Samyang is an official partner of the L-mount alliance and has recently launched its first full frame zoom lens with autofocus for the Sony E-mount system. I think there is a possibility that they will also launch an L-mount version of this in the near future.

• The 14-24mm f/2.8 FE is already listed at BHphoto, Fotokoch, Calumet, FotoErhardt, WexUK.
• Their next zoom lens is the 24-60mm f/2.8 (see image below)

The full interview can be followed from minute 20 to 55 but the key points about the future are:

• He has in his mind to make a proper larger L-mount camera
• Foveon is still far out 🙁

I am one of the few out there that really do like the BF design, but this is a camera for a niche of people. A proper big L-mount camera would be really nice to get. Also because right now we can only count on Panasonic cameras (Leica cameras are for the few rich of us).

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Sigma lens preorders:
300-600mm lens at BHphoto. Amazon. Adorama. FotoErhardt. Fotokoch. WexUK.
16-300mm at BHphoto. Amazon. Adorama. FotoErhardt. Fotokoch. WexUK.

Fengniao had a chat with a bunch of Panasonic managers and there are couple of interesting notes:

1. They confirmed they are developing new fixed lens cameras. I hope they this means there will be a successor for this model!
2. They acknowledged the need for more telephoto lenses
3. S1HII successor is in development

The google translated text:

Fixed lens cameras:
In terms of market demand insight, Panasonic is keenly aware of the trend of recovering demand in the fixed lens camera market. Based on this change in the market, Panasonic is looking forward to the fixed lens camera market and is actively planning the introduction of new products. Although it is not yet possible to determine the specific time of the release of new products, it can be seen that Panasonic has launched an in-depth thinking and layout in this area.

New Telephoto L-mount lenses needed:
For example, in terms of the lens group, compared with other competitors, Panasonic has certain shortcomings, and the lack of telephoto lenses is particularly obvious. Currently its longest focal length is only 300mm, and the lens level is not high-end. In order to make up for this deficiency, Panasonic has taken a series of positive measures. On the one hand, to strengthen the internal lens R & D mechanism, increase R & D investment, accelerate the development of new lenses; on the other hand, with the advantage of the L-mount alliance, and the alliance members to carry out in-depth co-operation in lens research and development. In this way, not only can we enhance the compatibility and affinity of Panasonic lenses, but also provide users with more lens options. In the future lens research and development planning, Panasonic will take the L-mount alliance as the basis, give full play to its own advantages, and develop lens products that are more distinctive and meet the needs of users.

S1H successor:
Panasonic is also actively exploring the planning of the follow-up products of LUMIX S1H. LUMIX S1H, as a camera positioned for film creation, has a unique position in the market. With the continuous development and changes in the field of film micro camera, Panasonic has received a large number of opinions and suggestions from all sides. In terms of product form, there are different expectations from users and the market. Some want the product to be similar to the FX3, cutting out the warship section and focusing on cinema and video functions; some prefer to keep the micro-single form while strengthening the video function; and others expect to make it a square camera similar to the FX6. In terms of functional requirements, features such as 8K 60p or even 8K 120p video shooting and built-in ND filters have become the focus of users’ attention. In order to better meet market demands, Panasonic merged with its professional-grade system imaging division in 2024, integrating the technical resources of both parties and engaging in deeper and closer discussions with technicians. Although the launch date of the next generation of the LUMIX S1H has not yet been determined, it can be seen that Panasonic is putting its best foot forward in the development of this product, and is striving to bring users an even better tool for film creation.

Younger generation shows interest in cameras:
Nowadays, an interesting phenomenon has emerged globally: more and more young people are starting to use card machines for shooting. This group’s interest in camera shooting has shown a significant increase. Unlike the pursuit of extreme high image quality, many young people are keen on the retro atmosphere created by CCD cameras. Such retro-style photos, with their unique colors and textures, evoke a sense of the past.
This phenomenon has also brought new thoughts and opportunities to camera manufacturers, prompting them to pay more attention to the needs of young users in product design and function development.

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Lumix S1rII: BHphoto, Amazon, Adorama. Fotoerhardt, Fotokoch, Calumet, WexUK. Clifton. ParkUK.

There was an official L-mount alliance press conference at the CP+ show (see video below). Two news are important:

1. L-Mount aims to expand its ecosystem by welcoming more participants, ensuring a diverse and innovative product lineup in the system camera market
2. Many companies have expressed interest in joining the alliance

For me, point one is crucial. We only have Panasonic making “mainstream” and also “affordable” cameras. Leica cameras are too expensive for most and Sigma is going niche with the BF. I would be happy if DJI and other cameras would also produce L-mount system cameras!

When asked by CineD about the possible S1H successor, Matt Frazer said that we will ‘eventually’ get a replacement. When asked why it took so long to get the S1rII, he said that they wanted the right sensor for their target. So there’s not much teasing from Matt, but as I’ve said many times before, there will be another Lumix camera announcement in April. And soon I might be able to tell you a bit more about this camera 😉

Lumix S1rII preorder links:
In USA at BHphoto, Amazon, Adorama.
In Europe at Fotoerhardt, Fotokoch, Calumet, WexUK. Clifton. ParkUK.
Lumix S1rII battery grip links:
BHphoto, Amazon, Adorama, Fotoerhardt, Fotokoch, Calumet, WexUK.