Slightly smaller but armed with a huge sensor, the latest Lumix is all about the bigger picture. Almost quite literally.
The world of 8K TVs hasn’t quite taken the world by storm, but that could be from a lack of content. Fortunately, there are cameras, and there’s even a new model out for those either in the forward thinking mindset, or who just want something that might stand the test of time.
Cameras that capture 8K video might not be in great use by everyone yet, but they definitely offer benefits for filmmakers and folks working in video, and that’s before you consider all the stills capabilities being offered.
Panasonic’s latest push in that category comes in the Lumix S1RII, a model name that could be confused with a lesson on Sesame Street, but which offers a lot of capability, potentially for someone working behind the scenes of that program, or even anywhere else.
Alphanumeric model name and number aside, the S1RII comes with a 44.3 megapixel full-frame sensor capable of capturing in 8.1K, giving you 25p at 8K, but also capturing RAW at 5.8K. In short, video is higher than 4K Ultra HD unless you need to capture at a faster frame rate, at which point you van get 4K at 120 frames per second.
A proper cinema 4K capture is possible, too, offered at 100 and 120 frames per second giving enthusiast and pro filmmakers a bit to work with.
The camera itself can grab still quickly, capturing full-frame images at 40 frames per second, and yet arriving in a slightly smaller form-factor than its predecessor.
“This is a pro-level camera, while being significantly smaller in size, in fact 20% smaller and lighter than its predecessor, the S1R,” said Aaron Waters, Product Marketing Manager for Imaging at Panasonic Australia.
Like most other interchangeable lens cameras today, there’s no mirror here, making it a mirrorless variety of camera. However, it’s one designed to be speedy and capable, and yet also offer 8 stops of in-body image stabilisation.
While versatility appears to be a big factor, the price appears to be up there with it, priced at $5499 body only or from $6999 with a 24-105mm lens, both of which are expected in late March.
