Full-frame mirrorless LUMIX S9 is the LUMIX S Series’ first compact model, with a 24.2 MP CMOS sensor, dedicated LUT button, multiple I.S. functions and new MP4 Lite recording format.
The Panasonic LUMIX S9, a small, light full-frame mirrorless camera, is the first compact model in the LUMIX S Series. It has an approximately 24.2-megapixel full-frame CMOS sensor, equivalent to the LUMIX S5II sensor, and Panasonic’s most recent image processing engine. The camera uses PDAF (Phase Detection Auto-Focus), which performs precise subject tracking at the speed needed for fast-moving subjects.
The S9 makes the REAL TIME LUT function accessible via a new dedicated LUT button on the camera body. The user’s customisable LUT colour files can be loaded in-camera before shooting and accessed with this button, with the option to control opacity and add grain effects. Up to two LUTs can be combined and applied to photo or video files.
LUMIX Lab App
A new LUMIX Lab app is also available now for users to develop their own LUT colour files as presets on their smart devices, and transfer them to the camera. The resulting original stills and videos can then be shared directly, without first editing them in post on a computer. You can browse, customise and apply other creators' free LUT presets via the app as well. It also shortens the time it takes to transfer image data from camera to smartphone, making it possible to shoot and share to social media in around 30 seconds.
Image Stabilisation
Regarding Image Stabilisation (I.S.), the S9 features several I.S. functions including 5-axis Dual I.S.2 at 6.5 stops, in-body I.S. at 5 stops and Active I.S. - all of which compensate for camera shake and reduce blurring when shooting while walking. In the case of I.S., each stop refers to how many times the shutter speed can be halved and still support handheld shooting. Combined with perspective distortion correction and High mode in the E-Stabilisation (Video) function, it is now possible to achieve very stable footage when shooting on the move.
These features are intended to help users shoot with confidence in most situations, even under extreme conditions. For more flexible shooting at unusual, custom angles, the camera has a free-angle rear screen.
MP4 Lite Format and Workflow
The LUMIX S9 introduces a new recording format, MP4 Lite. By capturing the full sensor height, while recording in 10 bit 30p/25p, users can keep flexible Open Gate framing options. For instance, you can capture high quality videos optimised for viewing on a smartphone, and then use the LUMIX Lab app to resize the images to match aspect ratios that suit social media platforms. Like the Lab App, this new editing workflow allows you to shoot and share material directly, without stopping to re-frame in a studio.
New LUMIX S Series Lenses
The LUMIX S9 will be released in Australia in June 2024, when a new LUMIX S Series fixed focal length pancake lens will also be available. The LUMIX S 26mm F8 (S-R26) is a very compact, lightweight full frame lens – about 58 grams and 18.1mm long – with a 26mm wide angle. It captures sharp images and, due to the deep F8 aperture, has a fairly wide depth of field to keep most of the shot in focus. The focus ring is manual for full focus control but you can also set the focus for snapshots.
Later in the year, a new compact wide zoom lens, LUMIX S 18-40mm F4.5-6.3, will be added to the full-frame LUMIX S Series lens line-up. It will have a closest shooting distance of 0.15m and cover focal lengths from 18mm to 40mm, giving enough flexibility to capture wide landscapes and buildings or handle portrait shots in a natural perspective. www.panasonic.com.au
