Introduction

Ease of Use

Key Specifications

• 24.2 megapixels, no low pass filter
• 96 megapixel high resolution mode
• 5-axis 5.5-stop in-body image stabilisation
• 6-stop Dual Image Stabilisation system
• 5.76-million-dot OLED electronic viewfinder
• 3.2-inch touchscreen LCD with 2.1-million-dot resolution
• ISO 51200
• 0.08 sec autofocusing down to -6EV
• Eye AF and animal recognition
• 6fps burst shooting with continuous AF/AE
• 4K 60/50p 4:2:0 in 8 Bit internally, 4:2:2 externally
  (4K 60/50p 4:2:2 10 Bit via HDMI-output and 30p/25p/24p in 4:2:2 will be available later in 2019, along with V Log)
• Full pixel readout at 30p
• Variety of gamma curves, including Cinelike D/V, Like709 and Hybrid Log Gamma
• 65:24 Film Panorama and 2:1 wide panoramic aspect ratios
• 6K photo mode at 30fps and 4K photo mode at 60fps
• 400,000 frames shutter life
• Bluetooth and wi-fi connectivity
• 1/320th second flash sync speed
• Dual SD/XQD memory card slots
• Weatherproof body
• Size: 148.9 x 110.0 x 96.7 mm
• Weight: 899g

Front of the Panasonic S1

Comprehensively featured and of tank-like build quality – including weather proof exterior - the mirrorless Panasonic S1 will be the answer to a lot of photographers’ prayers, who either take their hobby or their living seriously.

But at the same time it has its work cut out in making an impact on the increasing crowded full frame compact system camera market. Especially now that Canon and Nikon have, respectively and slightly late in the day, got serious with their EOS R and ‘Z’ series of similarly specified and targeted full frame mirrorless models.

Until relatively recently, ‘mirrorless’ was shorthand for small, compact and lightweight interchangeable lens cameras. And of course, since 2009 Panasonic has largely pioneered that perception and intent.

Increasingly though, the latest generation are anything but diminutive (partly because of their adoption of full frame sensors, of course), which may win over some converts from DSLR looking for an image capture device that handles in a similar fashion, but is just slightly smaller. Several of us long term observers of the mirrorless market, will, however, be scratching our heads somewhat about where all this is going. Is increasingly bigger always increasingly better?

Front of the Panasonic S1

And so Panasonic enters the current full frame war with not one but two new mirrorless models, lest its foray into full frame – up until now it has been Four Thirds format chips all the way – should seem like an afterthought, or bandwagon jumping.

The S1 we’re looking at here is outwardly identical to its S1R sibling in terms of design, layout and dimensions, the difference being that the S1 offers 24.2 effective megapixels from its 25.28MP full frame sensor, and is aimed at next generation photo and video creators, says its manufacturer.

The S1R meanwhile, as hinted at by its suffix, ups the resolution to a whopping 47 megapixels, intending to win over photographers looking for the ultimate in picture quality and subject definition. Arguably, that sort of resolution is only ever needed by the commercial photographer, making the more affordable 24MP S1 the option most worth considering by all the rest of us.

Sensors and resolution apart, the other main talking point here is the Panasonic ‘S’ series’ adoption of Leica’s L lens mount – something that saw it enter a collaborative partnership, known as the ‘L-Mount Alliance’, with both Leica and Sigma at German trade show Photokina last year.

Rear of the Panasonic S1

When it comes to more tried and tested features, the Panasonic S1 is no slouch either. These include a new Venus Engine processor, 4K video at up to an impressive 60P to keep the more serious videographers happy, double card slot for both SD and XQD media to be able to cope with the demand for somewhere to store all that data, plus three axis tilting LCD – also useful as an aid to shooting video as well as more unusual compositions when you can always get an eye flush to the viewfinder.

Speaking of which, ranged directly above the LCD with a large, prominent and comfortable eye piece is a high 5.76 million dot resolution EVF, offering a quality claimed as very close to human vision. In short, it’s easy to forget we’re not actually using an optical viewfinder.

Added to this is the belt and braces of a dual image stabilisation system (in-body IS and lens IS) when shooting handled and in lower lighting conditions, plus dust and splash-proof body, with all seams tightly sealed against moisture ingress. Phew!

While the above specification indicates something approaching a professional tool, we only have to grip the Panasonic S1 in our palm to be further further reassured. It helps too to justify the price – around £3,000 in the UK when bundled with the 24-105mm standard zoom lens we were supplied with - that this is a veritable doorstop of a camera, whilst not being so prohibitively heavy with the lens affixed that we ended up with back or shoulder ache.

Top of the Panasonic S1

That said, if you’re out shooting with the S1 and zoom over the course of, say, a day, you’ll certainly feel its combined presence afterwards nonetheless. Showing its mettle, Panasonic has previously promised that a total of 10 new lenses will be available for its S system by the close of 2020, alongside whatever Leica and Sigma offer up.

Examining the camera in more detail, front-on the S1 (and its S1R doppelganger) looks quite angular and brutalist in its design, festooned with the buttons and dials you’d expect to find at this price point and for this intended skill set.

Not surprisingly, that wide L lens mount dominates proceedings at the front of the camera, along with a hand grip that, while narrower than that typically found on a semi pro DSLR, nevertheless feels just right for the S1’s own shape and build, enabling the camera to be operated with just one hand, even if additionally curling the fingers of your left hand around the lens barrel feels much more comfortable and natural. This is quite a weighty and bulky camera with lens attached after all.

With the lower three fingers of your right hand curled around the S1’s grip, your forefinger is free to alternate between rotating the control dial that sits slightly proud of the grip at its topper-most edge, and the slightly raised and angled shutter release button just atop it, which is responsively spring-y.

Sitting just behind these controls are three small raised buttons. From left to right, these are for manually adjusting white balance, light sensitivity and exposure settings. They sit in front of a top plate LCD window on which photographers can view their alteration of such settings in real time. The Panasonic S1's layout feels ergonomic and its operation – particularly of such key and regularly used features – well thought through.

The Panasonic S1 In-hand

Indeed, with the Panasonic S1 you quickly find yourself making adjustments on the fly, with barely the need to pause and consider what you’re doing. It’s intuitive, in other words. The LCD also, usefully, has a very small so easily overlooked illumination button next to it, for when you’re trying to adjust key settings in the dim, as we were when attempting to capture the Northern Lights recently against almost a pitch-black night.

It’s easy to overlook this setting not just because of size, but because the much more important on/of switch – here more of an actual lever, sits next to it. This is quite stiff in operation – you almost have to force it – which, to give it a positive spin, means this is a camera that is almost impossible to accidentally activate or deactivate. Flick this lever to on and the camera is ready to take the first shot just as quickly as your finger can move from it to the shutter release button just in front. There’s no waiting around with the S1 – it’s ready when you are.

The control dial at the front of the handgrip is, incidentally, mirrored by one the size of a five pence piece that sits recessed into the top plate at the back. Here it readily (and again, ergonomically) falls under the thumb of the right hand; thereby continuing to give the impression that the layout has been well thought through, making the Panasonic S1 quickly feel familiar in a new pair of hands.

While holding down, say, the likes of the ISO button, you can once again use this alternative dial to scroll through settings that alter in real time on the LCD window in front of you. You’re not left grappling around trying to find a way to adjust the essentials – the methods to do so are, literally, at your fingertips.

With a chunky, roughly ridged and raised shooting mode dial over at the left hand edge of the camera, stereo microphones and a vacant hotshoe for accessory flash slotted in between – there’s no built-in pop up flash on the Panasonic S1 – via said dial it’s also easy to adjust settings from intelligent Auto focus to program, shutter priority, aperture priority or manual pretty quickly.

Dual Memory Card Slots

A dial-unlocking button needs to be depressed in tandem with a turn of said dial to be able to arrive at your preferred setting. On the same dial we also get a manual video mode setting and no fewer than three custom modes. Sitting just beneath we get a second dial, for selecting drive modes, which is also where you’ll find the interval shooting and self timer options.

With lugs for attaching the shoulder strap provided out of the box to be found left and right of the camera, one flank provides a port protected by a sliding switch that allows for the insertion of SD and XQD card – or both – while the other provides a means of connecting a cable release, accessory microphone and headphones, plus the inevitable full-sized USB and HDMI leads. The rubberized flaps protecting these feel a little flimsier than the rest of the camera, and time will tell whether these become worn and stop adhering so flush-ly over time.

Moving to the back of the Panasonic S1, again this is button festooned without being over-bearing-ly so. The camera’s LCD screen is also a touch screen, meaning that you can, if wished, drag the focus area around the screen with your finger or thumb. Alternatively, if you prefer physical controls, you can use the small thumb-operated joystick to the right of the LCD to do the same. Again… it’s just so intuitive. The back of the camera is also, as expected, where we find the playback button for reviewing stills and video, as well as switching auto focus settings from single to continuous to manual focus.

This being a Panasonic camera, as on its compacts we’re provided with the very useful Quick menu short cut button – located via the button marked with an enigmatic ‘Q’ situated top right of the LCD. Menu / set, delete, display and ‘back’ buttons are also to be found at the rear of the S1, along with a familiar multi-directional control pad, encircled by a scroll wheel for maximum fluidity of operation.

Menu screens are, as expected, comprehensively featured but pleasingly legible and intuitively navigated. That said it was also nice to have the Quick menu feature in order to circumnavigate them when we knew what we wanted and wanted to get to the relevant setting swiftly.

Tilting LCD Screen

Operationally, while for most part our use of the Panasonic S1 was plain sailing, there were a few niggles, including that chunkiness of build and attendant heft, for us an occasional irritant was the AF, at least in single shot mode, hunting around in busier scenes and lower lighting conditions, leading us to switch to manual focusing in order for us to achieve the accuracy of focus we wanted.

At the base of the camera we find a single screw thread, located directly in line with the central point of the lens mount, for attaching the S1 to a tripod. Also found here, nestled within the base of the S1’s handgrip is the rechargeable DMW-BLJ31 lithium ion battery provided. A ‘proper’ charger with its own mains plug is also provided out of the box – or at least was with our fully working review sample.

Battery life is good for at least a claimed 380 to 400 shots, depending on whether you’re mainly using the EVF or the rear monitor, which should last you a day’s sightseeing at least (and did us), as long as you're not ‘machine gunning’ every subject.

So, while the Panasonic S1 seems a competent camera in most respects, are the pictures that it produces also worthy of respect? Read on to find out...

Image Quality

All of the sample images in this review were taken using the 24.2 megapixel Fine JPEG setting, which gives an average image size of around 12Mb.

Images from the Panasonic S1 are impressively detailed – a cut above what we’re used to typically seeing from a mirrorless camera, which doesn’t lead us to believe this model is in any way the poor man’s choice in comparison to the S1R, even if that does offer practically double the pixel count here. Being a Panasonic camera colours are also vibrant and well saturated, even on the standard setting, with images displaying plenty of contrast. We didn’t feel the need at any point to defer to a vivid picture setting. That said, the standard setting isn’t at all unrealistic. In short, images are pleasing.

We took the Panasonic S1 for a trip (and a stumble) behind a waterfall at one point during our review period, whence it was liberally covered in fine spray. As expected the camera kept functioning perfectly, its splash proofed exterior coming into play. At times that these we found a busy moving background could confuse the auto focus into focusing on that rather than the subjects stood in front of it. No matter, it is easy enough to slide the switch on the lens barrel to manual and focus that way, an enlarged portion of the shot helpfully provided on-screen to help us determine what we wanted to be pin sharp in our frame, actually was pin sharp.

In terms of low light shooting, an almost exhaustive incrementally selectable light sensitivity range is provided here, expandable from ISO50 up to ISO204,800 (otherwise we’re looking at a core range of ISO100 to 51200). Again, quality is really impressive. Even at maximum whack, images don’t deteriorate to the extent that they look like crude cave paintings.

Undoubtedly having a large full frame sensor for this camera, a sizeable lens mount, and sensible resolution has worked very well in tandem.

Noise

There are 13 ISO settings available on the Panasonic S1. Here are some 100% crops which show the noise levels for each ISO setting for both JPEG and RAW files.

JPEG	RAW
ISO 50 (100% Crop)	ISO 50 (100% Crop)
ISO 100 (100% Crop)	ISO 100 (100% Crop)
ISO 200 (100% Crop)	ISO 200 (100% Crop)
ISO 400 (100% Crop)	ISO 400 (100% Crop)
ISO 800 (100% Crop)	ISO 800 (100% Crop)
ISO 1600 (100% Crop)	ISO 1600 (100% Crop)
ISO 3200 (100% Crop)	ISO 3200 (100% Crop)
ISO 6400 (100% Crop)	ISO 6400 (100% Crop)
ISO 12800 (100% Crop)	ISO 12800 (100% Crop)
ISO 25600 (100% Crop)	ISO 25600 (100% Crop)
ISO 51200 (100% Crop)	ISO 51200 (100% Crop)
ISO 102400 (100% Crop)	ISO 102400 (100% Crop)
ISO 204800 (100% Crop)	ISO 204800 (100% Crop)

Night

The Panasonic S1's maximum shutter speed is 60 seconds and there's also a Bulb option for exposures up to 30 minutes long, which is excellent news if you're seriously interested in night photography. The shot below was taken using a shutter speed of 30 seconds at ISO 200. The camera takes the same amount of time again to apply noise reduction, so for example at the 30 second setting the actual exposure takes 60 seconds.

Night

Post Focus and Focus Stacking

Post Focus is a function that enables you to select the in-focus area after shooting simply by touching it on the LCD screen. The first three images show the effects of switching between the three memory cards.

The Post Focus > Range Merging function then allows you to combine all or selected focus areas into one image. The fourth image below shows the effect of merging the first three images into one stacked image with the range set between the front and rear memory cards.

Right

Middle

Left

Focus Stacking

Photo Styles

Panasonic's Photo Styles are preset combinations of different sharpness, contrast, saturation and noise reduction settings. The 9 available Photo Styles are shown below in the following series, which demonstrates the differences. There are also some Custom options so that you can create your own looks.

Standard

Vivid

Natural

Flat

Landscape

Portrait

Monochrome

L. Monochrome

L. Monochrome D

Cinelike D

Cinelike V

Like709

Filters

The Panasonic S1 has an extensive range of creative Filters with 22 different options on offer.

Expressive	Retro
Old Days	High Key
Low Key	Sepia
Monochrome	Dynamic Monochrome
Rough Monochrome	Silky Monochrome
Impressive Art	High Dynamic
Cross Process	Toy Effect
Toy Pop	Bleach Bypass
Miniature Effect	Soft Focus
Fantasy	Star Filter
One Point Color	Sunshine

Sample Images

This is a selection of sample images from the Panasonic S1 camera, which were all taken using the 24.2 megapixel Fine JPEG setting. The thumbnails below link to the full-sized versions, which have not been altered in any way.

Sample RAW Images

The Panasonic S1 enables users to capture RAW and JPEG format files. We've provided some Panasonic RAW (RW2) samples for you to download (thumbnail images shown below are not 100% representative).

Sample Movies & Video

Product Images

Conclusion

Weight and bulk aside, we really enjoyed using the Panasonic S1 during the period we spent with the camera. It’s intuitively designed and well thought out in terms of control layout and operation.

While we were using it 99 per cent of the time during our review period for shooting stills, the ability to shoot 4K up to 60P will be another big tick for photographers who straddle both creative disciplines.

On top of this it’s ruggedly built and instills a confidence in its user that this is one mirrorless camera that will last the course.

It also shows Panasonic bravely bucking its tried and tested Four Thirds system convention, and attempting to carve itself a slice of the full frame mirrorless camera ‘pie’ that Sony, and now latterly the likes of Canon and Nikon, have been enjoying without much in the way of competition.

The level of detail to be found in the Panasonic S1’s images is, however, really impressive – it’s difficult to tell that merely from its own tilting back screen of course, with images truly coming alive when viewed full size on a decent monitor screen. Certainly the combination of full frame sensor and 24 megapixel resolution is more than good enough for us, and we’d suggest, many more photographers besides.

Yes, as expected for the level of specification and weather and dust resistant build it offers, the Panasonic S1 costs a fair amount of money – particularly for a mirrorless ‘compact’ – but for that you are getting a lot of camera, both literally and figuratively.

Also, in preference to the pricier more pixel festooned S1R, this will be the choice of most of us eyeing up a full frame camera from the electronics giant and voting with our heads rather than our hearts. In many respects, the ‘S’ here could stand for sensible. The S1: the Sensible One. It also seems, for now, and if your budget can justify it, a very sensible choice.

Ratings (out of 5)
Design	4
Features	4.5
Ease-of-use	4
Image quality	4.5
Value for money	3.5

Main Rivals

Listed below are some of the rivals of the Panasonic S1.

Review Roundup

Reviews of the Panasonic S1 from around the web.

Specifications

News

Panasonic has announced two mirrorless camera models with a 35mm full-frame image sensor - the Panasonic S1R and the Panasonic S1. The 47 megapixel S1R and the 24 megapixel S1 both feature 4K 60p/50p video recording, a new Venus image processing engine, Dual I.S. image stabilisation, a double slot for XQD memory cards and SD memory cards, and a triaxial tilt LCD screen.

In a very interesting move, Panasonic are using the Leica L-Mount standard for the S1R and S1 cameras. Panasonic will release three Lumix S Series compatible lenses at the same time as the launch of the S1R and S1 cameras - the 50mm F1.4 prime lens, 24-105mm F4 standard zoom lens, and 70-200mm F4 telephoto zoom lens - and seven more by the end of 2020. Panasonic have also partnered with Leica and Sigma to develop more L-mount lenses.

Both the S1R and S1 cameras will have HLG Photo Mode and High Resolution Mode. The former mode allows images to be shot with a wider dynamic range, whilst the latter takes eight consecutive images that are automatically shot while shifting the sensor and synthesized into a single image.

Panasonic S1R and S1 Pricing

CAMERAS		RRP GBP	RRP EURO
S1R KIT (BODY + 24-105MM LENS)	DC-S1RME-K	£4,199.99	€4,799.99
S1R BODY ONLY	DC-S1RE-K	£3,399.99	€3,799.99
S1 KIT (BODY + 24-105MM LENS)	DC-S1ME-K	£2,999.99	€3,399.99
S1 BODY ONLY	DC-S1E-K	£2,199.99	€2,499.99
LENSES		RRP GBP	RRP EURO
50MM F1.4	S-X50E	£2,299.99	€2,599.99
70-200MM F4 O.I.S.	S-R70200E	£1,749.99	€1,999.99
24-105MM MACRO F4 O.I.S.	S-R24105E	£1,299.99	€1,399.99

Panasonic S1R and S1 Key Specifications

Lumix S1R Key Specifications

• 47.3 mega pixels, no low pass filter
• 5-axis vibration reduction within the body with 5.5 steps of effect
• Dual IS 2 with 6 stages of effect
• 4K 60p / 50p video
• Sequential shooting performance: 9 frames / second (AFS), 6 frames / second (AFC)
• 6K photo at 30 frames per second and 4K photo mode at 60 frames / sec
• 5.76 million dot EVF
• The finder magnification can be adjusted from 0.78 times to 0.74 times or 0.7 times
• Movable rear liquid crystal with 2.1 million dots
• ISO: 50-51200 (Including extended sensitivity - maximum standard ISO is 25600)
• Dustproof · Drip-proof · Low temperature-10 °
• Picture of 187 million pixels (16,736 x 11, 168) can be created using high resolution mode
• Advanced Artificial Intelligence Technology Detecting Humans, Cats, Dogs and Birds
• Size: 148.9 x 110.0 x 96.7 mm
• Weight: 898 g

Lumix S1 Key Specifications

• 24.2 megapixels
• Picture of 96 million pixels (12,000 x 8,000) can be created using high resolution mode
• ISO: 50-204800 (Including extended sensitivity - maximum standard ISO is 51200)
• Size: 148.9 x 110.0 x 96.7 mm
• Weight: 899 g

Panasonic S1R and S1 Videos

Panasonic have just released a series of videos for the Lumix S series cameras on the Panasonic Europe YouTube Channel. There are 7 videos in total, in which various Panasonic Lumix ambassadors share their thoughts on using the new S1R and S1 cameras.

Panasonic S1R and S1 Launch Date

The launch date for the new Panasonic S1 and S1R cameras has now been confirmed as 1st February 2019 in a new teaser video.

The Panasonic S1R and the Panasonic S1 were first exhibited at Photokina 2018.

The Panasonic S1R and S1 full-frame mirrorless cameras and lenses will be available from the 18th March 2019.

Panasonic S1R and S1 First Impressions

Read our first impressions of using the Panasonic S1R and the Panasonic S1.

Panasonic S1R Press Release

Highest resolution full-frame mirrorless: Panasonic LUMIX S1R

• 47.3 Megapixel full-frame sensor
• Real View Finder with 5760K OLED display
• 6-stop Dual Image Stabilisation for Still and Video Mode

Barcelona, Spain, February 1st, 2019 – Panasonic is proud to disclose the full details of its new LUMIX S1R full frame mirrorless camera. With a 47.3-million-pixel CMOS sensor it is the world’s highest resolution full frame mirrorless camera*1, and offers images of unprecedented quality exhibiting exceptional detail, rich graduation and superior colour reproduction. 

Powered by a new Venus Engine, the LUMIX S1R incorporates a high-speed, high-precision AF system ensuring the camera meets the exacting demands of professional photographers in all shooting situations. To capture the decisive moment, the photographer frames the image using the world’s highest resolution* electronic viewfinder with unrivalled clarity via a 5.76-million-dot OLED display.

Built around the wide diameter L-Mount the LUMIX S1R is designed to provide uncompromising image quality by combining best-in-class detail resolution and photographic control, with outstanding image stabilisation and advanced video recording.

* As of February 1, 2019

Ground Breaking Image Detail

The detail gathering ability of the full-frame 47.3-million-pixel CMOS-sensor (36 x 24 mm) is boosted by absence of a low pass filter, ensuring the finest textures in any scene will be captured accurately.

• New micro lens design to ensure best efficiency

• Low noise even at high ISO

• High resolution mode for 187-Megapixel images

New aspherical micro lenses over each pixel improve the light-gathering abilities of the sensor so low noise levels are maintained at high ISO settings. The LUMIX S1R offers an ISO range of up to ISO 25.600, making it ideal for working in low light conditions. 

For situations demanding greater resolution than 47.3-million-pixels, photographers can create incredible 187-million-pixel images using the camera’s High Resolution Mode. This feature combines information recorded in eight exposures that are taken as the Body I.S. system makes adjustments to the sensor position. The result is a 16.736 x 11.168-pixel RAW-file bursting with information. A feature of the High Resolution Mode is the option to supress motion blur.

Advanced Image Stabilisation

The 5-axis Body I.S. (Image Stabiliser) system compensates for the effects of camera shake to make shutter speeds of up to 5.5-stop slower than usual safe to use*1. Combined with the 2-axis O.I.S. (Optical Image Stabiliser) in the LUMIX S Series lenses the Dual I.S. 2 system increases the level of compensation to 6-stop*2, and works to eliminate the effects of a wide variety of camera movement types in both still and video photography.*3 Making use of more sophisticated technology, vibration measurements are taken not only from a gyrosensor but also using information from the image sensor itself and from an accelerometer sensor in the camera. 

To help photographers remove sources of camera shaking, an I.S. Status Scope has been added that displays a graphic interpretation of vibration. 

*1 Based on the CIPA standard [Yaw/Pitch direction: focusing distance f=50mm, when S-X50 is used.

*2 Based on the CIPA standard [Yaw/Pitch direction: focusing distance f=200mm when S-R70200 is used.]

*3 5-Axis Dual I.S.2 can be used with the lens S-R24105 and S-R70200 as of February 1, 2019.

High-Speed Precision Focusing

Combining contrast detection and Panasonic’s unique DFD technology with ultra-fast processing creates a focusing system that provides both speed and precision. To achieve extremely fast and accurate focusing, the Venus Engine, CMOS sensor and the new LUMIX S lenses communicate at up to 480 fps allowing the system to react in 0.08 seconds*1. The autofocus works with as little light as remarkable -6 EV*2. 

• Artificial intelligence adds to autofocus performance

• Eye-AF and animal recognition added to face detection

• Nine frames per second burst shooting with full resolution

Focus acquisition and tracking is enhanced with Advanced Artificial Intelligence Technology that detects humans, cats, dogs and birds. Determining what the subject is helps to anticipate its movement patterns and allows the autofocus to keep tracking the subject even when its back is turned. Face, eye and pupil detection ensure portraits are focused correctly. 

For fast moving situations the LUMIX S1R is capable of shooting at a rate of 9 fps in AFS or 6 fps with continuous focusing. The 6K Photo mode allows bursts of 18-million-pixel JPEG images at 30 fps, while 4K Photo offers sequences at 30 or 60 fps with 8-megapixel resolution.*3

*1 11EV, at wide-end with S-R24105 (CIPA) in LVF120 fps setting.

*2 F1.4, ISO100 equivalent, AFS.

*3 4K/6K PHOTO modes create an MP4-file allowing cut outs of still images in 4:3 or 3:2 aspect ratio with approx.6K/18-megapixel or approx. 4K/8-megapixel resolution.

High Resolution Viewfinder and High Quality Displays

The world’s highest resolution electronic viewfinder*1 provides photographers with unrivalled clarity via a 5.76-million-dot OLED display. The Real View Finder offers refresh rates of up to 120 fps and a lag of just 0.005 seconds for smooth and realistic tracking of motion while panning with moving subjects. The display resolution, matched with a 10.000:1 contrast ratio, makes for a very clear and detailed view. The finder magnification can be adjusted from 0.78x to 0.74x or 0.7x for the comfort of the photographer. 

The camera’s 3.2-inch touchscreen features 2.1-million-dot resolution and is mounted on a triaxial tilt rear monitor that allows it to flip out for low or high angled viewing in both portrait and landscape orientation. Night Mode, Live View Boost and illuminated buttons help those working in dark conditions, and the camera’s top plate offers a largest-in-class back-lit status LCD to keep the photographer informed of important shooting settings at a glance. 

*1 In a full-frame mirrorless camera, as of February 1, 2019

Class Leading Video

While developed primarily for outstanding photography the LUMIX S1R is capable of advanced video recording in 4K resolution at up to 60/50p*1. High Speed Video allows 2x slow motion at 60 fps in 4K, and settings down to 6x slow motion in Full HD with frame rates of up to 180 fps. 

The signal can be recorded in camera on SD or XQD*2 or externally via the HDMI Type A port. Line-input is supported by a 3.5 mm microphone socket while audio can be monitored using the 3.5 mm headphone port. Advanced audio quality can be achieved using the DMW-XLR1 microphone adapter in the hot shoe with professional microphones and XLR input sources.

*1 50p only in PAL-area, Maximum 15 minutes in 4K60p, unlimited recording time in Full HD. When the temperature is too high, the camera may stop the recording to protect itself. Wait until the camera cools down.

*2 XQD is a trademark of Sony Corporation.

Designed to Meet Professional Expectations

Developed for professional photographers, the LUMIX S1R has been built to withstand heavy use with magnesium alloy die-cast front and rear panels and sealing at every joint, dial and button. The camera is resistant to dust, splashes and operates at temperatures as low as -10°C.*1 

The shutter unit is designed to endure 400,000 actuations. It allows mechanically driven exposure times as short as 1/8000 sec to ensure the capture of fast moving subjects even using open aperture settings of fast lenses in the bright sunshine. The external flash can be synchronized with the industry’s fastest shutter speed of 1/320 second*2. 

The control buttons and dials are located based on an ergonomic study to enable the user to concentrate on shooting. The adoption of an 8-directional joystick and refined UI (User Interface) also supports quick operation during shooting. A lock lever prevents unintentional operation, and the user can choose which functions to lock.

Photographers can also protect their work by having the camera automatically add their personal details and copyright to Exif data as pictures are recorded. Double memory card slots are provided for SD (UHS-II) and XQD media*3, and compatibility with CFexpress is due in the near future. 

*1 Dust and Splash Resistant does not guarantee that damage will not occur if this camera is subjected to direct contact with dust and water

*2 As of February 1, 2019

*3 XQD is a trademark of Sony Corporation.

Creative Control Made Easy

For the individual look, in-camera controls provide the photographer with great flexibility in the way the JPEGs are recorded. Each photo style can be adjusted and new ones can be created and saved. A Flat option produces JPEGs with flat contrast and saturation as a flexible starting point for post-processing. 

New photo styles include HLG Photo Modes (Hybrid Log Gamma)*1 for vibrant high dynamic range pictures that retain extreme highlight detail suitable for display on the latest Panasonic HLG-compliant 4KTV via HDMI cable connection or other HLG-compliant devices. Images taken with the HLG modes can be saved as HSP files in stunning 8K resolution, as well as in JPEG and RAW formats. 

When shooting portraits the new AWBw white balance setting creates an attractive moderate red tint, and a new Highlight Weighted Light Metering Mode prioritises the retention of detail in the brightest areas of the picture. 

New panoramic aspect ratios add extra creative possibilities, with 65:24 Film Panorama and 2:1 wide frame formats offering exciting dimensions at the shooting stage. 

*1 “HLG (Hybrid Log Gamma)” is an international standard (ITU-R BT.2100) HDR format.

Connectivity and Remote Shooting

The LUMIX S1R is compatible with LUMIX Tether software that allows remote control of the camera over USB from a PC, as well as live view streaming and direct transfer of pictures to the PC as they are recorded. 

LUMIX Sync is a new smartphone app for iOS/Android* devices that enables remote control of the camera and photo transfer from the camera to the phone/tablet. 

Compatibility with Bluetooth 4.2 enables a constant connection with a smartphone or tablet with minimum power consumption, as well as allowing camera settings to be shared between multiple LUMIX S1R bodies. Wi-Fi 5GHz (IEEE802.11ac) in addition to 2.4GHz (IEEE802.11b/g/n) provides a secure and faster connection to smartphones/tablets for remote control and image/video transfer. 

*1 Android and Google Play are trademarks or registered trademarks of Google Inc. IOS is a trademark or registered trademark of Cisco in the U.S. and other countries and is used under license.

*2 5GHz Wi-Fi is not available in some countries.

Full Range of Accessories

The LUMIX S1R is compatible with a range of accessories including Remote Shutter (DMW-RS2), Eyecup (DMW-EC6), Battery Grip (DMW-BGS1) and Battery Charger (DMW-BTC14). The Battery Charger also complies with USB Power Delivery and enables quick power charging of the camera’s 7.4V 3.050 mAh battery in approximately 2 hours. The camera can be used while charging via this adaptor. The conventional External Flash (DMW-FL580L / FL360L / FL200L) can also be mounted on the LUMIX S Series cameras.

Panasonic S1 Press Release

Panasonic LUMIX S1: Full-frame without compromise

• 24.2 Megapixel full-frame sensor
• 6-stop Dual Image Stabilisation for Still and Video Mode
• Real View Finder with 5760K OLED display

Barcelona, Spain, February 1st, 2019 – Designed for exceptional photography as well as professional quality video, the LUMIX S1 is built around the wide diameter L-Mount and offers media creatives all the benefits of a full-frame high sensitivity sensor.

The 24.2-megapixel-CMOS is the heart of LUMIX S1. Equipped with outstanding image stabilization and powered by a new Venus Engine, the camera performs up to the highest standards in photography as well as offering advanced video recording with well-retained highlight and shadow details. 

To capture the decisive moment, the photographer frames the image using the world’s highest resolution*1 electronic viewfinder with unrivalled clarity via a 5.76-million-dot OLED display.

*1 As a Digital Single Lens Mirrorless Camera, as of February 1, 2019.

High Resolution, High Sensitivity

The LUMIX S1 full frame mirrorless camera uses a 24.2-million-pixel CMOS sensor (35.6 x 23.8 mm) that provides a wide dynamic range and excellent signal to noise ratios at high ISO settings. Efficient pixel design, combined with the high-powered Venus Engine processor, allows standard ISO settings to reach ISO 51.200.

When extra resolution is needed, a High Resolution Mode can be used to create images with a staggering 96 million pixels. The mode combines information recorded in eight exposures that are taken as the Body I.S. system makes tiny off-set adjustments to the sensor position. The result is a 12.000 x 8.000 pixel RAW-file bursting with information. A feature of the High Resolution Mode is the option to supress motion blur. 

Dual I.S. 2 for Incredible Shake Compensation

The 5-axis Body I.S. (Image Stabiliser) system compensates for the effects of camera shake to make shutter speeds up to 5.5-stop slower than usual safe to use*1. Combined with the 2-axis O.I.S. (Optical Image Stabiliser) in the LUMIX S Series lenses, this Dual I.S. 2 system increases the level of compensation to 6-stop*2, and works to eliminate the effects of a wide variety of camera movement types in both still and video photography*3. Making use of sophisticated technology, vibration measurements are taken not only from a gyrosensor but also using information from the CMOS itself and from an accelerometer sensor. 

To help photographers remove sources of camera shaking, an I.S. Status Scope has been added that displays a graphic interpretation of vibration. 

*1 Based on the CIPA standard [Yaw/Pitch direction: focusing distance f=50mm, when S-X50 is used.

*2 Based on the CIPA standard [Yaw/Pitch direction: focusing distance f=200mm when S-R70200 is used.].

*3 5-Axis Dual I.S.2 can be used with the lens S-R24105 and S-R70200 as of February 1, 2019.

High-Speed Precision Focusing

Combining contrast detection and Panasonic’s unique DFD technology with ultra-fast processing creates a focusing system that provides both speed and precision. To achieve extremely fast and accurate focusing, the Venus Engine, CMOS sensor and new LUMIX S lenses communicate at up to 480 fps allowing the system to react in 0.08 seconds*1. The autofocus works with as little light as remarkable -6 EV*2. 

Focus acquisition and tracking is enhanced with Advanced Artificial Intelligence Technology that detects humans, cats, dogs and birds. Identifying the subject helps the system anticipate movement patterns and allows the autofocus to keep tracking the subject even when its back is turned. Face, eye and pupil detection ensure that portraits are focused correctly. 

For fast moving situations the LUMIX S1 is capable of shooting at a rate of 9 fps in AFS or 6 fps with continuous focusing. The 6K Photo mode allows bursts of 18-million-pixel JPEG images at 30 fps, while 4K Photo offers sequences at 30 or 60 fps with 8-megapixel resolution.*3

*1 11EV, at wide-end with S-R24105 (CIPA) in LVF120 fps setting.

*2 F1.4, ISO100 equivalent, AFS.

*3 4K/6K PHOTO modes create an MP4-file allowing cut outs of still images in 4:3 or 3:2 aspect ratio with approx.6K/18-megapixel or approx. 4K/8-megapixel resolution.

High Resolution Viewfinder and High Quality Displays

The world’s highest resolution electronic viewfinder*1 provides photographers with unrivalled clarity via a 5.76-million-dot OLED display. The Real View Finder offers refresh rates of up to 120 fps and a virtually non-existent lag of just 0.005 seconds for smooth and realistic tracking of motion while panning with moving subjects. The display resolution, matched with a 10.000:1 contrast ratio, ensures a very clear and detailed view. The finder magnification can be adjusted from 0.78x to 0.74x or 0.7x for the comfort of the photographer. 

The camera’s 3.2 inch touchscreen features 2.1-million-dot resolution and is mounted on a triaxial tilt rear monitor that allows it to flip out for low or high angled viewing in both portrait and landscape orientation. Night Mode, Live View Boost and illuminated buttons help those working in dark conditions and the camera’s top plate offers largest-in-class back-lit status LCD*1 to keep the photographer informed of important shooting settings at a glance. 

*1 As of February 1, 2019

Professional Video Features

The LUMIX S1 offers filmmakers exceptional video quality and a wide range of tools to take full creative control of their footage. 4K-video is offered at 60/50p*1, while full pixel readout is achieved at 30p for exceptionally clean and detailed images. With the full width of the sensor being used, the focal length of lenses is retained and the creative possibilities of extreme shallow depth of field are available. 

The camera offers a variety of gamma curves, including industry standards such as Cinelike D/V and Like709. To shorten post-processing work, a new flat mode with less contrast and saturation for versatile use is offered. The new Hybrid Log Gamma (HLG)*2 profile allows recording in an even wider dynamic range with rich colours (Like2100) to mimic the abilities of the human eye.

LUMIX S1 allows video recording up to 4K 60/50p 4:2:0 in 8 Bit directly to SD- or XQD-card. 4:2:2 colour sampling can be put out through HDMI. Panasonic will provide a software key to unlock the option to record 4K 60/50p 4:2:2 10 Bit via HDMI-output and 30p/25p/24p in 4:2:2 

10 Bit internally within 2019. This upgrade will also bring V Log with industry leading dynamic range to the LUMIX S1. While time-limitations apply to 4K/60p and High-speed-footage, 4K/30p and Full HD can be recorded without a time limit.*3 High Speed Video allows 2x slow motion at 60fps in 4K, and up to 6x slow motion in Full HD with frame rates of up to 180fps. 

Line-input is supported by a 3.5 mm microphone socket while audio can be monitored using the 3.5 mm headphone port. Advanced audio quality can be achieved using the DMW-XLR1 microphone adapter in the hot shoe with professional microphones and XLR input sources. 

*1 50p in PAL-area only

*2 “HLG (Hybrid Log Gamma)” is an international standard (ITU-R BT.2100) HDR format

*3 4K/60p: 29 Min and 59 sec, High-Speed-Videos up to 15 Min (all high-speed-modes). The recording will stop, when the Memory Card is full or the battery runs out. When the temperature is too high, the camera may stop the recording to protect itself. Wait until the camera cools down.

Designed to Meet Professional Expectations

Developed for professional photographers, the LUMIX S1 has been built to withstand heavy use with magnesium alloy die-cast front and rear panels and sealing at every joint, dial and button. The camera is resistant to dust, splashes and operates at temperatures as low as -10°C*1. 

The shutter unit is designed to endure 400,000 actuations. It allows mechanically driven exposure times as short as 1/8000 sec to ensure the capture of fast moving subjects even using open aperture settings of fast lenses in the bright sunshine. The external flash can be synchronized with the industry’s fastest shutter speed of 1/320 second*2. 

The control buttons and dials are located based on an ergonomic study to enable the user to concentrate on shooting. The adoption of an 8-directional joystick and refined UI (User Interface) also supports quick operation during shooting. A lock lever prevents unintentional operation and the user can choose which functions to lock.

Photographers can also protect their work by having the camera automatically add their personal details and copyright information to Exif data as pictures are recorded. Double memory card slots are provided for SD (UHS-II) and XQD*3 media, and compatibility with CFexpress is due in the near future. 

*1 Dust and Splash Resistant does not guarantee that damage will not occur if this camera is subjected to direct contact with dust and water 

*2 As of February 1, 2019

*3 XQD is a registered trademark of Sony Corporation.

Creative Control Made Easy

For the individual look, in-camera controls provide the photographer with great flexibility in the way the JPEGs are recorded. Each photo style can be adjusted and new ones can be created and saved. A Flat option produces JPEGs with flat contrast and saturation as a flexible starting point for post-processing. 

New photo styles include HLG Photo Modes (Hybrid Log Gamma)*1 for vibrant high dynamic range pictures that retain extreme highlight detail suitable for display on the latest Panasonic HLG-compliant 4KTV via HDMI cable connection or other HLG-compliant devices. Images taken with the HLG Modes can be saved as HSP files in stunning 8K resolution, as well as in JPEG and RAW formats. 

When shooting portraits the new AWBw white balance setting creates an attractive moderate red tint, and a new Highlight Weighted Light Metering Mode prioritises the retention of detail in the brightest areas of the picture. 

New panoramic aspect ratios add extra creative possibilities, with 65:24 Film Panorama and 2:1 wide frame formats offering exciting dimensions at the shooting stage. 

*1 “HLG (Hybrid Log Gamma)” is an international standard (ITU-R BT.2100) HDR format.

Connectivity and Remote Shooting

• Remote Shooting via LUMIX Tether

• Bluetooth 4.2

• Wi-Fi 5GHz*1/2.4GHz

The LUMIX S1 is compatible with LUMIX Tether software that allows remote control of the camera over USB from a PC, as well as live view streaming and direct transfer of pictures to a PC as they are recorded. 

LUMIX Sync is a new smartphone app for iOS/Android*2 devices that enables remote control of the camera and photo transfer from the camera to the phone/tablet. 

Compatibility with Bluetooth 4.2 enables a constant connection with a smartphone or tablet with minimum power consumption, as well as allowing camera settings to be shared between multiple LUMIX S1 bodies. Wi-Fi 5GHz (IEEE802.11ac) in addition to 2.4GHz (IEEE802.11b/g/n) provides a secure and faster connection to smartphones/tablets for remote control and image/video transfer. 

*1 5GHz Wi-Fi is not available in some countries.

*2 Android and Google Play are trademarks or registered trademarks of Google Inc. IOS is a trademark or registered trademark of Cisco in the U.S. and other countries and is used under license.

Full Range of Accessories

The LUMIX S1 is compatible with a range of accessories including Remote Shutter (DMW-RS2), Eyecup (DMW-EC6), Battery Grip (DMW-BGS1) and  Battery Charger (DMW-BTC14). The Battery Charger also complies with USB Power Delivery and enables quick power charging of the camera’s 7.4V 3,050 mAh battery in approximately 2 hours. The camera can be used while charging via this adaptor. The conventional External Flash (DMW-FL580L / FL360L / FL200L) can also be mounted on the LUMIX S Series cameras.

Panasonic L-Mount Lenses Press Release

Three Lenses for LUMIX S-System

• LUMIX S PRO 50mm F1.4
• LUMIX S PRO 70-200mm F4 O.I.S.
• LUMIX S 24-105mm F4 MACRO O.I.S.

Barcelona, Spain, February 1st, 2019 – Panasonic is proud to introduce three new interchangeable lenses for the LUMIX S Series full-frame mirrorless cameras. Based on the Leica L-Mount and specially focusing on professional use, the LUMIX S Series pursues uncompromising standards in its cameras and lenses. While aall interchangeable lenses of the LUMIX S Series provide high performance, those marked “LUMIX S PRO” push the boundaries of optical performance further for approval against Leica’s stringent standards. 

Panasonic is committed to designing and developing ten or more lenses, with a focus on “LUMIX S PRO” models, by 2020 and further expanding the S Series lens lineup.

Designed for versatile use

• Weather-resistant design

• Quick switch between Focus modes

• Designed for photo- and video-work

All three S lenses have a rugged dust/splash*-resistant design to withstand use under harsh conditions even in 10 degrees below zero to match the professional level of the S1 and S1R cameras. 

The focus element of the lenses is moved by motors with a sophisticated design, supporting the high frequency of the S-System sporting up to 480 frames per second. 

For ultimate control, the PRO lenses have a focus clutch mechanism allowing instant switching from autofocus to manual adjustment at any time. 

The LUMIX S-lenses also excel when used for video as they are designed to suppress focus breathing during recording. 

*Dust and Splash Resistant does not guarantee that damage will not occur if this lens is subjected to direct contact with dust and water.

LUMIX S PRO 50mm F1.4 (S-X50)

• Large aperture F1.4

• 11-bladed iris for exceptional bokeh

• Outstanding sharpness across the frame

At the core of the LUMIX S lens series is the new LUMIX S PRO 50mm F1.4. A large-aperture lens with a focal length considered ‘standard’ for the full frame format, the LUMIX S PRO 50mm F1.4 boasts stunningly high resolution and incredible sharpness from centre to corner even when used wide open. The optical design and the use of an 11-bladed iris provide beautifully smooth focus transition and exceptionally attractive bokeh.

Comprising 13 elements in 11 groups, 2 aspherical lenses and 3 extra-low Dispersion lenses are used to avoid chromatic aberrations and to ensure outstanding resolution centre to corner.

LUMIX S PRO 70-200mm F4 O.I.S. (S-R70200)

• Sport, action and wildlife lens

• 6-Stop image stabilisation 

• Beautiful bokeh

The LUMIX S PRO 70-200mm F4 O.I.S. telephoto zoom lens provides high-resolution, high-contrast images across the entire zoom range. Designed to be used in a wide range of situations, from portraits to sports, the lens is compatible with Panasonic’s 5-Axis Dual I.S. 2 system*1 and offers 6 stops of image stabilisation*2 – a first for a full-frame mirrorless camera system. 

9 aperture blades create a circular opening for attractive out-of-focus highlights. The optical performance of this LUMIX S PRO lens is outstanding to comply with stringent Leica standards. 

The construction comprises 23 elements in 17 groups and uses a single aspherical lens and 3 extra-low Dispersion lenses to minimise chromatic aberrations and maximise sharpness. It achieves a beautiful bokeh and minimal vignetting.

*1 5-Axis Dual I.S. 2 can be used with the camera LUMIX S1R and S1, as of February 1, 2019.

*2 Based on the CIPA standard [Yaw/Pitch direction: focusing distance f=200mm, when LUMIX S1R is used.

LUMIX S 24-105mm F4 MACRO O.I.S. (S-R24105)

• Perfect general purpose lens

• 0.5x magnification macro shooting

• 6-Stop image stabilisation

The LUMIX S 24-105mm F4 MACRO O.I.S. is a versatile standard zoom lens covering wide-angle to medium-telephoto focal lengths. It assures excellent sharpness across the entire zoom range and is useful for many applications from landscapes to portraiture. It is also perfect for close-up and macro work, offering 0.5 x magnification and a closest focus distance of merely 0.3 m.  

Combining the Optical Image Stabilizer (O.I.S) with the Body Image Stabilization system of the LUMIX S1 and S1R cameras allows 5-Axis Dual I.S. 2 technology to offer up to 6 stops of compensation*1. 

The lens comprises 16 elements in 13 groups and uses two aspherical lenses and two extra-low Dispersion elements to avoid chromatic aberration and achieve high degrees of detail resolution. 

*1 Based on the CIPA standard [Yaw/Pitch direction: focusing distance f=105mm, when LUMIX S1R is used.

Panasonic Lumix Pro Press Release

Panasonic LUMIX PRO now open for registrations

• Unrivalled global support for creative photographers
• A repair service that travels with you*
• Register now for complimentary annual membership**

Barcelona (Spain),1st February 2019 – Further to its launch at Photokina 2018, Panasonic has announced LUMIX PRO, a hub for its professional camera users, is now open for registrations in France, Germany, Italy, Spain and the United Kingdom.

LUMIX PRO is an extensive support and service network for creative professionals. In recognition of the fact that photographers and videographers require more than just products in their daily working life, the programme has been designed to ensure that they can continue to shoot with a range of service and repair benefits and consistent global support. 

From today, European owners of LUMIX G Series and new S Series cameras will be able to register their equipment and receive the benefits of the annual LUMIX PRO programme free of charge until 31st March 2019**.

Comprehensive repair service combined with tailored support

LUMIX PRO has been created with the user in mind and is designed to provide a framework for support of photographers and videographers of all levels of experience. The membership will  also offer members with relevant benefits in conjunction with key photographic partners.

A range of domestic and global maintenance and repair service benefits will be available – including complementary maintenance such as sensor, EVF, body cleaning or a lens calibration*. Members will also have access to expedited and guaranteed turnaround time, or access to loan equipment when turnaround time cannot be met. The bundle of services and support within the multi-tiered programme is designed to fit the requirements of the individual photographer. 

Photographers that travel will be able to receive the applicable benefits for their level of membership in countries that offer the repair service, to ensure that they can continue working in any eventuality. Panasonic will continue to expand LUMIX PRO services into other countries, with Ireland and Austria targeted to launch in Spring 2019 and additional countries following suit later this year. This will create a truly global programme that can support photographers when and where they need it most.

To learn more and register for LUMIX PRO visit www.lumix-pro.com.

* Service conditions and qualifying product may vary per region. Global repair service is available for black and platinum members. Sensor cleaning and other maintenance service is available only for domestic members.

**Free of charge registration is available until 31st March 2019 for European customers ONLY. Membership level allocated based equipment registered within the user profile.

Image Gallery

Click on a thumbnail to see the full version.

First Impressions

The Panasonic S1R and Panasonic S1 are two new full-frame mirrorless cameras, offering 47 megapixels and 24 megapixels respectively and using the Leica L-mount. In development for the last 4 years, the Lumix S Series promises to offer “Full frame without compromise”.

We were shown a very early prototype version of the S1R/S1 back in September 2018 by Panasonic. We weren't allowed to take any photos of the camera or presentation slides, such was the high level of secrecy at the time.

Early prototype versions of the S1R and S1 were then displayed under glass at Photokina 2018, with a promised simultaneous launch date for both models of “early 2019”.

Fast forward to 31st January 2019, and we've been able to shoot with a working version of the Lumix S1R and S1 at the Global press launch in Barcelona, Spain. We've updated our initial first impressions of the cameras and new lenses with some more detailed observations.

So read on for our first impressions of the new Panasonic S1R and S1 35mm full-frame mirrorless cameras...

Panasonic have been targeting professionals with their high-end Micro Four Thirds mirrorless cameras, the Lumix GH5s, GH5 and G9, but they feel that they still have some room to expand upwards, hence their announcement of a completely new system camera with a new sensor format (for Panasonic).

Panasonic haven't forgotten their 10-year-old, extensive Micro Four Thirds line-up though, promising to focus on both categories, which will co-exist and grow simultaneously.

Today is all about the full-frame Lumix S1R and S1 and three new lenses, though - the Lumix S Pro 50mm F1.4, Lumix S Pro 70-200mm F4 O.I.S., and the Lumix S 24-105mm F4 MACRO O.I.S. (note the lack of "Pro" in the 24-105mm lens naming).

The higher-resolution Panasonic S1R is taking on the likes of the Sony A7R III, Nikon Z7 and Canon EOS R, while the Lumix S1's main rivals include the Nikon Z6, Sony A7 III and the EOS R (again).

Panasonic S1R and S1 Key Specifications

The S1R and S1 have completely new image sensors, a new Venus Engine processor, dual image stabilization (lens and body), an Artificial Intelligence deep learning system for fast and accurate auto-focusing, 4K 60P video recording, and high-quality lenses.

Here's a list of the key specifications for the Lumix S1R:

• 47.3 megapixels, no low pass filter
• 187 megapixel high resolution mode
• 5-axis 5.5-stop in-body image stabilisation
• 6-stop Dual Image Stabilisation system
• 5.76-million-dot OLED electronic viewfinder
• 3.2-inch touchscreen LCD with 2.1-million-dot resolution
• ISO 25600
• 0.08 sec autofocusing down to -6EV
• Eye AF and animal recognition
• 6fps burst shooting with continuous AF/AE
• 4K video at up to 60/50p
• 6K photo mode at 30fps and 4K photo mode at 60fps
• 400,000 frames shutter life
• Bluetooth and wi-fi connectivity
• 1/320th second flash sync speed
• Dual SD/XQD memory card slots
• Weatherproof body
• Size: 148.9 x 110.0 x 96.7 mm
• Weight: 898g

Here's a list of the key specifications for the Lumix S1:

• 24.2 megapixels, no low pass filter
• 96 megapixel high resolution mode
• 5-axis 5.5-stop in-body image stabilisation
• 6-stop Dual Image Stabilisation system
• 5.76-million-dot OLED electronic viewfinder
• 3.2-inch touchscreen LCD with 2.1-million-dot resolution
• ISO 51200
• 0.08 sec autofocusing down to -6EV
• Eye AF and animal recognition
• 6fps burst shooting with continuous AF/AE
• 4K 60/50p 4:2:0 in 8 Bit internally, 4:2:2 externally
  (4K 60/50p 4:2:2 10 Bit via HDMI-output and 30p/25p/24p in 4:2:2 will be available later in 2019, along with V Log)
• Full pixel readout at 30p
• Variety of gamma curves, including Cinelike D/V, Like709 and Hybrid Log Gamma
• 65:24 Film Panorama and 2:1 wide panoramic aspect ratios
• 6K photo mode at 30fps and 4K photo mode at 60fps
• 400,000 frames shutter life
• Bluetooth and wi-fi connectivity
• 1/320th second flash sync speed
• Dual SD/XQD memory card slots
• Weatherproof body
• Size: 148.9 x 110.0 x 96.7 mm
• Weight: 899g

Panasonic S1R and S1 Design

The S1R and S1 are identical in their external design, differentiated only by their name badges.

Each camera has an XQD and SD dual memory card slot, a 3-axis tiltable LCD touchscreen, a perfectly sized grip, optimum button layout, and a market leading electronic viewfinder (EVF) from Sony. They have an extremely durable shutter (400,000 actuations), 100% weather sealing and low temperature resistance (down to -10 degrees).

The Panasonic S1R/S1 is a physically big camera, and the 50mm f/1.4 especially is a physically big lens. Weighing in at nearly 900g and measuring 148.9 x 110.0 x 96.7mm, the Panasonic S1R/S1 feels a lot more like a DSLR than a "traditional", smaller mirrorless camera.

Panasonic's new full-frame system is quite a lot bigger than Sony's and Nikon's, being more akin to Canon's in size with regards to both the body and the lens, although that's largely because Canon have opted to make their lenses faster than the norm.

Note that officially we were using a pre-production camera and the design may change before the final launch, although we wouldn't expect too many tweaks to the body at this late stage.

Panasonic S1R and S1 Key Controls

The key controls on the Panasonic S1R/S1 mirrorless camera include:

• Top-panel LCD screen that can be backlit, largest in its class
• WB/ISO/EV buttons
• On/Off switch
• Front/rear control dials
• A lockable shooting mode dial, with the usual PASM modes, C1,2,3 modes and Panasonic's point-and-shoot iA mode
• A drive mode dial, which sits underneath the shooting mode dial
• A S/C/MF dial which surrounds the AF point button
• On the rear, there's a Lock button on the left, Playback button, Movie record button, AF Area button surrounded by a Focus switch (S/C/MF), AF On button, AF Joystick, Quick menu button, circular scroll wheel, Menu/set button, Back button , Display button, and Delete button
• 2 Function buttons on the front of the camera
• V.mode button on the pentaprism
• A physical aperture ring on all 3 lenses

Panasonic S1R and S1 Megapixels

At first glance this is the main key difference between the two cameras - the Lumix S1R is the high resolution model with 47 megapixels, just beating the Nikon Z7 to the title of "highest megapixel full-frame mirrorless camera", and the S1 is the lower resolution model with 24 megapixels.

Panasonic S1R and S1 High Resolution Mode

The S1R and S1 both offer a high resolution mode that combines eight individual shots,taken whilst shifting the sensor, into one super high resolution image - 96 megapixels on the S1 and a whopping 187 megapixels on the S1R! This equates to a 12,000 x 8,000 pixel file on the S1 and 16,736 x 11,168 pixel file on the S1R, which should prove a good test of your computer's processing capabilities!

The camera needs to be tripod mounted and it only really work for still subjects such as landscapes, but there is at least the option to surpress motion blur from subtly moving subjects like plants/trees in the wind.

Panasonic S1R and S1 ISO Speed

The S1R's highest ISO speed is ISO 25600, whereas the lower resolution S1 can go as high as ISO 51200, an extra stop. Both cameras feature new aspherical micro lenses positioned over each pixel to improve the light-gathering abilities of the sensor so that low noise levels are maintained at high ISO settings. As we were using a pre-production sample, we're not allowed to comment on the image quality just yet.

Panasonic S1R and S1 Autofocusing

Panasonic continue to use a combination of contrast detection and their unique DFD technology for auto-focusing on the S1R and S1. DFD technology calculates the direction and the amount to move the focus lens at a single movement by predicting it with 2 images that have different depth of field.

On the S1R and S1, the new Venus Engine, CMOS sensor and LUMIX S lenses communicate at up to 480fps, allowing the AF system to react in just 0.08 seconds. Autofocus also works in low light all the way down to -6 EV, comparable to the Canon EOS R.

In practice, the S1R's auto-focusing was fast and accurate in good lighting, but a little slower and more hesitant in really low-light, although we found that it almost always locked onto the subject regardless of the delay.

Eye-AF and animal recognition are part of the face detection system, with the camera's Advanced Artificial Intelligence Technology also able to detect humans, cats, dogs and birds. When the camera detects multiple subjects, you can use the rear joystick to select which one should be the primary point of focus, on the fly.

The S1R proved to be quick and tenacious at recognising and locking onto a subject's eye. Panasonic have implemented a different way of showing this in the viewfinder, using a crosshair rather than a small rectangular box, as with other camera systems, so if you've used, say, a Sony Alpha camera for a while, you might initially wonder why the Eye AF doesn't seem to be working, when it fact it is...

Panasonic S1R and S1 Dual Image Stabilisation

Both cameras offer 5.5 stops of in-body image stabilisation via a 5-axis system, rising to 6 stops of dual stabilisation when paired with a stabilised lens such as the new Lumix S 24-105mm and 70-00mm lenses, which feature 2-axis stabilisation. Panasonic have also added a new I.S. Status Scope, which displays a graphic interpretation of the current vibration levels.

Out in the field, the ability to hand-hold a 70-200mm lens at the long end of the focal range, see a perfectly stabilised preview in the viewfinder and capture the image at a much slower shutter speed than you'd normally get away with proved to be a particularly strong suit of the S1R/S1. This is definitely the most effective image stabilisation system that we've experienced on a full-frame camera.

Panasonic S1R and S1 Electronic Viewfinder

The Panasonic S1R and S1 are the first cameras to use Sony's new 5.76-million-dot OLED electronic viewfinder, even before Sony have used it on any of their cameras! This is currently the highest resolution viewfinder on the market, although the upcoming Zeiss ZX1 is set to beat it with a 6-million-dot display.

Looking through it proved to be a joy, even in very low-light where EVFs traditionally struggle. It's also possible to change the magnification of the EVF from 0.78x to 0.76x or 0.74x to best suit your eyesight, activated via the V.Mode button.

Panasonic S1R and S1 LCD Screen

Both cameras have a 3.2-inch touchscreen display on the rear with 2.1-million-dot resolution, mounted on a tri-axial tilt mechanism that allows it to flip out for low or high angled viewing in both portrait and landscape orientations.

Panasonic S1R and S1 Burst Shooting

We'd expected the Panasonic S1 to offer quicker burst shooting than the S1R due to having fewer megapixels to process, but surprisingly both cameras offer exactly the same rates of 9fps with focus locked at the first frame, or 6fps with continuous focusing, a respectable but hardly earth-shattering rate. In comparison, the Sony A7 III and A7R III both offer 10fps burst shooting, much faster than the Lumix S1and S1R.

The number of recordable images in a single burst is where the two cameras differ - the Lumix S1 can shoot more than 90 Raw images and 999 JPEGs in a single burst, whereas the higher resolution S1R can only manage 40 Raw and 50 JPEGs.

Panasonic S1R and S1 4K Video

This is the one area, other than the number of megapixels, where the two cameras differ the most. Both models can shoot 4K video at up to 60/50p, but the S1 additionally features full pixel readout at 30p, a wider variety of gamma curves, and extra panoramic aspect ratios.

At launch both the S1R and S1 are only capable of recording 4:2:0 in 8 Bit internally, 4:2:2 externally, which is sure to disappoint anyone hoping for 10 Bit footage, but fear not, as Panasonic have promised that 4K 60/50p 4:2:2 10 Bit via HDMI-output and 30p/25p/24p in 4:2:2 will be available later in 2019, along with V Log, for the S1 camera at least (the S1R won't have a similar upgrade).

Panasonic S1R and S1 Dual Card Slots

Both cameras feature dual memory card slots, one for SD USH-II cards and the other for XQD cards. Compatibility with CFexpress is due to be added in the near future.

Panasonic S1R and S1 Battery Life

Both cameras use a 7.4V, 3050mAh, 23Wh Li-on battery, which provides 400 images on a single charge on the S1 and 380 on the S1R when using SD cards (slightly less for XQD). That can be substantially boosted to 1,100 shots using the Power Save LVF mode.

In real world use, we took around 300 stills and a few short videos and the remaining battery life was about 50%, so markedly better than the CIPA rating without having to use the power save mode.

The S1R and S1 are also USB Power Delivery compatible for quick charge/power supply, an industry first.

Panasonic S1R and S1 Connectivity

Both cameras offer a range of different connectivity options, including:

• Bluetooth
  Create a constant, low-power connection between the S1R and S1 and a smartphone/tablet to transfer images and video using the new Lumix Sync smartphone app, and easily share camera setting between multiple S1R/S1 bodies.
  
• Wi-fi
  Remotely control the S1R/S1 via a 5GHz or 2.4Ghz wi-fi connection using a smartphone or tablet and the new Lumix Sync smartphone app, and transfer images and video
  
• Tethering
  Use the Lumix Tether software to connect the S1R/S1 to a PC and remotely control it, plus live view streaming and direct transfer of pictures as they are recorded

Panasonic S1R and S1 Photo Modes

The Flat picture profile produces JPEGs with flat contrast and saturation as a flexible starting point for post-processing.

The brand new Hybrid Log Gamma mode is designed for display on the latest Panasonic HLG-compliant 4KTV via a HDMI cable connection, offering 3x more dynamic range than a standard image. Pictures taken with the HLG modes can be saved as HSP files in 8K resolution, as well as in JPEG and RAW formats.

Panasonic Lumix S Lenses

Panasonic have also unveiled three new lenses for their full-frame system, called the Lumix S Series of lenses. There will be a 50mm f/1.4, 24-105mm f/4 and 70-200mm f/4 available at the same time as the launch of the S1R and S1 cameras. Note that contrary to many misinformed rumours, both zooms have a constant f/4 aperture, rather than f/2.8.

The three lenses offer ultimate high resolution, high speed auto-focusing, dual image stabilization, weather-resistant design and impressive solidity and bokeh. All three have a physical aperture ring, although there was no obvious way to de-click it for video use on the early prototype of the 50mm f/1.4.

All three also have a focus clutch mechanism allowing instant switching from autofocus to manual adjustment at any time. They are also claimed to excel when used for video as they are designed to suppress focus breathing during recording.

Panasonic Lumix S Pro 50mm F1.4

The Lumix S Pro 50mm F1.4 is the pick of the three launch lenses, promising edge-to-edge sharpness and no less than 11-aperture blades for beautiful bokeh effects. Note that unlike the two zooms, it doesn't offer built-in image stabilisation, relying instead on the camera body.

Panasonic Lumix S Pro 70-200mm F4

By contrast, the S Pro 70-200mm lens offers 6-stops of OIS when paired with the S1R/S1 cameras, the highest rating for a full-frame mirrorless camera, and 9 aperture blades. We'd have loved to have seen a maximum aperture of F2.8 rather than F4, but that would inevitably have made the lens even bigger.

Panasonic Lumix S 24-105mm F4

The 24-105mm is not designated as a Pro lens, unlike the 50mm and 70-200mm, although we're not sure if or how that affects image quality. Panasonic themselves say "While all interchangeable lenses of the LUMIX S Series provide high performance, those marked “LUMIX S PRO” push the boundaries of optical performance further for approval against Leica’s stringent standards." It does have a very handy 0.5x macro feature though, and offers the same 6-stops of OIS as the 70-200mm zoom.

Panasonic Lumix S Lens Roadmap

Panasonic have also published a full-frame lens roadmap, with 10 or more lenses in total due for release by the end of 2020, a very promising start.

In addition, Sigma have committed to releasing 14 new L-mount lenses by the end of 2019.

Panasonic S1R and S1 Accessories

The S1R and S1 cameras are compatible with a new range of accessories, which include:

• Remote Shutter (DMW-RS2)
• Eyecup (DMW-EC6)
• Battery Grip (DMW-BGS1)
• Battery Charger (DMW-BTC14)
• Current External Flashguns (DMW-FL580L / FL360L / FL200L)

L-Mount Alliance

But that's not all. In an exciting and rather unprecedented move, Panasonic have joined forces with Leica and Sigma to form the L-mount Alliance. All three companies will develop full-frame cameras and lenses that use the Leica L-mount standard.

Along with Panasonic's three new Lumix S lenses, Leica already have eight native L-mount lenses (five primes and three zooms), along with a range of adapters that allow Leica TL, M, S, R and Cine lenses to be used on L-mount cameras.

With Sigma also introducing their own L-mount lens range, this ensures that there will be many lenses available for the Panasonic S1R and S1 from day one, at a wide range of price points, which gives them a distinct advantage over Nikon's and Canon's fledgling full-frame systems, and allows them to quickly play catch-up with the market leader, Sony, who now have 30 native e-mount lenses.

Panasonic also told use that more companies may follow and join the L-mount Alliance, if they apply and meet the standards.

Lumix Pro

Lumix Pro is a brand new global marketing platform - www.lumix-pro.com – which was also launched at Photokina 2018. With the strapline “Pro is more than product”, Panasonic will offer 5 different tiers of support to their users – Basic, Silver, Gold, Platinum and Black – via a truly global program. The company are also set to refresh their Global Ambassador program in the next few weeks.

So what do you think? Leave a comment on the new Panasonic full-frame mirrorless system below...

Image Gallery

Click on a thumbnail to see the full version.

Hands On

Want to see exactly what the new Panasonic S1 and Panasonic S1R full-frame mirrorless cameras and three new Lumix S lenses look like in the flesh?

Check out our extensive hands-on gallery of photos of the Panasonic S1 and Panasonic S1R full-frame mirrorless cameras and the three new L-mount lenses.

A gallery of hands-on photos of the Panasonic S1/S1R full-frame mirrorless cameras and three new Lumix S lenses.

Image Gallery

Click on a thumbnail to see the full version.

Preview Images

Ahead of our full review, here are some sample JPEG and Raw images shot on the Panasonic S1 full-frame mirrorless camera​ and the Lumix S 24-105mm F4 lens.

A gallery of sample images taken with the Panasonic Lumix S1 camera.

Panasonic S1 Sample Images

Sample RAW Images

The Panasonic S1 enables users to capture RAW and JPEG format files. We've provided some Panasonic RAW (RW2) samples for you to download (thumbnail images shown below are not 100% representative).

Your Comments