Hands-On Preview With the Panasonic S1R

In a world where it feels like there is a new camera every month, finding an identity in the market is becoming increasing difficult. Where do Panasonic's new cameras fit and will they be successful?

In this first look from DPReview you won't get their entire in-depth review quite yet but you will learn about some of the real-world features and issues. One of the main features that caught my attention when first learning about this camera was its capability to produce 187-megapixel images; yes, you read that correctly. The sensor is rated at 47.3 megapixels but using its pixel shift technology, you can essentially quadruple the effective resolution. While this technology isn't anything new, it has become something I am personally keeping a close eye on within the market as a landscape photographer.

The Panasonic S1R certainly comes with its weaknesses though and is still plagued by its lack of phase detection autofocus. One of the other major tradeoffs for the increased sensor size is the lack of video capability in the camera, which has become standard among camera manufacturers; gaining sensor resolution at the cost of video features. Not to mention the S1R also cost a hefty $3,397 for the body alone.

Is this shaping up to be a groundbreaking new camera? From every review I've read it may be too early to tell. I'd love to hear what you think. Where does this camera fit in with the current market and would you personally ever consider this camera?

Alex Armitage's picture

Alex Armitage has traveled the world to photograph and film some of the most beautiful places it has to offer. No matter the location, perfecting it's presentation to those absent in the moment is always the goal; hopefully to transmute the feeling of being there into a visual medium.

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