Panasonic Lumix: News and Updates

Panasonic has just introduced two new full-frame mirrorless cameras: the LUMIX S1II and the LUMIX S1IIE! These cameras are designed to offer exceptional photographic and videographic capabilities, characterized by exceptional image quality, dynamic color rendition and significant advances in video technology. In addition, Panasonic also introduced a new high constant aperture zoom lens: the LUMIX S 24-60mm F2.8. The new cameras and lens are expected to be available in June 2025.

In addition to the new products, Panasonic announced new firmware updates for the LUMIX S1RII, LUMIX S series lenses (S-X50, S-R24105, S-R2060), LUMIX Flow and LUMIX Lab apps.

LUMIX S1II

The LUMIX S1II is carefully crafted for professional photographers and videographers. It features a newly developed 24.1MP full-frame partially stacked CMOS image sensor and is powered by an advanced generation Venus Engine processor. This interplay enables faster readout and processing speeds, making it easier to record at high frame rates in formats such as 4K120p and 5.8K 60p 10-bit. In addition, it excels in dynamic range thanks to Dynamic Range Boost mode, which reaches up to 15EV in V-Log 30p mode. Photographically, it enables high-speed continuous shooting up to 70 frames per second with SH/SH pre-burst shooting up to 1.5 seconds. The highly acclaimed Open Gate feature now supports formats beyond 6K30p and enables 5.1K60p shooting, expanding creative possibilities for users.

LUMIX S1IIE

The LUMIX S1IIE, the next member of the second-generation S1 series, retains the cutting-edge design and ergonomic excellence of the S1II and S1RII, offering the potential for creative exploration. It is equipped with a 24.2MP sensor inspired by the features of the LUMIX S5II, ensuring exceptional image quality adapted to a variety of shooting conditions. It incorporates outstanding features from the S1II, positioning it as a comprehensive tool for creative projects. The LUMIX S1IIE introduces the new Cinemascope (2.4:1) video format, available in a variety of frame rates including 60p 10-bit without cropping.
The LUMIX S1IIE is the ideal choice for those looking for ergonomic design improvements and sophisticated technology. The LUMIX S1IIE offers ease of use equivalent to high-end models for users who are venturing into high-end content creation.

LUMIX S 24-60mm F2.8

This new lens features a high F2.8 aperture throughout its zoom range. Its unique compact and lightweight design enhances mobility, making it the ideal choice for dynamic landscape and architecture shots using the 24mm wide-angle perspective, as well as for capturing portraits with beautiful bokeh at a focal length of 60mm. Plus, with the Hybrid Zoom function, you can extend your zoom range up to 187mm for both stills and movies.

The lens delivers high-speed, high-precision silent autofocus performance. Plus, it supports focus ring control assignment, allowing it to be used as a customizable function control ring for key settings such as aperture control and exposure compensation, etc. In addition, it has excellent video-making capabilities, such as advanced optical design and optimized internal tube structure, which effectively suppresses focus breathing during focusing. Also, in high-contrast scenes, it enables micro-step aperture control, smooth transitions between aperture F-numbers, preventing sudden exposure changes.

Notification of updates

Panasonic has announced a new firmware update for the LUMIX S1RII, along with the release of applications supporting LUMIX Flow and LUMIX Lab workflows, as well as updates for S-series lenses. These updates are designed to seamlessly integrate advanced features from its latest models, the LUMIX S1II and S1IIE, into the LUMIX S1RII, enhancing its capabilities and providing creators with a versatile set of tools to realize their creative aspirations.

The latest firmware updates for the S1RII are scheduled to be available for free download in 2025. In the meantime, the LUMIX Flow and LUMIX Lab apps, along with the lens firmware update, will be available on May 14.

LUMIX S1RII Firmware Update (planned for 2025)

Advanced Recording Formats:

8.1K/7.2K (3:2) Open Gate recording and RAW video can be captured via HDMI output for external recording.
ARRI LogC3 will be available with the DMW-SFU3A software key, enabling color matching with ARRI digital cinema cameras.
Support for HEIF photo format in 4:2:0 10-bit quality.

Enhanced filming tools:

Urban sports recognition will be added to existing capabilities for detecting human eyes, faces or bodies, and will accurately capture dynamic movements such as breakdancing, skateboarding, parkour and more.
Aspect ratio format options will be expanded from 10 to 17 and will allow up to three masking frames to be displayed simultaneously.

Expanded workflow options:

Data can be directly copied from a CFexpress Type B or SD memory card to an external SSD, providing more options and greater flexibility in workflow.
Support for proxy file upload to the internal memory card even while recording in HDMI RAW video data.
Compatible with timecode synchronization via Bluetooth®.
Compatible with Bluetooth® connectivity with DJI gimbals.
HLG View Assist will be available for precise control of gradation and exposure on the camera monitor or viewfinder, as well as on external monitors that do not support HLG.

Enhanced customization:

The focus ring can be used as a control ring*, allowing key functions to be assigned. In addition, the focus rotation direction can be selected in MF mode.
The AF focus frame color can be selected from 10 colors for better usability.

LUMIX S Series Lenses (S-X50 Version 2.0, S-R24105 Version 2.0, S-R2060 Version 2.0)

The focus ring can now be used as a control ring, allowing key functions to be assigned. In addition, the focus rotation direction can be selected in MF mode.

LUMIX Flow Version 1.1

Compatible with LUMIX S1II and S1IIE.
Added shooting assistance functions.
Added monitor mirroring function to wirelessly transfer live view from an external monitor (USB) to another device.