Dpreview just published their Photokina interview with Panasonic. The talk is mainly about their L-mount strategy and we have a lot of interesting tidbits:
1) The Trend is “moving towards full-frame mirrorless cameras”
2) Explaining the big size of the S1-S1R: “We didn’t want to compromise on features for the sake of body size”
3) About the S1-S1R shutter: “Most competitive cameras are guaranteed to 200,000 actuations. Our camera will be tested for more. ”
4) The S1 and S1R will be the most durable on market: “We are targeting the very highest level of durability in the industry. [The S1/R] are 100% sealed against dust and water, and operate in very low temperatures – even exceeding the limits of the GH5.”
5) About future entry level L-mount cameras: “The first generation will be specialized for professionals but in the future, of course we’re also aiming to attract entry-level users. ”
6) No APS-C L-mount cameras from Panasonic: “We have our own Micro Four Thirds system and we think that [because of the greater difference in size between full-frame and M43] this is the best balance. We have no plans to develop APS-C products.”
7) L-mount lens design is more difficult because: “In the case of M43, we prioritize compactness. But in full-frame we set higher targets, to meet professional specifications.”
8) About future video oriented L-mount cameras: “One of our assets is our experience of professional video, over more than 40 years. This is one of the areas where we contribute to the market, so in the future it’s possible that [our L-mount lineup] will expand to include such products”
9) About 8K cameras: ” After the Olympics, we will create a new generation of 8K video cameras, which are currently in development.“
Summary:
Panasonic entry level Full Frame camera are likely to be developed
Panasonic video oriented S camera is coming too
8K cameras will come AFTER the Olympics