Panasonic has announced a significant upgrade to its Lumix S1R full-frame camera, introducing the Lumix S1RII, which now captures 8K video at 30 frames per second. The new camera features a 44.3-megapixel back-side illuminated CMOS sensor, which, although smaller than its predecessor's 47.3-megapixel sensor, offers improved video capabilities and faster autofocus.

The Lumix S1RII's video capabilities are particularly impressive, with the ability to capture 5.8K Apple ProRes RAW HQ or ProRes RAW without the need for an external recorder. This makes it an attractive option for shooters looking for a highly capable hybrid camera. Additionally, the camera can capture full-resolution 12-bit RAW still images at up to 40 frames per second using its electronic shutter, or up to 10 frames per second using its mechanical shutter's "High Speed Plus" mode.

The camera's autofocus system has also been improved, with a faster hybrid autofocus system that introduces phase-detect AF alongside the S1R's contrast AF. This results in improved eye and face detection, as well as better AI-powered tracking accuracy for moving human subjects. The camera can automatically detect and focus on a wide variety of subjects, including animals, cars, motorcycles, bikes, trains, and airplanes.

In terms of image stabilization, the Lumix S1RII offers eight stops of shake reduction, or seven stops when using the camera with a telephoto lens that supports its own image stabilization. When capturing video, the camera features cropless electronic image stabilization with distortion correction, which reduces "peripheral distortion while preserving the original angle of view."

The camera's design has also been revamped, with a smaller and lighter body weighing in at 1.75 pounds, compared to the 2.24 pounds of its predecessor. The Lumix S1RII features a three-inch articulated touchscreen display and an OLED viewfinder, as well as dual card slots for SD USH II and CFexpress Type B cards. Videos can also be captured to an external SSD drive using the camera's 10Gbps USB-C port, and the camera includes a full-sized HDMI port for connecting to a larger display.

The Lumix S1RII is expected to be available in late March, priced at $3,299.99. With its impressive video capabilities, improved autofocus, and compact design, the camera is likely to appeal to professional photographers and videographers looking for a highly capable hybrid camera.

The release of the Lumix S1RII marks a significant milestone in the development of full-frame cameras, and its 8K video capability is likely to set a new standard for the industry. As the demand for high-quality video content continues to grow, cameras like the Lumix S1RII will play an increasingly important role in meeting the needs of creators and professionals alike.