CES Interview with Matt Frazer from Panasonic

Interview with Matt Frazer from Panasonic about pair of upcoming full frame cameras – S1 and S1R and new features announced at CES 2019, as well as their initial lenses lineup. You can note that Panasonic now has fully functional lens, at least one of three :-).

Panasonic announces the S1-S1R will have High Resolution mode, HLG photos and ship in late March

Panasonic shared some more details about the new S1-S1R cameras:

1) They will be able to shoot in High Resolution mode. It takes 8 photos and merges them for better resolution in varying lighting conditions.
2) They will capture HLG photos
3) The cameras will start shipping out in late March

UPDATE: Here is the official press text:

Panasonic Announces Additional Key Functions for the New Full-frame Mirrorless Camera at CES 2019

Las Vegas, NV (January 7, 2019) – Following an announcement at Photokina 2018, Panasonic will unveil additional key features of the new LUMIX S full-frame mirrorless cameras at CES 2019. The LUMIX S full-frame mirrorless cameras and lenses will be available at the end of March 2019.*

A Whole New Style of Photo Expression

High Dynamic Range Still Photo – HLG Photo Mode

HLG Photo allows images to be shot with a wider dynamic range. By reproducing both glaring lights and dark shadows that are likely to be overexposed or underexposed, the Lumix S achieves rich, precise color expression as close as possible to visual memory. 43rumors

HLG Photos are produced as an HSP file. The user can play back these vibrant images on the latest Panasonic HLG-compliant 4KTV via HDMI cable connection or other HLG- compliant devices. It is also ideal for photographers’ photo presentations.

Stunning Details with a Realistic Sensation

High Resolution Mode

Taking advantage of the Body Image Stabilizer. (I.S.) mechanism, eight consecutive images are automatically shot while shifting the sensor. These eight images are synthesized into a single image by the new Venus Engine, which boasts high-speed signal processing. Precise details are faithfully reproduced to be saved as a beautiful, highly realistic image. This mode is ideal for shooting natural landscapes or fine art objects with delicate details.

Considering situations where moving subjects are included in the scene, sub options are available to suppress motion blur, so photographers can use this mode the same as shooting in a normal photo shooting mode.

*Availability date may vary depending on the sales area •Design and specifications are subject to change without notice.

You can join the new L Full Frame Facebook group if you plan to buy this camera. There you can discuss all features and tests once it’s released!

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Panasonic confirms new entry level and also video oriented L-mount cameras are being considered!

Dpreview just published their Photokina interview with Panasonic. The talk is mainly about their L-mount strategy and we have a lot of interesting tidbits:

1) The Trend is “moving towards full-frame mirrorless cameras

2) Explaining the big size of the S1-S1R: “We didn’t want to compromise on features for the sake of body size

3) About the S1-S1R shutter: “Most competitive cameras are guaranteed to 200,000 actuations. Our camera will be tested for more.

4) The S1 and S1R will be the most durable on market: “We are targeting the very highest level of durability in the industry. [The S1/R] are 100% sealed against dust and water, and operate in very low temperatures – even exceeding the limits of the GH5.”

5) About future entry level L-mount cameras: “The first generation will be specialized for professionals but in the future, of course we’re also aiming to attract entry-level users.

6) No APS-C L-mount cameras from Panasonic: “We have our own Micro Four Thirds system and we think that [because of the greater difference in size between full-frame and M43] this is the best balance. We have no plans to develop APS-C products.

7) L-mount lens design is more difficult because: “In the case of M43, we prioritize compactness. But in full-frame we set higher targets, to meet professional specifications.

8) About future video oriented L-mount cameras: “One of our assets is our experience of professional video, over more than 40 years. This is one of the areas where we contribute to the market, so in the future it’s possible that [our L-mount lineup] will expand to include such products

9) About 8K cameras: ” After the Olympics, we will create a new generation of 8K video cameras, which are currently in development.

Summary:

Panasonic entry level Full Frame camera are likely to be developed
Panasonic video oriented S camera is coming too
8K cameras will come AFTER the Olympics