Alt Shoo

I get it, but here’s the thing, while Panasonic’s marketing for the S9 does mention the casual shooter, the features they’ve packed into it are clearly aimed at more advanced users. That’s where the confusion comes in. Panasonic seems to be trying to appeal to both casual users and professionals, but the camera’s actual design and capabilities are more aligned with the needs of the pros. It’s a bit of mixed messaging. They’re promoting it broadly, but in reality, the features go far beyond what most casual shooters are looking for. The launch only added to this confusion by targeting the wrong lenses and reviewers, which didn’t align with casual users. So, while the marketing might say “casual,” the S9’s functionality clearly points to a more advanced audience. And that brings it to another frustration. Panasonic’s split between MFT and L-Mount. Instead of unifying their systems, they’re pushing L-Mount for full-frame, which leaves Micro Four Thirds users feeling a bit sidelined. It would’ve been smarter to find a way to make L-Mount lenses compatible with MFT bodies via an adapter. Sure, there are technical challenges, like the difference in sensor size and flange distance, but companies like Metabones have shown that it’s possible. If Panasonic had figured out a way to bridge the gap, it would have been much easier for users who are invested in both systems. Instead, we’re left juggling two separate ecosystems, which doesn’t feel necessary when both could benefit from more seamless integration.

Let’s be real, Panasonic isn’t targeting the casual shooter with this model. They’re aiming at the semi pro and advanced enthusiasts who need high end features, and dropping the price too low would undercut the value of what it offers. Plus, Panasonic hasn’t been silent. Look at the release of the GH7. This clearly shows they are investing in high quality gear and advancing technology, especially for video professionals. They’re not just coasting along. They’ve made it obvious where they’re headed with their recent releases. As for capitalism, it’s not just about keeping up with market trends. It’s also about knowing your market. Panasonic knows who they’re building for, people who need reliable tools for serious work. Yes, companies need to innovate, but that doesn’t mean dropping prices on premium products. There’s always room for new shiny tech, but the truth is, the features that cameras like the S9 and GH7 offer will remain relevant for years. Sure, things move fast, but you don’t need a new camera every year to stay competitive. The quality these cameras deliver is more than enough for most work, even as tech advances. So, while we all want more affordable options, Panasonic is sticking to its guns, building tools for those who need them long term rather than chasing short-term trends.

It’s easy to jump to conclusions about a lack of hype for the Panasonic S9, but that doesn’t necessarily mean it’s not selling. I’ve found a few YouTubers who reviewed the S9, such as in this review where it was tested over the course of a week with a focus on how it performs in the field. The reviewer didn’t hold back on both the good and bad points. As for the lack of YouTube buzz, it’s worth noting that just because a camera isn’t flooding review channels doesn’t mean people aren’t buying it. Some users may be busy using the camera for actual shoots rather than focusing on making reviews. The S9 is packed with professional features like LUT integration and 6K video, which are meant for creators who are likely more interested in putting it to work than reviewing it. Finally, B&H reviews alone don’t fully represent the bigger picture. Many people don’t leave reviews, even if they’re satisfied with the product, and a lack of complaints online can often mean that users are content.

Lowering the Panasonic S9 to $999 wouldn’t make sense given what it offers. The S9 has a full-frame sensor, which delivers better image quality than the APS-C sensor in the Fujifilm X-M5, especially in low-light. It also has 6K video recording, in-body stabilization, and advanced video tools like LUTs, making it ideal for hybrid shooters. The X-M5 is more affordable because it’s built for enthusiasts with fewer high-end features, like a smaller sensor and no IBIS. The S9 is an entry into pro-level cameras, not an entry-level option.

Was trying to edit my other post to add more of my thought, but I guess I was too late… As a camera tech aficionado, I’ve noticed gear buying has become more about status than skill, even among so-called “professionals.” The pros I’ve learned from? They stuck with their equipment for years and still delivered incredible work, focusing on mastering their tools instead of chasing every new release. That said, I’ve evolved too. I used to scoff at autofocus, but now, as a one-man band, I need gear that lets me concentrate on composition and sound without worrying about missed focus. That’s why any new camera I get has to have dependable autofocus. I’m leaning toward the GH7 for its 32-bit audio. Its perfect for solo shooters. And while the X-M5 has stunning image quality, I’d only consider it if the autofocus could keep up. For now, the tools I have are more than enough.

It’s curious that there’s so much frustration over the lack of a new Panasonic release when the current lineup, especially the Lumix S series, already works well for most users. If your camera is delivering solid results, why panic over something new? It’s not like your S1H or S5 II suddenly stopped producing high quality images just because the S9 didn’t trend on YouTube. And speaking of YouTube, the lack of hype doesn’t necessarily mean poor sales. It could just mean the people who actually own these cameras are out doing what they were meant for… shooting. Not every user is interested in reviewing specs and chasing the next best thing. Sometimes, when things work, they just work. Are people really going to drop a system they love just because they haven’t heard the next announcement yet? Sounds more like a patience problem than a Panasonic problem.

Panasonic’s history of aggressive discounts around Black Friday is worth keeping in mind. Last year, for example, we saw major price cuts on their S5 models, some up to $800 off. If the S9 follows suit, it could make the choice between it and the X-M5 even tougher, especially for anyone prioritizing video features and stabilization. That said, Fuji’s value proposition with the X-M5 remains strong, lighter, more portable, and a mechanical shutter are huge advantages. It’ll be interesting to see which camera wins out for those looking to invest during the sales season. Anyone else planning their purchase around these upcoming deals?

The Fuji X-M5 looks pretty exciting, especially for the price. The open gate sensor is a big plus for anamorphic shooters. The lack of in body stabilization is an issue. As for autofocus, Fuji’s “AI-driven” system sounds promising, but I’m waiting to see how it performs in real-world scenarios before getting too excited. I’ve got my own thoughts on how it compares to something like the Panasonic S9, especially when it comes to autofocus and video. But what y’all really think? On another note those film simulations look good for quick work.

I’m not defending DJI, but this comment sounds like a bit of unnecessary skepticism because objectively the image is as good as any of the cameras on the market today. Competent shooters knows it’s what’s put in from of the sensor that paints these images.

Just curious. I totally understand wanting specific aspects of a camera to be a certain way and it’s cool to have discussions about it, but do we buy cameras to nitpick at the specs or shoot images? After a while it all becomes negligible. I can’t believe I’ve become the person to say this because I too was “geeking” over camera specs. After years of shooting I come to just use and appreciate the tool. Use the tools that suits your needs.

All of the small hdmi ports should be banned on these types of tools. Sigma is calling this a cinema camera, which I agree because the images produced with it are exceptional, but to have non professional inputs on a device like this is an oxymoron. On a similar note, I actually use to think that the port at the side of the fp, used for the flash attachment, was going to be a peripheral port for more professional inputs. Maybe even a power boost to get higher frame rates.

Yes there’s a clamp that I purchased from SmallRig when I first received the cameras. I haven’t seen that clamp again on the SmallRig catalog site, which is pretty odd.

I keep both of mine rigged, only taking out the hdmi from the Atomos’s hdmi port during transport. I feel confident with the port protection that the SmallRig cage provides.

I can’t believe that JVC sent out that useless survey asking about features for a potentially new cinema camera. I still don’t understand why they don’t see that, while the cinema camera market is becoming crammed, there is still a niche that they can fill. Hopefully some product manager within their company will realize this fact. Anyways here’s a link to some screen grabs of footage from this slept on powerhouse! And yes I still use the JVC GYLS300 https://www.instagram.com/p/CQ-x48SLm7g/?utm_medium=copy_link

I’m quite sure it does. I will have to check today, when I’m sanitizing my gear.