Panasonic S1H is First and Only Hybrid Camera Certified by Netflix

The S1H from Panasonic

The Panasonic Lumix DC-S1H is a fully featured hybrid stills/video camera body. The 24.2MP full-frame CMOS sensor is capable of impressive stills, but the real draw of this camera are the video capabilities. The S1H can shoot 6K video at 24 fps and 10-bit 4:2:2 chroma sampling. The camera also offers V-Log recording for improved post-color grading control. And now, it has become the first hybrid camera approved for use by Netflix. So it's a great camera, what does that have to do with Netflix? The Lumix DC-S1H Panasonic is the first (and only) hybrid stills/video camera that Netflix has certified and approved for use on their productions. Netflix guidelines stipulate that 90% or more of a show's runtime be shot on these approved cameras. Netflix's approved cameras list have all been dedicated video cameras. Why is this so noteworthy you ask? This is unique in that it isn't a dedicated video camera. And more importantly, it is also offered at a much lower price point than the other cameras on the list.

The importance of Netflix certifying a lower cost camera

A whole world has been opened to low budget filmmakers with the addition of the Lumix DC-S1H to the list of acceptable cameras for use on Netflix programming. This means independent filmmakers can submit to have their content aired on Netflix. Filmmakers shooting on a Panasonic S1H will still have other restrictions to work through in order to meet Netflix standards. For example, shooting 4K in V-Log with 10-bit 4:2:2 chroma sampling among other things. The incredibly affordable price tag for this awesome camera will enable very small budget productions to submit their content to Netflix. Now more than ever, the powerhouse that is Netflix is at filmmaker's fingertips

Currently approved cameras for use on Netflix productions

The other Netflix approved camera models for production use include Arri, Canon, Panasonic, RED, Panavision, Sony, and Blackmagic. These other camera models are much more expensive than the S1H. This therefore puts them out of reach for many independent and low-budget filmmakers. Models like the Canon C300 offer fantastic video quality among many other features and perks, yet cost nearly double the S1H. And the price of most of the other cameras on Netflix's list go up from there - most into the 5 figures. Looking to upgrade to the Panasonic S1H and sell your current camera? Consider listing it on Gear Focus. Unlimited FREE listings, Only 3.5% Seller Fees and a targeted market to photographers and videographers. So are you an indie filmmaker looking to break into Netflix's programming? Which camera are you using? We'd love to hear more about what cameras people are using. Especially if they are gearing their content to Netflix or other streaming services. Leave your comments below!