S5 refresh was because it's still in production/part of the lineup and EU power requirements for electronics in its class forced the update. Great points!
You just described my same experience. I was a Nikon shooter for many many years, fell in love with a G9, saw the potential LUMIX brought to the Full Frame market. I bought the S1 and the S1R. Autofocus was the Achilles heel. I now find myself entering 2025 and trying to decide if I’m going to stay with LUMIX or make the change to Nikon. With the acquisition of RED and the heritage to back them, Nikon is looking very appealing despite the cost differential. I want something I can use in any weather condition as well.
Glad you could relate! TBH Nikon is looking like my most likely switch too. It’s a bummer Lumix hasn’t been able to keep up to all the potential we saw
I’m waiting until CES to see if they release any official info on their plan for 2025 and lens roadmap before I pull the trigger and make the change to Nikon. I’d love to stay with LUMIX but I need more information and soon.
I'm a true hybrid shooter. I shoot both photo and video for the bulk of my clients, and the S5IIX has been a fantastic camera for that purpose. Obviously it's a great video camera, but it also takes great stills. I can probably go another couple years at least and it will get me by. However, I've been wanting to dip my toe into higher resolution photography, and and it would represent a real growth possibility for my business. I've been watching and waiting for Panasonic to make a move and upgrade their photo offerings, not wanting to move out of the Lumix full frame ecosystem. But if even someone like me is getting impatient, it should be a real sign of trouble for Panasonic, and I hope someone there is paying attention to all of this. At the very least, if they're working on something they should communicate that. This video is a confirmation of the number of people having the exact same thoughts as I am. We know exactly the upgrades we'd like to see addressed and if they're listening to their customers, it should happen, at the very least by Q1 2025. If it doesn't, that's a sign that they aren't listening and maybe it will be time to move on from the brand.
I switched to the Panasonic system for wildlife photography from the Canon system. In general, I regularly change my main camera system. I bought the S5 II and the Sigma 150-600 DG DN thanks to this channel. This is a good combination, but I notice that Panasonic's autofocus is still lagging behind Sony, Canon, and Nikon in photos. That's why I am waiting for new cameras from Sony, Canon or Nikon before leaving Panasonic. Previously, I had an S1 from Panasonic, and it really lacked good autofocus, especially in video. The autofocus of the S5 II is much better, but it still falls short of market leaders. Thank you for your honest opinion. Panasonic is sorely lacking in native wildlife lenses for full-frame cameras. I also had Panasonic micro 4/3 cameras in the past, and when the G9 II came out, I wanted to buy one. But Panasonic does not have a decent lens for micro 4 /3, so the only option is the Panasonic 100 -400, which lags far behind in image quality even with its updated version.
Panasonic is letting Sigma fill the gaps in its lens lineup. For me I shoot with Sigma lenses on my Sony system anyway because I am not going to pay the extra premium for the Sony(and I also hate white lenses.) With MFT there are also OM lenses available, and the reach you get with a MFT lens on the long end can't be reached with a full frame lens without spending around $10,000 or more. Sure the image quality isn't the same as the very expensive lens, but most people don't make enough from those kinds of shots to justify that expensive of a lens. OM has a version of the Sigma 150-600 it sells for MFT.
This ten-minute video is a valid commentary with really good points. Some of us that were using the m43 bodies as a secondary system to our Canon EF systems made the switch to the S1/S1R when they were released and also got the S pro glass, but the focus was on the MC-21 from Sigma and adapting DSLR lenses. The MC-21 turned out to be a fail with the DFD system, but in keeping with the message of expense in changing systems, has remained a central component of the L mount cameras given the uniqueness/value of legacy EF glass. I would say the S1R is still my primary camera after four years of use, and with the S Pro 70-200 and both teleconverters, offers high quality wildlife images and video up to 400 at 5.6, but it is far from ideal in lower light with smaller subjects. I also use an S1, and agree that I am primarily manually focusing using using adapted telephoto lenses from the EF mount (400 2.8/500 4) as well as the Sigma ART lenses for EF. I think the S1R is nearly a perfect camera, but the viewfinder experience shooting with CAF, particularly in low light, is the weakest part of the camera using either native or adapted lenses. I will keep using my two S1R bodies and my S1 until they break, but severely doubt I will invest in any Panasonic gear in the future. One other issue has been the treatment of 'Platinum' tier users in Canada for service and repair, and while I own all the pro L Lumix glass, three of the premium L mount bodies, two pro m43 bodies, and three premium m43 Lumix lenses Panasonic cancelled our memberships in Canada for service but kept billing us the 'Platinum' rates, and this is pretty hard to forgive especially when you have been purchasing at full retail and are one of the first members in the North American program, loyalty counts for nothing with Panasonic. Aside from the two S1R bodies and the S1, I still use a legacy Canon 1DX in low-light for sports/action, and shifted from the G9 and GH6 to using the older Olympus E-M1X with my Lumix m43 glass and the Zuiko 300mm. I Would say that there is nothing limiting about the S1/S1R generally speaking, but unless there is a significant upgrade to the usefulness of the Sigma MC-21 adapter with the PDAF S1R replacement body, I can't see any point in further investment in Panasonic and will likely go back to Canon simply because of the adapter compatibility with my 'old' EF super-telephoto lenses. Having the 400/2.8 and 500/4 already is my bias, and I realize that Sigma/Panasonic will not make money selling me just a body that will fully integrate with legacy glass, but they are so close already I would only ask 'why not' to get the remaining Canon shooters that have not gone to mirrorless yet to go Lumix.
I decided to go Sony a few years back. I spent a ton on lenses and a 61MP high end Sony camera. I have since bought 2 more Panasonic cameras and the Sony usually stays at home. It was a huge disappointment. There were many small features Panasonic has that I just assumed a much more expensive Sony would have. I was wrong. I ended up with a Canon camera at work around that same time. Despite many positive reviews, I found the Canon to be lacking also. Sure there are some good things other manufacturers have, and I do have many complaints about Panasonic's lack of offerings in some areas(I really want a new compact travel MFT camera.) But I am not ready to jump ship again. The grass isn't always greener on the other side of the fence. Also I believe Panasonic does have a new L mount flagship coming out early next year. Rumors suggest it was going to come out this year, but they decided to make some additional changes instead of releasing it.
I hope you’re right about the upcoming release! And I agree, one of my favorite parts about them is that they do have a great attention to detail in the small features and settings that other brands sometimes lack. My experience with Sony in particular is frustrating for that reason. Hope to be able to stick with Panasonic this upcoming year
Rumour is they have the S1RM2 in development but it’s delayed. Supposedly based on the Leica SL3, with 61MP Sony sensor. The sensor is capable of being read much faster than the SL3 can cope with. So I would hope the delay is due to a redesign of the processing pipeline to enable faster continuous burst shooting.
I can understand your frustrations. I have been really happy with Sony until recently, promised an update for the A1 that went live then they removed it because of bugs. The update didn't even bring anything worth while considering it's a flagship camera. It's clear they are protecting their A1 II that is announced in a few days instead of actually helping out customers who purchased their flagship camera.
Yea I can understand that. I think that’s been a downfall of Sony for a while is that they are known to never give any notable firmware upgrades. Each camera brand seems to have their frustrations haha
I'm not that sure about the A1 II. Everything would be the same without it. They've been making the RX10 IV for seven years and haven't upgraded anything. It's more about Sony's conservatism and their general 'if it ain't broke, don't fix it' approach to product releases. Each of their new cameras gets better and even the lower-ones can get innovations first, but It's better to get them as soon as they are released or get them used.
Thanks for the video and explanation. I have been shooting Panasonic m4/3 since 2012. Mostly with consumer bodies (don't ask me why), but for a recent trip to Canada I upgraded to a G9ii and it really surprised me. Yes, low light is still not good - but not dramatically bad. Auto focus is accurate, although sometimes slow to acquire. I didn't have a lot of wildlife to shoot except for birds, but came home with some excellent images (I'm not a professional, so I don't have to sell anything so my excellent is probably not your excellent). But for all other images it was really amazing. I even managed handheld waterfall shots with 1 second shutterspeeds that are totally acceptable. Before the trip I also looked into Canon and Nikon. I would have loved the Z8 with the 180-600, but that is a seriously bulky, heavy and expensive combo. However, if I do decide to upgrade to fullframe, it will be Canon or Nikon.
A very honest review of Panasonic as a camera company. I’ve shot with the G9 for the past 5 years, I’ve enjoyed using it. The focusing has always been a bugbear, it was adequate for landscapes but now I do wildlife I needs something better and more accurate. I’m looking at FF cameras the s5ii would be great but is let down by a totally inadequate lens selection. I am looking at canon and Nikon now, probably going for the z6iii in January. Thanks.
Good to hear your thoughts as well! The G9 was a great piece for me when I was using it, just as time goes on and things get better it gets hard to ignore the better options out there now. Hope your next purchase goes well!
Respect bro. You make excellent, very valid points. I am a Panasonic shooter (and Leica) as well. I have been waiting since the Leica SL3 dropped for Panasonic's high res full frame offering. I thought it would have took just a few mos after the Leica release. But nope...Still nothing. Not even a hint or announcement "something is coming" Just the typical corporate line of "I can't talk about future products" from the Lumix live youtube dude. L mount rumors said something would be coming in either June, September, or November and it turns out that was wrong. Having a 2019 contrast detect only flagship camera in almost 2025 is ridiculous. I mostly use my S5IIx for video, and my S1R for stills. I really want a higher than 24mp hybrid camera I can use for both. I like the video capabilities of Panasonic, but like you are frustrated Lumix is very laser focused on the video market customer. Not to mention when I'm out shooting stills with it, other photographers treat Lumix like a step below Sony, Nikon, or Canon. Moving on, I am considering dumping all my Lumix gear for the Nikon Z system which has come a long way since the S1R came out. The Z8 seems to have very robust features for video and is great for stills and has good AF. I don't care about open gate or shutter angle for video. I don't use it. Nikon now owning RED is promising too for video being top notch with them. I will be listing my Panasonic Lumix full frame gear for sale later this month if no announcement for a S1 series flagship is made soon. Thanks for making this video.
Thank you! Glad it was able to be valuable for you in your own choices rn. I agree that it is sad it's been so dry for so many years and without clear direction of what's going on. I know many others have been in the same boat as me, waiting for what was supposed to come and never did. Z8 has definitely been on my radar too, highly debating purchasing that camera next.
This is why I shoot Panasonic and Sony. Sony pretty much has every lens under the sun. Panasonic has most of what I need with a few less options, yet the quality of that selection is very good.
I have the Panasonic S1R with the Panasonic 70-200 2.8 and the sigma 27-70 2.8. I love the high mega pixels with the S1r. I am hoping they come out with a high res camera soon. Im holding off on purchasing the sigma 50mm and 85mm until I see what they are coming out with. If nothing happens soon I will try to sell all of my equipment and go with the canon r5 ( the first one) which is still a good camera.
Even my oldy G80 with the Leica 200/2.8 and 1.4 TC is a very good set. Maybe I struggle a little bit with BIF, but overall the IQ is excellent and the size and weight are on the lower side if we are speaking about wildlife photography.
I have a Z8 and G9 II. The Z8 cost twice as much as the G9 II, so I won't fault the G9 II's AF tracking very much, but I will just say that this is the only thing for me I'd like improved on the G9 II...I mean, if the Sony a6400 can have such nice continuous AF tracking for just $850 today (Nov 2024) with a lens included, surely Panasonic can improve their AF tracking. What am I talking about specifically? Well, on the Z8 for example, the '3D Tracking' box is pretty small and that lets me select a very specific target to lock on to (and I'm not talking about action photos, just focus/recompose), but on the G9 II, the AF tracking box is pretty big, so I can't really pick out a small subject like a specific leave in a group of leaves. It ends up locking on to the wrong target, so I can't really use AF tracking like I prefer to use today (almost always for just focus/recompose). If it weren't for Sony offering such a cheap camera (a6400) with better continuous AF tracking, then I'd be more willing to 'forgive' Panasonic for this one thing I personally would like improved. Again, the Z8 is twice the price of the G9 II, so I shouldn't compare those two, but since I own both, I have to. The Z8 locks on to almost 'contrastless' and very small subjects/specific areas and holds on for dear life (in my basic focus/recompose example I spoke of)...and I just wish Panasonic could improve a little here. At the very least, make the AF tracking box smaller so I can pick smaller targets and confirm it's really focused on what I want. That being said, I really enjoy the G9 II as is and that's the only thing I'd want improved for my own use.
I heard a talk from a Panasonic representative who suggested to stick to 1-area for focus tracking and to leave the AF-tracking settings at factory default. Apparently many people are having trouble with "1area +" doing unexpected things, and carrying over AF tracking settings from previous cameras is leading to unwanted behavior.
I only use full frame as a secondary system for my work, so honestly I would appreciate a higher resolution (35+ Mpx), actually stills-focused camera (as opposed to the very hybrid G9ii). But maybe there are physical reasons why they aren't exactly making leaps in resolution.
Yea, I think it mostly comes down to noise control. Already a complaint on MFT, trying to cram 35MP into a smaller sensor space is only going to make it that much worse in low light. That would be my assumption why they don’t do it. Clearly it could be done as phones have already crammed even more pixels into even a smaller space
@@JeremyNeipp Well, when it comes to noise correlating with resolution (at a given sensor size), DPReview made a "debunking" video about a year ago. It is possible that is the case though.
I'm brand agnostic and pretty happy with the G9II + 200mm f2.8 and other PL primes. Just getting into macro right now... Especially for an undecided amateur like me, I think the system is great and relatively budget friendly. I could see how the high end is lacking. I'm more in the camp that would like to see a new GM5 and longer tele primes for MFT.
Nikon is in the running for sure, primarily because of their super telephoto lens selection 👌 Sony is probably my other biggest runner up rn. Leaning away from Canon, Fuji, or any MFT.
I have an S5II, and I am interested in macro photography, Lumix 100/2.8 seems to be a great all around macro and mid-tele prime for the weight from my might better but manual focus Laowa 86/5.6, but I am holding for the S1 series body and new sensor too, it is not that I don't like Lumix or I need a high price flagship camera, but I feel a bit uncertain of the Lumix's future, I want them to use the flagship camera as the statement they can stay for at least quite some years. BTW, I really like the concept of S9 as I also appreciate Sony A7C II, but it really doesn't work for me with the cold shoe and no shutter ---- that's impossible for flash light macro shot.
I am planning a very similar video, I was very disheartened at Panasonics' recent announcement, foolishly hoping that after 6 years, the S1 line would finally be getting an upgrade. I have heard grumblings of Q1, but after waiting 1 year longer than I originally said I would I'm going to be using the time to save money at the end of March I'll be trading in my Lumix gear. The R6II and Z6III are likely to be my next cameras. That being said, I do love my S5II and prefer the Lumix experience. However, the camera doesn't completely meet my needs. 4k60 crop and slow sensor speed are two reasons.
I feel the same as you, love the Lumix experience, but the S5II is just a little too below my needs level as a pro. Hope this changes within the next few months or I’ll probably be in the same shoes as you!
I've been shooting on the Panasonic S5II for the last year or so and it's a fun camera that gets the job done. But I've been taking wildlife photography more seriously and I've been eyeing the S1R but i can't help but feel Panasonic should be coming out with a true flagship. Maybe an S1R II?
I agree. Was reeeeally hoping Panasonic stepped up with an updated higher resolution FF. Ended up trying Sony A7IV (sold) and Nikon Z8 (returned) and even Z6iii (rented). Compared to my G9, ergonomics were terrible on Sony and not great on Z8. Z6iii was decent but I wasn’t very happy with image results. Finally landed on Canon R52 with its (IMO) Goldilocks level form factor and handling. Not happy with Canons lens pricing, but that’s the trade off. Z8 probably had best IQ of the bunch, but lenses were literally falling off the body and the replacement body never felt secure compared to others. I wish LUMIX would release a FF in the GH body, but like Jeremy I really got tired of waiting on Panasonic to catch up.
I own a S1R but af isn’t fast enough anymore. Also I have every s-pro lens. It’s time for Panasonic to deliver a new s1r. I get frustrated to the point that I want to change system.
Both OM Systems and Panasonic have the same problem actually in MFT because al that they have done is big camera bodies and completely ignored doing something modern in the compact/semi pro camera space- the reason many got in to MFT in the first place- small and light.
Decent point, but most the weight in wildlife photography comes from those brutal super telephoto lenses anyways, which do weigh lighter on MFT systems
@@JeremyNeipp True, but the main reason of m43rds to exist was small and light as both Olympus and Panasonic announced back then. If they can't cater to that main distinction, it brings the question if the wildlife market for m43rds is really that profitable and big. For Panasonic the answer has been they have chased the indie film maker market, while OM systems has gone all wildlife. Not the way for MFT as a format to move forward imho. It keeps shrinking its base.
I just switched a week ago to Nikon after waiting years for a new S1, more s pro primes and +400mm zooms or primes. They just didnt release anything pro in the last 5 years
Really well-explained points. It’s disappointing that Panasonic can’t (or is choosing not to) keep up with the big three. Like Jeremy said, they have so much potential as a brand. I love my Panasonic G95… it’s nearly perfect for amateurs like me who do wildlife photography as a hobby, and it has a lot of great features for the price.
I am a bit surprised. S5 II shoots 30fps, with good enough lens it is said to have incredible AF, very good IBIS, best resolving power of all 24Mpix cameras on the market, veru good DR and very detailed 6k video. Granted, it has bad rolling shutter and lacks slow motion. But for the lenses...? You always praised Sigma 60-600mm DG DN, Sigma 135mm 1.8. Frankly speaking Sigma lenses alone (some DSLR and most mirrorless come with L-mount) have you covered for most application. But I get it. L-mount lack big telephoto primes. This is a market where they have no chance biting any of the big three. That would be a waste of their R&D. If only Sigma redo their 500mm f4 S for L-mount and make it work more reliably with their TCs, that would be wonderfull.
I think if this wasn’t my “profession” I’d be willing to wait it out even longer. The S5II is like 75% of the way there in my opinion, but it’s 4k 60 with the crop bothers me, the mechanical burst rates are too slow, and I sometimes find myself really wanting more than 24MP, and for those reasons I feel a need to upgrade so that I can deliver at the high standards required of my nowadays. Also, an updated AF would be nice.
go canon! I went fuji, sony, canon, sony and landed at Hasselblad and s5IIx. Depends on what's important! good luck. Canon should be killer for AF tracking if that's your game which is it :) and resolution.
I've been debating a lot between the big 3. Ultimately, might come down to what releases next year, but currently Canon is looking appealing with some of their bodies, Nikon looks appealing particularly because of their lenses, and Sony is appealing with their L Mount capability for me. Tough decision!
There should be a Lumix version of the Leica SL3 that was released 8 months ago. The Leica SL2 was released 9 months before the S1R, maybe the Lumix will follow the SL3 on a similar schedule,. Has something changed since your review of the S1R three years ago? Has Canon, Sony or Nikon released a camera that has better handling, color, basically takes better photos? Which one would it be? Didn't think so. If Panasonic comes out with a S1Rii with the new autofocus and 60 mp sensor, I will likely get one.
Unfortunately, in the 5 years I’ve owned the S1R a lot has changed which is why I’m frustrated. All the big 3 names have made strides in IQ, AF, and Burst Rates that puts the S1R to shame, mostly the AF above all. But hope this will change soon!
IMO (big disclaimer 😂) , Panasonic doesn’t do budget super telephotos for wildlife because that is what m4/3 is for. I imagine at their spot in the market they can’t get away with making a 15k 600mm f4, and they may make a 100-500, but it won’t be much cheaper than the canon rf one. I don’t think it’s easy to compete with canon/nikon/sony market, I doubt anybody that is spending 20k usd on camera and lens, or 10k (for just photography) , even thinks about panasonic FF. They may get curious with m4/3 as a format because of the size and price, the few people that I know that have switched do it because of that.
I think that’s a valid point. I think they may not care to pursue keeping up with those other brands and wanting the invest to try, so they might just be keeping focus on MFT. Bummer that for someone like me that doesn’t work out!
@@JeremyNeipp Yeah, that's what is keeping me off the L-Mount. Even if the rumor of the 100-500 is true, they still need a 300mm f2.8, 400mm f.2.8, 600mm f4. I'm thinking of going Nikon because they have affordable wildlife primes (400f4, 600 f6.3). I imagine Sony is appealing to you because then you can still use the L sigma lenses with their mount conversion. Good luck! really excited to see what you end up choosing.
I think at this point it’s obvious that they’ll release S1 successors. Leica releasing multiple 60mp bodies with PDAF and “L2 technology” (aka Pana tech in Leica clothes) is one clear sign. G9ii and GH7 another. Two flagships for M43. FF to come. My hope is that it takes a bit longer because getting the new sensor plus new processor and new AF updates together takes some time :)
s5iix user. I agree with what you say. Lately I've been furious with Panasonic. The latest firmware gave new features to the s9 and not to the s5ii/s5iix. Some even report (as a result of internal information?) that there is supposedly a "technical" problem AND THEY CANNOT give the AF features (like pdaf at 1080p, at 50 and 100p) to the s5iix/s5ii, like the s9!!! Something like Sony? But if that's the case, why shouldn't I be in the Sony ecosystem? Seriously now, based on current data, it's most likely that I'll move to Sony, waiting for the a7v, or the a7siv. I predict Panasonic's financial collapse in 2025.
Really great points and honestly confusing why Panasonic have neglected their Full Frame Line-Up like this. The G9 II shows that they can build cameras with great autofocus, very high frame rates and more. A successor to the S1X with these features would be awesome, no idea why they take so long…
I'm going to tell you 100% truth about Panasonic. The reason they did not want to add phase detection is because older Sony sensors had really bad artifacts with back light when the light is low. Search Sony A7ii striping issue. It's the Sony A7iii the poster made a mistake. The Nikon Z6 had striping issues. Fuji and Olympus have a grid problem. I've gotten the grid artifacts with my Olympus OMD E-M1ii on wedding photos. The Sony A7R5 was also reported with striping issue. But it seems the older sensors it was really bad. Panasonic did not want to add phase detection when so many people used their cameras for filmmaking. Canon has no artifacts with dual pixel technology their version of phase detection. Also the Olympus OMD E-M1ii had preburst before the Panasonic Lumix G9. I think Panasonic will have more newer full frame cameras in 2025.
Didn’t know about the Olympus camera having it before the G9. I know the G9 was marketed as the first ever mirrorless camera to have pre-burst, so I wonder what the distinction was that made them claim that. In regards to the grid artifacts, I don’t think that’s why Panasonic has kept away from Phase Detect. My S1R was DFD focus, yet it has grid artifacting as well pretty severely in some specific scenarios, so clearly it was already a problem before the AF update
@ I know my Olympus OMD E-M5 does not have the grid artifacts and that camera is just phase detection. It does get a ugly purple blob with light coming in low. I'm goes to check on the Olympus OMD E-M1ii about preburst. I think it does?
All these years with Panasonic to get where they are today, especially with "great Phase detect AF", and you're talking about leaving for another brand! Crazy talk to spending crazy money man! The G9II, GH7, and the S5IIx are BEST in CLASS! Best IBIS, BEST MENUS, BEST PRICED, BEST VIDEO QUALITY (under TEN GRAND), with INTERNAL ProRes RAW/ProRes RAW HQ ... and TONS of other features you don't find in other cameras at these price points. The G9II with a 1.4 teleconverter and the 100-400 lens is the BEST IN CLASS for WILDLIFE BAR-NONE! It's a Nature lovers DREAM CAMERA for size, weight, and cost with a reach over 1100mm! With NEW SOFTWARE in sharpening and grain reduction, it's possible to make your images taken from this combo as good as a large Medium Format Sensor in good light. ONCE you have this combo, WHY would anyone go out and spend more money to carry another camera and gear to carry twice the size and weight, spending even more money foolishly? Why would anyone SWITCH form this? Never have I had a Client say to me... my images weren't sharp, or the footage wasn't excellent. Good luck with that Mate
Just to clarify, I've been (and still am) a big fan of Panasonic in many ways. But I've used each setup you mentioned and I think you are severely overhyping your gear. If you have some experience with other cameras you'll start to notice some of the shortcomings. It's very farfetched to say that G9II, GH7, S5IIx, and 100-400 are all "best in class". There is a reason they are drastically cheaper than other gear pieces.
Did Panasonic ever market their full frame cameras to wildlife photographers? They are fantastic for many things including outdoor landscapes, and the new macro looks like a winner. In all likelihood the S1 replacement will have the same 60mpx sensor as the Leicas and Sony A7R cameras. This is a nice sensor and I’m sure it will be a nice camera, but slow and not optimal for wildlife. Unless Panasonic has been able to source an alternative sensor, time to look elsewhere if wildlife is your focus.
They haven’t for a while you’re correct, but they aren’t too far off. I dont think it would be too hard for them to make the adjustments needed in their bodies, problem is possibly a lack of incentive.
If it hinders your ability to maximize your income as a photographer, you should look elsewhere. I don't see the need to jump ship for someone like myself who is just getting into photography/videography. I just bought the S5IIX, and it came with 2 lenses, 20-60mm and 85mm, for $2100. purchased a 35mm and 70-300 for a little under $800 from Marketplace. I bought a brand new 50mm from eBay for a little over $200. I just bought a Sigma 150-600mm sports for $1K. All that for ~ $5000. I doubt my money would get me all those from any other brand.
@@the_hateful_ben April is NAB. Lumix WILL be there and....let's just say that all I'm saying is that our RUclipsr should stick around a little while longer. That's all ;-)
Anyone who complains about Panasonic autofocus should first read the Lumix AF Guidebooks. Will it make a CDAF system the exact equivalent of a PDAF system? No, but it will allow one to understand and optimize the use of the Panasonic DFD system. I shoot with GX8s, GX9s and G9 and an S1R. Reading the guide and fine tuning the AF settings for one's use cases makes a big difference.
These are good points and references, and true to my experience. The viewfinder experience with a camera like the S1R and continuous AF is a real challenge compared to a DSLR or PDAF, but the focus is there with the 1DX and E-M1X for speed and accuracy, but the stuttering in the viewfinder is tiring with the DFD working at high speed. The other issue is subject size, and if you are focal length limited the AF has challenges acquiring small subjects like birds which is limiting compared to other new systems. While it takes some time to optimize the DFD settings, they are very accurate and fast, and even resorting to single-point C-AF will provide precisely focused images of sports and action similar to other flagship cameras.
I have read through them, played with my AF settings for quite a long time, and can still vouch for their DFD being very poor in comparison when it comes to wildlife photography and creatively styled images. In certain situations you’re correct, it’s lightning fast. But accuracy is much more important to me then being a 1/10th of a second faster than other brands, and in that category, they fail.
People seem to forget that Panasonic have a miniscule market share of like 1 to 2 per cent. It's hard to see which is worse, MFT or L-mount. Flagship GH7 is manufactured like 1000 pcs a month (and sales appear to be slow). Likely they are loosing money on every camera body sold. That's why we see a lot of reused components like the G9M2 in a S5M2 body or the GH7 which is basically a G9M2 in a GH6 body with added firmware fluff. Realistically Panasonic need to put out a high end L-mount with PDAF just to survive at all, but financials are probably stretched, thus they can not output 10 new bodies a year like Sony.
Panasonic hat keinAufstieg.Der Mft bereich und auch Vollformat werden konsequent vernachlässigt. Mft Kompakte wertige Kameras gibt es gar nicht mehr.Das ist ein Zeichen das Mft bald stirbt. Und im Vollformatsekment wird die S1 S1R nicht ersetzt. Es muß nicht alle zwei Jahre eine neue Kamera kommen,aber von Zeit zu Zeit muß Modellpflege betrieben werden damit die Verbraucher sehen das es weiter geht und auch in Objektive investieren. Passiert dies nicht steigen die Verbraucher auf andere zuverlässigere Hersteller um. Es ist einfach zu teuer in ein unsicheres System zu investieren. Daran scheint Panasonic nicht zu denken. Im Mft System hätte man mit einer durchdachten Kompakten GX9 II mehr Geld verdienen können als mit einer aufgewerteten GH7. Die Verbraucher sehnen sich nach einer Komakten Mft und Panasonic reagiert nicht. Somit erklären sich die Wahnsinnigen Gewinne von Fujifilm.Die wissen wie man Kameras verkauft. Gruß
Pretty surprising, you make so many videos praising things when it makes no sense. All of your videos about sticking to manual focus for wildlife photography when other brands had way better options, they never made any sense. It’s actually not hard to switch brands. I’ve done many, many times pretty easily on Facebook marketplace. When it comes to m43, the g9ii and native lens options are very good and offer more than Olympus does. Now, the s5ii comes out, it kicks total butt and they stay committed to big firmware updates that have really kept the camera competing at a high level… and you make this video complaining.. for what? RUclips views, clearly. The features you say you’re missing are all very superficial and let’s not act like you haven’t heard about the imminent S1R mkii coming out. I would be that within a month we start seeing confirmation of the specs and then you make another video all eager for Lumix again. Lens wise? That’s the advantage of the L mount. Having just bought a sigma 500 5.6 (in part, because of seeing some of the work you’ve posted with it) I find it kinda wild that you’re speaking as if we’re pressed for lens options. Leica makes the 100-400, or sigma makes this beautiful prime. Canon and Nikon can’t compete with the 500 5.6 and Sony significantly handicaps the lens. Every brand has some major facepalm decisions. I understand the RUclips algorithms, but this is just content farming and I find that disappointing. I’ve appreciated your narrative approach to videos and feel let down with this clickbait. If you’re going to switch brands, (after all of your previous concerns had been addressed) then just switch brands. Don’t make a video complaining about it to get more engagement. For the money and weight, there’s nothing close to an s5ii and 500 5.6 except maybe a z6iii and 400 4.5 and look how long Nikon took to release that body.
It’s sad to hear your comment interpreting all the worst of my intentions, you’re welcome to leave the channel and unsubscribe. However, as you’ll see by many other comments, the high majority of people find this struggle relatable and appreciated me making this video. I also disagree with most all the points you made. Lens selection is not better on FF or MFT. Olympus far outdoes Panasonic in lens availability in MFT although I like the G9II more than the OM1. In FF, Sony and Nikon have better lens selection, Canon, debatable as I feel like they miss the middle gap of super telephoto lens budgets. In regards to MF, I still stand by that being an incredibly important skill to learn as no AF system is perfect, but I’d like for my AF to be at least usable, which the S1R’s is not in wildlife, and the S5II lacks some flagship qualities I really care about. Releasing a video like this puts pressure on Lumix to craft a better camera for us wildlife photographers and to see how many other people relate, so that’s why I create it. Not for “view farming”.
![Seungmin "그렇게, 천천히, 우리(As we are)" | [Stray Kids : SKZ-PLAYER]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/kAzmhLHePqU/mqdefault.jpg)
S5 refresh was because it's still in production/part of the lineup and EU power requirements for electronics in its class forced the update.
Great points!
s5d also works with the dji lidar autofocus thingy, whereas the og s5 doesnt.
That makes sense! Thanks for the info 🙌🏻
You just described my same experience. I was a Nikon shooter for many many years, fell in love with a G9, saw the potential LUMIX brought to the Full Frame market. I bought the S1 and the S1R. Autofocus was the Achilles heel.
I now find myself entering 2025 and trying to decide if I’m going to stay with LUMIX or make the change to Nikon. With the acquisition of RED and the heritage to back them, Nikon is looking very appealing despite the cost differential. I want something I can use in any weather condition as well.
Glad you could relate! TBH Nikon is looking like my most likely switch too. It’s a bummer Lumix hasn’t been able to keep up to all the potential we saw
I’m waiting until CES to see if they release any official info on their plan for 2025 and lens roadmap before I pull the trigger and make the change to Nikon. I’d love to stay with LUMIX but I need more information and soon.
I'm a true hybrid shooter. I shoot both photo and video for the bulk of my clients, and the S5IIX has been a fantastic camera for that purpose. Obviously it's a great video camera, but it also takes great stills. I can probably go another couple years at least and it will get me by. However, I've been wanting to dip my toe into higher resolution photography, and and it would represent a real growth possibility for my business. I've been watching and waiting for Panasonic to make a move and upgrade their photo offerings, not wanting to move out of the Lumix full frame ecosystem. But if even someone like me is getting impatient, it should be a real sign of trouble for Panasonic, and I hope someone there is paying attention to all of this. At the very least, if they're working on something they should communicate that. This video is a confirmation of the number of people having the exact same thoughts as I am. We know exactly the upgrades we'd like to see addressed and if they're listening to their customers, it should happen, at the very least by Q1 2025. If it doesn't, that's a sign that they aren't listening and maybe it will be time to move on from the brand.
Glad to hear you share your thoughts on this. We share the same mindset 🙌🏻
I switched to the Panasonic system for wildlife photography from the Canon system. In general, I regularly change my main camera system. I bought the S5 II and the Sigma 150-600 DG DN thanks to this channel. This is a good combination, but I notice that Panasonic's autofocus is still lagging behind Sony, Canon, and Nikon in photos. That's why I am waiting for new cameras from Sony, Canon or Nikon before leaving Panasonic.
Previously, I had an S1 from Panasonic, and it really lacked good autofocus, especially in video. The autofocus of the S5 II is much better, but it still falls short of market leaders. Thank you for your honest opinion. Panasonic is sorely lacking in native wildlife lenses for full-frame cameras. I also had Panasonic micro 4/3 cameras in the past, and when the G9 II came out, I wanted to buy one. But Panasonic does not have a decent lens for micro 4 /3, so the only option is the Panasonic 100 -400, which lags far behind in image quality even with its updated version.
Appreciate your feedback and glad this video was valued 🙌🏻 I’m pretty much in the exact same spot as you. Best of wishes on your upcoming decisions!
Panasonic is letting Sigma fill the gaps in its lens lineup. For me I shoot with Sigma lenses on my Sony system anyway because I am not going to pay the extra premium for the Sony(and I also hate white lenses.) With MFT there are also OM lenses available, and the reach you get with a MFT lens on the long end can't be reached with a full frame lens without spending around $10,000 or more. Sure the image quality isn't the same as the very expensive lens, but most people don't make enough from those kinds of shots to justify that expensive of a lens. OM has a version of the Sigma 150-600 it sells for MFT.
@@JeremyNeipp I sold my S5 ii and bought a Canon R5
This ten-minute video is a valid commentary with really good points. Some of us that were using the m43 bodies as a secondary system to our Canon EF systems made the switch to the S1/S1R when they were released and also got the S pro glass, but the focus was on the MC-21 from Sigma and adapting DSLR lenses. The MC-21 turned out to be a fail with the DFD system, but in keeping with the message of expense in changing systems, has remained a central component of the L mount cameras given the uniqueness/value of legacy EF glass.
I would say the S1R is still my primary camera after four years of use, and with the S Pro 70-200 and both teleconverters, offers high quality wildlife images and video up to 400 at 5.6, but it is far from ideal in lower light with smaller subjects. I also use an S1, and agree that I am primarily manually focusing using using adapted telephoto lenses from the EF mount (400 2.8/500 4) as well as the Sigma ART lenses for EF.
I think the S1R is nearly a perfect camera, but the viewfinder experience shooting with CAF, particularly in low light, is the weakest part of the camera using either native or adapted lenses. I will keep using my two S1R bodies and my S1 until they break, but severely doubt I will invest in any Panasonic gear in the future.
One other issue has been the treatment of 'Platinum' tier users in Canada for service and repair, and while I own all the pro L Lumix glass, three of the premium L mount bodies, two pro m43 bodies, and three premium m43 Lumix lenses Panasonic cancelled our memberships in Canada for service but kept billing us the 'Platinum' rates, and this is pretty hard to forgive especially when you have been purchasing at full retail and are one of the first members in the North American program, loyalty counts for nothing with Panasonic.
Aside from the two S1R bodies and the S1, I still use a legacy Canon 1DX in low-light for sports/action, and shifted from the G9 and GH6 to using the older Olympus E-M1X with my Lumix m43 glass and the Zuiko 300mm. I Would say that there is nothing limiting about the S1/S1R generally speaking, but unless there is a significant upgrade to the usefulness of the Sigma MC-21 adapter with the PDAF S1R replacement body, I can't see any point in further investment in Panasonic and will likely go back to Canon simply because of the adapter compatibility with my 'old' EF super-telephoto lenses. Having the 400/2.8 and 500/4 already is my bias, and I realize that Sigma/Panasonic will not make money selling me just a body that will fully integrate with legacy glass, but they are so close already I would only ask 'why not' to get the remaining Canon shooters that have not gone to mirrorless yet to go Lumix.
Glad you found it valuable. Thanks for sharing your experience and perspective as well! Sad to hear you were treated that way
I decided to go Sony a few years back. I spent a ton on lenses and a 61MP high end Sony camera. I have since bought 2 more Panasonic cameras and the Sony usually stays at home. It was a huge disappointment. There were many small features Panasonic has that I just assumed a much more expensive Sony would have. I was wrong. I ended up with a Canon camera at work around that same time. Despite many positive reviews, I found the Canon to be lacking also. Sure there are some good things other manufacturers have, and I do have many complaints about Panasonic's lack of offerings in some areas(I really want a new compact travel MFT camera.) But I am not ready to jump ship again. The grass isn't always greener on the other side of the fence. Also I believe Panasonic does have a new L mount flagship coming out early next year. Rumors suggest it was going to come out this year, but they decided to make some additional changes instead of releasing it.
I hope you’re right about the upcoming release! And I agree, one of my favorite parts about them is that they do have a great attention to detail in the small features and settings that other brands sometimes lack. My experience with Sony in particular is frustrating for that reason. Hope to be able to stick with Panasonic this upcoming year
Try the Olympuse Om1 MKII and use all your lenses. You won't loose anything by trying it. Thank you for your video!
Rumour is they have the S1RM2 in development but it’s delayed. Supposedly based on the Leica SL3, with 61MP Sony sensor. The sensor is capable of being read much faster than the SL3 can cope with. So I would hope the delay is due to a redesign of the processing pipeline to enable faster continuous burst shooting.
Would love to see those rumors come to life 🙌🏻
I can understand your frustrations. I have been really happy with Sony until recently, promised an update for the A1 that went live then they removed it because of bugs. The update didn't even bring anything worth while considering it's a flagship camera. It's clear they are protecting their A1 II that is announced in a few days instead of actually helping out customers who purchased their flagship camera.
Yea I can understand that. I think that’s been a downfall of Sony for a while is that they are known to never give any notable firmware upgrades. Each camera brand seems to have their frustrations haha
I'm not that sure about the A1 II. Everything would be the same without it. They've been making the RX10 IV for seven years and haven't upgraded anything. It's more about Sony's conservatism and their general 'if it ain't broke, don't fix it' approach to product releases. Each of their new cameras gets better and even the lower-ones can get innovations first, but It's better to get them as soon as they are released or get them used.
Thanks for the video and explanation. I have been shooting Panasonic m4/3 since 2012. Mostly with consumer bodies (don't ask me why), but for a recent trip to Canada I upgraded to a G9ii and it really surprised me. Yes, low light is still not good - but not dramatically bad. Auto focus is accurate, although sometimes slow to acquire. I didn't have a lot of wildlife to shoot except for birds, but came home with some excellent images (I'm not a professional, so I don't have to sell anything so my excellent is probably not your excellent). But for all other images it was really amazing. I even managed handheld waterfall shots with 1 second shutterspeeds that are totally acceptable. Before the trip I also looked into Canon and Nikon. I would have loved the Z8 with the 180-600, but that is a seriously bulky, heavy and expensive combo. However, if I do decide to upgrade to fullframe, it will be Canon or Nikon.
Good to hear your experience 🙌🏻
A very honest review of Panasonic as a camera company. I’ve shot with the G9 for the past 5 years, I’ve enjoyed using it. The focusing has always been a bugbear, it was adequate for landscapes but now I do wildlife I needs something better and more accurate. I’m looking at FF cameras the s5ii would be great but is let down by a totally inadequate lens selection. I am looking at canon and Nikon now, probably going for the z6iii in January. Thanks.
Good to hear your thoughts as well! The G9 was a great piece for me when I was using it, just as time goes on and things get better it gets hard to ignore the better options out there now. Hope your next purchase goes well!
Respect bro. You make excellent, very valid points. I am a Panasonic shooter (and Leica) as well. I have been waiting since the Leica SL3 dropped for Panasonic's high res full frame offering. I thought it would have took just a few mos after the Leica release. But nope...Still nothing. Not even a hint or announcement "something is coming" Just the typical corporate line of "I can't talk about future products" from the Lumix live youtube dude. L mount rumors said something would be coming in either June, September, or November and it turns out that was wrong. Having a 2019 contrast detect only flagship camera in almost 2025 is ridiculous. I mostly use my S5IIx for video, and my S1R for stills. I really want a higher than 24mp hybrid camera I can use for both. I like the video capabilities of Panasonic, but like you are frustrated Lumix is very laser focused on the video market customer. Not to mention when I'm out shooting stills with it, other photographers treat Lumix like a step below Sony, Nikon, or Canon.
Moving on, I am considering dumping all my Lumix gear for the Nikon Z system which has come a long way since the S1R came out. The Z8 seems to have very robust features for video and is great for stills and has good AF. I don't care about open gate or shutter angle for video. I don't use it. Nikon now owning RED is promising too for video being top notch with them. I will be listing my Panasonic Lumix full frame gear for sale later this month if no announcement for a S1 series flagship is made soon. Thanks for making this video.
Thank you! Glad it was able to be valuable for you in your own choices rn. I agree that it is sad it's been so dry for so many years and without clear direction of what's going on. I know many others have been in the same boat as me, waiting for what was supposed to come and never did. Z8 has definitely been on my radar too, highly debating purchasing that camera next.
Completely and utterly agree. Panasonic MUST release a flagship camera in 2025. We need the S1RII asap.
Time is ticking! I hope we see them move quickly.
This is why I shoot Panasonic and Sony. Sony pretty much has every lens under the sun. Panasonic has most of what I need with a few less options, yet the quality of that selection is very good.
I think the S5II + sigma 500mm f5.6 + 1.4X TC is a good combo,
It is a pretty good combo! I enjoyed my experience with the S5II and 500 5.6, just find myself still want more out of my body
I have the Panasonic S1R with the Panasonic 70-200 2.8 and the sigma 27-70 2.8. I love the high mega pixels with the S1r. I am hoping they come out with a high res camera soon. Im holding off on purchasing the sigma 50mm and 85mm until I see what they are coming out with. If nothing happens soon I will try to sell all of my equipment and go with the canon r5 ( the first one) which is still a good camera.
Love those lenses too! I’ve always loved Sigma lenses
A G9 II and a Leica 200mm f2.8 is a dream combo for nature photography imho
Depends on the subject, but for many situations it can be good!
Even my oldy G80 with the Leica 200/2.8 and 1.4 TC is a very good set. Maybe I struggle a little bit with BIF, but overall the IQ is excellent and the size and weight are on the lower side if we are speaking about wildlife photography.
I have a Z8 and G9 II. The Z8 cost twice as much as the G9 II, so I won't fault the G9 II's AF tracking very much, but I will just say that this is the only thing for me I'd like improved on the G9 II...I mean, if the Sony a6400 can have such nice continuous AF tracking for just $850 today (Nov 2024) with a lens included, surely Panasonic can improve their AF tracking. What am I talking about specifically? Well, on the Z8 for example, the '3D Tracking' box is pretty small and that lets me select a very specific target to lock on to (and I'm not talking about action photos, just focus/recompose), but on the G9 II, the AF tracking box is pretty big, so I can't really pick out a small subject like a specific leave in a group of leaves. It ends up locking on to the wrong target, so I can't really use AF tracking like I prefer to use today (almost always for just focus/recompose). If it weren't for Sony offering such a cheap camera (a6400) with better continuous AF tracking, then I'd be more willing to 'forgive' Panasonic for this one thing I personally would like improved. Again, the Z8 is twice the price of the G9 II, so I shouldn't compare those two, but since I own both, I have to. The Z8 locks on to almost 'contrastless' and very small subjects/specific areas and holds on for dear life (in my basic focus/recompose example I spoke of)...and I just wish Panasonic could improve a little here. At the very least, make the AF tracking box smaller so I can pick smaller targets and confirm it's really focused on what I want. That being said, I really enjoy the G9 II as is and that's the only thing I'd want improved for my own use.
Good thoughts, thanks for sharing your experiences with the two! 🙌🏻
I heard a talk from a Panasonic representative who suggested to stick to 1-area for focus tracking and to leave the AF-tracking settings at factory default. Apparently many people are having trouble with "1area +" doing unexpected things, and carrying over AF tracking settings from previous cameras is leading to unwanted behavior.
I only use full frame as a secondary system for my work, so honestly I would appreciate a higher resolution (35+ Mpx), actually stills-focused camera (as opposed to the very hybrid G9ii). But maybe there are physical reasons why they aren't exactly making leaps in resolution.
Yea, I think it mostly comes down to noise control. Already a complaint on MFT, trying to cram 35MP into a smaller sensor space is only going to make it that much worse in low light. That would be my assumption why they don’t do it. Clearly it could be done as phones have already crammed even more pixels into even a smaller space
@@JeremyNeipp Well, when it comes to noise correlating with resolution (at a given sensor size), DPReview made a "debunking" video about a year ago. It is possible that is the case though.
I started with Panasonic Digital Cameras but have now ended up in the Sony System 👍
I'm brand agnostic and pretty happy with the G9II + 200mm f2.8 and other PL primes. Just getting into macro right now... Especially for an undecided amateur like me, I think the system is great and relatively budget friendly. I could see how the high end is lacking. I'm more in the camp that would like to see a new GM5 and longer tele primes for MFT.
If finally you switch, which brand will you go? Nikon?
Nikon is in the running for sure, primarily because of their super telephoto lens selection 👌 Sony is probably my other biggest runner up rn. Leaning away from Canon, Fuji, or any MFT.
I have an S5II, and I am interested in macro photography, Lumix 100/2.8 seems to be a great all around macro and mid-tele prime for the weight from my might better but manual focus Laowa 86/5.6, but I am holding for the S1 series body and new sensor too, it is not that I don't like Lumix or I need a high price flagship camera, but I feel a bit uncertain of the Lumix's future, I want them to use the flagship camera as the statement they can stay for at least quite some years.
BTW, I really like the concept of S9 as I also appreciate Sony A7C II, but it really doesn't work for me with the cold shoe and no shutter ---- that's impossible for flash light macro shot.
Some great thoughts. Appreciate you sharing
I am planning a very similar video, I was very disheartened at Panasonics' recent announcement, foolishly hoping that after 6 years, the S1 line would finally be getting an upgrade. I have heard grumblings of Q1, but after waiting 1 year longer than I originally said I would I'm going to be using the time to save money at the end of March I'll be trading in my Lumix gear. The R6II and Z6III are likely to be my next cameras.
That being said, I do love my S5II and prefer the Lumix experience. However, the camera doesn't completely meet my needs. 4k60 crop and slow sensor speed are two reasons.
I feel the same as you, love the Lumix experience, but the S5II is just a little too below my needs level as a pro. Hope this changes within the next few months or I’ll probably be in the same shoes as you!
Valid points but I was hoping to hear a rant about missing wide super telephoto wildlife lenses from the lens lineup.
For another day 😂 but you’re correct. At least Sigma does a decent job of covering
I've been shooting on the Panasonic S5II for the last year or so and it's a fun camera that gets the job done.
But I've been taking wildlife photography more seriously and I've been eyeing the S1R but i can't help but feel Panasonic should be coming out with a true flagship. Maybe an S1R II?
I agree. Was reeeeally hoping Panasonic stepped up with an updated higher resolution FF. Ended up trying Sony A7IV (sold) and Nikon Z8 (returned) and even Z6iii (rented). Compared to my G9, ergonomics were terrible on Sony and not great on Z8. Z6iii was decent but I wasn’t very happy with image results. Finally landed on Canon R52 with its (IMO) Goldilocks level form factor and handling. Not happy with Canons lens pricing, but that’s the trade off. Z8 probably had best IQ of the bunch, but lenses were literally falling off the body and the replacement body never felt secure compared to others. I wish LUMIX would release a FF in the GH body, but like Jeremy I really got tired of waiting on Panasonic to catch up.
Thanks for sharing. Such a bummer Panasonic has been lagging on this as I love the system too compared to examples you mentioned.
I own a S1R but af isn’t fast enough anymore. Also I have every s-pro lens. It’s time for Panasonic to deliver a new s1r. I get frustrated to the point that I want to change system.
Same 🙌🏻
@ I switched to nikon this weekend. Changed everything for a z9. Highly recommend.
Both OM Systems and Panasonic have the same problem actually in MFT because al that they have done is big camera bodies and completely ignored doing something modern in the compact/semi pro camera space- the reason many got in to MFT in the first place- small and light.
Decent point, but most the weight in wildlife photography comes from those brutal super telephoto lenses anyways, which do weigh lighter on MFT systems
@@JeremyNeipp True, but the main reason of m43rds to exist was small and light as both Olympus and Panasonic announced back then. If they can't cater to that main distinction, it brings the question if the wildlife market for m43rds is really that profitable and big. For Panasonic the answer has been they have chased the indie film maker market, while OM systems has gone all wildlife.
Not the way for MFT as a format to move forward imho. It keeps shrinking its base.
I just switched a week ago to Nikon after waiting years for a new S1, more s pro primes and +400mm zooms or primes. They just didnt release anything pro in the last 5 years
Really well-explained points. It’s disappointing that Panasonic can’t (or is choosing not to) keep up with the big three. Like Jeremy said, they have so much potential as a brand.
I love my Panasonic G95… it’s nearly perfect for amateurs like me who do wildlife photography as a hobby, and it has a lot of great features for the price.
Glad you could agree! I have high hopes for them, but patience is wearing thin. Have definitely enjoyed my experience over the years though
I am a bit surprised. S5 II shoots 30fps, with good enough lens it is said to have incredible AF, very good IBIS, best resolving power of all 24Mpix cameras on the market, veru good DR and very detailed 6k video. Granted, it has bad rolling shutter and lacks slow motion. But for the lenses...? You always praised Sigma 60-600mm DG DN, Sigma 135mm 1.8. Frankly speaking Sigma lenses alone (some DSLR and most mirrorless come with L-mount) have you covered for most application. But I get it. L-mount lack big telephoto primes. This is a market where they have no chance biting any of the big three. That would be a waste of their R&D. If only Sigma redo their 500mm f4 S for L-mount and make it work more reliably with their TCs, that would be wonderfull.
I think if this wasn’t my “profession” I’d be willing to wait it out even longer. The S5II is like 75% of the way there in my opinion, but it’s 4k 60 with the crop bothers me, the mechanical burst rates are too slow, and I sometimes find myself really wanting more than 24MP, and for those reasons I feel a need to upgrade so that I can deliver at the high standards required of my nowadays. Also, an updated AF would be nice.
I love Panasonic but they're full frame line is moving sluggish as of now...An S5R with phase detect autofocus would be cool
Same! Love the brand but lately has been a little underwhelming
❤
go canon! I went fuji, sony, canon, sony and landed at Hasselblad and s5IIx. Depends on what's important! good luck. Canon should be killer for AF tracking if that's your game which is it :) and resolution.
I've been debating a lot between the big 3. Ultimately, might come down to what releases next year, but currently Canon is looking appealing with some of their bodies, Nikon looks appealing particularly because of their lenses, and Sony is appealing with their L Mount capability for me. Tough decision!
There should be a Lumix version of the Leica SL3 that was released 8 months ago. The Leica SL2 was released 9 months before the S1R, maybe the Lumix will follow the SL3 on a similar schedule,. Has something changed since your review of the S1R three years ago? Has Canon, Sony or Nikon released a camera that has better handling, color, basically takes better photos? Which one would it be? Didn't think so. If Panasonic comes out with a S1Rii with the new autofocus and 60 mp sensor, I will likely get one.
Unfortunately, in the 5 years I’ve owned the S1R a lot has changed which is why I’m frustrated. All the big 3 names have made strides in IQ, AF, and Burst Rates that puts the S1R to shame, mostly the AF above all. But hope this will change soon!
Actually the S1R was released prior to the SL2. The S1R came out in spring 2019. The SL2 was released in late 20219.
IMO (big disclaimer 😂) , Panasonic doesn’t do budget super telephotos for wildlife because that is what m4/3 is for. I imagine at their spot in the market they can’t get away with making a 15k 600mm f4, and they may make a 100-500, but it won’t be much cheaper than the canon rf one. I don’t think it’s easy to compete with canon/nikon/sony market, I doubt anybody that is spending 20k usd on camera and lens, or 10k (for just photography) , even thinks about panasonic FF. They may get curious with m4/3 as a format because of the size and price, the few people that I know that have switched do it because of that.
I think that’s a valid point. I think they may not care to pursue keeping up with those other brands and wanting the invest to try, so they might just be keeping focus on MFT. Bummer that for someone like me that doesn’t work out!
@@JeremyNeipp Yeah, that's what is keeping me off the L-Mount. Even if the rumor of the 100-500 is true, they still need a 300mm f2.8, 400mm f.2.8, 600mm f4. I'm thinking of going Nikon because they have affordable wildlife primes (400f4, 600 f6.3). I imagine Sony is appealing to you because then you can still use the L sigma lenses with their mount conversion. Good luck! really excited to see what you end up choosing.
I think at this point it’s obvious that they’ll release S1 successors. Leica releasing multiple 60mp bodies with PDAF and “L2 technology” (aka Pana tech in Leica clothes) is one clear sign. G9ii and GH7 another. Two flagships for M43. FF to come. My hope is that it takes a bit longer because getting the new sensor plus new processor and new AF updates together takes some time :)
For me, it's been way too long overdue and with 6 years of promise and waiting I simply can't wait much longer, but hope you're right!
s5iix user. I agree with what you say. Lately I've been furious with Panasonic.
The latest firmware gave new features to the s9 and not to the s5ii/s5iix.
Some even report (as a result of internal information?) that there is supposedly a "technical" problem AND THEY CANNOT give the AF features (like pdaf at 1080p, at 50 and 100p) to the s5iix/s5ii, like the s9!!! Something like Sony? But if that's the case, why shouldn't I be in the Sony ecosystem?
Seriously now, based on current data, it's most likely that I'll move to Sony, waiting for the a7v, or the a7siv.
I predict Panasonic's financial collapse in 2025.
Really great points and honestly confusing why Panasonic have neglected their Full Frame Line-Up like this. The G9 II shows that they can build cameras with great autofocus, very high frame rates and more. A successor to the S1X with these features would be awesome, no idea why they take so long…
I feel the same! I know they are only a few steps away from making it happen, which makes it all the more puzzling for me.
Come over to Nikon
Maybe 😎
I'm going to tell you 100% truth about Panasonic. The reason they did not want to add phase detection is because older Sony sensors had really bad artifacts with back light when the light is low.
Search Sony A7ii striping issue. It's the Sony A7iii the poster made a mistake.
The Nikon Z6 had striping issues. Fuji and Olympus have a grid problem. I've gotten the grid artifacts with my Olympus OMD E-M1ii on wedding photos.
The Sony A7R5 was also reported with striping issue. But it seems the older sensors it was really bad.
Panasonic did not want to add phase detection when so many people used their cameras for filmmaking.
Canon has no artifacts with dual pixel technology their version of phase detection.
Also the Olympus OMD E-M1ii had preburst before the Panasonic Lumix G9.
I think Panasonic will have more newer full frame cameras in 2025.
Didn’t know about the Olympus camera having it before the G9. I know the G9 was marketed as the first ever mirrorless camera to have pre-burst, so I wonder what the distinction was that made them claim that.
In regards to the grid artifacts, I don’t think that’s why Panasonic has kept away from Phase Detect. My S1R was DFD focus, yet it has grid artifacting as well pretty severely in some specific scenarios, so clearly it was already a problem before the AF update
@ I know my Olympus OMD E-M5 does not have the grid artifacts and that camera is just phase detection. It does get a ugly purple blob with light coming in low.
I'm goes to check on the Olympus OMD E-M1ii about preburst. I think it does?
I don't see them releasing anything new this year. Your best move is to Nikon or Sony.
Yea, hopes are there but most likely not, we will see how 2025 goes!
There are just too many "if they could just" for them to really be the brand they could have been.
That’s how I’m feeling rn. Hope I’m proven wrong
All these years with Panasonic to get where they are today, especially with "great Phase detect AF", and you're talking about leaving for another brand! Crazy talk to spending crazy money man!
The G9II, GH7, and the S5IIx are BEST in CLASS! Best IBIS, BEST MENUS, BEST PRICED, BEST VIDEO QUALITY (under TEN GRAND), with INTERNAL ProRes RAW/ProRes RAW HQ ... and TONS of other features you don't find in other cameras at these price points. The G9II with a 1.4 teleconverter and the 100-400 lens is the BEST IN CLASS for WILDLIFE BAR-NONE! It's a Nature lovers DREAM CAMERA for size, weight, and cost with a reach over 1100mm! With NEW SOFTWARE in sharpening and grain reduction, it's possible to make your images taken from this combo as good as a large Medium Format Sensor in good light. ONCE you have this combo, WHY would anyone go out and spend more money to carry another camera and gear to carry twice the size and weight, spending even more money foolishly? Why would anyone SWITCH form this? Never have I had a Client say to me... my images weren't sharp, or the footage wasn't excellent. Good luck with that Mate
Just to clarify, I've been (and still am) a big fan of Panasonic in many ways. But I've used each setup you mentioned and I think you are severely overhyping your gear. If you have some experience with other cameras you'll start to notice some of the shortcomings. It's very farfetched to say that G9II, GH7, S5IIx, and 100-400 are all "best in class". There is a reason they are drastically cheaper than other gear pieces.
Did Panasonic ever market their full frame cameras to wildlife photographers? They are fantastic for many things including outdoor landscapes, and the new macro looks like a winner. In all likelihood the S1 replacement will have the same 60mpx sensor as the Leicas and Sony A7R cameras. This is a nice sensor and I’m sure it will be a nice camera, but slow and not optimal for wildlife. Unless Panasonic has been able to source an alternative sensor, time to look elsewhere if wildlife is your focus.
They haven’t for a while you’re correct, but they aren’t too far off. I dont think it would be too hard for them to make the adjustments needed in their bodies, problem is possibly a lack of incentive.
If it hinders your ability to maximize your income as a photographer, you should look elsewhere. I don't see the need to jump ship for someone like myself who is just getting into photography/videography. I just bought the S5IIX, and it came with 2 lenses, 20-60mm and 85mm, for $2100. purchased a 35mm and 70-300 for a little under $800 from Marketplace. I bought a brand new 50mm from eBay for a little over $200. I just bought a Sigma 150-600mm sports for $1K. All that for ~ $5000. I doubt my money would get me all those from any other brand.
Stick around with LUMIX until April 6 2025. I think you will be super supprised and glad that you did. It's not far away.
April 6 ? Or January 7 ? Seems like there is a big lumix conference on January 7 2025 at CES.
@the_hateful_ben - To my knowledge, it's just "Panasonic" event at CES, not a Lumix one. However, they might tease the S1H-II under glass there.
@ Oh ok. So there will be an S1HII and it’ll be announce on April 6 2025. How do you know that ?
@@the_hateful_ben April is NAB. Lumix WILL be there and....let's just say that all I'm saying is that our RUclipsr should stick around a little while longer. That's all ;-)
I understand haha 😉.
Anyone who complains about Panasonic autofocus should first read the Lumix AF Guidebooks. Will it make a CDAF system the exact equivalent of a PDAF system? No, but it will allow one to understand and optimize the use of the Panasonic DFD system. I shoot with GX8s, GX9s and G9 and an S1R. Reading the guide and fine tuning the AF settings for one's use cases makes a big difference.
These are good points and references, and true to my experience. The viewfinder experience with a camera like the S1R and continuous AF is a real challenge compared to a DSLR or PDAF, but the focus is there with the 1DX and E-M1X for speed and accuracy, but the stuttering in the viewfinder is tiring with the DFD working at high speed. The other issue is subject size, and if you are focal length limited the AF has challenges acquiring small subjects like birds which is limiting compared to other new systems. While it takes some time to optimize the DFD settings, they are very accurate and fast, and even resorting to single-point C-AF will provide precisely focused images of sports and action similar to other flagship cameras.
I have read through them, played with my AF settings for quite a long time, and can still vouch for their DFD being very poor in comparison when it comes to wildlife photography and creatively styled images. In certain situations you’re correct, it’s lightning fast. But accuracy is much more important to me then being a 1/10th of a second faster than other brands, and in that category, they fail.
People seem to forget that Panasonic have a miniscule market share of like 1 to 2 per cent. It's hard to see which is worse, MFT or L-mount. Flagship GH7 is manufactured like 1000 pcs a month (and sales appear to be slow). Likely they are loosing money on every camera body sold. That's why we see a lot of reused components like the G9M2 in a S5M2 body or the GH7 which is basically a G9M2 in a GH6 body with added firmware fluff. Realistically Panasonic need to put out a high end L-mount with PDAF just to survive at all, but financials are probably stretched, thus they can not output 10 new bodies a year like Sony.
True
I hear you but I truly believe wildlife photographer is on the brink of extinction. All brands will turn VDO oriented soon.
? 😂
Panasonic hat keinAufstieg.Der Mft bereich und auch Vollformat werden konsequent vernachlässigt.
Mft Kompakte wertige Kameras gibt es gar nicht mehr.Das ist ein Zeichen das Mft bald stirbt.
Und im Vollformatsekment wird die S1 S1R nicht ersetzt.
Es muß nicht alle zwei Jahre eine neue Kamera kommen,aber von Zeit zu Zeit muß Modellpflege betrieben werden damit die Verbraucher sehen das es weiter geht und auch in Objektive investieren.
Passiert dies nicht steigen die Verbraucher auf andere zuverlässigere Hersteller um.
Es ist einfach zu teuer in ein unsicheres System zu investieren.
Daran scheint Panasonic nicht zu denken.
Im Mft System hätte man mit einer durchdachten Kompakten GX9 II mehr Geld verdienen können als mit einer aufgewerteten GH7.
Die Verbraucher sehnen sich nach einer Komakten Mft und Panasonic reagiert nicht.
Somit erklären sich die Wahnsinnigen Gewinne von Fujifilm.Die wissen wie man Kameras verkauft.
Gruß
Panasonic, wake up
Pretty surprising, you make so many videos praising things when it makes no sense. All of your videos about sticking to manual focus for wildlife photography when other brands had way better options, they never made any sense. It’s actually not hard to switch brands. I’ve done many, many times pretty easily on Facebook marketplace.
When it comes to m43, the g9ii and native lens options are very good and offer more than Olympus does.
Now, the s5ii comes out, it kicks total butt and they stay committed to big firmware updates that have really kept the camera competing at a high level… and you make this video complaining.. for what? RUclips views, clearly.
The features you say you’re missing are all very superficial and let’s not act like you haven’t heard about the imminent S1R mkii coming out. I would be that within a month we start seeing confirmation of the specs and then you make another video all eager for Lumix again.
Lens wise? That’s the advantage of the L mount. Having just bought a sigma 500 5.6 (in part, because of seeing some of the work you’ve posted with it) I find it kinda wild that you’re speaking as if we’re pressed for lens options. Leica makes the 100-400, or sigma makes this beautiful prime. Canon and Nikon can’t compete with the 500 5.6 and Sony significantly handicaps the lens.
Every brand has some major facepalm decisions. I understand the RUclips algorithms, but this is just content farming and I find that disappointing. I’ve appreciated your narrative approach to videos and feel let down with this clickbait.
If you’re going to switch brands, (after all of your previous concerns had been addressed) then just switch brands. Don’t make a video complaining about it to get more engagement.
For the money and weight, there’s nothing close to an s5ii and 500 5.6 except maybe a z6iii and 400 4.5 and look how long Nikon took to release that body.
It’s sad to hear your comment interpreting all the worst of my intentions, you’re welcome to leave the channel and unsubscribe. However, as you’ll see by many other comments, the high majority of people find this struggle relatable and appreciated me making this video.
I also disagree with most all the points you made. Lens selection is not better on FF or MFT. Olympus far outdoes Panasonic in lens availability in MFT although I like the G9II more than the OM1. In FF, Sony and Nikon have better lens selection, Canon, debatable as I feel like they miss the middle gap of super telephoto lens budgets. In regards to MF, I still stand by that being an incredibly important skill to learn as no AF system is perfect, but I’d like for my AF to be at least usable, which the S1R’s is not in wildlife, and the S5II lacks some flagship qualities I really care about.
Releasing a video like this puts pressure on Lumix to craft a better camera for us wildlife photographers and to see how many other people relate, so that’s why I create it. Not for “view farming”.