The Panasonic S1 blends the high demands of advanced photographers with robust video recording options, making it the ideal tool for hybrid assignments and projects. Panasonic worked alongside the L Mount Alliance (consisting of Leica and Sigma) to develop high quality L mount lenses (not included) to pair with this camera. This system features a large 51.6mm mount diameter and a short 20mm flange distance (the distance between a lens' mount and the surface of the sensor). Having larger optical elements very close to the sensor means fewer aberrations, greater brightness, and better image performance overall.

Panasonic S1 vs S1R

The Panasonic S1 offers new optical technologies that takes full advantage of the benefits of a mirrorless design. The standout feature of the S1 vs the S1R is its more robust video options, which are described in more detail below. The S1R is advantaged by a high megapixel sensor that is well suited for portraits and landscapes. Here are some of the standout features of the S1:

Professional Video Recording Capabilities, New Sensor Features, and Integrated Image Stabilization

Enjoy pro-level video performance that allows internal 4:2:2 10-bit recording in 4K 24p, 4K 60p/50p HDMI out, and V-Log. You can also capture high-speed video up to 180 FPS in Full HD. Enjoy full pixel readout (no line skipping) using the entire width of the sensor in 4K 30p, which is supported by a new Venus Engine that is specifically tuned for full frame capture with the most minimal noise even at the highest ISOs. New Multipixel Luminance Generation and Intelligent Detail Processing systems provide exceptional clarity and sharpness.

For stabilization, Panasonic developed a new algorithm that calculates shake from not just the gyrosensor but also the image sensor and accelerometer sensor for their most accurate shake detection to date. When combining the 5-axis in-body stabilization with the optical image stabilizers inside Lumix S series lenses, you get up to 6.5-stops of compensation when shooting at slow shutter speeds, making shooting in low light a breeze. For extra smooth results, you can optionally deploy the E-Stabilization setting (with a slight crop) for steady handheld footage.

Rounding out the video features are a few essential physical benefits, including full size HDMI out, 3.5mm mic and headphone jacks, and a USB-C port.

Ultimate Autofocus Precision and Composition Control

Boasting 9 different AF modes, including a new full frame AF mode, the S1 offers ultimate control over your environment. You can fine-tune AF sensitivity to match different conditions and your points are easily selected with the tactile 8-direction joystick. The S1 also maintains the Advanced Depth-from-Defocus technology from the G9, which much better calculates the distance to subjects and adjusts the focusing position with sensor and lens communication occurring at rates up to 480 FPS. This benefits both video and still image shooters.

Compose with the help of an extremely high resolution OLED viewfinder along with the 3.2" touchscreen Lcd that tilts along 3 axes. Choose between smooth 60 FPS or 120 FPS refresh rates on the viewfinder with no lag. Use the touchscreen LCD with Live View Boost so that you can check composition even in complete darkness or activate night mode for a pleasing, mild backlighting effect that makes monitoring in the dark easier on the eyes. Enlarge and use manual Focus Assist on very small objects, like stars, up to 20x. Check your settings against the large Status Lcd along the top panel, which integrates well with control buttons and dials that have been positioned based on a variety of ergonomic studies. These buttons illuminate in the dark as well.

Practical Form Factor and Rugged Build

Sealing around every joint, dial, and button ensures splash and dust resistance. Pass-through charging is possible using a USB-C adapter, which is a great feature for long shoots. Dual card slots are available for relay recording or for backup one for SD UHS-II and the other for XQD (cards not included). An ultra-durable shutter unit can support speeds up to 1/8,000th of a second and flash sync speeds up to 1/320th of a second (a PC sync port is available at the front of the body). While bigger and heavier than other mirrorless full frame models, the S1 is rugged enough for a variety of conditions and provides a comfortable grip suitable for long shooting days.

Creative Options for Photographers

Shoot an extended 30 FPS burst and choose the exact set of frames you want for stunning results in 6K Photo Mode or opt for a high-speed 60 FPS capture in 4K Photo Mode. 225 AF points and advanced subject lock-on technology is ideal for wildlife and sports shooters. Shoot up to 9 frames per second in raw format with a 90 frame buffer. Save still images in Hybrid Log-Gamma Photo Mode for vivid playback on 4K screens. Never wash out your scene ever again with the handy Highlight Weighted Metering Mode, which prioritizes highlight values. A new Flat Mode allows photographers to shoot JPEG images with a plain finish that features less contrast and saturation to gain some of the processing control of raw with the expediency of JPEG, which may be useful for those with extremely fast turnaround assignments. Auto White Balance also got enhanced with the addition of Auto White Balance Warm (or AWBw) and Auto White Balance Cool (or AWBc) to give images more red or blue tints according to external lighting conditions. Complementing all these features is a long list of photo style modes, including monochrome and Cinelike D.

The S1 marks a new era for full frame mirrorless cameras that emphasize video performance. It is ideal for those seeking some of the professional qualities of the Varicam and the EVA1 but in a portable and more affordable package that can support the needs of event, narrative, and documentary shooters without giving up the needs of event photographers, making the Panasonic Lumix S1 the ultimate multidisciplinary camera.