Big new camera news from Panasonic today! And while it’s not a completely new camera, per se, it’s an intriguing (if not at least unique) new upgraded version of their popular LUMIX S1H.
Panasonic has announced a new LUMIX BS1H full-frame box-style mirrorless live and cinema camera, which promises to be the best of both worlds with its compact body and 6K (24p)/5.9K (30p) 10-bit unlimited video recording capability.
Let’s take a look at this new cinema/live camera hybrid and explore how it might encourage videographers to think outside the box... (Sorry, I had to!)
New Panasonic LUMIX BS1H
Obviously set as a “boxier” version of the LUMIX S1H, this new BS1H is set to include all the power of the non-box S1H version with a 24-megapixel full-frame sensor with Dual Native ISO tech and its full-area 6K high-res recording capability. The BS1H should also boast some solid bokeh, low-light performance, and a nice dynamic range pushing 14+ stops, plus V-log and more.
All great news for those looking to shoot short films or cinema-quality video content. However, this is where the BS1H diverges from its S1H sibling.
The BS1H is designed to enable users the flexibility needed to record in a variety of formats and aspect ratios. From its top-of-the-line 6K/24p and 5.4K/30p (3:2 aspect ratio) or 5.9K/30p (16:9 aspect ratio), the BS1H also provides 10-bit 60p 4K/C4K HEVC video when using the image area equivalent to Super 35mm.
Unlimited Video Recording
The BS1H aims to satisfy any wide-ranging creative need with a new heat dispersion structure that achieves unlimited video recording in a variety of formats (including 4:3 anamorphic mode and two alternatives for RAW workflows).
With its Variable Frame Rate (VFR), the BS1H is set to let users record over-cranked or under-cranked video in C4K/4K (60fps, maxim 2.5x slower in 24p) and FHD (180 fps, maximum 7.5x slower in 24p) with a minimum frame rate for quick motion at 2 fps. There’s also High Frame Rate (HFR) video included with sound that is recordable even when using autofocus.
You can also stream your video with the BS1H at 4K 60p (50p) in H.265 (which realizes half the bitrate while keeping the same image quality as H.264). This should unlock 2x higher image quality at the same bitrate as H.264 for ultra-high-definition 4K at one of the lowest bitrates possible.
Specs, Pricing, and Availability
- 24.2MP Full-Frame MOS Sensor
- Up to 5.9K H.264/H.265/HEVC Recording
- 14+ Stops of Dynamic Range, HLG Imaging
- Dual-Native ISO, VariCam Look & V-Log L
- VFR up to 60 in 4K, up to 180 fps in FHD
- Ethernet with PoE+, VBR Battery Mount
- Anamorphic Video & 3D LUT Support
- Durable Magnesium & Aluminum Body
- 12 VDC Power Adapter Included
The LUMIX BS1H will be available in November for $3,499.99.
