Panasonic Lumix S5 II Body - Black

The new Panasonic S5 II is a serious evolution in performance. Key capabilities of these new releases include a new 24MP sensor and a new processor born from the Panasonic and LEICA L 2 Technology alliance. This makes possible Phase Hybrid AF and Active IS for reinforced command over subject tracking and stabilisation. Other features that expand the videographer’s horizon include unlimited 4:2:2 10-bit C4K/4K recording achieved via a fan and high-efficiency heat sink; full-sensor video shooting; and REAL TIME LUT for on-the-spot colour grading without post production.

Professional-quality photo/video performance for unlimited expression

Panasonic has developed a new 24-megapixel 35mm full-frame CMOS sensor that features on-sensor PDAF (Phase Detection Auto-Focus). Under the L 2 Technology alliance formed by LEICA and LUMIX, both brands co-invested to develop a new imaging engine that has approximately 2x higher-speed signal processing for high bit-rate video recording and improved high burst rate photography.

With an increased buffer memory size, the LUMIX S5II is capable of impressive high speed burst shooting at up to 30 fps (AFS/AFC) with an electronic shutter in JPEG/RAW.

Another game-changer delivered with the LUMIX S5II is the new Active I.S. This builds on Panasonic’s history of innovation and reputation in the image stabilisation field by determining the status of camera shake and optimising horizontal, vertical, and rotational correction ratios. The system can compensate for significant camera shake in video recording, approximately 200% more when compared to the LUMIX S5.

It is highly beneficial in challenging situations, such as handheld filming while walking without using a gimbal, long-shutter handheld shots such as night-time or moving water, and telephoto fixed-frame shots. The cameras also offer Dual I.S.2 with a high-precision 5-axis gyro sensor for stills shooting.

A variety of video functions and recording options

The LUMIX S5II is built for the videographer who desires freedom from restriction. They introduce 4:2:0 10-bit 6K (3:2) to the S Series, which makes it easy to crop for multiple aspect ratios (16:9, 9:16, 1:1) from the same source footage while maintaining resolution. For example, when you take a 9:16 vertical image out of 6K footage you still maintain a greater than 4K vertical image which can be viewed on mobile devices.

The camera's new and extremely compact active heat management system delivers unlimited recording in all environments while not adding extra bulk to hamper the photographer, providing free rein in the field. The 14+ stop V-Log/V-Gamut capture offers a high dynamic range, consistent colour management and streamlined post production. In addition, with in-camera colour grading via REAL TIME LUT, creative scope is increased while workflow is reduced – excellent for repeatable setups such as content creators who work in the same studio or are looking to repeat the same style in camera instead of applying the same LUT in post.

The new camera provides 4:2:0 10-bit 6K (17:9) / 5.9K (16:9), unlimited 4:2:2 10-bit C4K/4K recording capability. HFR (High Frame Rate) in C4K/4K (48p), FHD (120p), Slow & Quick motion in C4K/4K(1-60fps) / FHD(1-180fps), and 4K HDR video recording are also available. 4K 60p Time Lapse video can also be produced in-camera. The exposure is automatically adjusted to prevent large changes in brightness between adjacent frames, allowing smooth daytime to nighttime time lapses to be created. Practical tools included are Waveform Monitor, Vector Scope, Zebra Pattern, System Frequency (24.00Hz), Synchro Scan, Fan mode and a control panel for quick menu selection. By using the optional XLR Microphone Adaptor DMW-XLR1 and the 3.5mm input jack/built-in microphone, users can capture four channels of audio, reducing the need for external audio recording devices.

Excellent operability and functions to enhance workflow

The small size of the new S Series camera and the lenses available means a low-impact kit, and no compromise on performance with a wealth of capabilities designed for a superior shooting experience. AWB Lock keeps the white balance set in auto, while Sheer Overlay can now be used in Creative Video mode footage sequences. Live Crop allows digital zooming and panning on the 6K sensor in a 4K video recording, making it easy for a creator to add smooth motion without having to move the camera.

In a step up from the S5, the new, larger 3,680K-dot OLED LVF (Live View Finder) has a magnification ratio of approx. 1.52x / 0.76x (35mm camera equivalent). A versatile, bright free-angle 3.0-inch LCD rear monitor (3:2 aspect, 1840K-dot) with touch control allows for quick changes to settings, even when both the HDMI cable and USB cable are connected, or the user is in front of the camera.

The Live View Composite Mode takes away the guesswork, allowing the photographer to set the desired exposure, take the shot, then view the image on the screen as it is being exposed in real time. Once they are happy with how the shot looks, they simply hit the shutter button again to stop the exposure. This mode is also great for light painting, shooting light trails and other long exposure scenarios.

The drive dial now includes a setting for 96-megapixel High Resolution Mode. In this mode the camera captures 8 images in quick succession, with small movements of the sensor between shots to capture extra resolution. There is no requirement to stitch images using software as the camera combines the shots into one image. This mode also features motion compensation, further expanding the use of High Resolution Mode in general photography.

Impressive quality, performance and connectivity

The LUMIX S5II has been designed to offer dependable video recording in real-world conditions and has a new heat dispersion mechanism combining a small fan and high-efficiency heat sink. As a result, they achieve continuous video recording in C4K 60p, while the camera body remains conveniently compact. Users can shoot worry-free, whether capturing extended recordings or live streaming. To withstand heavy field use, the cameras have a magnesium alloy full die-cast body and are splash/dust-resistant.

The LUMIX S5II supports USB 3.2 Gen 2 for high-speed writing and readout. The dual SD Card slots (UHS-II x 2) offer a choice of Relay Recording, Backup Recording or Allocation Recording modes, with the card access indicator now located inside the card slot cover. Videographers will be thrilled that the cameras have a full HDMI Type A terminal, offering a more robust connection without the need for adaptors. For external microphone connection, a ?3.5mm input jack is provided as well as a headphone jack. Content sharing with smartphones is streamlined using Bluetooth 5.0 Low Energy connection, Wi-Fi 5-GHz (IEEE802.11ac) and 2.4-GHz (IEEE 802.11b/g/n). With an always-on Bluetooth connection, a smartphone can act as the camera’s remote control via the LUMIX Sync app. The settings of the LUMIX S5II can also be copied and transmitted wirelessly to other S5II and S5IIX cameras when using multiple cameras.

The cameras are compatible with LUMIX Tether applications which enable tethered shooting via USB. Users can control and view multiple cameras by connecting them to a PC. For live streaming, LUMIX Tether for Streaming (Beta) with LIVE VIEW mode is available. LUMIX Sync for iOS/Android devices enables image transfer to a smartphone or tablet via easy wireless connection.

The 2200mAh high-capacity battery (DMW-BLK22) can be recharged either via AC or USB which is convenient if you are travelling and want to use a USB power bank. It also complies with USB PD (Power Delivery) when used with the optional LUMIX Battery Charger (DMW-BTC15). The current Battery Grip (DMW-BGS5) is compatible with the new cameras.

The best lineup of full-frame lenses

The Panasonic LUMIX S Series boasts a total lineup of 14 lenses including the new LUMIX S 14-28mm F4-5.6 MACRO (S-R1428). Users can take advantage of the five-strong LUMIX F1.8 lens series which all feature the same exterior, and offer convenience by having the same filter size. Using lenses of a similar size, diameter and centre of gravity also makes it easy to switch between them when an S Series camera is mounted on a gimbal, for example. All these lenses have the same high-quality colour rendering, and bokeh performance. Covering virtually any framing and composition, use of these fixed focal length lenses ensures filmmaking with streamlined workflow and post-production.

LUMIX S Series lenses all feature linear motors with the option to change how the focus ring responds. For the non-linear setting, focus is shifted with a variable amount according to the rotation speed of the focus ring; while for linear setting focus is shifted with a designated amount according to the rotational quantum of the focus ring. Sensitivity (the amount of focus shift per rotational quantum) can be selected from 90 to 1080 degrees. With MF Assist, there is now the ability to enlarge the focus point to check critical focus while recording video.

Furthermore, the L-Mount system provides the largest native lineup of full-frame lenses to choose from, with 61 lenses to date for a limitless spectrum of creative possibilities. The LUMIX S5II will also recognise the focal length of an analog lens such as anamorphic or other old lenses, and automatically use the in-body image stabiliser.

Future firmware update

To enhance the performance of the LUMIX S5II, the functions below will be available via a future firmware update.

• RAW data output using Software Upgrade Key DMW-SFU2 (S5II)
• Live View Composite (S5II) and more.