Turning the Lumix S5 II Into the Ultimate Cinema Camera

The Lumix S5 II is the first full-frame mirrorless camera from Panasonic to offer hybrid phase detect autofocus and a plethora of other cinematic video options. With all of the new improvements on the S5 II, could it be an ideal choice as a full-fledged cinema camera?

Cinema-oriented Specs

In typical Panasonic fashion, the Lumix S5 II is packed with useful video-oriented features, some of which include: 

• Unlimited 4:2:2 10-bit C4K/4K recording capability without overheating
• 4:2:0 10-bit 6K (3:2) / 5.9K (16:9) internal recording
• Dual I.S. 2 image stabilization system, with 6.5 stops of camera shake compensation
• 14+ stops of V-Log/V-Gamut dynamic range
• Real-Time LUT function for in-camera color grading by applying the LUT files (.VLT/.cube) saved on your SD card
• Dual-native ISO sensitivity
• Video assist functions such as Waveform Monitor, Vector Scope, and Synchro Scan
• Raw video output, and All-Intra, ProRes recording on SSD
• Wired/wireless IP streaming and USB tethering

Turning the S5 II Into a Cinema Camera

Creator and educator Armando Ferreira recently put the Lumix S5 II to the test on the set of a short film called Agony. It's a "dusty and rugged" short, which shows the S5 II being used as a cinema camera in a variety of different scenarios. Armando uses his S5 II cinema rig handheld, on his shoulder, on a tripod, and even on a gimbal. 

Take a look at the video above to learn all about how Armando setup his Lumix S5 II as a cinema camera. He shares the pieces he used to build it, why he made some of the choices he made in the build, and some sneak peeks of the BTS from the upcoming short itself.

I personally can't wait to see how the S5 II performs and look forward to seeing Agony when it drops later this week. 

What are your thoughts on the S5 II as a cinema camera? Did you already set yours up with a rig? Share your favorite tips and setups in the comments below!