Panasonic has announced its latest camera in the LUMIX S range. The Panasonic LUMIX S9 is the smallest and lightest full-frame mirrorless camera in the series.
LUMIX S9
The LUMIX S9 has a 24.2-megapixel full-frame CMOS sensor which Panasonic says is equivalent to that of the LUMIX S5II. The camera is also powered by the latest engine to capture content in rich detail with natural tones. In addition, the LUMIX S9 features PDAF (Phase Detection Auto-Focus) for excellent subject tracking. With the camera’s in-body image stabilization (IS) you get 5 stops of stabilization and up to 6.5 stops with 5-axis Dual IS. The LUMIX S9 also has Active IS to compensate for camera shake when shooting while walking.
MP4 Lite
The LUMIX S9 introduces a new recording format called MP4 Lite. It means you can shoot Open Gate in 4:2:0 10-bit video at 30p or 25p. Panasonic says this means that creators can capture high-quality videos in the optimum format for smartphones. You can also easily resize aspect ratios to suit your social media with the LUMIX Lab app. The app delivers high-speed transfer of photos and videos from the camera to a smartphone. This means you can easily shoot and share while on the go.
Real Time LUT function
The LUMIX S9’s Real Time LUT function allows you to load a LUT (Look Up Table) on to the camera to stylize your videos. There is also a new dedicated button on the camera’s body for the Real Time LUT function. In addition, you can also use the LUMIX Lab app to create your own unique LUT color files on your smartphone.
Other features
The LUMIX S9 has a compact and lightweight body, weighing only 0.89 pounds (403g). It also features a free-angle rear screen for flexible shooting at all angles. In addition, the camera is available in four colorways: Jet Black, Crimson Red, Dark Olive, and Classical Blue. Alongside the S9, Panasonic is launching a new pancake lens, the LUMIX S26mm. It features a fixed F-stop of F8 and is manual focus only. Panasonic says the lens is designed for the simple enjoyment of manual shooting with creative composition and exposure.
What we think
Panasonic’s new LUMIX S9 is clearly aimed at content creators. Many of its features are closely linked to the LUMIX Lab app. It’s great that you can create your own LUTs so easily. The Open Gate mode is also designed to make it easier to create vertical video for smartphones. In addition, the app means you can quickly upload your videos to your social media platforms while out in the field. However, the S9 could also be a great second camera for videographers due to its compact design and relatively low price.
Pricing and availability
The Panasonic LUMIX S9 will retail at $1,499 and will be available from late June 2024.
