Review: Panasonic Lumix S1R

Get a better picture of the high-end camera segment with this device

Panasonic has come up with some really mean cameras - its Lumix DMC-GF5, which I still use, has never missed a beat (or shot, for that matter) - and their latest one certainly ups the ante. The Lumix S1R is the company's newest offering in the high-end photography segment. These cameras are intricate machines, and this high-end snapper has features that make for an hours-long discussion. So, we'll try to keep everything straight to the point.
The Lumix S1R has a 47.3MP full-frame CMOS sensor - making it the first full-frame mirrorless camera to reach a resolution that high. The design is pretty standard fare, with a few tweaks - sturdy and rugged build, splash-resistant, with the controls well-placed and within reach.

I like that set on top, just below the shutter button are a trio of key functions - white balance, ISO and exposure. The mode dial, meanwhile, is on the left; this could lead to some getting used to if you've been using a camera that has this on the right.

The electronic viewfinder, meanwhile, is one of the best I've ever peered into: Boasting an OLED panel with 5.76 million dots, it swoops in on your views so naturally it's just like your eyes. I also noticed that the eye sensor for the viewfinder protrudes further from the body; while this does prevent smacking your nose and lips on the LCD viewfinder, it also gets in the way of the LCD display at a certain angle. That 3.2-inch display, by the way, is a touchscreen that responds well to taps.

I appreciate the fact that there's more free space on the right, which allows your thumb to rest freely on it, thus preventing accidentally triggering controls.

All of these translate into shots that are sights to behold. The camera's image stabilisation works well and, while its autofocus is quick, there are situations wherein it tends to slow down. Despite that, its overall versatility is commendable.

Snaps come out crisp. Even in high ISO levels on certain scenes, noise seems to be kept at bay. Exposures are just right, but sometimes there are scenes - especially when light is at a so-so level - which seem to be underexposed. Anyway, anything you need to adjust can be done easily with those easy-to-reach buttons. Video is also great but, again, the focus seems to juggle around at times.

The out-of-the-box S-R24105 lens does some pretty decent work; if you want a more versatile one, how about snapping up the S-X50 lens. for Dh9,440.
AND SO.
The Panasonic Lumix S1R is a monster of a snapper, covering all your photo and video needs at any level, especially pro. You'll have to, however, pay a hefty price for it. To be fair, Panasonic's challenge comes after some of the competition has already launched comparable snappers. At least its price comes with a kit lens.
alvin@khaleejtimes.com

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