Panasonic cameras have always felt a step behind Sony and Canon, but the new Lumix S5II seems to course correct the brand and deliver something incredibly useful for filmmakers and still photographers alike. 

The camera is a 24-megapixel full-frame mirrorless hybrid. You can buy it in January for $1,999 and May for $2,199. They'll also debut a $799 14-28mm f/4-5.6 S Macro lens, which is available in February.

What video features does it have? 

There's 6K recording with real-time LUTs, a hybrid phase-detect system that can track multiple people at once, and a new sensor and faster processor that allows you to shoot up to 30 fps with focus tracking in electronic shutter mode. 

How about overheating? 

The camera has a new internal fan design that should keep you shooting in under 104 degrees Fahrenheit. You can capture content in impressive high quality with 96MP High Resolution mode, Dual Native ISO to minimize the noise in high sensitivity, and V-Log/V-Gamut with 14+ stop dynamic range.

There's also a mega software update for $200 which enables Apple ProRes Raw video recording to an Atomos Ninja V. Check out this list of other key features.  

Key Features

  • 24.2MP Full-Frame CMOS Sensor
  • 6K30p 4:2:0 10-Bit Video Recording
  • C4K/4K60p 4:2:2 10-Bit Unlimited
  • 3.68m-Dot 0.78x-Magnification OLED LVF
  • 3.0" 1.84m-Dot Tilt/Free-Angle Touch-LCD
  • 779-Point Phase-Detection AF System
  • 5-Axis Sensor-Shift Image Stabilization
  • ISO 100-51200, up to 30 fps Shooting
  • Dual UHS-II SD Slots; Wi-Fi & Bluetooth
  • Weather-Sealed Construction

Let us know what you think in the comments.

Lumix S5IIMirrorless camerapanasonicmirrorless lenses
Cinematography & Cameras