Panasonic S1H Rental

Overview

The Panasonic S1H is the exciting debut full frame mirrorless camera from Panasonic, along with the S1 and S1R. Unlike the S1, which blends the high demands of advanced photographers with robust video recording options, the S1H is designed primarily for videographers. With 6K recording, 4:2:2 10-bit sampling, Dual Native ISO, and an overall functionality inspired by broadcast cameras, the S1H marks a new milestone in mirrorless full frame cinema. Here are some of the standout features of the S1H:

Expanded Video Recording Capabilities, Massive Sensitivity, and Integrated Image Stabilization

Using a dual-base Native ISO borrowed from Panasonic's broadcast line of cameras, the sensor delivers outstanding image quality in low light with minimized noise. This technology can be switched manually between low (ISO 640-5000) and high (ISO 4000-51200). Complementing this is a massive range of recording capabilities, from unlimited 10-bit 4:2:2 4K, to 6K up to 24 FPS, anamorphic recording, and various High Frame Rate options in Full HD. Enjoy simultaneous internal and external recording via HDMI, in-camera time lapse creation, SMPTE-compliant time code, and pre-installed V-Log in addition to a High Dynamic Range mode and Hybrid Log Gamma. V-Log/V-Gamut has an ultra wide 14+ stop dynamic range similar to that of the Panasonic Cinema VariCam.

For stabilization, Panasonic developed a new algorithm that calculates shake from not just the gyrosensor but also the image sensor and accelerometer sensor for their most accurate shake detection to date. When combining the 5-axis in-body stabilization with the optical image stabilizers inside Lumix S series lenses, you get up to 6-stops of compensation when shooting at slow shutter speeds, making shooting in low light a breeze.

Rounding out the video features are a few essential physical benefits, including full size HDMI out, 3.5mm mic and headphone jacks, and a USB-C port. There is also a new Active Cooling System to dissipate heat generated from nonstop recording.

Ultimate Autofocus Precision and Composition Control

Boasting 9 different AF modes, including a new full frame AF mode, the S1H offers ultimate control over your environment. You can fine-tune AF sensitivity to match different conditions and your points are easily selected with the tactile 8-direction joystick. The S1H also maintains the Advanced Depth-from-Defocus technology from the G9, which much better calculates the distance to subjects and adjusts the focusing position with sensor and lens communication occurring at rates up to 480 FPS. This benefits both video and still image shooters.

Compose with the help of an extremely high resolution OLED viewfinder along with the 3.2" fully-articulating touchscreen LCD. The LCD is also 150% brighter than that found in the S1 and S1R. It is equipped with a new mechanical structure so that it can be freely rotated with having to unplug an HDMI or USB cable. Choose between smooth 60 FPS or 120 FPS refresh rates on the viewfinder with no lag. Use the touchscreen LCD with Live View Boost so that you can check composition even in complete darkness or activate night mode for a pleasing, mild backlighting effect that makes monitoring in the dark easier on the eyes. Enlarge and use manual Focus Assist on very small objects, like stars, up to 20x. Check your settings against the large Status LCD along the top panel, which integrates well with control buttons and dials that have been positioned based on a variety of ergonomic studies. These buttons illuminate in the dark as well. There are both front and rear tally lamps for easy recognition of live recording.

Practical Form Factor and Rugged Build

Sealing around every joint, dial, and button ensures splash and dust resistance. Pass-through charging is possible using a USB-C adapter, which is a great feature for long shoots. Dual UHS-II, V90-compatible SD card slots are available for relay recording or for backup (cards not included). An ultra-durable shutter unit can support speeds up to 1/8,000th of a second and flash sync speeds up to 1/320th of a second. The PC sync port not only allows the firing of off-camera flash for photography but doubles as a TC in/out socket with BNC conversion for syncing time code settings with external devices. While bigger and heavier than other mirrorless full frame models, the S1H is rugged enough for a variety of conditions and provides a comfortable grip suitable for long shooting days.

Creative Options for Photographers

Shoot an extended 30 FPS burst and choose the exact set of frames you want for stunning results in 6K Photo Mode or opt for a high-speed 60 FPS capture in 4K Photo Mode. 225 AF points and advanced subject lock-on technology is ideal for wildlife and sports shooters. Shoot up to 9 frames per second in raw format with a 90 frame buffer. Save still images in Hybrid Log-Gamma Photo Mode for vivid playback on 4K screens. Never wash out your scene ever again with the handy Highlight Weighted Metering Mode, which prioritizes highlight values. A new Flat Mode allows photographers to shoot JPEG images with a plain finish that features less contrast and saturation to gain some of the processing control of raw with the expediency of JPEG, which may be useful for those with extremely fast turnaround assignments. Auto White Balance also got enhanced with the addition of Auto White Balance Warm (or AWBw) and Auto White Balance Cool (or AWBc) to give images more red or blue tints according to external lighting conditions. Complementing all these features is a long list of photo style modes, including monochrome and Cinelike D.

The S1H marks a new era for full frame mirrorless cameras offering exceptional video performance. Along with the S1 and S1R, Panasonic introduced a brand new lens mount type. They worked alongside the L Mount Alliance (consisting of Leica and Sigma) to develop high quality L mount lenses (not included) to pair with these cameras. This system features a large 51.6mm mount diameter and a short 20mm flange distance (the distance between a lens' mount and the surface of the sensor). Having larger optical elements very close to the sensor means fewer aberrations, greater brightness, and better image performance overall.

The Panasonic S1H is ideal for those seeking some of the professional qualities of the Varicam and the EVA1 but in a portable and more affordable package that can support the needs of event, narrative, and documentary shooters without giving up the needs of event photographers, making this the ultimate multidisciplinary camera.