Gimme five: the case for the Lumix S5 II

Best-in-class features, support and performance are all great justifications for changing to Panasonic’s full-frame mirrorless marvel. Add in a £200 trade-in bonus until 2 October and it’s a done deal

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Many photographers and videographers are currently making the switch and deciding that, when it comes to full-frame mirrorless cameras, the Panasonic Lumix S5 II is the one to beat.

Available since the start of this year, the Panasonic Lumix S5 II has been designed to fulfil the demands of the most ambitious creators, who put image quality and mobility first.

At the core of the camera is a newly developed 24-megapixel full-frame CMOS sensor, which supports a first for the Lumix camera range: hybrid phase detection autofocus. Phase Hybrid AF improves subject recognition and tracking abilities, including eye tracking, making speed and accuracy a sure bet even in the most challenging environments.

The Panasonic Lumix S5II is compatible with over 60 native lenses from the L-mount alliance, including Panasonic, Sigma and Leica. In July, prolific lens-maker Samyang joined the L-mount alliance – and if that’s not enough, the mount is designed to work with mount adapters such as the MC-21, which enables the use of Canon EF lenses too.

Stills and video superstar

Video capabilities include 6K video in 3:2 ratio or 5.9K in 16:9 at 30fps –and 4K video up to 60fps. Plus a new, low-profile heat-management system enables unlimited recording times. 

It’s no wonder, then, that this model not only holds huge appeal for demanding photographers, but also fulfils the key needs of filmmakers.

If your Fujifilm or Sony camera has that particular photo style you rely on, Lumix has you covered with Real Time LUT, which allows you to easily import your Lightroom presets so you can recreate that look in-camera, no editing needed. LUTs add colour and contrast shifts to video or stills. giving results a particular look and feel. They make grading video footage that much easier. Panasonic offers users an impressive free library of LUTs that help create a variety of atmospheres and moods.

Fully featured

The Lumix S5 II can capture 9fps with mechanical shutter or 30fps with electronic shutter for up to 300 images. We also get the obvious advantage of a huge 96-megapixel High Resolution mode and dual-native ISO sensitivity, which enables and enhances low-light performance by offering an expandable ISO of up to 204,800. Noise is effectively suppressed even at ultra-high sensitivities, beautifully rendering dark areas. Dual card slots feature, while the image stabilisation system is the best in its class. New Active IS enables users to walk and shoot at the same time, compensating significantly for camera shake.

Naturally, everything is encased in a durable, magnesium-alloy, full die-cast frame, with the sealing of all joints, dials and buttons making the camera dust and splash resistant. 

What’s more, there’s never been a better time to enjoy the Panasonic Lumix S5 II’s performance. As an extra incentive to act now, potential purchasers can take advantage of a £200 trade-in bonus, running until 2 October this year at selected retailers (terms and conditions apply).

Five reasons to grab the Lumix S5 II

• Real Time LUT – pre-load colour presets from your previous camera/workflow.
• Top image quality for both stills and video.
• Best-in-class stabilisation. 
• Comprehensive video features for all your creative needs.
• Direct compatibility not only with lenses from Panasonic itself, but also the likes of Sigma, as well as Canon EF lenses via MC-21 adapter.
• Plus – until 2 October – get a £200 trade-in bonus when you switch!

Originally published in Issue 110 of Photography News.