Panasonic's latest entry in the full-frame mirrorless market, the Lumix S9, is making waves for both its innovative design and unexpected controversies. Here's what you need to know about this compact powerhouse:
Key Specifications
- 24.2MP full-frame CMOS sensor
- 6K OpenGate and 4K/60p video capabilities
- 5-axis in-body image stabilization
- Phase-detection autofocus
- Weighs just 403 grams
- Vari-angle touchscreen (no built-in EVF)
- Real-time LUT color grading
High Demand Leads to Supply Shortages
Despite recent controversies, the Lumix S9 appears to be a hit with consumers. Panasonic has reported receiving more pre-orders than anticipated, leading to potential delays for some customers when the camera begins shipping on June 20th. This situation draws comparisons to the supply issues faced by Fujifilm with their popular X100V and X100VI models.
Pricing and Availability
- China: 10,999 yuan ($1,520)
- Malaysia:
- Body only: RM 7,599
- With R2060 Lens: RM 8,999
Color options include Jet Black, Dark Silver, Dark Olive, and Crimson Red. Global availability beyond these markets remains to be announced.
Controversy: Misleading Promotional Images
Panasonic faced backlash after it was discovered that some promotional images for the Lumix S9 were actually taken with a Nikon camera. The company has since apologized, stating they used stock images without proper consideration. The images have been removed from official websites, and Panasonic has pledged to revise their marketing materials.
Unique Features
The Lumix S9 stands out with its compact design, eschewing a traditional electronic viewfinder in favor of a vari-angle touchscreen. This, combined with its lightweight body, makes it an intriguing option for content creators and vloggers.
Panasonic is also emphasizing smartphone integration, introducing the new MP4 Lite recording format and the LUMIX Lab app for creating custom LUT color profiles.
Potential Drawbacks
While the compact design is appealing, it's worth noting that the Lumix S9 lacks active cooling. This could potentially lead to overheating issues during extended high-resolution video recording sessions.
As Panasonic works to meet demand and move past recent marketing missteps, the Lumix S9 remains an intriguing option in the competitive full-frame mirrorless market. Its blend of portability and advanced features could make it a compelling choice for both stills and video creators, provided Panasonic can deliver on its promises.