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amazon Panasonic Lumix S1 reviews
Nikon and Canon are now contenders in the full-frame mirrorless market, but that hasn’t been the case since the advent of this format. A solid decade of such activity from their end shows superior confidence when used in the new Panasonic Lumix S1 and S1R.
As I mentioned before, I’m currently in the market to upgrade myself to mirrorless, and the Panasonic S1 itself sounds compelling. After using the S1 in and near Hobart for a few days, I was struck by its performance.
Having said that: prices are high here – but not altogether argued. Raw image quality is inferior to that of the S1Rs but still quite good on its own. And with a good bit of camera within the S1, sufficient ergonomics are present to clinch a deal.
To me, this camera is capable of astounding feats of revelation concerning myself. The Panasonic S1 dares me to aspire toward photographic endeavors of which I had not realized I alone was capable.
Specifications
Body type: Interchangeable lens, mirrorless
Maximum resolution: 12000×8000 (High-resolution mode)
Effective pixels: 24.2 megapixels
Sensor size: 35mm full-frame
Sensor type: CMOS
Autofocus system: Depth from Defocus AF
ISO : 100-512.00 (expanded 50-204,800)
Interchangeable lenses: Yes
Lens mount: L-Mount
Display: 3.2 inches, TFT LCD monitor, three-axis tilt
EVF: OLED Live View Finder with 5760 points
Battery: 3050mAh
Video format: MPEG-4, H.264
Connectivity: Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 4.2
Ports: USB Type-C 3.1 Gen 1, HDMI Type-A, Microphone Jack,
Dimensions: 148.9 x 110 x 96.7 mm
Weight: 898g
What I liked about the Panasonic Lumix S1
The last Panasonic camera with which I spent much time was the Lumix G9, and the very first impression with the Lumix S1 was of weight – heavy, in terms of physicality and features.
By no means light, but it feels like Panasonic has done the best in the bad situation. Ergonomics where it matters. With an effect so strong due to the grip shape and material design, if you’re truly coming from older Panasonic Lumix offerings such as the GH5 and G9.
It is even a little familiar in software too. If anything, I am happier using Nikon software, so I had a period of adjustment. I was genuinely surprised to find the S1 menu system delightfully intuitive after this initial period-“discovery” became an unexpected pleasure.
Some minor button rearrangement has been done on the S1 to account for the larger screen, with the ring-like toggle button from the G9 replaced with a more traditional, dedicated power switch. The bottom line is that while the cameras have their differences, the G9 and S1 have much more in common than not.
Bigger and Better is the name of the game around here. The S1 back has an LCD touchscreen that has a bit more width and thinner bezels than the previous model.
One change I’m not too pleased about here is the relocation of the video record button. It is now positioned next to the viewfinder. Hardly the easiest and most comforting place to get to when you need this button.
Of course, that full-frame sensor and the advantages offered to the L-mount system and HLG photos are extended greatly with the S1. As Leica has developed the mount, a good number of its lenses sit on the table with Panasonic and Sigma both applying for membership in the L-Mount Alliance. Meanwhile, the HLG mode built in to S1 lets you shoot some of the most vibrant ultra-high dynamic range photos ever.
Other than what I’ve just said, everything else that is good about S1 stems from its G-series inheritance. There is dual 6-point 5-axis image stabilization. Then, there is 0.08-second AF, with a maximum shutter speed of 1/8000 seconds and -6EV performance in low light. A High-Resolution mode allows a maximum shooting resolution of 96 megapixels. It supports dual memory (UHS-II + XQD), a rear three-axis display, 6K bursts with AI tracking assistance, and a shoulder-mounted LCD screen for immediate information.
And in the end, this is such an incredible feature, and I am just taken away by the images this camera allows me to create. It does landscapes, portraits, and just about anything else in between.
where can you get a Panasonic Lumix S1 online
Panasonic LUMIX S1 Full Frame Mirrorless Camera with 24.2MP MOS High Resolution Sensor, 24-105mm F4 L-Mount S Series Lens, 4K HDR Video and 3.2” LCD – DC-S1MK: Buy it now
Panasonic LUMIX S1 Full Frame Mirrorless Camera with Panasonic LUMIX S PRO 50mm F1.4 Lens: Buy it now
Connectivity & Additional Features
The Certified connectivity options
Certainly, with the best-in-class connectivity options of Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, the Panasonic Lumix S1 attaches itself to these devices for the easy transfer of images and videos and remote camera high-steering by the smartphone or tablet.
Including the full-sized HDMI port and USB 3.1 Type-C with 2 audio ports which can enable connecting a headphone and a microphone. These ports can provide further flexibility in video recording and connecting to other devices.
Additional Features
The S1 comes with several other features that add to its functionality. Such as:
Dual Card Slots: The camera has two SD card slots and allows users to perform two types of operations at the same time – recording on both cards or backup to one card. A feature that comes very much in handy for professional work where redundancy is a must.
High-Resolution Mode: The high-resolution mode of the S1 captures many images and converts them into a single image of up to 96-megapixels. Thus, it is excellent for taking pictures with a focus on minute details and makes large prints easy.
Customizable Controls: Buttons and dials are assigned storage for customized control settings that users want to customize in association with the use of the camera.
Strength and Weaknesses
Strength
Tough Build Quality: The S1 is simply a champion at overcoming difficult environments, given its extremely tough construction and sealing against moisture.
Advanced Video Features: The 4K recording, V-logL support, and stabilization features allow the camera to excel in video capture.
High-Resolution EVF: High-resolution and electronic, the viewfinder is capable of seeing highly detailed information about the scene.
Versatile Connectivity: A series of connectivity options amplify the camera functionality and flexibility.
Weaknesses
Autofocus System: Though the DFD system is actually a really good autofocus system, it wouldn’t be called as the most advanced compared to phase-detection systems with some of its competitors.
Size & Weight: Users might not find it that attractive, since it’s bulkier and weighs more, while many are craving to have smaller mirrorless cameras.
Price: The price of the camera might be prohibitive for many consumers who do not need very full-bodied advanced video features.
Alternatives and Competitors
Sony A7 III
For the most part, the performance of the Sony A7 III may be compared against the Panasonic Lumix S1. It also offers the exact full-frame sensor with a similar array of features. The A7 III has a 24.2-megapixel sensor for exceptional image quality and low-light shots. Furthermore, its hybrid autofocus system has and uses 693 phase-detection points for focusing much faster and more accurately than that of the S1.
It has the ability for 4K video recording, but it doesn’t have the 8-bit 4:2:2 color sampling that the S1 has. Portability is another asset with this camera as it’s compact with very good battery life, making it really good for those looking for easy travel capabilities.
Canon EOS R
Canon’s rival entry into the full-frame mirrorless pack is the EOS R. Offering a 30.3 megapixel sensor, this camera comes with higher resolution than the S1. By employing Canon’s flagship Dual Pixel CMOS AF system, the EOS R promises to provide high-speed, high-accuracy AF for stills and video.
4K video can be shot with this camera, though there is a crop factor applied. Also known for its color science and user-intuitive interface, this camera’s minus point is that its video features and image stabilization are nowhere near as advanced as the S1.
NIKON Z6
The Nikon Z6 is another of the alternatives in the full frame mirrorless camera holding fort. The 24.5-megapixel resolution sensor is used to tag images taken by the new Nikon Z6. The advanced hybrid autofocus system of Nikon is incorporated, which is a combination of phase-detection and contrast-detection focus. It provides an option for 4K UHD video recording, whereas an IS would be integrated into the body of that particular camera, similar to that in S1.
It’s very compact and lightweight, which is a plus for portability. The Z-mount lenses from Nikon are very good, with quality and performance, although they might not be that wide compared to Canon’s RF mount selection of lenses.
Sony A7R IV
Sony A7R IV is also a high-resolution alternative to the Lumix S1 because it can produce great detail and dynamic range results due to its 61-megapixel sensor. It is also fitted with a highly advanced autofocus system of 567 phase-detection points and 425 contrast-detection points.
The A7R IV is also able to record videos at 4K quality and features an astounding build quality as well as ergonomics. However, the price can be a hindrance, as well as the fact that the resolution might be too excessive for other people, which is why the 24.2-megapixel sensor of the S1 feels a little bit more realistic for those who don’t needed that much ultra-high resolution.
Conclusion
The Panasonic Lumix S1 competes aggressively in the full-frame mirrorless camera segment, posing as a camera that blends superb image quality, advanced video functionality, and rugged build. Its 24.2-megapixel full-frame sensor gives off excellent detail and low-light performance, while its extensive video features such as 4K recording and V-LogL support serve professional videographers’ needs.
The camera is built tough and weather-sealed, so it is great as a tool for both photographers and videographers under rough conditions. Not only that, but it also features in-body 5-axis image stabilization, which increases versatility, both in handheld shooting and video functions.
The DFD autofocus system has good reliability but does not necessarily match the speed of phase detection systems by other competitors, nor the speed and accuracy of those by phase detection systems out of the actual competition. The weight of the camera would be unappealing to anyone who is looking for a light compact solution. The price is also significant, considering the camera’s features, but it could keep budget buyers at bay.
Compared to competition such as the Sony A7 III, Canon EOS R, Nikon Z6, and Sony A7R IV, the Lumix S1 has an edge, as far as video capability and build quality are concerned. All four of those alternatives have their strengths-and, in the end, will come down to personal preference and need.
Video performance, rugged construction, and a very good all-around feature set make the Panasonic Lumix S1 a compelling choice. It provides flexibility and reliability for professional work across shooting situations, so will be a valued part of many photographers’ and videographers’ kits.