Featuring an upgraded full-frame 24.2MP CMOS sensor and an updated image processing engine with L2 technology, the S5 II’s sensor incorporates a newly-developed Phase Hybrid AF system — a first for Lumix-series cameras — providing 779 phase-detection points for significantly-improved subject tracking. Balancing high sensitivity and a wide dynamic range, the sensor provides a useful ISO 100-51200 range, which can be expanded to ISO 50-204800 for working in a variety of lighting conditions. Well-equipped for action and fast-moving subjects, the S5 II also enables full-res shooting at up to 9 fps with the mechanical shutter and up to 30 fps with the electronic shutter. Additionally, the S5 II utilizes sensor-shift stabilization technology and features a High Resolution mode to capture and compile eight separate exposures to create a single 96MP raw or JPEG file. Suitable for static subjects and when working on a tripod, this mode creates a more highly detailed and color accurate image than a single shot alone can produce and produces an image with a 12000 x 8000-pixel resolution.

In addition to stills, the S5 II sports highly capable video recording assets. Full-frame 6K30p recording with 4:2:0 10-bit color can be captured for up to 30 minutes, while unlimited video recording is possible when filming in DCI and UHD 4K60p 4:2:2 10-bit mode. The camera supports 120p video capture for videographers who want to create high-resolution slow-motion video, and RAW HDMI output is possible via an optional license upgrade. V-Log has been pre-installed on this camera and is used to capture a flat, neutral gamma curve and an equivalent 14+ stops of dynamic range provides precise control of color data in post-production, as well as seamless editing with footage shot with VariCam cameras.Borrowing from Panasonic’s broadcast line of video cameras, Dual Native ISO helps to achieve a balanced combination of low noise and high sensitivity to better suit working in a variety of lighting conditions. Two dedicated circuits are provided for each pixel: a Low ISO circuit provides base sensitivities of ISO 100 for normal use, ISO 640 when V-Log is applied, ISO 400 when HLG is applied, and ISO 200 when Cinelike D2/V2 is applied; a Low Noise circuit provides base sensitivities of ISO 640 for normal use, ISO 4000 when V-Log is applied, ISO 2500 when HLG is applied, and ISO 1250 when Cinelike D2/V2 is applied.

The S5 II is the first Lumix mirrorless camera to adopt a Phase Hybrid AF system, which offers 779 phase-detection points to provide fast and precise focusing for outstanding AF accuracy. When it comes to autofocus, dependability is the most important thing, and with Phase Detection AF you can fully supplement and track the subject in six different situations that until now had been a challenge for conventional systems to capture. Whether shooting stills or video, this means the S5 II persistently captures the intended subject in difficult scenes involving multiple people in backlit or low-light environments.

Offering comprehensive support for hand-held use, the S5 II incorporates a Dual I.S. 2 image stabilization system, which compensates for approximately 6.5 stops of camera shake to achieve the utmost sharpness for handheld photography. For video applications, the camera is designed with a newly-developed Active I.S. system for walking shots to further enhance image stabilization while the camera is moving and recording video.

Bluetooth Low Energy (5.0) provides constant connection between your smartphone or tablet with minimal power consumption. For more robust wireless activities, IEEE 802.11b/g/n and 802.11a/n/ac support is also available for faster transmission and more fluid remote control and monitoring. Complementing the camera’s wireless connectivity, Lumix Sync is an iOS and Android app designed to pair with the camera for smartphone or tablet-based remote shooting control, wireless image transfer, and updating firmware.