Panasonic presents Lumix S1R and S1 full-frame L-mount camera
Panasonic has presented two full-frame cameras in the new Lumix S series. It concerns the S1R with a sensor resolution of 47 megapixels and the cheaper S1 with a resolution of 24 megapixels. Many specifications are still unknown.
Apart from the resolution, the Panasonic S1R and the S1 share many specifications. Both cameras use a new Venus image processor and have a 4k60fps movie function. As with the existing Panasonic G9, the depth-from-defocus autofocus system is used, in combination with contrast autofocus and a form of artificial intelligence to improve the autofocus. Both cameras would also allow high shutter speeds and flash sync speeds, but Panasonic is not giving any concrete details yet.
The cameras have a stabilized sensor, although it is not clear for how many axes there is stabilization. This involves working together with any optical stabilization in a used lens. Panasonic states that the electric viewfinder of the Lumix S cameras has a high precision and comes close to the vision of the human eye, as is the case with a viewfinder of an SLR camera. However, the manufacturer does not mention a resolution, refresh rate or magnification factor.
Both new full-frame cameras have a double card slot, with one suitable for SD cards and the other for XQD cards. The LCD on the back can be rotated over three axes and probably cannot be fully unfolded and turned forward, as is the case with, for example, the G9 or the GH5. The cameras are also sealed against moisture and dust and resistant to low temperatures.
Panasonic says it will introduce three lenses in early 2019, when the S1R and S1 come out. First of all, it is a 24-105mm standard zoom, supplemented by a 50mm lens with an aperture of f/1.4 and a telephoto zoom lens with a range of 70-200mm. Of the zoom lenses, Panasonic does not yet mention the aperture. The company will eventually come up with at least seven other lenses within a year of the cameras’ release; they must be released before 2020.
Panasonic says that Sigma will also make high-end lenses for the S1R and S1, although no further details were mentioned. The partnership between Panasonic, Leica and Sigma for the L mount has now been officially announced. Furthermore, the existing Leica L-mount lenses can be used on the new Panasonic cameras.
Panasonic also assures that the micro four thirds system will continue to exist alongside the new full-frame camera system and will be further developed. Leica, for example, is releasing another DG Vario-Summilux 10-25mm lens with a constant aperture of f/1.7.
Specific release dates are still unknown, although it was reported during the press presentation that the three aforementioned lenses will be released sometime in early 2019, which basically means that the cameras will hit the market at the same time. Panasonic has also not yet announced prices.