Panasonic has taken on the likes of Canon and Nikon, unveiling its first full-frame mirrorless camera – the ‘Lumix S Series’ – at Photokina 2018 in Germany overnight.
Considered a distinct advantage over its rivals, the new Lumix S1 and S1R will launch with an existing ecosystem of compatible lenses.
Both models feature 4K video at 60 frames per second, plus dual media slots (XQD and SD) and dual image stabilisation.
Courtesy of a new alliance with Sigma and Leica, Panasonic has decided upon Leica’s L-Mount, allowing consumers to access eight existing lenses upon launch.
Panasonic claims it will make at least 10 of its own ‘S Series’ compatible lenses by 2020, including; a 50 mm/F1.4single focal length lens, 24-105 mm standard zoom lens, and 70-200 mm telephoto zoom lens.
Both cameras will incorporate the Venus Engine processor, and will feature full-frame sensors. The S1 will offer 24MP, whilst the S1R delivers a 47MP resolution.
Key features below:
- Newly-developed 35 mm full-frame image sensor and image processing engine
- Claims world’s first support for 4K 60p/50p video recording in a full-frame Digital Single Lens Mirrorless camera
- Claims world’s first full-frame camera with Dual I.S. (Image Stabilisation), forgoing need for a tripod in dark or distant scenes.
- Rugged triaxial tilt LCD
- Leica Camera’s L-Mount – interchangeable lenses that meet specifications of Leica and Sigma.
Whilst Panasonic used Photokina 2018 to unveil prototypes of the new cameras, Australians pricing and availability is yet to be confirmed.
The Japanese electronics giant has also pledged to also unveil an 8K camera in 2020.
Further information is available on Panasonic’s website here.
