Panasonic is set to shake up the mirrorless camera market with the Lumix S1RII, the highly anticipated successor to the S1R. With leaked images and specifications now circulating online, we have a detailed preview of what this powerhouse camera will offer. Designed for high-resolution photography and professional filmmaking, the S1RII introduces significant improvements across the board, including a new sensor, upgraded autofocus, enhanced video features, and superior stabilization.

At the core of the S1RII is a newly developed 44.3MP back-side illuminated (BSI) CMOS sensor, delivering improved low-light performance and higher dynamic range. The camera is powered by Panasonic’s L2 processor, which enhances image processing, noise reduction, and color accuracy. With a native ISO range of 80-51,200 (expandable to ISO 40-102,400), the S1RII is optimized for both well-lit and extreme low-light conditions, ensuring professional-level image quality in diverse shooting environments.

Autofocus has seen a major overhaul, with the S1RII’s phase-hybrid autofocus system now boasting 779 AF points for fast and precise subject tracking. AI-powered recognition allows the camera to detect and track people, animals, vehicles, and more, making it a versatile choice for portrait, wildlife, and sports photography. The electronic shutter enables 40fps continuous shooting with full AF-C tracking, while a pre-burst mode captures images before the shutter is pressed, ensuring that even fleeting moments are recorded.

For those who demand extreme detail, the High-Resolution Mode allows the camera to capture eight images with sensor shift, combining them into a stunning 177MP file. Unlike previous implementations, this mode now works handheld, eliminating the need for a tripod and making it more practical for real-world use.

One of the most exciting features of the S1RII is its advanced video capabilities. For the first time in the Lumix series, Panasonic has enabled internal 8K video recording at 30fps, allowing filmmakers to capture ultra-high-definition footage without the need for external recorders. The Open Gate mode utilizes the full 3:2 sensor readout, recording at 6.4K resolution for greater flexibility in post-production, where users can crop into multiple aspect ratios. Panasonic has also confirmed a future firmware update in 2025, which will unlock 8.1K and 7.2K Open Gate recording.

The S1RII supports Apple ProRes RAW HQ at 5.8K 30p, recorded internally on CFexpress Type B cards or externally via USB-C to SSD. In addition, it allows 8K RAW video output via HDMI, providing high-end filmmakers with professional-grade workflows. For those needing a streamlined post-production process, the S1RII introduces proxy recording, which simultaneously saves a lower-resolution version of the footage, reducing editing time and improving efficiency.

Stabilization is another area where the S1RII excels. The 5-axis in-body stabilization (IBIS) now provides up to 8 stops of compensation, making handheld shooting smoother than ever. When paired with compatible lenses using Dual I.S. 2 technology, the stabilization extends to 7 stops, further reducing motion blur in both stills and video.

Panasonic has built the S1RII to withstand the rigors of professional use. The magnesium alloy body is fully weather-sealed, protecting it against dust, splashes, and even extreme temperatures as low as -10°C. A new mechanical shutter cover automatically closes when the camera is turned off, shielding the sensor from dust and debris during lens changes. The camera is equipped with a 5.76MP OLED electronic viewfinder (EVF) and a fully articulating 3-inch LCD touchscreen, ensuring flexibility in shooting angles and improved usability.

The S1RII also introduces enhanced connectivity and workflow features, making it a powerful tool for both photographers and filmmakers. It is the first Lumix camera to support Capture One Tethering, allowing direct image transfer to a computer. Additionally, it is fully compatible with Adobe Camera to Cloud, enabling seamless automatic uploads of photos and videos for real-time editing.

To streamline color grading, Panasonic has launched the LUMIX Lab app, which allows users to transfer, edit, and manage LUTs (Look-Up Tables) directly from the camera or smartphone. Another new addition is the LUMIX Flow app, designed to assist in video production by automatically sorting recordings and enabling a smartphone to function as an external monitor.

For storage, the S1RII features dual card slots, supporting both CFexpress Type B and UHS-II SD cards, offering high-speed data writing and backup redundancy.

In terms of physical design, Panasonic has made refinements to improve usability. The camera now features a dedicated white balance and ISO button on the top panel, allowing quick adjustments without diving into menus. The record button has been moved to the front of the camera, near the mount, making it more accessible during video shoots. A red tally light is now present on both the front and back of the camera, indicating active recording—a useful feature for filmmakers.

The S1RII is slightly thicker than the Lumix S5II, but remains compact and ergonomically designed. Its ventilated body prevents overheating, ensuring extended recording times even when shooting in 8K resolution.

Price and Availability
Panasonic has priced the S1RII at €3,599 for the body-only version, while the 24-105mm F4 Macro O.I.S. kit will retail for €4,499. The official announcement is scheduled for February 25, 2025, with pre-orders opening at 2 PM London time.

Final Thoughts
The Panasonic Lumix S1RII is shaping up to be one of the most advanced full-frame mirrorless cameras on the market. With its high-resolution sensor, AI-driven autofocus, exceptional image stabilization, and cutting-edge video capabilities, it caters to both photographers and filmmakers. The inclusion of 8K recording, Open Gate mode, internal ProRes RAW, and improved connectivity options solidifies its position as a serious competitor in the professional camera space.

For those looking for a high-performance hybrid camera, the Lumix S1RII could be the perfect choice. With its rugged build, advanced features, and future-proof firmware updates, it promises to be a reliable tool for years to come.

Stay tuned for the official launch and pre-order updates!