This week, some unusual products have been announced like the “box” camera from Panasonic and the dual fisheye lens from Canon. Nikon teased the flagship Z9 and Panasonic/Fujifilm released firmware updates.
Panasonic Lumix BS1H
Think of the BS1H as a Lumix S1H but in the “box” style form you can see below. Panasonic previously made the same thing with the release of the BHG1, a “box” version of the GH5S.
This type of camera has no EVF or LCD screen. It has a modular design and video-makers can add or omit these kinds of features depending on their needs (there are 11 tripod sockets around the body to attach various accessories). The camera aims at remote production, live streaming or any usage where such a form is needed. You’ll find broadcast level connections such as SDI and Genlock, as well as an Ethernet port. RAW video is supported via HDMI.
Inside, the BS1H features the same 24MP full frame sensor of the S1H and supports the same impressive video specs which include 4K and 6K with unlimited recording, which is available internally as well (there are two SD card slots). There is no in-body stabilisation on the BS1H however.
The camera also supports live streaming up to 4K/60p, with H.264 or H.265 codecs, and a maximum of 50 Mbps over Ethernet. It is priced at $3500.
Canon RF 5.2mm F2.8 L Dual Fisheye
Here is something a bit different from Canon: a dual fisheye lens designed to capture 180˚ 3D footage for use in virtual reality software. The company will also release its own EOS VR System software as well as a VR plug-in for Premiere Pro. The lens will be available in December for $2000.
Main characteristics of the Canon RF 5.2mm F2.8 L Dual Fisheye:
- 12 elements in 10 groups (for each lens)
- 2 ultra-low dispersion elements (for each lens)
- Distance between the two lenses: 6cm
- Min. focus: 20cm
- Built-in gelatin filter holder
Nikon Z9 teaser
The launch of the flagship Nikon Z9 is getting closer, and the company has released the first of four teaser videos that shows the camera has a 3-way articulated LCD screen similar to the one found on the Fujifilm X-T3. You can tilt it up and down while in landscape orientation, but also up while working in portrait/vertical mode.
Panasonic GH5S, BGH1 and G9 firmware updates
The GH5S and BGH1 micro four thirds cameras will receive a new firmware on November 5th. The main highlight is the possibility of recording Blackmagic RAW video via the HDMI port and the BlackMagic Video Assist HDR recorder. A focus ring control setting has also been added for the two cameras and the G9.
Fujifilm GX100 and GFX100S firmware updates
Just like the Panasonic models above, the GFX100 and GFX100S medium format cameras can also record Blackmagic RAW via HDMI and a compatible Blackmagic recorder (up to DCI 4K 30p).
The firmware is already available on the Fujifilm website and also improves the electronic level display and fixes minor issues.
