Lumix S1Rii is a Powerhouse!

The wait is over! Finally the Lumix S1RII has officially arrived, and it’s every bit the powerhouse that photographers and hybrid shooters have been hoping for.

It’s been six years since Panasonic first launched the S1 series, and while cameras like the S5, S5II, and S9 have delivered incredible performance, the S1RII takes things to a whole new level. This isn’t just an update - it’s a full-on evolution of what a flagship full-frame mirrorless camera should be.

I recently had the chance to test this camera out in Tromsø, Norway, thanks to Lumix. While they gifted me the camera, this post (like all my content) is entirely my own honest opinion. If you’re keen on a deeper dive, check out my YouTube video where I break down the features in more detail and share some stunning real-world results.

Why the Lumix S1RII Is a Game-Changer

The 44MP full-frame sensor delivers incredible detail, but that’s just the start. In high-resolution mode, you can push the resolution up to a staggering 177MP—perfect for landscape and commercial photographers who need the highest level of detail.

On the speed front, the S1RII is no slouch either:

  • 40fps with the electronic shutter

  • 10fps with the mechanical shutter

  • 1.5-second pre-burst mode to help capture those blink and you’ll miss it moments

And believe me, this barely scratches the surface of what this camera can do. There’s so much more to unpack about its performance, features, and versatility that I’ll be covering in upcoming videos and posts.

Shot with Lumix S1Rii

Next-Level Video Specs for Creators

The Lumix S1RII isn’t just a photographer’s dream - it’s built for serious filmmakers, too. Here’s why it’s set to become a go-to hybrid camera:

  • 8K at 30fps in 10-bit V-Log for stunning high-resolution footage

  • Future firmware update unlocking 8.1K open gate shooting—perfect for reframing and cropping in post-production

  • 5.8K ProRes recording internally - rare in mirrorless cameras at this level

  • 4K 120fps recording with no crop, ideal for buttery-smooth slow-motion video

  • Professional-grade 32-bit float audio recording with Lumix’s new GH7 interface

  • Advanced filmmaking tools like false colour, tally lamps (front and back), and a new Cinelike A2 picture profile

Whether you're shooting short films, documentaries, or high-end YouTube content, this camera has the specs to meet your demands.

Shot with Lumix S1Rii

Thoughtful Design for Photographers

Beyond the headline features, Panasonic has made meaningful improvements to the camera’s ergonomics and build quality:

  • A crystal-clear 5.6-million-dot EVF for a seamless shooting experience

  • A more compact design—20% smaller than the original S1R, but still rock-solid in hand

  • A closing shutter mechanism to protect the sensor from dust when changing lenses

  • Locked dials to prevent accidental adjustments while shooting

Plus, with native Capture One support, can tether for the first time with a Lumix camera which is great for studio / portrait photographers and something which will surely start to get a lot of other shooters to consider using Lumix.

Shot with Lumix S1Rii

Final Thoughts: I’ve Only Scratched the Surface

The Lumix S1RII is the flagship camera many of us have been waiting for. It strikes a perfect balance between professional-grade photo and video capabilities while introducing meaningful upgrades that photographers and videographers will appreciate.

But here’s the thing—there’s so much more to cover about what this camera can do. I’ll be diving deeper into its features, settings, and real-world performance in upcoming videos and blog posts.

Shot with Lumix S1Rii

If you’re excited to learn more, make sure to subscribe to my YouTube channel and stay tuned for future updates. This is just the beginning, and trust me - there’s a lot more to discover about this beast of a camera.

What excites you most about the Lumix S1RII? Drop your thoughts in the comments below!

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