Panasonic Lumix S Series Full Frame Cameras - Specs and Pricing Announced
The following is the official press release
Newark, NJ (February 1, 2019) - After the development announcement at Photokina 2018, Panasonic is now proud to introduce the full specifications of its long-awaited first full-frame Digital Single Lens Mirrorless cameras, the LUMIX S1R and S1, with a 35mm full-frame CMOS sensor. The new cameras are based on the L-Mount standard, which boasts a well-balanced, large inner diameter and compact dimensions for a flange focus to realize optimum size and performance as a mirrorless camera system.
The LUMIX S Series aims for unprecedented image quality with high resolution, rich gradation and superior color reproduction. A high-speed, high-precision AF system based on advanced control technology over the lens, the sensor, and the new Venus Engine enable the user to capture the target in sharp focus without fail. The LUMIX S Series also boasts industry-leading video recording performance (4K 60p), intuitive control, a rugged design for heavy field use, durability, and expandability.
The LUMIX S1R integrates a 47.3-megapixel full-frame CMOS sensor (36mm x 24mm), which gives it the industry’s highest level of resolution in the full-frame mirrorless cameras*2, to pursue the ultimate power of expression. In addition to the precise reproduction capability in detail, this sensor achieves a high S/N ratio by taking advantage of its high light-condensing efficiency despite the large number of pixels. The LUMIX S1R features a High Resolution mode for the first time as a mirrorless full-frame camera to enable 187-megapixel ultra-high precision photo shooting.
The LUMIX S1 comes with a 24.2-megapixel full-frame CMOS sensor (35.6mm x 23.8mm) that provides a wide dynamic range and excellent performance at high sensitivity in addition to a natural yet sharp image description thanks to sufficient light condensation per pixel. The LUMIX S1 supports professional use in videography by taking advantage of the stunning expression performance that a full-frame camera can offer. It records smooth 4K 60p video and enables full-pixel readout of signals in 4K 30p/25p*1 to save truly beautiful footage. Furthermore, the LUMIX S1 will comply with 4:2:2 10-bit 4K 30p/25p*1internal video recording and 4K 60p HDMI output as well as V-Log, with a software upgrade key (to be sold separately) following soon in 2019.
Panasonic’s advanced Contrast AF system with DFD technology has evolved through the development of numerous mirrorless cameras to make the AF system of the LUMIX S1R/S1 even more practical. It achieves not only the industry’s fastest level of focusing speed but also a tracking performance that is made possible by the adoption of advanced AI technology that accurately recognizes moving target subjects. The LUMIX S1R/S1 incorporates a Body I.S. (Image Stabilizer) to effectively compensate for the hand-shake movement. Combining the Body I.S.(5-axis) and the O.I.S. (Optical Image Stabilizer, 2-axis) in the LUMIX S Series lenses, the Dual I.S. 2*3 boasts even more powerful compensates for virtually any types of blur. Equipped with a high-resolution Real View Finder, triaxial tilt rear monitor and high performance shutter unit with high durability, the rugged design LUMIX S1R/S1 provides the professional photographers with high reliability.
Drawing on the vast expertise of the L-Mount Alliance with Leica Camera and Sigma, various interchangeable lenses are available for the LUMIX S Series. On the other hand, the LUMIX PRO service*4 has also launched to support professional work globally.
As a pioneer of the Digital Single Lens Mirrorless camera, Panasonic has pursued innovations in technology under the vision of “Changing Photography.” Crystallizing all these digital and optical technologies, Panasonic is committed to introducing an unparalleled full-frame camera system without compromise for professional photographers and videographers.
*1 PAL area only
*2 As a Digital Single Lens Mirrorless Camera, as of February 1, 2019.
*3 5-Axis Dual I.S.2 can be used with the lens S-R24105 and S-R70200 as of February 1, 2019.
*4 Service is not available in some countries.
- High picture quality made possible by the first LUMIX full-frame mirrorless camera
Unprecedented picture quality and high descriptive performance LUMIX S1R
The LUMIX S1R incorporates a new 47.3-megapixel CMOS sensor without LPF (Low Pass Filter) to realize high resolution and descriptive performance. This sensor adopts an aspherical lens for the on-chip micro lens to enhance light condensation. Together with the optimum design to concentrate more incoming light onto the photodiode, it achieves both high resolution and highly efficient light condensation performance. This results in the realization of the industry’s highest level of 47.3-megapixel resolution* in the full-frame mirrorless cameras at high S/N ratio and maximum ISO 25600 high sensitivity. The large amount of digital signals is processed by the new high-speed, high-performance image processor Venus Engine to render images with breathtaking description in both photo and video.
* As a Digital Single Lens Mirrorless Camera, as of February 1, 2019.
High image quality, high sensitivity performance LUMIX S1
The LUMIX S1 employs a 24.2-megapixel CMOS sensor. The new Venus Engine, which is exclusively tuned for the full-frame camera, and its Multipixel Luminance Generation and Intelligent Detail Processing realize natural, high-resolution expression while suppressing color moiré. Three-dimensional color control improves the color reproduction of both bright and shadow areas. This results in natural, true-to-life images from low to high sensitivity. Taking advantage of sufficient light condensation, the LUMIX S1 boasts a wide dynamic range and reproduces sharp images with exceptional clarity. Noise is minimized even when shot at maximum ISO 51200 high sensitivity. It is an ideal camera to use especially in low-light situations.
An AR coating applied on the sensor of both LUMIX S1R/S1 minimizes ghost and flare even in backlighting. In combination with the high-quality LUMIX S Series lenses based on the L-Mount, this further enhances the potential of the camera.
Plus, the LUMIX S1R/S1 integrates the Body I.S. (Image Stabilizer) for powerful handshake correction. Panasonic developed an algorithm that precisely calculates shake information acquired not only from a gyrosensor, but also from the image sensor and accelerometer sensor. This enables more accurate shake detection and compensation, making it possible to use a 5.5-stop slower shutter speed*1. Combining the Body I.S. (5-axis) in the camera and the O.I.S. (Optical Image Stabilizer, 2-axis) in the LUMIX S Series lens, the 5-axis Dual I.S. 2 compensates for larger movements that were conventionally uncontrollable. Maximizing both O.I.S and B.I.S. is highly beneficial in telephoto shots and in adverse situations, such as in low-light or with one-handed shooting with a 6-stop slower shutter speed*2. The 5-axis Dual I.S. 2 works for both photo and video recording, including 4K. The Body I.S. compensates for camera movement even when other L-Mount lenses without O.I.S. are used.
Taking full advantage of its high-resolution sensor, the LUMIX S1R/S1 provides a High Resolution mode that faithfully reproduces precise details to be saved as beautiful, highly realistic RAW images. Eight consecutive images are automatically shot while shifting the sensor using the Body I.S. (Image Stabilizer) mechanism and synthesized into a 187-megapixel equivalent (16,736 x 11,168-pixel) image for LUMIX S1R and 96-megapixel equivalent (12,000 x 8,000-pixel) image for LUMIX S1 by the new Venus Engine, which boasts high-speed signal processing. This mode is suitable for taking natural landscapes or fine arts with delicate details. This magnificently high resolution photo is ideal for landscape photography of stationary subjects using a tripod. However, it can also be used in situations where moving subjects are included in the scene, by switching the sub mode.
The HLG*3 Photo mode is a whole new style of photo expression that Panasonic proposes. It provides a wider dynamic range to reproduce light and shadow with more natural contrast. The HLG Photos can also be produced as an HSP file*4 with compressed high-brightness signals in stunning 8K resolution (7,680 x 4,320 in 16:9, with LUMIX S1R) or its full resolution (5,888 x 3,312, in 16:9, with LUMIX S1) in addition to JPEG/RAW files. It excels in the expression of lights, such as sparkling starlight or glaring sunlight. The user can playback these vibrant images on the latest Panasonic HLG-compliant 4KTV via HDMI cable connection or other HLG-compliant devices. It is also ideal for photo presentations by photographers.
The high-precision shutter unit offers the highest shutter speed at a maximum 1/8000 second to capture spur-of-the-moment, fast moving subjects and to use a high-speed lens with a fully open aperture even outdoors for impressive defocusing. The external flash can be synchronized with the industry’s fastest shutter speed of a maximum 1/320 second.*5*6
*1 Based on the CIPA standard [Yaw/Pitch direction: focusing distance f=50mm, when S-X50 is used.]
*2 Based on the CIPA standard [Yaw/Pitch direction: focusing distance f=200mm, when S-R70200 is used.]
*3 “HLG (Hybrid Log Gamma)” is an international standard (ITU-R BT.2100) HDR format.
*4 “HSP” is an HDR picture format using HLG format video technology.
*5 The guide number decreases when the shutter speed is set to 1/320 of a second.
*6 As a Digital Single Lens Mirrorless Camera, as of February 1, 2019.
2. High-speed, high-precision AF system LUMIX S1R LUMIX S1
Panasonic has achieved a high-speed AF with its advanced control technology over the major devices - lens, sensor and imaging engine. The lens and sensor communicate at a maximum 480 fps. Combining the Contrast AF with DFD technology, the LUMIX S1R/S1 realizes an ultra-high-speed, high-precision AF of approximately 0.08 sec*1. The LUMIX S1R/S1 also boasts high speed burst shooting at 9 fps (AFS) or 6 fps (AFC). With its high subject tracking performance, the LUMIX S1R/S1 never loses the target subject. As a camera that excels in low-light shooting, the LUMIX S1R/S1 boasts -6EV*2 luminance detection performance with Low Light AF thanks to the higher sensitivity and optimized tuning of the sensor. The face/eye detection technology makes it possible to capture people in crisp focus, the Eye AF even detects the pupil of the eye and precisely focuses on it for impressive portrait shooting. The LUMIX S1R/S1 also incorporates advanced AI technology that detects specific subjects - humans and fast-moving animals, including dogs, cats and birds. The camera keeps tracking these subjects even when they turn their back to the camera.
For more continuous burst shooting, 6K PHOTO*3 makes it possible to capture unmissable moments at 30 fps by extracting the frame with the best timing out of a 6K burst file (in 4:3 or 3:2 aspect ratio) to save as an approximate 18-megapixel equivalent high resolution photo. The 4K PHOTO enables 60-fps high-speed captures in approximate 8-megapixel equivalent resolution. In 6K PHOTO /4K PHOTO, three exclusive modes can be chosen from depending on the situation; 6K Burst/4K Burst, 6K Burst (Start/Stop)/4K Burst (Start/Stop) and 6K Pre-burst/4K Pre-burst. Users can choose the most suitable burst shooting mode in addition to the regular consecutive shooting mode in full resolution depending on the situation.
*1 11EV, at wide-end with S-R24105 (CIPA) in LVF120 fps setting.
*2 At ISO100, F1.4, AFS
*3 6K PHOTO’ is a high speed burst shooting function that cuts a still image out of a 4:3 or 3:2 video footage with approx.18-megapixel (approx. 6000 x 3000 effective pixel count) that the 6K image manages.
3. Operability from ingenuity for intuitive control LUMIX S1R LUMIX S1
The LVF (Live View Finder) is the key factor for completing the ultra-high-speed response of the camera. The LUMIX S1R/S1 has the largest level of Real View Finder which boasts the world’s highest 5,760k-dot resolution.* The 0.78x magnification ratio can be switched to 0.7x or 0.74x according to the shooting situation. Adoption of a high-speed, high-precision OLED (Organic Light-Emitting Diode) for the LVF achieves smooth display at 60 fps/120 fps (switchable) and high-speed response with minimum time lag of less than 0.005 sec as well as 10,000:1 high contrast for exceptional visibility. With minimum distortion and high optical performance, this Real View Finder provides a natural view as seen with the naked eye. It is always sharp and clear from the center all the way to the corners.
The 2,100K-dot high resolution monitor in 3:2 aspect ratio has adopted a triaxial tilt moving element to secure both durability and operational ease. It also has a touch control system. Live View Boost is another practical feature that makes it possible to check the composition even in total darkness by boosting the sensitivity just for live view. It also incorporates a night mode that provides mild backlighting. It lets the user watch the subject comfortably even after viewing the monitor in a dark situation for a long time. The LUMIX S1R/S1 includes a largest-in-class Status LCD on the top, allowing users to check the settings at a glance.
To make the camera just like a part of the photographer's body, the LUMIX S1R/S1 provides a firm grip, making it easy to hold for long periods. The control buttons and dials are located based on an ergonomic study to enable the user to concentrate on shooting. The adoption of an 8-directional joystick and refined UI (User Interface) also supports quick operation during shooting. In addition, illuminated buttons can be of help in low-light situations. An operation lock lever prevents unintentional operation, and the user can choose which operation to lock.
* As a Digital Single Lens Mirrorless Camera, as of February 1, 2019.
4. Rugged design, reliability and expandability LUMIX S1R LUMIX S1
To be tough enough to withstand heavy field use, the main structure is composed of a magnesium alloy full die-cast front/rear frame. Robust construction and a sealing for every joint, dial, and button make the LUMIX S1R/S1 not only splash resistant* and dust resistant,* but also freeze resistant down to -10 degrees Centigrade. The shutter unit is also durable for approximately 400,000 cycles.
The LUMIX S1R/S1 is equipped with a double memory card slot compatible with SD (UHS-II) or XQD memory cards for high-speed, high-capacity continuous data recording. Users can flexibly choose the recording method from Relay Recording, Backup Recording or Allocation Recording using the double slots. It will also be compatible with CFexpress in the near future. The 7.4-V 3,050 mAh high-capacity battery can be quickly charged via USB PD (USB Power Delivery) using the bundled USB3.1 Type-C cable. And it also realizes high-speed data transfer.
A variety of new accessories are available for the LUMIX S1R/S1, including Remote Shutter (DMW-RS2), Eyecup (DMW-EC6), Battery Grip (DMW-BGS1) and Battery Charger (DMW-BTC14). The Battery Charger also complies with USB PD and enables quick power charging in approximately 2 hours. The camera can be used while charging via this adaptor. The conventional External Flash (DMW-FL580L / FL360L / FL200L) can also be mounted on the LUMIX S Series cameras.
*Dust and Splash Resistant does not guarantee that damage will not occur if this camera is subjected to direct contact with dust and water.
5．Outstanding video recording performance in a full-frame camera
4K 60p video recording for more creative freedom LUMIX S1R
The LUMIX S1R is a camera designed and developed to boast exceptional performance in photography, yet is capable of 4K 60p video recording.*2 To elevate the video expression even more, a variety of effects are available for video recording.
Exceptional video recording performance for professional videographers LUMIX S1
The LUMIX S1 features outstanding video performance for professional videography with 4K 60p recording. It realizes a crop factor of 1.0x in 4K 30p/25p*1/24p, which means that the user can record video in the original viewing angle of the lens. There is no recording time limit*3 for both 4K 30p/25p*1/24p and Full-HD video. Notably, the CMOS Sensor with high sensitivity on the LUMIX S1 achieves full-pixel readout for an excellent S/N ratio. The HDR (High Dynamic Range) video recording is available, which reproduces both the bright parts and dark parts of an image, making it look just like human eyes see it. The camera records video with a designated gamma curve compatible with ITU-R BT.2100, and you can now choose Hybrid Log Gamma (HLG) in Photo Style. The LUMIX S1 further expands its potential with a firmware update including 4:2:2 10-bit 4K 30p internal video recording and 4K 60p/50p HDMI output as well as V-Log, with a Software Upgrade Key (to be sold separately) following soon in 2019.
As a camera from Panasonic that has been overstepping the limit of video performance in digital cameras, a host of functions are available on the LUMIX S1R/S1. The High Speed Video lets users record slow motion video in 4K (maximum 60 fps and FHD (maximum 180 fps).
For the terminal, an HDMI Type A is provided. Plus, a cable lock holder for the HDMI cable is included in the LUMIX S1R/S1 to prevent unplugging trouble on location. LINE input is also supported by a 3.5-mm microphone jack. This makes it possible to input sounds from an external audio device, for more efficient video production. A 3.5-mm headphone jack is also available. In addition, it complies with the Microphone Adaptor DMW-XLR1 (sold separately), which is a plug-in type adaptor for an XLR microphone to record high-quality stereo sound. It is ideal for lip-sync recording. Dedicated switches allow direct, quick control. MIC, LINE and CONDENSER MICROPHONES are switchable.
*1 PAL area only.
*2 Maximum 15 minutes in 4K60p and unlimited recording time in Full HD until the SD Memory Card becomes full or the battery runs out.
*3 Maximum 29 minutes 59 seconds in 4K60p until the SD Memory Card becomes full or the battery runs out.
- When the ambient temperature is high or continuous recording is performed, the camera may stop the recording to protect itself. Wait until the camera cools down (*2*3).
6. Other Features LUMIX S1R LUMIX S1
･Photo Style Featuring a New Flat Mode
To shorten post-processing work, JPEG photos can be adjusted precisely according to the photographer’s intention. The LUMIX S1R/S1 also provides a Flat mode that features a plain finish with less contrast and saturation for versatile use.
･Variable Aspect Ratios With New 65:24 and 2:1
In addition to the standard 3:2, 4:3, 16:9 and 1:1, 65:24 (Film Panorama) and 2:1 (6 x 12 cm) aspect ratios are available for photo shooting.
･I.S. Status Scope
The user can consciously remove the cause of shake by checking a pointer that indicates the camera’s shaking condition. It is available while the viewfinder or rear monitor blacks out even during a long-time exposure.
･Flicker Decrease
When the flickering of a fluorescent light is detected, the camera indicates it and releases the shutter when its effect is the least to suppress the discontinuity of exposure or color across a sequence of photos.
*Not available in 6K PHOTO, 4K PHOTO and Post Focus.
･Highlight Weighted Light Metering Mode
The Highlight Weighted Light Metering Mode meters light with the priority on highlighted parts, to prevent it from washing out.
･New AWBw Auto White Balance Mode
In Auto White Balance, a new AWBw that retains a reddish tint is available in addition to conventional AWB (standard) and AWBc (bluish tint). AWBw reproduces healthy, rosy skin color even under fluorescent light.
･Bluetooth 4.2 and Wi-Fi 5GHz (IEEE802.11ac)* / 2.4GHz (IEEE802.11b/g/n)
Compatibility with Bluetooth 4.2 (called BLE: Bluetooth Low Energy) enables constant connection with a smartphone/tablet with minimum power consumption. The settings of a LUMIX S1R/S1 camera can also be copied and transmitted wirelessly to other S1R/S1 cameras when using multiple S1R/S1 cameras*1. Also, Wi-Fi 5GHz (IEEE802.11ac)*2 is effective in addition to 2.4GHz (IEEE802.11b/g/n.) This provides even secure and stable connection not only with a smartphone/tablet but also with other devices on location for smooth remote control. Transmission speed of photo/video data is also increased up by using the 5GHz-band*2.
*1 The Settings of LUMIX S1R can be copied to S1R only and the settings of LUMIX S1 can be copied to S1 only.
*2 5 GHz Wi-Fi is not available in some countries.
･Lumix Tether
This software enables tethered shooting via USB. Users can control the camera by connecting it to a PC via USB. It lets you view the image on a large PC screen while shooting, which is helpful in commercial photoshoots of portraits, products and more, where continuous confirmation is required. You can use [6K PHOTO] [4K PHOTO] and start and stop video recording with tethered shooting. It is also possible to choose the folder to save the image files in the PC.
･Lumix Sync
Lumix Sync is a new application for iOS/Android devices, which enables photo transmission to a smartphone or tablet via easy wireless connection. It also allows remote control of the camera using a smartphone or tablet.
•Leica is a registered trademark of Leica Microsystems IR GmbH.
•L-Mount is a trademark or registered trademark of Leica Camera AG.
•Android and Google Play are trademarks or registered trademarks of Google Inc.
• IOS is a trademark or registered trademark of Cisco in the U.S. and other countries and is used under license.
•XQD is a trademark of Sony Corporation.
•All other company and product names are trademarks of their respective corporations.
•Some accessories are not available in some countries.
•The use of recorded or printed materials that are protected by copyright for any purpose other than personal enjoyment is prohibited, as it would infringe upon the rights of the copyright holder.
•Design and specifications are subject to change without notice.
Shopping for a Mirrorless Camera?
Here is a question that I have been asked many times. Why did you switch to the “mirror-less” camera system? My answer is quite simple, its all about not compromising the image quality and reducing camera size and weight. As these cameras do not have flip-up mirrors the distance from the lens to the sensor is greatly reduced resulting in lenses that have a smaller form factor and are also lighter. As a result, I can carry all my gear in a much smaller bag or carry-on and not have to worry about checked luggage during my travels.The next set of questions typically revolve around the quality of images; the focusing speed; noise because of the smaller sensor; battery performance; etc.Let’s address some of these concerns.Before the advent of mirrorless cameras, DSLR’s were based on the same design as film cameras. The film was replaced with an electronic light capturing device called the sensor. Computers, memory cards and batteries were added to complete the image capture process. All else however, remained the same. A mechanical mirror that is used to reflect light up and through a pentaprism into an optical viewfinder remained as the standard. Each time you press the shutter the mirror flips up and the sensor is exposed to light and captures the image. With the advancement of technology and innovation this flip-up mirror and mirror box is no longer required. The sensor has a clear view of the image as projected through the lens and the electronics used to capture the image are used to display the image onto the LCD screen. Optionally the image is displayed in the electronic view finder (EVF) that is like a miniature LCD screen. No more flip-up mirrors. Now DSLR's have incorporated some of this technology in what is termed as “Live View Mode” but unfortunately, some manufacturers have not taken this concept to the next level.Mirrorless cameras can be categorized the same way as DSLR’s where you have APS-C sized sensors, Full Frame sensors, etc. The mirrorless world for comparison purposes, has three sensor sizes that have gained acceptance as replacements for DSLR’s. The smallest are the Micro Four Thirds (MFT) cameras made by Panasonic and Olympus, APS-C sensor cameras made by Fuji, Samsung, Sony and others and the Full Frame cameras made by Sony. The sensor size of these cameras have the same crop factor considerations as do DSLR’s. The APS-C crop factor remains at 1.5 and the MFT sensor has a crop factor of 2. Based on the crop factor, higher depth of field is achieved with the smaller crop factor and results in less bokeh. Based on your style of photography and the subject matter, the range of full frame to a MFT sensor size body gives you all the choices you had with DSLR’s.As to focusing performance, DSLRs have some advantages. The dedicated phase-detect AF systems are very good at tracking subjects that are moving toward or away from the camera. In addition they also have an advantage focusing in low light situations. Conversely mirrorless cameras are excellent at lateral tracking. As the sensor in the mirrorless camera is always live it is capable of analyzing the subject and and tracking it as it moves across the frame. With the introduction of Panasonic's "Depth From Defocus" technology depth tracking has been greatly improved.
What about quality? On the high end the Sony A7R has a 36.4 MP full frame sensor. The Nikon D810 utilizes a 36.4 MP sensor made by Sony. Image quality is exceptional. The elimination of the Anti-aliasing filter allows the camera to capture exceptional detail and clarity. The APS-C form factor has been popular with a majority of the prosumer range of DSLR’s on the market and has been the choice of many pro photographers too. The MFT cameras and that sensor size is new in comparison but the images from the MFT cameras are at par with the APS-C format cameras.ISO Sensitivity. If there is any doubt, all one needs to look at is the sensitivity of the Sony A7S with a max ISO of 409600. The camera can practically see in the dark. It is important to remember that ISO sensitivity has no bearing on the type of camera, DSLR or Mirrorless. The size of the sensor and the size of the pixels make the difference in light gathering capability and noise generation during image capture.Let’s look at some of the pros and cons for mirrorless cameras.PROs
- The ability to view the image in the viewfinder and the LCD screen in realtime.
- The ability to view all or select any of the camera settings live.
- The ability to view any changes to camera settings without having to take your eye away from the viewfinder.
- Focus peaking and zebra stripes. Focus peaking allows you to see the areas within your image that are in focus. This can be displayed using selectable colors. Zebra stripes show you in realtime areas that are going to be exposed with loss of detail in the highlights.
- The ability to use most DSLR and Film camera lenses with adaptors. You do not have to get rid of all your great glass. You may not have the ability to maintain electronic communication with the lens but they will work perfectly well in manual mode. With focus peaking, the process of obtaining good focus is simplified.
- The ability to shoot high resolution video and harvest the ideal frame. (Currently this is available on the Panasonic GH4)
- Electronic shutter - low to no sound when capturing images. A feature so important for nature, wildlife and street photography.
- No mirror, hence no mirror slap and vibration during image capture.
CON’s
- Battery life - with the exception of the Panasonic GH4 most other cameras have a very low battery life. These cameras are constantly drawing power feeding the LCD, electronic viewfinder or both. Due to the size of the mirrorless bodies, the batteries have been downsized too and hence have lower capacity.
- Long focal length lenses. With the exception of Olympus and Panasonic we have yet to see lenses with focal lengths greater than 200mm
- Electronic viewfinder and LCD refresh performance is limiting particularly in low light scenarios.
- Focusing speed of mirrorless cameras had been an issue but most manufacturers have addressed this with firmware and focusing system enhancements.
So which camera do you get? It all depends on your style and budget. I can say that having used mirrorless systems for about a year now my choices are:
- For general purpose, nature/wildlife and people photography - the Panasonic Lumix GH4 is superb with the Olympus OM-D E-M1 a close second.
- For detail and landscape photography - the Sony A7R is my choice. The A7 II, though I have not tested it appears to be a more forgiving camera and adds in camera image stabilization.
- For low-light photography - the Sony A7S is hard to beat.
- For video - the Panasonic Lumix GH4 is a hands down winner. The Sony A7S is very good but does not shoot 4K video to the camera.
I own or have used the following: Panasonic GH4, Olympus OM-D E-M1, Fuji XT1, Sony A7R and Sony A7. My comments on the Sony A7S and the A7 II are based or reviews and video samples captured by photographers’ whose opinion I value. The greatest lens selection is available from Panasonic and Olympus while Sony is still limited to 7 full frame E mount lenses. Panasonic and Leica have jointly produced some exceptional lenses as have Sony and Zeiss with their collaboration.By no means is this post meant to be a full review but a quick personal impression. Please do look at various reviews available on the internet for a more thorough analysis. However, I hope this helps you make your holiday shopping a little less confusing. Camera Labs is one of my preferred sites for honest in-depth reviews.CLICK on the chart to enlarge
CLICK HERE FOR THE SAME CHART AS A PDF DOCUMENT
2014 Fall Wanderings - 4
With most of the foliage gone in the northeast and what is left will be gone after this semi nor'easter or tropical storm here are two more images from Ithaca region.This image is of Taughannock Falls taken from the deck by the parking lot above the gorge. This vantage point give the falls a totally different perspective.I am planning on doing a winter trip to capture these falls when the sides and rock faces are covered with ice. 
This next image is from the gorge that leads to Lucifer falls. Another area that could be interesting in the winter. If any of my blog followers have experienced these falls in the winter, please share your thoughts.
Falls at the Basin
Was in New Hampshire yesterday so drove to Sugar Hill for some lupines. What a pity - the fields have a handful of flowers. It seems the weeds have choked the lupine plants.On the way back, stopped at the Basin and took a few images with the Sony A7R, 28 - 70 f/3.5 - 5.6. Did not have any ND filters on hand so used ISO 50, f/22 for a 2.5 second exposure. The A7R has excellent dynamic range - impressed. Click on the image to view larger.