Pro Moviemaker May/June 2026 - Web

GEAR PANASONIC LUMIX S1 IIE

WHY GO FOR THE

than pro sports shooters, there are plenty of optical options now. It’s ideal for wedding and event shooters as well as documentary filmmakers due to the camera’s stabilisation, dependable autofocus and codec options. Content creators benefit from open gate recording and internal ProRes, making it easier to produce footage for multiple platforms. At the same time, the camera remains capable for stills photography, delivering excellent dynamic range and colour reproduction.

P anasonic’s £1899/$2498 Lumix S1 IIE sits in an interesting position. It shares the rugged body, handling and many of the video tools of the £2599/$3198 Lumix S1 II and higher-resolution £2999/$3200 Lumix S1R II. But the E model trims back some of the more extreme specifications in favour of a lower price and a more balanced hybrid shooting experience. For many filmmakers and content creators, that compromise may actually make the S1 IIE the smarter buy for what they need.

With so much choice in the mid-range mirrorless market, the S1 IIE faces a huge fight to win your cash

BARGAIN BUY The S1 IIE undercuts the flagship S1 II but faces stiff competition from rivals

THE VERDICT

The Panasonic Lumix S1 IIE may not chase the most extreme specifications, but it excels in the areas that matter most to real- world filmmakers and creators. With a full-frame sensor, strong stabilisation, flexible recording formats and powerful internal codecs, it delivers a hybrid shooting experience that feels both practical and professional. Add open gate 6K recording, better autofocus and Panasonic’s well-established video pipeline, the result is a camera that fits into modern production workflows. For creators who need a reliable hybrid tool, not just a spec-sheet showpiece, the Lumix S1 IIE might be the smarter choice.

More information

panasonic.co.uk

HOW IT RATES

Features: 9 Great AF, ProRes Raw internal shooting and 6K open gate Performance: 9 The footage excels, especially if you add on the Arri option Handling: 9 A chunky build, although solid, and the complex menus are easy to navigate Value for money: 9 It’s not the flagship but offers almost the same spec for less cash PRO MOVIEMAKER OVERALL RATING: 9/10 A great-value full-frame Lumix ideal for shooting video Pros: Lots of high-quality codecs, great build quality Cons: No fully stacked sensor or superfast 240fps

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