Newark, NJ—Panasonic launched the Lumix S1H, a digital single-lens mirrorless camera with a full-frame image sensor. The new model combines pro-level video quality with the mobility of a compact camera.
The Lumix S1H is capable of recording video at 6K/24p (3:2 aspect ratio); 5.9K/30p (16:9 aspect ratio); and 10-bit 60p 4K/C4K. For filmmakers, it also provides V-Log/V-Gamut, compatible with colorimetry called the “VariCam Look.”
A 24.2-megapixel, 35mm (35.6mm x 23.8mm) full-frame CMOS sensor complies with Panasonic’s dual native ISO. Along with the signal processing by the Venus engine, it achieves sensitivities to ISO 51,200 while minimizing noise. Furthermore, the S1H provides 14 stops of dynamic range. And with an active resolution of 6,024×4,016, it also features OLPF adoption (optical low-pass filter) to suppress moiré.
In addition, the S1H achieves unlimited recording time in all recording modes. HDR (high dynamic range) in HLG (hybrid log gamma), 4:2:2 10-bit HDMI output and anamorphic 4:3 modes are also available. The camera offers other tools for filmmaking: a waveform monitor and V-Log view-assist function. And tally lights are on the front and rear sides for use in a multiple camera setup.
Moreover, VFR (variable frame rate) lets users record overcranked or undercranked video in C4K/4K (60 fps, 2.5x slower in 24p) and FHD (180 fps, 7.5x slower in 24p). In addition, HFR (high frame rate) video with sound records even when using autofocus.
In addition, the Lumix S1H incorporates a body IS (image stabilizer) to compensate for hand-shake movement. Combining the body IS (5-axis) and the OIS (optical IS, 2-axis) in Lumix S-series lenses, the dual IS 2 system is better positioned to compensate for any type of blurring. It also allows the use of a 6.5-stop slower shutter speed.
Panasonic Lumix S1H Key Specs
Furthermore, the full-frame mirrorless camera uses the L mount. More than 46 L-mount interchangeable lenses—11 or more Lumix S/S Pro lenses—are or will be available from Panasonic, Leica and Sigma. Mount adapters/converters expand the range of lenses.
The S1H incorporates dual-native ISO sensitivity technology introduced in Panasonic’s flagship VariCam lineup. “It utilizes a process that reads the sensor in a fundamentally different way, extracting more information without degrading the image. This results in a camera that can switch from standard sensitivity to high sensitivity with almost no increase in noise or other artifacts,” Panasonic announced.
Dual native ISO gives cinematographers artistic choices as well as the ability to use less light on set. Dual native ISOs are 640 and 4,000, allowing cinematographers to shoot in any lighting environment. This technology can be switched manually between low (ISO 640–5,000) and high (ISO 4,000–51,200).
The camera also features a 3.2-inch, 2.33M-dot rear monitor. It boasts 150% higher luminance compared with the Lumix S1R/S1, for higher outdoor visibility. It also offers tilt and rotation movement, so users can change angles without unplugging HDMI, USB or other cables. Another feature is live view boost, which makes it possible to check the composition in total darkness by boosting the sensitivity for live view.
Additionally, there is a 5.76M-dot OLED live viewfinder with a 0.78x magnification ratio that’s switchable to 0.7x or 0.74x. The LVF achieves a display at 60 fps/120 fps (switchable) and a 0.005-sec minimum lag time.
Also, a 1.8-inch, backlit status LCD adopts MIP (Memory In Pixel technology). It consumes minimum power for always-on use, even when the camera is off. The LCD shows the recordable time for video; the number of images; and remaining battery with a black/white switchable background.
Additional Features
The camera also employs a high-speed autofocus system that enables the lens and sensor to communicate at 480 fps. The AF system combines contrast AF with DFD technology and includes eye AF.
In addition, the S1H has a 9-fps (AFS) burst rate. For more continuous burst shooting, 6K photo mode captures moments at 30 fps by extracting the frame with the best timing out of a 6K burst file. The file is saved as an 18MP-equivalent photo. Conversely, 4K photo enables 60-fps high-speed capture of 8MP-equivalent images. 
Furthermore, the new camera has a magnesium alloy full die-cast top/front/rear frame and seals at every joint, dial and button. As a result, it is splash resistant, dust resistant and freeze resistant to 14ºF.
Other features include: 14-bit RAW shooting; multiple Fn buttons; a 400,000-cycle shutter unit; a double SD card slot (UHS-II/Video Speed Class 90); a 7.4-V 3,050 mAh battery; Bluetooth 4.2 as well as Wi-Fi 5 GHz and 2.4 GHz connectivity; and tethered shooting via the Lumix Tether app.
The Panasonic Lumix S1H (body only) will be available for $3,999.99 at the end of September.
