51,200 and can be extended to ISO 40 to 102,400.
Video functions
As a hybrid camera, the S1RII should not only impress with photos, but also be perfectly suited for video recordings. The camera supports 8K video recording at 30 frames per second. The familiar open-gate function (where the entire sensor surface is used for recording) has been improved and enables recordings in 6.4K. A firmware update planned for 2025 will also enable 8.1K/7.2K open-gate recording, according to Panasonic.
A new feature is the internal recording of 5.8K Apple ProRes Raw HQ/ProRes Raw on CFexpress Type B cards. This eliminates the need for external recording devices and increases mobility, especially when traveling alone for smaller productions.
Improved autofocus and fast continuous shooting
The phase-hybrid autofocus with real-time detection and AI tracking recognizes and tracks people, animals and vehicles, while the autofocus is said to be particularly fast and reliable. In electronic shutter mode, the Lumix S1RII achieves continuous shooting speeds of up to 40 frames per second with continuous focus tracking, as Panasonic explains. The SH pre-burst mode starts taking pictures before the shutter release button is fully pressed.
According to Panasonic, the sensor image stabilization compensates for camera shake by up to 8.0 f-stops, and in combination with compatible lenses (Dual I.S. 2), offers particularly high stabilization in the telephoto range. A new feature is the stepless E.I.S. video distortion correction, which reduces edge distortion and preserves the original angle of view.
Compact design with swivel monitor
(Image:Â Panasonic)
Compared to its predecessor, the Lumix S1RII is around 20 percent smaller and lighter. The magnesium housing is dust and splash-proof and frost-proof down to -10 °C. The 3-inch touchscreen can be tilted, swiveled and rotated to allow different shooting angles.
The Lumix S1RII is the first Lumix camera to support tethering via Capture One, which, according to Mathieu Bourlion, Director of Product Management at Capture One, enables professional photographers to improve their studio workflow.
Videos by heise
The new Flow app supports the entire production process, from storyboard creation to file organization. The camera is also compatible with the Lumix Lab app, which allows LUTs to be loaded directly into the camera.
Price and availability
The Lumix S1RII will be available from mid-March 2025 for 3600 euros for the body or 4500 euros in a kit with the 24-105 mm F4.0 lens. The new DMW-BG2 battery grip costs 350 euros. Compared to competing products from Canon, Nikon and Sony, the S1RII therefore offers a slightly lower entry-level price.
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