Panasonic is ready to roll out Apple ProRes RAW support for its LUMIX S1H full-frame mirrorless camera. Firmware version 2.0 will enable the camera to record 5.9K 12-bit ProRes RAW directly from the sensor. The catch, the Atomos Ninja V is the only monitor-recorder to support it, which also records ProRes RAW for Nikon's Z7 and Z7 mirrorless cameras. The update will arrive May 25. 

Panasonic worked alongside Atomos to develop the firmware, and luckily for users, it will be free of charge. There will also be no need to send the camera into Panasonic for an additional hardware upgrade as with Nikon, which costs $200 USD to upgrade the Z7 and Z6.  

Besides 5.9K, 4K and anamorphic formats will be supported.

  • 5.9K (5888 x 3312) full-frame 16:9 at 23.98, 25, 29.97fps
  • 4K (4128 x 2176) Super 35mm 17:9 at 23.98, 25, 29.97, 50, 59.94fps
  • 3.5K (3536 x 2656) Super 35mm anamorphic 4:3 at 23.98, 25, 29.97, 50fps 

Each recording resolution offers 12-bit ProRes RAW, and for those seeking a true 24p frame rate, it could arrive at a later date. However, the new firmware will allow for the internal 6K/5.9K/5/4K video to be downcoverted to the Atomos Ninja V over HDMI making for an handy backup. 

The firmware brings along additional changes including the ability to view V-Log or Rec.709 on the Live View monitor during RAW output and shot assist functions will be available while recording RAW which includes wave form monitor, vector scope, luminance spot meter, and zebra pattern. 

Panasonic made several tweaks minimizing the color banding issues in 4:2:0 10-bit mode, and added other features, including the ability to program the function button on Sigma L-mount lenses. 

The update will be available on the Panasonic support page May 25, 2020.

Source: Panasonic

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