Panasonic introduces two new lenses for full-frame L-mount cameras. There will be a 70-200mm f/2.8 and a 16-35mm f/4 lens. In addition, the G9 will receive an update that gives the MFT camera a large part of the video capabilities of the GH5.
Panasonic will launch the Lumix S Pro 70-200 mm F2.8 OIS at the beginning of January next year, a lens that consists of 22 elements in 17 groups and is equipped with an 11-blade diaphragm. By combining the built-in stabilization of the lens with the stabilization of the sensor of Lumix S full-frame cameras, up to seven stops can be compensated, according to the manufacturer. The design is dust and splash resistant and can operate in conditions down to 10 degrees Celsius below zero. The zoom can handle teleconverters and weighs 1570g. The lens has a suggested retail price of 2799 euros.
At the end of December, Panasonic will release a wide-angle zoom with a focal length of 16-35 mm. This Lumix S Pro 16-35 mm f/4 consists of twelve elements in nine groups and the diaphragm consists of nine blades. The minimum focus distance is 0.25m, the lens is sealed against dust and splash water and can operate in conditions down to 10 degrees Celsius below zero. The filter diameter is 77mm and the suggested retail price is 1599 euros.
Panasonic also releases a number of firmware updates for various devices, including the G9. This one gets 4k recordings at up to 30fps with 4:2:2 at 10bit. The device also receives support for an HDMI output for 4k recordings at 50 or 60 fps with 4:2:2 at 10bit, just like the GH5. There will also be support for variable frame rate, HDR, V-Log L recording and waveform monitor.
In addition, the G9 and GH5S MFT cameras will have the option to detect animals with the autofocus. According to Panasonic, AI technology is at the basis of this function, which detects birds, dogs and felines in addition to humans. The focus frame is automatically adjusted to the size of the animal and the camera should then follow the animals even when they turn and turn their backs on the camera.
Finally, Panasonic’s S1 and S1R full-frame cameras are getting an update to accept CFexpress cards. Also, the cameras with the new firmware should function better with Sigma L-mount adapters and lenses. All of these updates will come out on November 19.