Review: Why the LUMIX S5IIX is Still My Ultimate Workhorse (Two Years Later)
🎥 It’s hard to believe it has been two years since I first unboxed the LUMIX S5IIX. In an industry that constantly chases the "next big thing," this camera has remained my go-to for one simple reason: it just works.
Watch the full video
The Magic of the Stein am Rhein surroundings
There is a specific kind of magic that happens in the small forest hills of the Stein am Rhein area when the temperature hits exactly minus five degrees Celsius. It isn’t just a "cold day"—it’s a total transformation of the landscape. When the humidity reaches that perfect level, the fog doesn’t just linger; it crystallizes, turning ordinary branches into intricate, temporary ice sculptures.
This morning, I took a walk through these hills to capture this fleeting beauty. But as any videographer will tell you, a natural phenomenon like this is the ultimate stress test for your equipment. Between battery drain and the physical challenge of operating dials with frozen fingers, you need a camera that’s an extension of your intent.
Two Years Later: Why the LUMIX S5IIX is Still My Workhorse
In the fast-paced world of videography, two years can feel like a lifetime. Cameras come and go, but every once in a while, a tool comes along that stops the "gear GAS" (Gear Acquisition Syndrome) in its tracks. For me, that’s the LUMIX S5IIX.
After 24 months of use, ranging from commercial sets to frozen forest hills, here is why this camera remains the backbone of my production house.
1. Unmatched Flexibility in Recording Formats
The S5IIX doesn't lock you into a corner. Whether I need lightweight files for a quick turnaround or heavy-duty data for a high-end commercial, it’s all there.
Open Gate (The Secret Weapon): This is the feature I can no longer live without. Recording in 3:2 Open Gate means I’m using the entire sensor. It gives me the "safety" to crop for vertical videos while keeping a full cinematic 6K frame for YouTube.
Internal ProRes: Recording ProRes 422 HQ to an external SSD transforms my editing workflow. The files run smoothly in DaVinci Resolve, especially for high-end productions.
2. V-Log and the Art of Color Grading
As a fan of the "filmic" look, V-Log is where the magic happens. The S5IIX provides 14+ stops of dynamic range that actually feel organic. Even in high-contrast winter scenes with bright snow and dark shadows, the roll-off in the highlights is creamy and professional. When I bring these files into post, they have a "malleability" that allows me to push colors without the image breaking apart.
3. Pro Handling and Audio
A camera can have the best specs in the world, but if the ergonomics are bad, you won’t want to use it.
The Grip: The S5IIX feels like a real camera. The dials are tactile, the menus are well laid out, and it’s easy to operate even while wearing gloves.
Audio Powerhouse: Most people overlook the audio, but the S5IIX’s preamps let me leave the external recorder at home. It simplifies my rig without sacrificing sound quality.
4. A Tool for Every Genre
What makes this a "workhorse" is its versatility across different types of work:
Travel Videography: The IBIS (In-Body Image Stabilization) is so good that I can leave the gimbal in the car and still get smooth, walking shots.
Documentary Work: It’s discreet, reliable, and the Phase Hybrid AF ensures that I never miss a candid moment.
Corporate Films: The all-black "stealth" look and the ability to shoot 10-bit 4:2:2 internally give me the professional edge needed for high-paying clients.
5. Defying the Elements: Thermal & Battery Performance
I have taken this camera into -5°C frost and 35°C heat. It simply refuses to quit.
Weather Sealing: It beats the cold, hot and ignores the dust.
Active Cooling: The internal fan means I have zero overheating issues, even when shooting long-form 6K interviews.
Battery Life: Even after two years of cycles, the battery performance remains stable, giving me confidence on long shoot days where charging isn't an option.
The Verdict: More Than Just a Camera
"Two years later, I can honestly say the LUMIX S5IIX isn’t just 'still good'—it’s arguably the most balanced partner a creator could ask for.
For me, it’s been the ultimate tool for creative freedom. It’s for the creator who refuses to be pigeonholed—the one who wants to shoot a cinematic travel film in the morning, a high-end corporate interview in the afternoon, and a gritty documentary at night. If you’re looking for gear that grows with your vision and never holds you back (even when the weather tries to!), this is it. Here’s to many more years of capturing magic together!
🎬 🎹 Royalty Free Music 🔊
Get 70% off Audiio Pro for your first year.
👉https://go.christianwmeyer.com/AudiioPro
I have been using Audiio since the start of my YouTube channel
🎨 Graded using Dehancer Pro 🎥
To get a 10% discount on your purchase.
Use the code CHWM10
👉https://go.christianwmeyer.com/DehancerPro
