Panasonic Unveils the Lumix S1RII Full-Frame Camera

Panasonic has officially announced the launch of the Lumix S1RII, a new full-frame mirrorless camera designed to meet the needs of both photography and videography enthusiasts. This upgraded model is touted to be lighter, more compact, and more powerful than its predecessor, the Lumix S1R.

The Lumix S1RII is equipped with a newly developed 44.3-megapixel BSI-CMOS sensor, marking a significant enhancement in resolution. For the first time in the Lumix range, this camera supports 8K video recording, boasting a dynamic range of 14 stops. The sensor's backlighting technology, born from a collaboration with Leica, ensures a natural color reproduction.

With a native ISO range extending from 80 to 51,200--expandable to ISO 40 to 102,400--the camera is poised to perform well in various lighting conditions. As a hybrid model, the Lumix S1RII is tailored not only for high-quality photography but also for exceptional video capabilities. It supports 8K video at 30 frames per second and features an enhanced Open-Gate function that utilizes the entire sensor area for 6.4K recordings. Furthermore, a firmware update scheduled for release in 2025 will enable 8.1K/7.2K Open-Gate recording.

A notable innovation is the ability to record internally in 5.8K Apple ProRes Raw HQ/ProRes Raw formats directly onto CFexpress Type B cards, eliminating the need for external recording devices and providing greater mobility for solo videographers.

In terms of autofocus, the Lumix S1RII employs a phase hybrid autofocus system with real-time detection and AI tracking, capable of recognizing and following subjects such as people, animals, and vehicles swiftly and accurately. It achieves burst shooting speeds of up to 40 frames per second in electronic shutter mode, with continuous autofocus available through the SH-Pre-Burst mode, which captures images even before the shutter button is fully pressed.

Additionally, the camera features advanced sensor-based stabilization that compensates for camera shake by up to 8.0 stops, especially effective in telephoto shooting when paired with compatible lenses through Dual I.S. 2. A new continuous E.I.S. video distortion correction feature reduces edge distortions while maintaining the original field of view.

With a design focused on usability, the Lumix S1RII is approximately 20% smaller and lighter than its predecessor. It boasts a magnesium chassis that is resistant to dust and moisture and can withstand temperatures as low as -10 °C. The 3-inch touchscreen is tiltable, rotatable, and designed to facilitate shooting from various angles.

This new model is also the first in the Lumix line to support tethering via Capture One, enhancing workflow for professional photographers. Additionally, the new Flow app assists in managing the entire production process, from storyboarding to file organization, and the camera is compatible with the Lumix Lab app for direct LUT integration.

The Lumix S1RII is set to be available from mid-March 2025, with a retail price of EUR3,600 for the body alone or EUR4,500 for a kit that includes a 24-105mm F4.0 lens. The new battery grip option will retail for EUR350. Compared to similar offerings from competitors such as Canon, Nikon, and Sony, the S1RII presents a slightly lower entry price point.