Phase Hybrid AF with on-sensor PDAF (Phase Detection Auto-focus)

LUMIX has taken the accuracy of Depth From Defocus and the smart subject detection of AI and added Phase Detection to offer high performance auto focus, in both photo and video modes. The new PDAF has 779 focus points, and with the new generation processor, provides total AF confidence and a strong ‘lock’ on the subject.

With the adoption of PDAF, the AF system has evolved into Phase Hybrid AF. Advanced subject detection and metering technologies lock on, track and capture the target subject in focus in a range of shooting situations – from fast moving sports or multiple subjects; to vlog style content such as talking to camera in a studio or holding up an object to the camera; and backlit or low illumination environments. Major improvements to the AF performance for overall reliability when shooting at 24fps will make the S5II a go-to for YouTube content creators.

New Active I.S & Dual I.S.2 with a high-precision 5-axis gyro sensor

Another game-changer delivered with the S5IIX is the new Active I.S. This builds on Panasonic’s history of innovation and reputation in the image stabilisation field by determining the status of camera shake and optimising horizontal, vertical, and rotational correction ratios. The system can compensate for significant camera shake in video recording, approximately 200% more when compared to the LUMIX S5. It is highly beneficial in challenging situations, such as handheld filming while walking without using a gimbal, long-shutter handheld shots such as night-time or moving water, and telephoto fixed-frame shots. The cameras also offer Dual I.S.2 with a high-precision 5-axis gyro sensor for stills shooting.

A variety of video functions and recording options

The LUMIX S5IIX is built for the videographer who desires freedom from restriction. Introducing 4:2:0 10-bit 6K (3:2) to the S Series, which makes it easy to crop for multiple aspect ratios (16:9, 9:16, 1:1) from the same source footage while maintaining resolution. For example, when you take a 9:16 vertical image out of 6K footage you still maintain a greater than 4K vertical image which can be viewed on mobile devices.

Active heat management system
The S5IIX's new and extremely compact active heat management system delivers unlimited recording in all environments while not adding extra bulk to hamper the photographer, providing free rein in the field.

V-Log/V-Gamut & REAL TIME LUT
The 14+ stop V-Log/V-Gamut capture offers a high dynamic range, consistent colour management and streamlined post-production. In addition, with in-camera colour grading via REAL TIME LUT, creative scope is increased while workflow is reduced – excellent for repeatable setups such as content creators who work in the same studio or are looking to repeat the same style in camera instead of applying the same LUT in post.

4:2:0 10-bit 6K* + unlimited 4:2:2 10-bit C4K/4K recording capability
The S5II camera provide 4:2:0 10-bit 6K (17:9) / 5.9K (16:9), unlimited 4:2:2 10-bit C4K/4K recording capability. HFR (High Frame Rate) in C4K/4K (48p), FHD (120p), Slow & Quick motion in C4K/4K(1-60fps) / FHD(1-180fps), and 4K HDR video recording are also available. 4K 60p Time Lapse video can also be produced in-camera where the exposure is automatically adjusted to prevent large changes in brightness between adjacent frames, allowing smooth daytime to nighttime time lapses to be created.

Optimised video tools & 4-channel audio recording support
Practical tools included are Waveform Monitor, Vector Scope, Zebra Pattern, System Frequency (24.00Hz), Synchro Scan, Fan mode and a control panel for quick menu selection. By using the optional XLR Microphone Adaptor DMW-XLR1 and the 3.5mm input jack/built-in microphone, you can capture four channels of audio.

*When the camera is used at recommended operating temperature 0-40 degrees C. 6K and 5.9K at 30p/25p video recording stops once when continuous recording time exceeds 30 minutes if [Thermal Management] is set to [STANDARD]

Enhanced workflow

The small size of the new S Series cameras and the lenses available means a low-impact kit, and no compromise on performance with a wealth of capabilities designed for a superior shooting experience. AWB Lock keeps the white balance set in auto, while Sheer Overlay can now be used in Creative Video mode footage sequences. Live Crop allows digital zooming and panning on the 6K sensor in a 4K video recording, making it easy for a creator to add smooth motion without having to move the camera.

Larger EVF & 3.0-inch free-angle LCD rear monitor with touch control
In a step up from the S5, the new, larger 3,680K-dot OLED LVF (Live View Finder) has a magnification ratio of approx. 1.52x / 0.76x (35mm camera equivalent). A versatile, bright free-angle 3.0-inch LCD rear monitor (3:2 aspect, 1840K-dot) with touch control allows for quick changes to settings, even when both the HDMI cable and USB cable are connected, or the user is in front of the camera.

Live View Composite Mode
The Live View Composite Mode takes away the guess work, allowing the photographer to set the desired exposure, take the shot, then view the image on the screen as it is being exposed in real time. Once they are happy with how the shot looks, they simply hit the shutter button again to stop the exposure. This mode is also great for light painting, shooting light trails and other long exposure scenarios.

96-megapixel High Resolution Mode
The drive dial now includes a setting for 96-megapixel High Resolution Mode. In this mode the camera captures 8 images in quick succession, with small movements of the sensor between shots to capture extra resolution. There is no requirement to stitch images using software as the camera combines the shots into one image. This mode also features motion compensation, further expanding the use of High Resolution Mode in general photography.

Impressive quality, performance and connectivity

The S5IIX has been designed to offer dependable video recording in real-world conditions and have a new heat dispersion mechanism combining a small fan and high-efficiency heat sink. As a result, they achieve continuous video recording in C4K 60p, while the camera body remains conveniently compact. Users can shoot worry-free, whether capturing extended recordings or livestreaming. To withstand heavy field use, the cameras have a magnesium alloy full die-cast body and are splash/dust-resistant.

The LUMIX S5IIX supports USB 3.2 Gen 2 for high-speed writing and readout. The dual SD Card slots (UHS-II x 2) offer a choice of Relay Recording, Backup Recording or Allocation Recording modes, with the card access indicator now located inside the card slot cover. Videographers will be thrilled that the cameras have a full HDMI Type A terminal, offering a more robust connection without the need for adaptors. For external microphone connection, a Φ3.5mm input jack is provided as well as a headphone jack.

Content sharing with smartphones is streamlined using Bluetooth 5.0 Low Energy connection, Wi-Fi 5-GHz (IEEE802.11ac) and 2.4-GHz (IEEE 802.11b/g/n). With an always-on Bluetooth connection, a smartphone can act as the camera’s remote control via the LUMIX Sync app. The settings of the LUMIX S5II can also be copied and transmitted wirelessly to other S5IIX cameras when using multiple cameras.

The S5IIX is compatible with LUMIX Tether applications which enable tethered shooting via USB. Users can control and view multiple cameras by connecting them to a PC. For live streaming, LUMIX Tether for Streaming (Beta) with LIVE VIEW mode is available. LUMIX Sync for iOS/Android devices enables image transfer to a smartphone or tablet via easy wireless connection.

The 2200mAh high-capacity battery (DMW-BLK22) can be recharged either via AC or USB which is convenient if you are travelling and want to use a USB power bank. It also complies with USB PD (Power Delivery) when used with the optional LUMIX Battery Charger (DMW-BTC15). The optional Battery Grip (DMW-BGS5) is also compatible with the S5IIX.