Last Updated on October 29, 2019
Are you looking for a mirrorless camera that you can use for film making? Panasonic brings to you the S1H Lumix mirrorless camera that comes with a segmented 6K 24p recording capability.
Video credit: DSLR Video Shooter
It can simultaneously record c4k 10-bit 60p videos and features Dual Native ISO and in-body image stabilization. Built with dual SD card slots, you can enjoy unlimited recording times with a camera that has a fully articulating rear screen.
Design & Features
The Panasonic S1H boasts of a weather-sealed body that is built with a fan for extended shooting times. The fully articulated screen at the back of the camera can be tilted out without hitting sockets and ports.
It also has a large top plate display where you can see the video settings display mode in detail.
One of the highlights of the camera is the fan chamber that keeps the camera cool. Since filmmaking can go on for longer periods, the addition of the fan makes the device suitable for extended recording and for shooting stills.
Designed with rigs and cages in mind, the S1H has two anodized record buttons. The large one is placed on top of the camera’s plate, while the other one is placed on the lower front corner. This ensures access to the button regardless of how deeply embedded the camera is in the rig.
It also has a spot for tripod alignment. The bottom of the S1H has an extra spot where you can securely screw in the camera to keep the plate from rotating and coming loose.
The dual native ISO of the camera enables a filmmaker to use it under different lighting conditions.
It is available in 3 different settings:
- 100 and 640 for regular photo styles
- 640 and 4000 (maximum ISO 51,200-204,800) when V-Log is set
- 400 and 2500 in HLG
Depending on the ISO setting, the camera will first choose the optimal circuit needed to process any gain.
One of the best features of the camera is the 24.2MP full-frame CMOS sensor. This makes it possible to record in 6K at 24 frames per second. If your goal is a 1080p output, the sensor allows for extensive cropping options.
There is one drawback, however. The camera has an optical low pass filter that not only reduces moire but also slightly softens an image.
The combination of Dual UHS-II SD Cards and Dual Output, on the other hand, means you can choose to relay recording, back it up, or allocate. The S1H also allows simultaneous recording to an internal SD card and external recorder similar to the Atomos series. Rates will vary, however.
Internally, you can record at 4:2:0 8-bit and externally at 4:2:2 10-bit. This means you’ll have more editing leverage with the latter because it has an estimated 128 times the information.
Overall, the Panasonic S1H has many improved features than its predecessors. It has its share of flaws too.
Pros of the Panasonic S1H
- Record 6K video at 24fps
- Internal fan for better heat management and unlimited recording times
- 14 stops of dynamic range
- Full-frame pixel by pixel video
- Dual native ISO and SD cards
- Tilt-out articulated screen
- Front and rear tally lights
- LED top screen
- External power via USB-C
- V-log included
Cons of the Panasonic S1H
- A bit on the pricey side
- Compatible camera lenses are expensive
- Rolling shutter in full-frame modes
- AF is contrast based
Final thoughts
Built for filmmakers, the mirrorless Panasonic S1H camera has all the features needed for a high-resolution and high-quality output. There’s not much to dislike with this device.
It stands out even more with its in-built fan that allows you unlimited recording in all modes. You just need to hot-swap SD cards or use the external recorder.
An avid filmmaker who values quality output and flexible features would be happy to own a Panasonic S1H.