The L-mount system grows and grows. Today, Panasonic announced a new hybrid still/video-focused full-frame mirrorless camera, the LUMIX S5! Despite featuring the same sensor and many of the features of the S1, the S5 is even more compact than the massively popular GH5, a Micro Four Thirds system camera. With a remarkable new AF system and loads of professional video features, this one’s sure to be a hit.
The LUMIX S5 will be available later in September, alone or in a kit with the LUMIX S 20–60mm f/3.5–5.6 lens. A custom vertical/battery grip will also be available. Pre-order today at your local Mike’s Camera or at the link below the video!
Key specs
- 24.3 MP full frame sensor
- 96 MP multi-image high-res mode
- Max video quality: 4K 30/24p 10-bit 4:2:2 using full sensor width or 4K 60p 10-bit 4:2:0 APS-C cropped
- Up to 180fps high-speed video in FHD
- 4:3 anamorphic support
- VLog and V Gamut output with 14+ stops of dynamic range (professional range)
- Dual Native ISO for low-light sensitivity with low noise
- WiFi and Bluetooth connectivity
- Dual SD slots (UHS II/UHS-I)
- Magnesium body
- Splash, dust, and freeze resistant to -10° C
- 470 shots per charge using LVF (up to 1,500 in power save mode)
The engineers over at Panasonic seem to have put a massive amount of work into improving the autofocus system for this release. Improvements to their unique DFD (Depth From Defocus) algorithm promise better continuous AF, especially for small or fast-moving subjects, and they’ve added the head (independent of the eye, face, and body) as a tracked and recognized feature. That means no more losing focus when someone looks away from the camera.
Nodding to the large community of videographers who have embraced Panasonic, the S5 includes professional video monitoring features including a waveform monitor, luminance spot meter, dual zebras, and custom LUTs. There are, of course, microphone and headphone ports, and the S5 supports the Panasonic XLR adapter. A firmware update to support additional video abilities is already in the works, so expect raw video output and more.
But wait, there’s more! Features to entice still-image shooters abound as well, like a new multi-image layering mode for capturing breathtaking astral images without letting light pollution blow the whole image out. This Live View Composite mode will even show you the results in real time, so you can stop it when the image looks good. What you see is what you get!
Already using a full-frame L-mount camera from Panasonic? Good news! They have also promised firmware updates by the end of the year for the S1, S1R, and S1H. The complete list of changes isn’t available yet, but the new firmware versions will include at least the ability to record 5K video for the S1R and the implementation of the S5‘s innovative AF system for all three.
Sample images
