The Panasonic Lumix DC-S1R II makes some radical changes from its predecessor both in terms of features and size to place it more firmly in the true-hybrid still/video camera space. With a native 8.1K 44MP sensor, the S1RII can capture both high resolution stills as well as 30p 8K video all with a smaller body size and a more hybrid-friendly control arrangement.
The Panasonic S1R II seems more of a redesign than an evolution, both in terms of capabilities as well as form factor. The new S1R II is built around a 44MP 8.1K sensor that allows for both high resolution stills capture as well as 8K video at up to 30p with low rolling shutter effect. The S1R II can also record ProRes RAW or 422 at selected resolutions and frame rates. Promising improved autofocus, more in-line with its peers, the S1RII features phase-detection and enhanced subject tracking.
In addition to an overall smaller footprint, the S1R II also has relocated 'Movie" mode from the exposure mode dial to a dedicated switch below the drive mode dial. This frees up the exposure dial to have 5 custom mode positions which have discrete settings for stills and video mode.
In addition to the high-resolution video capture specs, the S1R II also features Panasonic's dual-gain ISO. A new Dynamic Range Expansion mode can be enabled when shooting in V-Log to gain an additional stop of highlight information.The S1R II also adds a false-color overlay of pixel brightness to help both still and video shooters prevent clipping. Support for real-time LUTs and Open Gate Capture show the S1R II is really a full-featured hybrid camera.
The Nauticam NA-S1RII Underwater Housing
The Nauticam NA-S1RII is a professional aluminum underwater housing that delivers fast and intuitive access to all the essential controls of the Panasonic S1R II camera underwater. Pairing the NA-S1RII with Nauticam's extensive line of Water Contact Optics and accessories further enhances the camera's already impressive still and video capabilities.
Premium Professional Optics
As with the NA-S1R, the NA-S1RII is built around the N120 port system and allows for those moving from the NA-S1R to carry over their port and lens configurations unchanged. This large port opening also allows for a wide range of lenses to be used as well as extensive integration with Nauticam's Water Contact Optics that offer the best possible underwater image quality.
Mission Control
The NA-S1RII allows for efficient camera control underwater with most essential functions placed within easy reach of the ergonomic handles. The S1R II moves the video/still mode selection to a dedicated switch which is now easily accessed with a lever located atop the NA-S1RII allowing for rapid switching underwater.
Thumb levers near the left and right side handles actuate the image review and AF-ON buttons while levers for Af-mode and switching between the EVF and LCD are also within easy reach.
HDMI Output
The NA-S1RII is equipped with the large M24 bulkhead that allows for the use of Nauticam's HDMI system to attached optional external monitors or recorders. The 8 1/4"-20 holes atop the housing provide a solid base for mounting these or other larger accessories.
Flash Triggering
For rapid-fire manual flash triggering, the NA-S1RII is compatible with the Mini Flash Trigger (26305) which uses small LED units to trigger external flashes via Nauticam Universal Fiber Optic Cables (26216).
Vacuum Check and Leak Detection System
The Nauticam vacuum check and leak detection electronics are shipped with the NA-S1RII as standard equipment. Combined with an optional accessory vacuum valve (PN 25625) this monitoring system provides constant updates on the water tight and safe-to-dive status of the housing. A simple color coded LED lighting system lets the user know that the vacuum is solid, or that the housing is losing vacuum. Leak detection is built into the same circuit, so if there is water intrusion, an audible and visual indication will occur.
