Panasonic is launching Lumix Pro, a hub for professional users that will provide an extensive support and service network. It’s a recognition that professionals want reassurance that they can continue to shoot wherever they might be, should they encounter a technical issue. The programme is an expansion of the service already running in Japan, and GH4, GH4R, GH5, GH5s and G9 customers will be able to register for Lumix Pro services within the USA, Germany, UK, France, Italy and Spain. A range of maintenance and repair benefits will be available, including sensor, EVF or body cleaning or a lens calibration. Members will also have access to expedited and guaranteed turnaround time, or access to loan equipment when turnaround time cannot be met. Membership levels will be allocated depending on the amount of equipment registered and membership fee. The bundle of services is designed to fit the requirements of the individual photographer. applicable benefits for their level of membership in countries that offer the repair service. Registration opens in Europe in early 2019 and there will be an initial free period. Panasonic will continue to expand its service into other countries. www.lumix-pro.com SUPPORT FOR THE PRO Photographers that travel, for example, will receive the
ABOVE The two new full-frame models, the S1R and S1, signal Panasonic’s intentions for the market.
This was interesting, however, because it did tell us that the camera is going to have a traditional look, down to the incorporation what looks like a pentaprism on the top of the camera, perhaps there so as not to present professionals with too radical a new look. And it’s also not going to be compact or lightweight. It looked to be around half as big again as a GH5S, but this is not likely to be an issue with a professional audience that’s accustomed to gear being built like a tank and in scale with the larger, faster lenses traditionally associated with this sector. There’s a school of thought that would suggest a camera that’s too small and lightweight might be confused with a consumer model, so the added bulk makes the whole ensemble look and feel more professional. The launch signals that Panasonic is going to be going very seriously for the high-end professional market from here on in. It’s great news for the pros to have another option to consider and perhaps a sign to the competition that they need to be looking a little nervously over their shoulder from now on. MORE INFORMATION: www.panasonic.com
Panasonic’s micro four-thirds GH5 and GH5S. Panasonic’s GH5 and GH5S focus on video with 10-bit internal capture, high bit rates, fast frame rates and advanced video capture tools like waveforms. It’s not known whether any of this technology will be usable on the full-frame models. There is the assumption that the S1R at least, given its high pixel count, is going to be primarily a stills model. Both cameras also feature a Dual IS image stabilisation system. They’re said to be the world’s first full-frame cameras with in-body stabilisation as well as lens stabilisation; this reflects the trend amongst current camera models for a facility that’s designed to reduce reliance on traditional support. Also on board is a double slot for XQD and SD memory cards, which is a first for Panasonic, and on the back of each of the new models there’s a rugged triaxial tilt LCD, that’s there to provide flexibility for those working in the fields of both professional photography and videography. Both cameras are due to be available ‘early in the new year’ but it’s clear there is still quite a lot of work to do before fully-functioning samples are available. At this event all there was to show was a non- functioning mock-up.
OCTOBER 20 1 8 | DEF I N I T ION 09
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