Newark, NJ—Panasonic announced a new full-frame, box-style Lumix digital single-lens mirrorless camera: the DC-BS1H. As its name suggests, the Panasonic Lumix BS1H combines the cinema-quality video performance of the Lumix S1H camera with a box-style profile. What’s more, the camera can use Lumix S series lenses.
The BS1H employs a 24.2-megapixel, full-frame sensor with Dual Native ISO technology. Moreover, it includes features such as 6K full-area video recording; bokeh; low-light performance; a wide dynamic range of 14+ stops; and V-Log.
In addition, the connectivity and mobility of the BS1H allows filmmakers to use the camera to create a customized camera system depending on the scenario. Also, consistency among images minimizes postproduction processing when used alongside other Panasonic Lumix production cameras; for example, the BGH1 or the S1H.
Panasonic Lumix BS1H Key Features
The ILC’s 24.2MP, 35mm full-frame CMOS sensor (35.6mm x 23.8mm) captures 6K resolution. What’s more, its active resolution of 6,024×4,016 delivers approximately 24.2 million photosites. Furthermore, an OLPF (optical low-pass filter) suppresses moiré and false color.
The image sensor also works with Dual Native ISO to minimize noise generation; it chooses an optimal circuit to use according to the sensitivity before gain processing. In combination with the Venus engine’s signal processing, the ILC can achieve a maximum ISO 51,200 sensitivity, recording with minimum noise.
In addition, the BS1H records video in 6K/24p, 5.4K/30p (3:2 aspect ratio) or 5.9K/30p (16:9 aspect ratio). It also provides 10-bit 60p 4K/C4K HEVC video recording when using the image area equivalent to Super 35mm. The 4:2:2 10-bit 4K/30p is recordable in H.264 at its full area. Moreover, users can use this data for creating 4K videos with higher image quality or for cropping images in 4K.
The camera also imports the colorimetry of Panasonic’s VariCam cinema cameras; this enables filmmakers to capture accurate colors and richer skin tones. Consequently, the camera delivers 14+ stops of dynamic range with a V-Log to reproduce everything from dark to bright areas. V-Log/V-Gamut achieves a high dynamic range as well as broad colors. It also provides a greater level of play for the images in postproduction.
Furthermore, the camera’s CMOS sensor has a wide color gamut known as V-Gamut, which achieves a color space wider than BT.2020. V-Log has log curve characteristics reminiscent of negative film; conversely, V-Gamut delivers a color space larger than film. Users can also choose Hybrid Log Gamma (HLG) in photo style.
More Video Features
To satisfy wide-ranging creative needs, the BS1H also adopts a heat dispersion structure that provides unlimited video recording in various formats. They include 4:3 anamorphic mode and two alternatives for RAW workflow. Users can output 12-bit RAW video data over HDMI to save Apple ProRes RAW on the Atomos Ninja V or Blackmagic RAW on the Blackmagic Video Assist 12G HDR.
In addition, VFR (variable frame rate) lets users record over-cranked/under-cranked video in C4K/4K (60 fps, 2.5x slower in 24p) and Full HD (180 fps, 7.5x slower in 24p). The minimum frame rate for quick motion video is 2 fps. Plus, HFR (high frame rate) video with sound is recordable even when using autofocus. Further, effects are available for producing a slow-motion video during postproduction.
Moreover, for livestreaming, the BS1H offers an IP streaming function that enables distant image transmission to the social streaming platform online with PC connection over wired LAN. Notably, the camera can stream 4K 60p (50p) video in H.265.
Connectivity Options
Composed of aluminum and magnesium alloy, the BS1H body frame is compact and lightweight. It provides a variety of practical ports. In addition to a USB 3.1 Type-C, it integrates a 3G-SDI (BNC) and an HDMI Type-A terminal for simultaneous output. The camera also provides 2.4GHz Wi-Fi connectivity and Bluetooth 4.2 (BLE) tech.
What’s more, Genlock In (BNC) and Timecode In/Out (BNC) functions enable multi-angle synchronized video recording. This function is available to build a scalable system with manufacturer-agnostic external monitors, rigs and gimbals.
Finally, when connected to LAN, Power over Ethernet+ (PoE+) makes it is easier to install both physically and electrically.
Additional Features
Other notables include front and rear tally lamps with a network connection lamp; an operation lock switch and five function buttons; a 3.5 audio (in/out) jack and compatibility with the optional XLR microphone (DMW-XLR1); and a generic remote control unit φ2.5mm.
In addition, remote camera control is possible via Lumix Tether for Multicam and Lumix Sync apps. Panasonic also includes a free SDK (software development kit) for camera control via USB/LAN.
The Panasonic Lumix DC-BS1H will reach retail in November. It will have an SRP of $3,499.99.
