Panasonic Lumix S9 is the flagship of Panasonic’s S-series and a major attraction for content creators. Compact, versatile, easy to use, and stylish, the full-frame mirrorless camera benefits already from a kit lens option. However, Panasonic has found ways to improve image quality and the user experience.
In addition to the previous bundles, the Lumix S9 line will now be packaged with the new LUMIX S 18-40mm F4.5-6.3 Lens. At the same time, firmware version 1.1 improves the autofocus system, operation stability, the LUMIX Lab Smartphone App, and more. Two new body colors are available, enhancing the camera’s sleek design and offering even more freedom of expression to its users. Panasonic takes care of every little detail to make its fans happier.
Key Features of the Panasonic Lumix S9 Firmware Update
- No recording time limit option
- Enhanced subject detection
- Improved LUMIX Lab Smartphone App
- Improved operational stability
- Display feature for Multiple Frame Markers
Key Features of the Panasonic LUMIX S 18-40mm F4.5-6.3
- 18-40mm focal length
- 18-120mm focal length with the Hybrid Zoom function on LUMIX S9
- Compact and thin design
- Edge-to-edge sharpness and clarity
- Focus breathing suppression for high video performance
- Minimum focusing distance 0.49ft (15 cm)
- Weights 0.34lb (154 grams)
What’s New About the New Panasonic Lumix S9 Kits
From now on, users can buy the Panasonic Lumix S9 camera with a compatible zoom lens that covers a broad range of focal lengths, from a wide-angle 18mm to a standard 40mm. The camera will come with the latest firmware update, version 1.1. Furthermore, users have two new color options for the camera body – pink and mint green -which add to the existing color options. Here is all the good news that Panasonic has for this camera:
Firmware Version 1.1 New Features
Recording Time Limit Menu
Starting with this firmware update, you can record without a time limit. Of course, the recording time depends on the environment and operating conditions. Still, it’s good to know that you can select this option from the menu. Longer recording times allow for shooting long, uninterrupted scenes and improve the quality of your videos.
Displaying Multiple Frame Markers
You see up to three frame makers simultaneously when you shoot in Open Gate. This helps creators who plan shots with multiple compositions or across platforms. As you know, shooting in Open Gate produces content with different aspect ratios from a single shot. Frame markers improve your precision and help you create better compositions.
Enhanced Subject Detection
The camera benefits from the accurate and fast Phase Hybrid Autofocus system, which can detect and track people, animals, cars, and motorcycles. However, the new firmware version extends subject detection to airplanes and trains. Furthermore, the camera will now be able to detect specific parts of cars and motorcycles, not just the entire object.
Improved LUMIX Lab Smartphone App
The LUMIX Lab Smartphone app was vastly expanded. For example, you can now use it to transfer a selection of images from the camera to your smartphone. You can also use the app as a shutter remote control for remote shooting.
Panasonic LUMIX S 18-40mm F4.5-6.3 New Features
Compact Design
The new zoom lens is the smallest (φ67.9 x 40.9 mm) and lightest (weight: 0.34lb (154 grams)) lens in its category at the date of release. It perfectly complements the camera’s ergonomic design. Further, the lens is dust, splash, and freeze-resistant and features a fluorine coating that protects it and prolongs its life. Together, the camera and lens make a long-lasting solution for photographers and videographers always on the move.
Versatile Focal Length Range
The lens’s broad focal length range provides flexibility and suits any photographic genre. The wide 18mm is ideal for landscapes and cityscapes, while the standard 40mm provides the natural perspective one needs for portraiture and candid shots. In addition, by activating the camera’s Hybrid Zoom function, the lens provides an extended focal length range of 18-120mm.
Wide Maximum Aperture
With a f4.5 maximum aperture at the wide end of the focal length range and a f6.3 aperture at the other end, the lens promises to deliver high-quality images even in low-light conditions. Add the short minimum focus distance (0.49ft (15 cm)), and you get an adaptable lens ready for any challenge, either technical or artistic. Furthermore, it creates a subtle bokeh effect that is very natural-looking and beautiful.
Who Should Buy This New Kit
Due to its compact size and robustness, the LUMIX S9 – LUMIX S 18-40mm F4.5-6.3 combo suits photographers and videographers shooting outdoors, on the go, and in unpredictable conditions. It’s the gear you want when traveling, hiking, or biking. You get the high quality of a full-frame mirrorless camera but also the versatility of a zoom lens. You get unlimited recording and the natural feeling of a discrete bokeh effect.
You can purchase kits in all previous body colors – Jet Black, Night Blue, Dark Olive, and Crimson Red – and the new two colors – Pink and Mint Green.
Note About the Firmware
The new firmware version will be on every new camera, regardless of whether it is part of a kit. Moreover, it will be available for free download for all camera users
Final Thoughts
Panasonic enhances the LUMIX S9’s versatility and usability. Whether you pair it with the previous kit lens or the new one, the combo becomes a go-to option for both beginner and professional photographers and videographers, regardless of their preferred genre. Furthermore, the design is suitable for travel and adventures, candid snapshots, street recordings, and more. The exhaustive attention to detail and the constant care for the user’s experience aim to improve your creative workflow and support you in developing a vibrant artistic voice.
