Panasonic is expanding its LUMIX S Series full-frame mirrorless range with a new LUMIX S 18-40mm F4.5-6.3 lens, alongside four new colours for the LUMIX S9 and firmware updates to enhance the shooting experience.

Panasonic Australia product marketing manager for imaging, Aaron Waters said, “The new zoom lens is the perfect partner to our compact full frame LUMIX S9, together weighing just 641 grams. This new kit is an incredibly lightweight everyday-carry camera combination giving creators access to full-frame image quality wherever their journey takes them.”

The Panasonic LUMIX S9 now comes in four new colours including Mint Green, Smokey White, Sakura and Orange.

“We’re also proud to announce firmware updates to enhance usability and creativity for our LUMIX community. LUMIX S9 creators will welcome the ability to access a recording time limit menu, so they can switch off the preset recording limit and extend recording time when required,” Waters said.

“We’ve also included the option to display up to three frame markers simultaneously, ideal for shooting in Open Gate. S9 LUMIX Lab smartphone app functionality is now increased to include features like remote shooting and shutter remote control.”

In addition, LUMIX S5II, S5IIX and G9II cameras have access to firmware updates, so users can enjoy the benefits of the LUMIX Lab app for the first time.

The new LUMIX S 18-40mm claims to be the world’s smallest and lightest zoom lens with dimensions of 67.9mm by 40.9mm and a weight of 155 grams. The design is dust, splash and freeze-resistant with fluorine coating.

The 18mm ultra-wide angle captures expansive landscapes and buildings, while the standard 40mm is perfect for portrait shots. It’s also capable of 18-120mm with the Hybrid Zoom function on the LUMIX S9.

The LUMIX S 18-40mm will be available in late October 2024 for RRP $899 from leading Australian photographic retailers.

Panasonic LUMIX S9 in Mint Green.

In line with LUMIX’s commitment to supporting creators, the latest firmware updates are available to download for free from the LUMIX global customer support website.

The LUMIX S9 firmware version 1.1 sees the addition of a recording time limit menu with a new option to switch off the preset recording limits and extend recording time if required. A display feature for multiple frame markers has been added, allowing for the display of up to three frame markers simultaneously when framing for different aspect ratios or planning shots with multiple compositions.

The highly accurate phase hybrid auto focus system has been further improved with enhanced subject detection. A new option is now available to select detection of airplanes and trains, as well as specific parts of cars and motorcycles. Operational stability has also been improved.

Plus, compatibility with the LUMIX Lab smartphone app has been expanded to include remote shooting, shutter remote control, and the ability to transfer images selected on the camera.

With the LUMIX S5II firmware version 3.1 and LUMIX S5IIX firmware version 2.1, LEICA Monochrome is now available as a photo style for a strong and dynamic monochrome shooting option.

Also available with the LUMIX G9II firmware version 2.2, 5GHz Wi-Fi frequency is now available and has been added to the existing 2.4GHz option.

Real Time LUT can now be assigned to Fn button, allowing creators to enjoy popular, classic or bespoke colour styles in-camera. Operational stability has also been improved.

Compatibility with the LUMIX Lab smartphone app and latest Panasonic XLR microphone adapter, DMW-XLR2, is now supported.