Panasonic announces new cameras in the S1 II and S1 IIE, plus the lumix S 24-60mm F2.8

Panasonic's announcement of the S1II, S1IIE, and the S24-60mm F2.8 lens is generating quite a buzz in the community. These new additions to the Lumix S range offer enhanced features that cater to both still and video enthusiasts, making them a versatile choice for a wide range of photographers and video shooters alike. The S1II and S1IIE cameras are expected to deliver superior image quality, improved autofocus, and robust video capabilities, making them ideal for professionals and hobbyists alike. Meanwhile, the S24-60mm F2.8 lens promises flexibility with its focal range and a bright aperture, perfect for capturing sharp images in various lighting conditions. This announcement not only expands options for current Lumix shooters but also positions Panasonic as a strong contender in the competitive camera market.

Lumix S1II

The Lumix S1II features a cutting-edge 24-megapixel partially stacked sensor. This sensor not only delivers exceptional detail and clarity but also enhances performance with its faster readout speeds, effectively minimizing the rolling shutter effects that can plague fast-action shots. With an impressive dynamic range of over 15 stops, photographers can capture stunning details in both the darkest shadows and brightest highlights, making it perfect for high-contrast scenarios. This is particularly advantageous for professionals who need to preserve the integrity of their images in challenging lighting conditions.

For videographers, the S1II’s capabilities are equally impressive, boasting full-frame 4K video recording at a remarkable 120 frames per second. This allows for the creation of ultra-smooth slow-motion sequences that can add an engaging and dramatic element to any creative project. Moreover, its ability to shoot 6K video at 60 frames per second in open gate format offers filmmakers the versatility to produce ultra-high-definition content with a wide aspect ratio, expanding creative possibilities. For still photographers, the rapid 70fps burst mode ensures that they can capture every fleeting moment, making it a perfect choice for dynamic scenes such as sports or wildlife photography. Collectively, these features position the Lumix S1II as a premier choice for professionals who demand exceptional performance in both photography and videography.

Lumix S1IIE

The Panasonic Lumix S1IIE matches the S1II in many ways, with a couple of hefty caveats. Firstly for video, 4K is limited to 60p rather than offering the 120 frames you can expect from the S1II. Elsewhere, the 6K 60p is provided in 2.4:1 only, rather than the S1II's 5.9K 16x9 mode and 5.8K 17x9 FULL modes respectively. For photograhpers, electronic shutter is limited to a still rather impressive 30fps, with mechanical still 10fps for both the Lumix S1IIE and S1II.

Matching its bigger brother in every other department, how much these differences matter will vary by user, but it is of course always nice to have options.

Lumix S 24-60mm F2.8 lens

The Lumix S 24-60mm F2.8 is built with a sophisticated optical design, featuring 14 elements arranged in 12 groups. Among these are three aspherical lenses, one ultra-extra-low dispersion (UED) lens, and two extra-low dispersion (ED) lenses, which work together to enhance image quality by reducing distortion and chromatic aberrations. It offers a versatile focal length range from 24mm to 60mm, suited for both wide-angle and telephoto shots.

The lens features a 9-blade circular aperture diaphragm, which provides a maximum aperture of F2.8 for beautifully blurred backgrounds. It has a close focusing distance of 0.19 meters at the wider focal lengths and 0.33 meters at 60mm, allowing for fantastic close-up shots with a maximum magnification of 0.30x. The lens offers a diagonal angle of view ranging from 84° at the wide end to 40° at the telephoto end. It is designed to withstand challenging conditions with dust and splash resistance and operates effectively in temperatures from -10°C to 40°C. It supports 77mm filters and has a compact and lightweight design with a maximum diameter of 84mm, an overall length of approximately 99.9mm, and a weight of around 544 grams.

The Lumix S1II, Lumix S1IIE, and Lumix S 24-60mm F2.8 lens has just been announced, so join the waiting lists to be the first to try these exciting new products!