Panasonic LUMIX S5 brings pro features to vloggers and snappers
Panasonic has added the lighter, cheaper and more mainstream LUMIX S5 full-frame mirrorless camera to the three pro-level models in its S-series lineup.
It’s a clever move, as it puts professional-level capabilities in the hands of amateur or semi-pro photography and video content creators – a fast-growing market.
In announcing the new 24.2-megapixel model, Panasonic first and foremost touted its impressive video capabilities. These include 4K 60p 10-bit internal recording, HDMI output, up to 30x quick or 2.5x slow motion at 1-60fps (in 4K mode) and V-Log/V-Gamut with a wide dynamic range of 14+ stops that puts it on a par with the company’s cinema-standard VariCam.
On the still side, Panasonic says the 35mm full-frame CMOS sensor provides “impressive low-light performance and incredibly high dynamic range”. The autofocus promises improved tracking of human features, such as eyes, faces, heads and bodies, and fast-moving animals through a highly accurate Deep Learning algorithm.
The LUMIX S5 also has a sensor-shift 96-megapixel high resolution mode for shooting detailed landscapes with increased dynamic range and colour reproduction.
The camera’s ISO tops out at 51,200 when shooting photos, and two native ISOs of 640 and 4,000 reduce noise throughout the range for improved high-sensitivity capture.
Also on board is a hybrid stabilisation system that pairs 5-axis in-body stabilisation with 2-axis optical stabilisation for up to 6.5 stops of shake compensation with compatible lenses.
The LUMUX S5 may be small but it also seems pretty rugged, with a magnesium alloy full die-cast body and splash/dust resistance. Serious videographers will like its ability to disperse hear externally, allowing for stable, continuous video recording for an extended time.
It has a large, high-resolution OLED live viewfinder with a minimum time lag of less than 0.005 seconds, and a free-angle 3.0-inch LCD rear monitor with touch controls – handy for when you’re shooting in front of the camera.
A Bluetooth connection allows you to share content with your smartphone, and also use your phone as a remote control.
Panasonic LUMIX S5 camera price
RRP $3,199 (body only)
Panasonic LUMIX S5 kit price
(DC-S5KGN-K kit with LUMIX S 20-60mm F3.5-5.6 lens (S-R2060)
RRP $3,699
