Global shipments of cameras by Japanese manufacturers increased by 23% in April. A surprising spike that accelerated after the good sales in Q1. Don’t really know what is driving this. There are reports about the Nikon Z5II selling hot in Japan but this can’t be the only reason. Let’s see if this trend continues in the coming months. But I would definitely say that all manufacturers can look forward to a brighter future.
The latest Petapixel podcast featured an in-depth discussion on the state of full-frame mirrorless systems, and the L-Mount Alliance was not left out. Despite the welcome firmware support, both Jordan and Chris criticized Panasonic’s strategy of abandoning the traditional $2,000 mid-range segment. Jordan asked, “Where is Panasonic’s mid-tier full-frame camera?” noting that everything now is either high-end or stripped-down.
Chris added that while the S5 II is still their go-to recommendation for video shooters on a budget, there’s a real need for a new, modern camera between the S5 II and the high-end S1 II line.
While the L-Mount Alliance continues to offer excellent optics and solid pro bodies, the glaring hole remains the lack of fresh, affordable mid-range cameras. With Canon and Nikon pushing aggressively into that space, Panasonic and Sigma may need to rethink their strategies—or risk being left behind.
Panasonic is in a market situation where they cannot “play it safe” to win over Canon-Sony-Nikon photographers. They cannot afford to think “incrementally”, as Sony did with the introduction of the Sony A1II, for example. With the future S1HII, they have to do everything they can to make this camera as good as possible.
To ensure the Lumix S1HII competes effectively in the high-end hybrid and cinema camera market, Panasonic needs to prioritize the following features to match or surpass its competitors:
Sensor and Image Quality
1.High-Resolution Sensor:
At least 33MP full-frame sensor offering flexibility for stills and video.
Dual Native ISO to maintain excellent dynamic range and low-light performance.
Possibly offer a global shutter (like the Sony A9III). or rolling shutter reduction for smoother motion capture.
2.Color Science:
Improved color reproduction for skin tones, matching or exceeding Canon’s reputation for cinematic color.
3.Dynamic Range:
Target 15+ stops of dynamic range for HDR workflows.
4.Improved Autofocus:
Phase-detect autofocus (already implemented in newer Lumix models like the S5II) for reliable subject tracking, even in low light.
Video Capabilities
1.Resolution and Frame Rates:
8K 60p recording with minimal overheating.
6K ProRes RAW internal support for easier workflows.
4K 120p with no crop for slow-motion enthusiasts.
Offer 12-bit internal video recording options.
2.Codecs and Compression:
Support for ProRes, ProRes RAW, BRAW, and H.265 for flexibility in post-production.
3.Anamorphic Support:
Enhanced anamorphic recording modes with better de-squeeze previews and stabilization tailored for anamorphic lenses.
4.Heat Management:
Advanced active cooling to allow unlimited recording times without overheating issues.
Stabilization and Handling
1.Improved IBIS:
7.5+ stops of in-body image stabilization, optimized for video with enhanced “Boost IS” for handheld work.
Support for horizon leveling to compete with Blackmagic and Canon’s stabilization systems.
2.Body Design:
Weather-sealed, magnesium alloy body.
Compact and lighter than the S1H to remain competitive with the likes of the Sony A7S series.
3.Fully Articulating Screen:
A bright, high-resolution touchscreen, ideal for vlogging and angled shots.
Connectivity
1.Professional Ports:
Full-size HDMI for reliable external monitoring.
Dual XLR audio input module support for professional audio capture.
USB-C with Power Delivery for continuous power options.
2.Networking and Remote Options:
Built-in Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3 for seamless wireless tethering and control.
Support for Ethernet for live streaming and remote shooting workflows.
3.Dual Card Slots:
CFexpress Type B and SD UHS-II slots to ensure high-speed recording and compatibility.
Usability Features
1.Menu System:
Improved, intuitive menu system with better touch and control functionality, rivaling Sony’s revamped menus.
2.Custom Buttons and Dials:
Customizable physical controls, including direct access to frame rate, resolution, and other key video settings.
3.Battery Life:
Optimized power consumption for extended shooting times, possibly with support for V-mount adapters.
Competitive Pricing
The Lumix S1HII should be priced between $3,500–$4,500, undercutting competitors like the Canon EOS R5C and Sony FX3 while delivering comparable or superior features.
Additional Unique Selling Points
1.LUT Previews and Integration:
Real-time LUT previews and the ability to bake LUTs directly into footage.
2.Multicam Support:
Enhanced multicam support with timecode sync options for studio or live event setups.
3.RAW Video Updates:
Built-in support for RAW video formats, eliminating the need for external recorders in some workflows.
By addressing these areas, the Lumix S1HII would stand a strong chance of competing with or even surpassing its primary rivals in the hybrid and cinema camera markets. What do you think about that?
Aiarty Video Enhancer Debuts – Next-Gen AI for Low-Light Denoise and Texture Recovery
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Denoising Optimized for Low-Light Video
When capturing moody interiors, night cityscapes, or golden-hour portraits with deep shadows, high ISO settings are often unavoidable—and that’s when noise tends to creep in. Even with top-tier sensors like those in your Sony α7S III or FX30, high ISO footage can show grain crawling in the shadows or produce blotchy, unnatural skin tones.
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Test 1: De-noise Low-night Video
Test 2. De-noise Low-Night Video
Zoom out — details remain well preserved and enhanced.
Restore Lost Detail with 4K AI Upscaling
Have old footage shot on early DSLR or mirrorless cameras? Maybe it’s handheld B-roll from a wedding, a quick travel vlog segment, or a client interview captured in HD to save card space.
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Test 1. Restore Old Footage
Test 2. Enhance Outdoor Shots with Sharp Clarity and Vibrant Colors
Eliminate Low FPS Choppiness with AI Frame Interpolation
Even with a powerful Sony camera, the capture footage is not always smooth. When filming a dynamic night-time travel scene, pushing the ISO in dim light, shooting a long-form event, or choosing a lower FPS to maintain exposure, it can result in in choppy or low frame rate clips.
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Crystal-Clear Sound Even in the Chaos
Street noise, wind, or distant chatter — they sneak into your footage more often than you’d like. Whether you’re filming a wedding, a vlog, or an event with your Sony camera, background noise can ruin an otherwise perfect take.
Aiarty Video Enhancer isn’t just about visuals — it also removes background noise with its AI-powered audio denoise. It removes hums, hisses, and other background sounds without flattening the life out of your audio. The result? Clean, natural-sounding speech and a more immersive listening experience.
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Aiarty Video Enhancer includes 3 AI models, designed to enhance different videos for the best results. moDetail-HQ
It offers powerful deblurring and denoising, recovering fine textures like hair, petals, and outdoor elements. Best for daylight scenes and high-detail restoration. Smooth-HQ
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Aiarty Video Enhancer is a best-in-class AI video enhancement tool that uses advanced AI models to deliver professional-quality results quickly and easily. Ideal for creators, it sharpens, denoises, and upscales videos for stunning clarity and detail.
