FUGITIVES SEEKING JUSTICE TUESDAY APRIL 29TH 2025 FULL EPISODE PART 1 AND PART 2 COMBINED

Posted on by Octavia Skyripper

Panasonic Lumix S5 II: A Full-Frame Hybrid Powerhouse for Content Creators

The Panasonic Lumix S5 II is a full-frame mirrorless camera that sets a new standard for hybrid performance, combining exceptional video and stills capabilities in a compact, versatile package. Launched in January 2023, it introduces Phase Hybrid Autofocus (PDAF) to the Lumix S series, alongside a host of advanced features tailored for professional content creators. This article explores its key features, pricing in the Kenyan market, where to purchase it (new and refurbished), and who this camera is best suited for.

Key Features of the Panasonic Lumix S5 II

The Lumix S5 II is designed for creators who demand high-quality imaging and flexible workflows. Here are its standout features:

  1. 24.2MP Full-Frame BSI CMOS Sensor:
    • The 24.2-megapixel full-frame sensor with backside-illuminated (BSI) technology delivers excellent low-light performance and 14+ stops of dynamic range in V-Log/V-Gamut. Paired with an updated L2 processing engine, it ensures sharp, vibrant images and videos with natural color reproduction.
  2. Phase Hybrid Autofocus (PDAF):
    • The 779-point Phase Hybrid AF system, a first for Lumix full-frame cameras, combines phase and contrast detection for fast, precise focusing. It supports real-time subject detection for humans, animals, and objects, tracking reliably in low-light or backlit conditions, with adjustable AF speed and sensitivity.
  3. 6K and 4K Video Recording:
    • Records 6K 30p (4:2:0 10-bit) for up to 30 minutes, C4K/4K 60p (4:2:2 10-bit) with unlimited recording, and 4K 120p for slow-motion. It supports H.264/H.265 codecs, V-Log for cinematic grading, and RAW output over HDMI (with optional license upgrade). Open Gate recording and real-time LUTs enable flexible framing and instant color grading.
  4. Dual Native ISO:
    • Offers Dual Native ISO (Low: ISO 100/640/400/200; High: ISO 640/4000/2500/1250, depending on mode), minimizing noise in low-light scenarios. This makes it ideal for shooting in varied lighting, from bright daylight to dimly lit interiors.
  5. Active I.S. and 5-Axis Stabilization:
    • The 5-axis Dual I.S. 2 system provides up to 6.5 stops of stabilization, enhanced by Active I.S. for smooth walking shots, rivaling gimbal-like performance. Gyro metadata supports post-production stabilization via Sony’s Catalyst software.
  6. Professional Audio and Connectivity:
    • Features 3.5mm mic/headphone jacks, with optional DMW-XLR1 XLR adapter for 4-channel 48 kHz/96 kHz 24-bit recording. Connectivity includes HDMI Type-A, USB-C 3.2 Gen 1, Wi-Fi (2.4/5 GHz), Bluetooth 5.0, and Frame.io Camera to Cloud integration. Supports RTMP/RTMPS streaming and Lumix Sync app for remote control and firmware updates.
  7. Dual UHS-II SD Card Slots:
    • Dual slots enable simultaneous, relay, or backup recording, supporting high-bitrate 6K/4K video. The camera records in MOV, MP4, or JPEG formats, with 65:24 and 2:1 panoramic photo modes for creative stills.
  8. 3.68M-Dot OLED EVF and 3-Inch LCD:
    • The 0.78x-magnification OLED viewfinder (3.68M dots) and 3-inch tilt/free-angle touchscreen LCD (1.84M dots) offer clear, flexible monitoring. Tools like waveform monitor, vectorscope, and luminance spot meter enhance precision for video and photo capture.
  9. Rugged, Compact Design:
    • The magnesium alloy body (630g, body only) is dust- and splash-resistant, with a built-in cooling fan for unlimited recording in high-resolution modes. The compact size (134.3 x 102.3 x 90.1mm) suits handheld or gimbal use.
  10. L-Mount Lens Compatibility:
    • The L-Mount supports Panasonic, Leica, and Sigma lenses, offering versatility for cinematic and photographic needs. Color Shading Compensation corrects vignetting with older lenses, and anamorphic desqueeze (Motion Picture mode) enhances creative options.

Pricing in the Kenyan Market

The price of the Panasonic Lumix S5 II in Kenya varies depending on whether it’s new or refurbished and the retailer. Below are approximate prices based on available data:

  • New Panasonic Lumix S5 II:
    • Local Retailers:
      • Cellular Kenya: KSh 148,999 (body only, promotional price).
      • Starmac Kenya: KSh 309,999 (body only).
      • Elite Aperture Mobitech: ~KSh 300,000 (body only, contact for stock).
      • Jiji.co.ke: Prices range from KSh 280,000–350,000, depending on seller and accessories (e.g., 20-60mm lens).
    • International Retailers (shipped to Kenya):
      • B&H Photo Video: ~KSh 208,000 (converted from $1,599, body only, post-2025 price drop).
      • Amazon: ~KSh 208,000 (body only) or ~KSh 260,000 (with 20-60mm f/3.5-5.6 lens, converted from $1,999).
      • Adorama: ~KSh 208,000 (body only, excluding shipping and duties).
  • Refurbished Panasonic Lumix S5 II:
    • Local Market:
      • Jiji.co.ke: Used/refurbished units start at KSh 180,000–250,000, depending on condition, hours (e.g., 187–519), and accessories (e.g., lens, battery). Listings are limited, so verify seller credibility.
    • International Retailers:
      • eBay: Used units range from KSh 169,000–234,000 (converted from $1,300–$1,800, low shutter counts like 187–519, excluding shipping and duties).
      • Amazon Renewed: ~KSh 195,000 (converted from $1,500, body only, 90-day warranty, excluding shipping and duties).
      • MPB: ~KSh 208,000 (converted from ~€1,600, body only, six-month warranty, excluding shipping and duties).

Note: Prices are approximate and reflect a 2025 price drop to $1,599 USD (body only). Import duties (16% VAT + 25% customs duty) and shipping may add 30–40% to international purchases. Local prices may vary due to promotions or stock shortages. Always confirm with sellers and factor in customs fees.

Where to Buy the Panasonic Lumix S5 II in Kenya

New Cameras

The S5 II has limited local availability in Kenya due to its specialized nature. Below are top options for purchasing new units:

  1. Cellular Kenya:
  2. Starmac Kenya:
  3. Elite Aperture Mobitech:
  4. Jiji.co.ke:
    • Location: Nationwide (online marketplace)
    • Price: ~KSh 280,000–350,000
    • Link: Jiji.co.ke – Panasonic Cameras
    • Offers: Multiple sellers; verify ratings and condition.
  5. B&H Photo Video:
    • Location: International (ships to Kenya)
    • Price: ~KSh 208,000 (body only, excluding shipping/duties)
    • Link: B&H Photo Video – Panasonic Lumix S5 II
    • Offers: Trusted retailer; confirm shipping and customs fees.

Refurbished Cameras

Refurbished or used S5 II units are scarce due to its recent release but available through select platforms:

  1. Jiji.co.ke:
    • Price: ~KSh 180,000–250,000
    • Link: Jiji.co.ke – Panasonic Cameras
    • Notes: Verify seller reviews, request photos, and confirm hours (e.g., 187–519) and accessories.
  2. eBay:
    • Price: ~KSh 169,000–234,000
    • Link: eBay – Panasonic Lumix S5 II
    • Notes: Offers low-shutter units (e.g., 187 clicks); check seller ratings and shipping.
  3. Amazon Renewed:
  4. MPB:
  5. ShareGrid:

Tip: For refurbished units, ensure the camera is tested, includes essentials (e.g., DMW-BLK22 battery, charger), and has low shutter counts (ideally <500). International retailers like eBay or MPB offer reliable options, while Jiji.co.ke reduces import hassles but requires careful vetting.

Who the Panasonic Lumix S5 II Is Best For

The Lumix S5 II is a hybrid camera tailored for creators who need professional-grade video and stills in a compact, full-frame system. It’s best suited for:

  1. Content Creators and Vloggers:
    • The 6K 30p video, 4K 120p slow-motion, and real-time LUTs deliver cinematic visuals for YouTube, TikTok, or branded content. The compact 630g body and vari-angle LCD suit solo shooters, while Frame.io integration streamlines cloud-based workflows.
  2. Documentary Filmmakers:
    • Dual Native ISO, 14+ stops of dynamic range, and Active I.S. excel in varied lighting and handheld scenarios, ideal for documentaries in Kenya’s urban or rural settings. The PDAF system ensures reliable subject tracking in dynamic scenes.
  3. Hybrid Photographers:
    • The 24.2MP sensor, 30fps electronic shutter, and 96MP High-Resolution mode cater to photographers shooting portraits, landscapes, or events, with panoramic 65:24/2:1 modes adding creative versatility.
  4. Indie Filmmakers:
    • V-Log, RAW output, and unlimited 4K recording provide cinema-grade flexibility for indie films or music videos, with ARRI LogC3 compatibility (via upgrade) for professional workflows. The L-Mount supports premium lenses from Leica and Sigma.
  5. Live Streaming Professionals:
    • RTMP/RTMPS streaming and wired LAN support make it perfect for live events, webinars, or social media broadcasts, with 4-channel audio (via XLR adapter) ensuring high-quality sound for Kenya’s growing digital media scene.

Not Ideal For:

  • Beginners or casual users, as the S5 II’s advanced features require technical expertise.
  • Action sports photographers, as the PDAF may lag in low-light or ultra-fast scenarios compared to Sony’s A7 IV.
  • Those needing a fully articulating screen, as the tilt/free-angle LCD isn’t ideal for vlogging from certain angles.
  • Budget-conscious creators, as L-Mount lenses and accessories (e.g., XLR adapter) can be expensive.

Considerations:

  • Users praise the S5 II’s video quality, autofocus, and stabilization but note its heavier build (630g vs. APS-C cameras) and average battery life (~470 shots, spares recommended). The EVF resolution (3.68M dots) is decent but trails competitors like the Canon R6 II. Compared to the Sony FX30 (APS-C, lower price) or Canon R6 II (better AF), the S5 II offers superior video specs (6K, unlimited 4K) and value for hybrid creators.

Conclusion

The Panasonic Lumix S5 II is a full-frame hybrid camera that delivers professional-grade performance for video and stills in a compact package. Its 24.2MP sensor, 14+ stops of dynamic range, Phase Hybrid AF, and 6K video capabilities make it a versatile tool for cinematic storytelling. In Kenya, new units are available from retailers like Cellular Kenya or Starmac Kenya for ~KSh 148,999–350,000, while refurbished units can be found on Jiji.co.ke or eBay starting at ~KSh 169,000–250,000. The 2025 price drop to $1,599 enhances its affordability, making it a compelling choice for creators.

For Kenyan content creators, documentarians, and indie filmmakers, the S5 II offers unmatched flexibility, whether shooting vlogs in Nairobi, documentaries in the Maasai Mara, or live streams for global audiences. While it requires technical expertise and additional accessories, its value and performance make it a standout investment. Choose the Panasonic Lumix S5 II, and you’re equipping yourself with a hybrid powerhouse that rivals higher-end systems at a fraction of the cost.

FUGITIVES SEEKING JUSTICE TUESDAY APRIL 29TH 2025 FULL EPISODE PART 1 AND PART 2 COMBINED

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