I’ve been keen on this compact camera since its launch and it’s 42% off ahead of Prime Day — time to snap it up
I’m someone who likes the idea of taking a dedicated camera with me wherever I go, in the hopes of capturing higher quality shots than what I can manage with my iPhone 15 Pro. I already have an OM System OM-D E-M10 MKIV, but I’ve taken it away with me on holiday exactly one time, where I used it exactly one day.
Despite being quite small (at least compared to many full-frame alternatives), I found it to be too bulky to fit in a sling bag, especially when spare lenses were thrown into the mix.
It was with this in mind that I actually used a Fujifilm Instax mini camera during my recent trip to Europe. Not only was it easier to fit into my bag, but it made me carefully consider compositions, and I love the fact I now have physical, printed photos to admire.
I can still admit digital is more convenient however, which is why I’ve been keen on the Panasonic Lumix S9, and now it’s 42% off ahead of Prime Day, now is a great time to snap it up.
Now, as I’ve just mentioned, the Lumix S9 is definitely geared more towards videographers, due to its support of open gate 6K video, which benefits from the full height and width of the 3:2, 24.2MP full-frame sensor. The Lumix S9 also boasts one of the best image stabilisation systems when shooting video that we’ve come across.
Unfortunately, this capability would be lost on me, as a videographer I am not. I’m far more interested in the S9’s picture-snapping credentials, and based on our Panasonic Lumix S9 review, I’m in for a treat if I hit the ‘buy now’ button.
That’s because the 24.2MP sensor — which is essentially the same as the one found in the Lumix S5 II — takes great still images, with superb noise control and dynamic range, meaning it can capture detail in darker areas.
Also, its bigger sensor is better suited to low-light photography compared to my E-M10 Mark IV’s micro four thirds one, although the latter does still take lovely images.
The S9 also employs real-time LUTs (look-up tables) which, despite being recommended for videos, allow you to use a range of colour profiles to help enhance images, although I am a little intimidated by the fact that Panasonic doesn’t make this the easiest of options in its photography menu system. I’m still keen to try this feature for stills.
Image 1 of 3
And then there’s how the camera itself looks. I’m pretty infatuated with the S9’s aesthetic — it’s compact and minimal, two qualities I adore. However, one of the biggest gripes we had in our review is the fact there’s no viewfinder. On paper, this won’t be a huge deal for me if I’m not using the camera constantly but, clearly, I have to point it out. The screen does extend and tilt though, which will help when composing shots.
Another advantage that the S9 has is based on Panasonic’s L-Mount Alliance membership, which allows you to use any full-frame L-mount lens from other members, like Leica and Sigma — although this particular offer comes included with an 18-40mm kit lens. If you’re keen to know more, our friends at Digital Camera World have put together a guide to the best lenses for the Lumix S9 to help you on your way.
All in all, I think this is a superb camera, although I did baulk at the AU$3,299 RRP, which is why I held off buying it for this long. Thankfully, the 42% discount fixes that in a big way. Less than two grand for a very capable full-frame shooter? Count me in.
I’m someone who likes the idea of taking a dedicated camera with me wherever I go, in the hopes of capturing higher quality shots than what I can manage with my iPhone 15 Pro. I already have an OM System OM-D E-M10 MKIV, but I’ve taken it away with me…
