Panasonic unveils significant software upgrades for the Lumix S series cameras, offering enhanced photographic and cinematic capabilities
Panasonic Unveils Major Firmware Updates for Lumix S1 Series Cameras
Panasonic has announced significant firmware updates for its Lumix S1R II, S1 II, and S1 IIE full-frame mirrorless cameras, introducing improvements across video support, autofocus, workflow enhancements, and usability.
In the realm of video support, the Lumix S1R II now offers 8.1K and 7.2K Open Gate (3:2) video recording across the entire sensor range, a feature also available for the S1 II and S1 IIE, albeit with specific resolution details yet to be disclosed. The S1R II can also output RAW video via HDMI for external recording, enhancing cinematic workflows. Both the S1 II and S1 IIE now support ARRI LogC3 color space, with a paid software upgrade (DMW-SFU3A), allowing for better color matching with ARRI cameras.
The autofocus department sees enhancements with the addition of Urban Sports recognition on the S1R II, improving autofocus in fast-paced environments such as breakdancing or skateboarding. Users can also customise AF frame colours across all three models, enhancing usability during shooting.
Several workflow enhancements have been added, including the ability to transfer files directly from CFexpress Type B or SD cards to an external SSD, streamlining workflow efficiency. While outputting RAW video over HDMI, the cameras can record proxy files to internal media, making it easier to manage footage. Support for Capture One tethering via Wi-Fi or wired LAN is added, facilitating seamless data transfer and integration with Capture One software. Bluetooth timecode synchronization allows for more precise synchronization of video recordings across multiple devices.
The updates also bring focus stacking to the S1 II and S1 IIE, a feature that combines multiple shots taken at different focus points to create an image with a deep depth of field. The Lumix S1R II now supports HEIF recording in 10-bit 4:2:0, and manual focus users on the Lumix S1 II and S1 IIE can reverse the rotation direction of the focus ring.
The cameras now support DJI wireless control and compatibility with DJI gimbals, expanding their use in stabilized video setups. The updates also support the "LUMIX Flow" smartphone app, enhancing connectivity and remote control options.
These updates, available starting June 24, 2025, provide significant improvements in video capabilities, autofocus, workflow efficiency, and overall usability for the Lumix S1R II, S1 II, and S1 IIE cameras. The update is particularly significant for the Lumix S1 II and S1 IIE, bringing them closer to the high-end capabilities of the S1R II.
- Panasonic's latest firmware updates for the Lumix S1R II, S1 II, and S1 IIE cameras have brought about improvements in video support, autofocus, workflow enhancements, and usability.
- The Lumix S1R II now offers 8.1K and 7.2K Open Gate (3:2) video recording across the entire sensor range, also available for the S1 II and S1 IIE, but with specific resolution details still undisclosed.
- The Lumix S1R II can now output RAW video via HDMI for external recording, a feature that also allows for better cinematic workflows.
- Both the S1 II and S1 IIE now support ARRI LogC3 color space, with a paid software upgrade (DMW-SFU3A), facilitating better color matching with ARRI cameras.
- The autofocus department has seen enhancements with the addition of Urban Sports recognition on the S1R II, improving autofocus in fast-paced environments.
- Users can now customize AF frame colors across all three models, enhancing usability during shooting.
- Several workflow enhancements have been added, including the ability to transfer files directly from CFexpress Type B or SD cards to an external SSD, streamlining workflow efficiency.
- The cameras now support focus stacking on the S1 II and S1 IIE, a feature that combines multiple shots taken at different focus points to create an image with a deep depth of field.
