Panasonic announced the new LUMIX S1H mirrorless camera, which was announced in early June at CineGear 2019 in Los Angeles. Fitted with newly developed 24.2 megapixel full-frame sensor and producing cinema-standard movies.
KEY FEATURES OF THE LUMIX S1H
New full-frame sensor with Dual Native ISO
The LUMIX S1H is an excellent choice for professional low-light photography. The LUMIX S1H’s new 24.2-megapixel full-frame CMOS sensor is Dual Native ISO capable. Sensor supports two basic ISO settings, resulting in minimal noise and superior image quality at both low and high sensitivities. Combined with the Venus Engine, it delivers a maximum ISO 51200 extended ISO 204800 with minimum noise, high light sensitivity and outstanding darkroom performance. A low-pass filter also effectively combats moiré patterns.
Effective Image Stabilization System
The LUMIX S1H includes 5-axis image stabilization IBIS to effectively correct camera shake. New algorithm precisely mimics the tiniest movement from the gyroscopic sensor, as well as the image sensor and accelerometer. Combined with 2-axis optical stabilization in LUMIX S-series lenses, the camera provides precise shake detection and compensation, achieving an efficiency of 6.5 exposure steps. Dual stabilization system works for both still and movie recording, including 4K format.
Wide range of recording formats for all kinds of scenes
With a wide range of shooting modes, the LUMIX S1H meets the needs of every industry, from film to broadcasting. As well as C4K/4K 60p/50p* 4:2:0 10-bit and C4K/4K 30p/25p/24p 4:2:2 10-bit formats, it records in 6K/24p 4:2:0 10-bit with an aspect ratio of 3:2 and 5.9K 30p/25p/24p 4:2:0 10 bit 16:9 aspect ratio. Also supports 4K resolution in anamorphic mode. Ultra-high image quality, versatility and artistic expression – the LUMIX S1H is up to the challenge.
4:2:2 10-bit internal storage/ HDMI output
Supports in-camera C4K/4K 30p/25p/24p 4:2:2 10-bit recording with an incredibly rich color profile. When 10-bit recording mode is selected, the camera outputs a 4:2:2 10-bit image to the HDMI output, which allows you to capture high quality images with an external recorder. The 4:2:2 10-bit recording format contains about 128 times the amount of information compared to the 4:2:0 8-bit format and can render over 1 billion colors. This enormous amount of color information is crucial in post-processing and makes it possible to dynamically and dramatically adjust the colors to even make daytime scenes look like nighttime scenes. Leveraging the power of full frame expression takes 4K video to the next creative level.
V-Log/V-Gamut with 14+ stops of dynamic range
V-Log and V-Gamut profiles are preinstalled on the camera for compatibility with Cinema VariCam Look technology and supporting over 14 stops of dynamic range. Users will enjoy incredibly accurate color reproduction, smooth transitions between dark and light areas, and incredibly accurate color management in post-processing. The result of all this will be more creative and attractive color reproduction. What’s more, footage shot with the LUMIX S1H can be effortlessly processed together with footage shot with a VariCam. Another comfort element is that the LUT being used is displayed on the camera monitor. VLog recording mode on the LUMIX S1H offers over 14 stops of dynamic range to meet HDR quality standards, while V-Gamut mode covers the full color range of the HDR format, allowing users to shoot in HDR quality under all conditions.
Wide range of artistic expression for movies HDR, VFR, HFR
The LUMIX S1H has both basic features and advanced, state-of-the-art technology, and offers outstanding and versatile video shooting performance. VFR Variable Frame Rate function supports both fast motion and slow motion video recording. Users can shoot 2.5x slower 24p/60 fps in C4K/4K and 7.5x slower 24p/180 fps in FHD.* HFR High Frame Rate shooting incorporates sound recording and auto focus, allowing users to create a slow motion effect in post-processing. Hybrid Log Gamma HLG mode captures in HDR high dynamic range , giving users the ability to create incredible videos.
First full-frame DSLM camera with unlimited movie recording time, equipped with a fan
The LUMIX S1H is the first ever full-frame mirrorless digital camera to have a fan as standard, a feature found only in professional models. The fan is part of a new heat dissipation system that allows you to record video indefinitely. Other useful features include dust- and waterproof design, low vibration that has minimal effect on the image stabilization system, and virtually silent operation of the camera systems. The fan can be used in four different modes. For example, in AUTO1 mode, the fan starts up shortly after shooting starts and keeps the temperature low for shooting long scenes. AUTO2 mode gives priority to silent operation so the fan remains off for as long as possible.
All-new tilt-up screen with wide viewing angles
New tilt-up display combines the benefits and convenience of both. It can spin freely even when an HDMI or USB cable is connected to the camera. As a result, you can use an external monitor or recorder connected via HDMI, while still being able to control shooting with the camera screen. The large 3.2-inch screen with 2.33 million dots resolution is 1.5 times brighter than the brightest LUMIX screens currently available, and provides excellent visibility even in bright sunlight. In addition, a large, informative LCD screen displays photo and video shooting information, providing quick and easy access to timecodes, audio recording levels, etc. d.
Ruggedly built to withstand a wide range of weather conditions
Ruggedly built to withstand the rigors of photography. The one-piece die-cast magnesium alloy frame is extremely strong and all seams, control dials and buttons are hermetically sealed. The entire camera is dust- and waterproof* and designed to operate in temperatures down to -10 °C. Together, these features ensure pleasant and productive shooting in a wide range of weather conditions
Other features
Built-in dual-band 5GHz/2.4GHz. Built-in Bluetooth 4 module.2 with low power consumption.
Two SD card slots, with support for V90 UHS-II class media.
Connectors: jack 2.5 mm for remote control, jack 3.5 mm headphone jack, full-size HDMI and USB 3.1 Gen1 Type-C with Power Delivery and in-camera charging.
Battery life: approx. 400 shots screen , 380 shots LVF , 1,150 shots power saving viewfinder mode LVF with the S-R24105 lens
Price and availability
The camera will go on sale in late September 2019 for $4,000
The Panasonic LUMIX S1H seems impressive with its professional performance and promise of unlimited creativity. But how does it compare to other cameras in terms of image quality and versatility? Has anyone experienced using it for various photography and videography needs? Are there any notable limitations or drawbacks? Would appreciate some insights before considering buying this camera.