When it comes to capturing cinematic footage, Panasonic cameras have earned a stellar reputation among filmmakers. From indie creators to professionals, the LUMIX S Series stands out as a top choice for filmmaking, thanks to its robust build, cutting-edge technology, and exceptional video capabilities. In this article, we’ll explore the features that make these cameras ideal for bringing your creative visions to life.
Why Choose Panasonic for Filmmaking?
Panasonic cameras are designed to empower filmmakers with tools that deliver stunning visuals, reliability, and ease of use. They offer advanced video features such as 4K and 6K recording, high dynamic range (HDR), dual native ISO, and advanced autofocus systems to ensure every shot is perfectly captured.
LUMIX S Series: The Pinnacle of Filmmaking Excellence
The LUMIX S Series represents Panasonic’s premium lineup of full-frame mirrorless cameras. Below are some of the standout models for filmmakers:
- LUMIX S1H:
- Designed for cinematic projects, this camera supports 6K video recording and offers unlimited recording time.
- Features V-Log/V-Gamut for professional-grade color grading.
- Perfect for filmmakers seeking versatility and high-resolution performance.
- LUMIX S5IIX:
- This versatile device features phase-detection autofocus for smooth focus transitions during dynamic shots.
- Supports internal ProRes recording, streamlining post-production workflow.
- Compact and portable—ideal for filmmakers on the move.
- LUMIX S5:
- A hybrid mirrorless camera tailored for both videography and photography.
- Offers 4K 60fps recording and a wide range of creative shooting modes.
- Lightweight yet powerful enough to deliver professional results.
Table of Contents
Key Features for Filmmakers
- Full-Frame Sensor: The large sensor in the LUMIX S Series delivers incredible depth, dynamic range, and detail, even in low-light conditions.
- Professional Video Formats: Recording in formats like ProRes RAW and V-Log ensures your footage is ready for advanced editing and color grading.
- Stabilization Technology: Advanced stabilization reduces shake, allowing seamless handheld shooting.
- Durability and Reliability: Built with robust magnesium alloy bodies, these cameras perform well in demanding environments.
Here’s a detailed specification sheet for the three Panasonic LUMIX S Series cameras:
| Feature | LUMIX S1H | LUMIX S5IIX | LUMIX S5 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sensor | 24.2 MP full-frame CMOS sensor | 24.2 MP full-frame CMOS sensor | 24.2 MP full-frame CMOS sensor |
| ISO Range | Dual Native ISO, up to 51,200 (expandable to 204,800) | ISO 50–51,200 (expandable to 204,800) | ISO 100–51,200 (expandable to 204,800) |
| Video Recording | 6K at 24fps, 4K at 60fps, 10-bit internal recording | 6K at 30fps, 4K at 60fps, ProRes and ALL-Intra recording | 4K at 60fps, 10-bit internal recording |
| Stabilization | 5-axis in-body stabilization | 5-axis in-body stabilization with Active I.S. for video | 5-axis in-body stabilization |
| Autofocus | Contrast-based DFD autofocus | Hybrid Phase Detection Autofocus (779 points) | Contrast-based DFD autofocus |
| Viewfinder | 5.76M-dot OLED EVF | 3.68M-dot OLED EVF | 2.36M-dot OLED EVF |
| LCD Screen | 3.2-inch tilt and free-angle touchscreen | 3.0-inch tilt and free-angle touchscreen | 3.0-inch tilt and free-angle touchscreen |
| Recording Formats | MOV, MP4, H.264, H.265 | MOV, MP4, ProRes, H.264, H.265 | MOV, MP4, H.264, H.265 |
| Special Features | Unlimited recording time, V-Log/V-Gamut, VariCam color science | ProRes RAW, USB-SSD recording, livestreaming capabilities | V-Log, dual SD card slots |
| Body Design | Magnesium alloy, weather-sealed | Magnesium alloy, weather-sealed | Magnesium alloy, weather-sealed |
| Weight | Approx. 1,164g (with battery and memory card) | Approx. 740g (with battery and memory card) | Approx. 714g (with battery and memory card) |
Whether you’re working on a feature film or creating web content, the Panasonic LUMIX S Series has a camera that fits your filmmaking style. From the 6K-capable LUMIX S1H to the hybrid LUMIX S5, Panasonic combines professional-grade quality with innovative features to help you bring your vision to life.
Looking for lenses to maximize your camera’s potential? Read our Panasonic lens guide here!
FAQ:
What is the difference between S5 II and S5IIX?
The difference from LUMIX S5II is in the video performance and all black exterior design. Specifically, LUMIX S5IIX has high-grade video capture capability, including high-quality ProRes video recording that is ideal for video editing and All-Intra video recording that can record video at a high compression ratio.
Is the LUMIX S1H approved for Netflix?
The Panasonic Lumix S1H has just been added to the long list of Holdan supplied cameras which have been approved for shooting projects for the online streaming giant.
What is the difference between LUMIX S5 and S5 Mark II?
The S5 II expands on some of the S5’s video capabilities, with 6k open gate recording and no recording time limits, but it also lacks RAW video output out of the box, unlike the original S5.
Does LUMIX S5 overheat?
Overheating. We’re sure you’ll be glad to hear there are no overheating issues with the Panasonic S5. However, part of the reason is due to the record limits in 10-bit. Still, the S5 has no issues recording clips up to 30 minutes in length (at 4K 10-bit) before the record limit cuts off recording.
When was the LUMIX S5IIX released?
The LUMIX S5II is $1,999.99 and will be available in January 2023. The LUMIX S5IIX is $2,199.99 and will be available in May 2023.
How much is the S5 II vs S5IIX?
The S5II has a recommended price of $1999 (€2199). The S5IIX commands a $200 (or €300) premium over the less video-centric version, with a suggested retail price of $2199 (€2499). An optional paid upgrade for the S5II that adds Raw video output is available for $200/€200.
Does Lumix have WiFi?
However, most Lumix cameras have built-in WiFi capabilities, which makes it easy to connect to a wireless network. Once your camera is connected to WiFi, you can transfer photos and videos wirelessly to your computer or mobile device.
Is the S1H a cinema camera?
Cinematic Performance,
The LUMIX S1H is the new full-frame mirrorless camera that delivers cinema-quality video.
What modes does the S1H shoot in?
Recording Modes:
MOV/H. 265 4:2:0 10-Bit: …
MOV/H. 264 4:2:2 10-Bit: …
MOV/H. 264 4:2:0 8-Bit: …
MP4/H.265 4:2:0 10-Bit. UHD 4K (3840 x 2160) at 23.976p/25p/29.97p/50p/59.94p [72 to 100 Mb/s] …
AVCHD 4:2:0 8-Bit. Full HD (1920 x 1080) at 23.976p/50i/50p/59.94i/59.94p [17 to 28 Mb/s]
Does the LUMIX S5 have better stabilization than the S5 II?
Panasonic’s latest innovations include a new Active Image Stabilization feature that supports walking shots and further enhances video stabilization. These improvements offer about 200 percent better stabilization in Video Mode compared to the original LUMIX S5.
Is LUMIX S5II weather sealed?
The camera feels very well-built. It has a weather-sealed body made of plastic and magnesium alloy.
Is LUMIX S5 a good camera?
The Panasonic LUMIX DC-S5 and the Sony α7 IV are both great full-frame mirrorless cameras that perform well in photo and video. They can record 4k 10-bit 4:2:2 video internally at up to 60 fps.
Can Lumix S5 shoot 4K?
The LUMIX S5 supports interval capture to create time lapse video in the camera body itself and is also capable of 4K 60p/50p. Still photos can also be shot with V-Log or Like709 for outstanding handling in post-production.
Can cameras get overheated?
If the temperature becomes too high, a warning icon or error message may appear, and the device shuts down to protect the circuitry. This response to heat is a typical camera characteristic, and the device should be turned off to cool down.
Is Lumix a professional camera?
LUMIX G provides the perfect system camera for the professional needs of modern filmmakers, photographers or those who want to switch between both and have the latest features/technology all built into a lightweight and compact, mirrorless body design.
Is the LUMIX S5II any good?
Panasonic Lumix S5 II: Our Verdict
The addition of phase detection brought its autofocus performance pretty much into line with its peers, while the practically unlimited video recording is a major selling point for some users. The body is relatively compact and feels very robust, while the control layout is superb.
How long does the LUMIX S5IIX battery last?
According to Panasonic, the S5IIX’s battery should last for 90 minutes of continuous recording at 4K/60p with an APS-C crop. In testing, this proved accurate, maybe a little conservative. I shot at 6K/30p full frame for 30 minutes, and then 4K/60p APS-C for 70 minutes, for a total of 100 minutes shooting time.
Does the S5 II shoot raw?
PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS. Note: To enable the Panasonic S5II’s RAW data output over HDMI, purchasing the Software Upgrade Key DWW-SFU2 is required. AtomOS 10.92 or higher is required to record ProRes RAW from the Panasonic S5II.
What is a hybrid camera?
A digital camera that accepts different lenses but does not use a mirror to reflect the image into the viewfinder. Also called a “mirrorless interchangeable-lens camera” (MILC), “hybrid camera” and “compact system camera” (CSC), the body is thinner than a digital SLR (DSLR) because there is no mechanical mirror.
Does Lumix have GPS?
Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS10 14.1 MP Digital Camera with 16x Wide Angle Optical Image Stabilized Zoom and Built-In GPS Function (Blue) Only 8 left in stock – order soon.
Do cameras need Wi-Fi?
While Wi-Fi is the most common way to connect to security cameras, it’s not the only way a person can use cameras for peace of mind and protection. There are other types of security cameras — including those that can be hardwired into a home — capable of providing video footage without Wi-Fi.
Does Lumix have an app?
LUMIX Sync is an app for Android/iOS devices to operate Panasonic digital cameras via wireless control. This app allows remote shooting of the camera and view/save images stored in the camera to the smartphone.
Is Lumix S5 II full frame?
Panasonic LUMIX S5II Mirrorless Camera, 24.2MP Full Frame with Phase Hybrid AF, New Active I.S. Technology, Unlimited 4:2:2 10-bit Recording – DC-S5M2BODY Black.
Who is LUMIX S5 for?
The LUMIX S5 provides exceptional photo and video performance for the quality conscious content creator. Its flip-out screen is combined with a smaller, lighter body that has been designed with urban adventures in mind.
Is Lumix S5 a cinema camera?
The ability to capture accurate colors and rich skin tones is a must for any filmmaker. The LUMIX S5 imports the renowned colorimetry of the VariCam lineup of cinema cameras. The LUMIX S5 contains V-Log/V-Gamut capture to deliver a high dynamic range and broad colors.
Is S1H full frame?
The LUMIX S1H is the new full-frame mirrorless camera that delivers cinema-quality video. Offering V-Log/V-Gamut with wide dynamic range of 14+ stops, 6K full-frame capture, 10-bit Cinema 4K/4K 60p/50p recording, and unlimited recording time.
Is Lumix S5 waterproof?
The tough body is dust- and splash-resistant* thanks to sealing and other protection for seams, buttons, and other functional parts.
What is the difference between fine and standard in Lumix?
[JPEG Fine] – Camera will save one file with low amount of compression, providing highest quality available on the camera for the JPEG file format. [JPEG Standard] – Camera will save one file with increased amount of compression, reducing image size whilst preserving image resolution.
What is the difference between S5 II and S5IIX?
The difference from LUMIX S5II is in the video performance and all black exterior design. Specifically, LUMIX S5IIX has high-grade video capture capability, including high-quality ProRes video recording that is ideal for video editing and All-Intra video recording that can record video at a high compression ratio.
What is the dynamic range of the LUMIX S5IIX?
The V-Log of the LUMIX S5IIX offers 14+ stops of dynamic range, which covers the PQ requirement of HDR, while V-Gamut covers the full HDR color spectrum, giving users access to HDR shooting wherever, whenever.
Does the S5 II come with a battery charger?
Battery. There’s no separate charger with the S5II, but the Type 3.2 Gen 2 USB port can be used to charge, power or power and charge the camera.
Is Lumix a professional camera?
LUMIX G provides the perfect system camera for the professional needs of modern filmmakers, photographers or those who want to switch between both and have the latest features/technology all built into a lightweight and compact, mirrorless body design.
What is the difference between a video camera and a cinema camera?
A cinema camera is a camera designed primarily for recording videos and (generally) provides higher video resolutions than other cameras. Furthermore, it is designed with filmmaking workflows in mind, which means more ports and types of connectors for video accessories and other gear.
