Panasonic Lumix S1RII Launches with 8K and 177MP Handheld Mode

Key Takeaways

1. The Lumix S1RII features 8K recording at 30fps and 14 stops of dynamic range, making it highly optimized for video and photography.
2. It has a 44.3MP sensor that can enhance to approximately 177MP in handheld high-resolution mode, providing exceptional detail.
3. The camera includes advanced AI technology for Phase Hybrid AF, with improved eye and face detection for better subject tracking.
4. Speed features include mechanical and electronic shutter modes, allowing for ~10fps High Speed Plus and 40fps shooting, ideal for fast-moving subjects.
5. Future-proof capabilities include support for up to 6.4K recording out of the box, with firmware updates planned for 7.2K and 8.1K, plus professional formats like ProRes RAW.

Panasonic is excited to present its newest full-frame camera, claiming it’s the most optimized Lumix ever. This model offers 8K recording at 30 frames per second (fps) and boasts an impressive 14 stops of dynamic range.

Impressive Specifications

The Lumix S1RII, also known as the S1R Mark 2, comes equipped with a fresh sensor that has a resolution of 44.3MP. Notably, it can be enhanced to around 177MP in its handheld high-resolution mode, providing remarkable immersion and detail.

Panasonic states that they’ve “redefined” Phase Hybrid AF for the S1RII using AI technology for tracking people, which includes advanced eye and face detection. The camera features in-body image stabilization (IBIS) that offers 8.0-stop shutter speed compensation, alongside electronic image stabilization (EIS) to ensure steady images without cropping.

Speed and Precision

Moreover, the S1RII incorporates both mechanical and electronic shutter modes, enabling ~10fps High Speed Plus and 40fps shooting modes. This is particularly useful for capturing fast-moving subjects in sports and wildlife photography.

In addition, Panasonic’s Open Gate functionality returns with the S1RII, allowing users to record in a 3:2 aspect ratio at high resolution. This feature enhances the ability to crop images to 6:19 with greater detail than typically possible.

Future-proof Features

Out of the box, Open Gate on the S1RII will support up to 6.4K recording, with plans for future firmware updates to elevate this to 7.2K or even 8.1K. Furthermore, the camera will support professional-grade formats such as ProRes RAW and 5.8K Apple ProRes RAW HQ recording directly onto a CFExpress type-B card. It also features Lumix’s first Capture One tethering and Frame.io support, emphasizing Panasonic’s commitment to making the S1RII the most versatile camera in its lineup.

Additionally, the S1RII can utilize an owner’s smartphone as an external monitor, enhancing workflow and storyboard monitoring while in the field.

The camera is now available for pre-order on platforms like Amazon, with a suggested retail price of $3,299.99. It is expected to ship starting March 17, 2025.

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