I do a lot of portrait photography and eye autofocus was a novelty turned necessity. Ever since switching to Sony I hardly ever miss a shot and with the a7iv improved AF system it’s like cheating. Great comparison 👍🏼
LOL, Tomato, Potato, Patricko, Tomassito. Good review, or better. good talk about your experience with video machines. I realize and despite having an S5, having had a G80, a G9 and an XT-4, my favorite machine is a BMPCC6K PRO... which, in addition to incredible color science, doesn't have much else...
Switched to fx3 from the s5. Im already missing shutter angle, ibis, screen brightness and simplicity of menu. But hot damn the af on the fx3 is smooth af. Walking backwards shooting and having the focus locked tight on the eyes of the subject was something I didnt know I needed.
I bought an S5 the week after the S5 Mark2 was announced. The body + 20-60mm + 50mm + 85mm for £1600 new. The deal was great and now have the confidence in investing in L mount because of the S5 Mark2.
Had a similar experience last year when I switched from the Lumix S1 to the Canon R6. I needed a camera that I could trust in all scenarios and sadly the S1 really is a camera you have to work with to get good results rather than a camera that works with you. Great video and good points all around!
A lot of great points here, as someone who is primarily behind the camera ive never relied on autofocus on any camera because I do like video shots being messup up by it in critical points and not having full control over shallow depth shots. I still prefer the S1 over the S5 because of the screen and additional internal codecs, but i rarely find missed focus in photos because of focus peaking helping me nail manual pulls on the fly as well.
Honestly I've been following your page because I'm a lumix s5 shooter but I think you brought up some great points of to the sony vs lumix debate. Great video as always!
Excellent video 🎉❤. It feels like AF has become a baseline expectation that cannot be walked back on for many of us. And woah the TV raining scene totally made this video vibes love it
If only Panasonic would put tracking Phase Detection AF in their cameras they would instantly rise to the top for camera choices and probably be way more popular. They have most of the other pieces of the puzzle. They just need the AF piece and they are golden.
On 22 Feb the GH6 will be released.. let's see how the auto-focus will be on that one, and from there we can tell how the future in Lumix cameras look.
What I don't understand about Panasonic is that they'd figured out everything else five years ago. The GH5 from 2017 is still a competitive camera today in every way except for continuous autofocus. Panasonic was so far ahead of everyone else in 2016-17. Their cameras had unlimited 4K, deep buffers, really fast operation, great UI, amazing build, etc. All they needed was to make one body with PDAF. If they didn't want banding from PDAF pixels on their GH bodies, they could have given us PDAF on the less cinema-oriented G or GX series, and most of us would have bought one of those and been happy, and we probably would have followed Panasonic to FF, too. I don't know what Panasonic has been working on for the last five years because there had one job, to solve autofocus, and they still haven't done it it.
As a Panasonic user I really hope they at least implement an autofocus technology that I can see them improving on, even if it’s a work in progress. Just for some piece of mind when it comes to me investing in their lenses/ecosystem and their future lol.
Really like your honesty in discussing the pros and cons of each camera. I purchased a G85 a few years ago and based my decision on multiple factors but IBIS was a key factor for sure. Also, you mentioned you had a G85 and it "absolutely slapped"! That made me laugh. Thanks again for the video.
This was really interesting. I've got a Gh5 and hoping for a little better low-light performance. The auto-focus doesn't usually worry me -- I just set it to manual and shoot.
I am exactly like you, I switched from the S5 to the A7IV! xD I got the S5 on a heavy discount, which caused me unnecessary pain to make the decision of switching to the Sony. But it was all worth it. When using the Sony, you feel immersed in the creating process, because it just works.
Hi Patrick. I'm here from your suggestion comment on your other channel. I didn't know about this channel, but I knew the other one. So I subscribed here as well. This was something I really needed to watch to make an informative purchase. Thank you so much for creating this comparison video.
Really balanced argument for both. I can totally appreciate your requirements and decision to buy the a7iv. Keep up the great work but do keep the s5 footage coming too. You’re too good with it not to show the world your skills!
Thanks for this! I’ve always been curious about Panasonic since they do some really awesome stuff and I know next to nothing about it. New intro is awesome, I’ll honor it by playing this on a tv strapped to a wheeled cart.
Well-balanced assessment. When the LUMIX is on sale, though, there's a $1000 difference in price. The A7iv isn't going on sale anytime soon. $1000 is a big difference.
S5 has been great for me so far, the only time at work it has failed me was when I had to redo a shot 10 times to get a nice focus pull shot from foreground to background. But that’s 1 in like 300shots I’ve taken.
@@impatrickt The thing is though. When im doing a focus pull, I wouldnt be doing that with any cameras autofocus. Focus pulls will always be better done manually as you can control the speed with much better accuracy and be reacting tow hats happening in front of you. Its when you have the S5 on a gimbal without a wireless follow focus or when youre filming yourself where it can become an issue.
I will still choose the Lumix S5. Sure, poor AF performance as compared to the Sony A74 but for what I do, (weddings, corporate, fashion) the Lumix S5 is more than enough and its $1,000 less, maybe cheaper. I got 2 Lumix S5 as my A and B cam and they both perform really well!
Really enjoyed an interesting and practical review of both cameras. I sold my Sony A7riv and all my lenses, I am not a professional photographer or film maker, I am just someone who likes to have the best gear I can afford at the time. I sold my Sony A7riv because of the jitter you mentioned and the ergonomics of the camera and the LCD screen that is more decorative than functional. For the same reasons I sold a Sony A9ii earlier in the year. What have I got now ? I bought a nearly new S5 that came with the 20-60mm kit lens and 50mm 1.8 prime lens and I also bought a nearly new S1 body that I later got the 24-105mm lens for. Here is the thing, both cameras feel right when I hold them and in the main they deliver what I want clear sharp photos. No doubt as time goes on and if I have the cash I might look for something else, but right now I couldn’t be happier with them.
Great content brother! As I stated in your post the other day, we switched to the S5 and S1 and are exceedingly pleased! Also cool to see another Indipro VMount setup. Love their stuff👊🏼 Keep up the good work!
Thanks for the video but the S5 has unlimited record time in 4k 24 and 4k 30 8 bit. The unlimited time is if you use 10 bit. I'm pretty sure that is what you were thinking. I also am thinking about the Sony A7IV for the same reasons. great video, thanks again.
8:10 - Markets must be different around the world - I purchased an S5 kit with the 20-60 Lens for $A2400 ($US1700) in Australia - the A7iv with the 28-60 (a poorer lens) is $A4199 ($US2930) from the same retailer or $A3750 ($2600) grey import no warranty - that's a huge difference. 10:15 - also always behind the camera (photo/vid) - not interested in vlogging good summary
This was great a watch! Great seeing someone be sensible about both cameras and their use cases! I went for the S5 and it's been great for my video business, the Sony autofocus does look amazing though! Keep up the great work!
Great comparison! Really sensible and not full of cliches! The only thing I would add is that the A7iv active stabilization really helps, sure it crops in a notch but is nearly not noticeable
Cameras are not mobile phones that we will fix all the issues with a software update .As these are serious hardware machines we need to calcualte how much we have to spend after a camera purchase gimbals,nd filters batteries etc. So, buying a system based on a hipe or y tube videos is a sales pitch. But in countries where we can't return or rent a camera so easily everything matters. So, what we want and what a system offers must be our highest priority as its hard earn money you see. I thank you Patrick for starting this conversation simple short,clear and also not any brand specific.
I just wrapped up (like 2hrs ago) filming a talking head bit of my Lumix S5 review that starts with the exact same postulate as the one you open this video with (pitting it against the A7c though). Now i'm torn between being very happy realizing that other prominent content creators can put things in perspective for their audience when it comes to camera as I wish to do... and feeling like I should scrap it altogether because it is basically the same thing (just in a different language)! Dope piece anyways!
Thank you so much for making this video from a TH-camrs perspective this is one of the best videos I’ve seen giving a comparison of the Panasonic camera
Would love better auto focus but the S5 is what I’m going to go with I actually like to manually focus on anything whether it’s photos or videos I just did a whole video performance straight manual focus on a old canon and I still did pretty good idk maybe it’s just be but I love the feeling of having a good as video and knowing it was all shot manually.
Awesome video. Trying to decide between an S5 and Fuji XT3, mainly shoot stills. Tough choice given the deals on new S5s, but have been a fuji shooter for years 🤔
Similarly, this is how I'm currently splitting out my cameras. For my purposes, I use my Canon setup for "work" and my Fujifilm for everyday filming/photos. It's all about the use case and what you need for the time and place! Great breakdown here!
I have the S5 and I'm about to pull the trigger on the Sony mainly for Slog3 and real estate videos. I've also heard and seen amazing in regards to the phantom luts. Any input would be much appreciated
Noice vid. Definitely helped me decide, because I never heard anywhere about the recording limit on the s5. Thanks! Though I don't really get the argument, that the s5 is a better "cinema" camera than the a7iv, when this is the camera with a recording limit.
if you shot film you’re limited to 10 minutes at a time. 30 min is nothing, and never in my 15 years doing this have I shot something narrative with a take longer than 4-5 min. it’s a non starter issue. the a7iv will overheat before you get annoyed by the 30 min limit.
Here is where Im drawing the line to choose this month of February which camera to get... at $2600 the Sony A7iv (sucky kit lens) OR Lumix S5 (dope kit lens) + Ninja V. Even cheaper if you buy the Lumix and lens OB youll spend less. Im going with the Lumix S5 to film music videos and higher image quality. Miss the RAW workflow and storage is not a issue for me.
@@impatrickt @Patrick Tomasso I would give it to the Sony Kit lens if it started around the 24mm, I think the application of a 20mm in comparison outclasses the 28mm. Even a 20mm to a 50mm kit lens is more useful, anything over 50mm is a specialty lens IMO.
@@impatrickt I hear you man, the eye wants what it wants hahaha, 20mm to me is perfect as I love the distortion for music videos. It allows for more room and creativity. Currently using a 12mm on my XT3. Have you had any overheating issues on any of these two cameras?
Not related to the video but I can't wait to see you and Danny Gevirtz in one video. The vibe and look kinda complement each other. I don't know. Just my opinion. Anyway, as always, you're spitting facts and personal unbiased opinion so great job on this one!
These companies need sun $2,000 cameras. Like $1800 or less to fill that gap since the mainstream is now $2500. The a7c is a bit dummed down, the z6ii is good and the Eos R isn’t competitive rn. Flip screen all the things too. Just a solid 4k 30p camera with great usability: evf + lcd + joystick etc
Thank you for this comparison. Not very many videos out there like this one. With your experience with both systems, I’m curious Which one you would most likely rig up. Alpha or Lumix?
Lumix - but I haven't tried rigging the a7iv up yet. I'm planning on it to see if it fixes the IBIS issues I have with it. I'd like to make a run and gun doc style rig for it.
Thank you gor making this content my body of work are youtube videos yet people come and ask for production usage which not easy for me to answer since I have no professional experience this helps me a lot
Such a fantastic point! The most important part is just what inspires you to shoot! I really appreciate your perspective. Thanks for making this video!
Thank You Patrick true review for both the worlds youtube and real world with client work. I have been waiting for such a video :short and to the point what actually we want instead of fixing into one brand eco system.
Recently you could get hold of a new S5 for 1300€ after cashback (200€) in germany. Panny is sold dead cheap here. It just shows what a steal this camera is, considering your point about using it as a sort of cinema camera. Whilst the a7IV is back ordered and costs 2800€
Yeah this. I even got a drawing tablet and all kinds of other stuff with it for free which I was able to resell, taking it down to about €1000. Almost 1/3 the price of the A7IV with things more important to me (IBIS, RAW). The value is incredible.
@@dawuddawid I don't see an equation where getting the S5 lens upped to anything decent can be cheaper than the a7iv. the 35mm f1.8 L mount is $900. I paid $300 for an E mount 35mm.
Great talk. I love how you put everything in perspective. My question is will Panasonic improve their Af, apparently they had many chances and they still not there. Maybe because they still believe in “cinema is all about manual focusing and be creative” . Why built hybrid cameras, than? I am confused 🤔
I think the difference in price makes things more difficult now with used prices. S5s can be found for $1350 or so right now whereas the a7iv is still $2450ish (based on Mpb prices). Maybe the IV will get a sale after Christmas though
Yeah, I'm sticking with the S5 for both being in front and behind the camera. Not really to toss my Canon lens and RP to hop on over to Sony just yet. :)
@@impatrickt , I have an RP for when I need reliable AF. As far as AF with my MC-21 adapter, I can't AF at all with my S5 in video mode. I only use my Canon lenses on the S5 for when I'm doing slow pace photography work because it can focus, but kind of hunts before locking focus. For video work and being in front of the camera with my S5, I use only Panasonic lenses. It's decently reliable, but you already know the deal since you're more experienced with the S5 and Panny lenses than me. I'm happy with the S5 AF for my vlogging this far since people are forgiving when I walk and talk vlog. I notice you do more sit down talking head type videos, so that Sony is definitely needed. I guess it all comes down to user experience and if you're okay with the limitations of gears you own and use. :)
So I mostly use Sony a7iv. But in low light, with a bright window shining light into the room, I find Vlog recovered much better than slog3 from the a7iv. That surprised me. Generally, the Panasonic color looks better to me vlog is just wonderful. But in bright sunlight, Sony's standard profile and HLG look fantastic, has a "magical" quality even, not sure why. But most of the time, I love the Panasonic color, quite a bit better.
each profile has their nuances for exposure too. ive been able to shoot a lot cleaner under exposed with the a7iv than I can with the panasonic and that just fits my style a bit better. I agree you'll likely get more highlight detail and DR out of the panasonic.
Regarding the recording limits on the S5, it is because of its smaller size. To reduce the size, they excluded the fan that is present in the other no-limit models. Without that dedicated cooling, they wanted to protect it from overheating. That's what I read anyway, though I don't recall where I read it.
@@impatrickt That's interesting. Was that at 60fps or 30fps? The S5 allows unlimited on 4K/30fps 8-bit 4:2:0 at 100Mbps. Also, I didn't realize the a7iv was so small and without a fan. Thanks for sharing info.
Great video! I have both cameras as well as the G85 too 😅.. also the Sony ZV-E10. What is your best way to color match the S5 and the A7iv if you're using both for the same video?
Here in the UK it's £1300 for s5 with 50mm 1.8 panasonic lens, and £2300 body only with the Sony A7iv so a huge price difference in the UK at least. Also s5 will do unlimited recording in 4k as long as you don't mind 420 8bit recording
@@impatrickt I agree 100% For me I needed 2 cameras I could record over 30 minutes with for things like wedding ceremonies and funerals where focus is locked off so for me s5 made most sense as video ergonomics seem nicer on s5, that it's also half the price is a bonus. I'd been running s5 alongside my a7iii so it was ahead there and the upgrade cost of A7iv didn't make sense for my usage. Anything requiring good af track though the sonys win hands down. Interestingly for photos the af is actually pretty decent as the dfd wobbling isn't a problem for stills. Great to have the choice of 2 great cameras either way
On 22 Feb the Lumix GH6 will be released. Let's see how the auto-focus will be on that one, and from there we can tell how the future will look for Lumix cameras. My opinion for clients work: I will always "show to impress" and what I mean with that is that I will always go with my cameras rigged out, a lot of accessories, extra gear, lights, etc... Keep in mind that the clients are paying for something that looks professional, they don't want to see a guy with a camera and 1 lens. Great Video man!
I'm actually not finding the A7IV really useable for my vlogging and photography while traveling. Lost a lot of shots over the last 10 months and the battery life is sadly pretty short. Not ideal for my situation and I'm probably going back to the S5. The photos missing eye focus is maddening even after the firmware updates.
If the S5 mark ii has phase detect comparable to A7iv would you consider it worth $2200 - $2500, wait for a sale around $1500 or still not consider it at all since Sony already seems to have all you need? My major needs are travel-sized, IBIS, DR, AF and 10-bit 4:2:2. I told myself I'd finally go full frame from my G9 once something comes out that has all of those but I'm a bit squeamish about the cost of restarting a lens collection.
The stuff you put out is always well thought out and I always learn something new when I leave. I look at your final few questions from the Sony viewpoint - If Sony could just figure out IBIS … mic drop.
I wished they listened to you. I went A73R because the A74 was not out (and it is cheaper) as I wanted photo resolution and easy video with good AF. But in every other respect, shooting Pana is just easier and more enjoyable... And the L ecosystem with Sigma would be perfectly fine.
My main concern is the lens ecosystem. Is Leica L mount going to have newer, better lenses in the future, or is the current selection kind of it? I love that Tamron 28-200mm zoom lens for the Sony E-mount, it's lightweight, versatile and not too expensive. I wish L mount had something like that with that range, size and price.
Not considering the price difference. How is the S5 compared to the Sony A7S III? I was shopping for the S5 when I went to buy it the store had an A7S III in stock. I bought it because they had it and the low light capability. However, I still want the S5. Will I notice any difference in quality in video? I use my A7 III for stills and have a bunch of Sony glass already. Thanks
@@impatricktTitle of video >>>>> "LUMIX S5 VS SONY A7IV" " I mean, didn't I answer that in this video?" NO it doesn't answer anything about the S5 Vs A7S III. Thanks for nothing.
Shoot on everything, but my personal fav camera to use as an everyday carry is the S5. I don't rely on auto focus much on any camera but I haven't really had much trouble with the s5 auto focus when I've had to use it. (Much more trouble than working with a sony a7s3 or a canon r5 anyway, even their systems aren't as fool proof as everyone seems to gush over them being) I can see where it might make a difference if you're using auto focus every day on a really shallow depth of field but for me af is a once in a blue moon thing and I always play back/check my clips on any camera if I have to rely on it. The one thing I will say that has made me debate swapping my EDC cam from an S5 to a sony is the Sony cinema line. The S5 itself scales to a really great little cinema camera but panasonic's mid range cinema camera line (Looking at you EVA 01) kinda sucks till you get to the higher priced varicams. Sony has a lot better options covering the range from prosumer to pro and having a camera with a color space that matches the things you're scaling up to when using a crew can make a difference. I'd love to see panasonic close this gap a bit more, maybe release a S5 or an S1 in a cinema camera body with better af to go head to head with the fx 3 and fx 6.
I went for the A7IV after using a GH5 for about 3 years. The stabilization of the A7IV isn't good I agree. It was so much better on my GH5... But the AF was a deal breaker for me ! On the Sony I can let the camera roll without thinking about the focus, it is a much better experience for run and gun shooting.
@@lukaslukatiify yup, you must have stab turned off on the camera to make it work. The crop of catalyst browse is also big, I’ve never used it for any client video since I got the A7IV.
I shot my family ice skating a few weeks ago, and set the S5 to human detect. There were many other people around but the S5 by itself picked out my family to focus on.... it was wild. I think that me shooting in 60fps (of course with the APS-C crop) helps the auto focus by giving the camera DOUBLE the scanning per frame. Of course this does not help when shooting in 24 or 30 FPS with the entire sensor.
@@impatrickt I think if Panasonic had a way to quadrouple the scan it would do the trick... but I am not an electrical engineer so I really don't know what I am talking about. BTW- Your videos are dead on and very good.
I started on Sony and still use Sony cameras…and I think tbh after using them without no ibis for so long it doesn’t really matter once you get used to it and learn how to get good video despite the lack of ibis. I guess it pays off to start without ibis so you don’t have to depend on that
I was doing a video for a client 5 years ago with a Lumix G7, there was one shot, very difficult to get, because the actor was not getting it, we had to do the shot at least 20 tries, when one of them we thought we got the right shot, I was tired because of holding a gimbal, and realize the shot was out of focus, that was bad, like really bad, then when the A7iii came out I bought it and never looked back..... AF is a must, Lumix have so much features that are so usefull, but all of those are irrelevant if the shot is out of focus
I'm filmmaker, always behind the camera. But I have some questions about this--i.e. using gimbals. It seems to me that having a camera with good AF is needed for the Ronin-type gimbals, right? Though I am never in front of the camera, I sometimes need to operate away from the camera, like conducting interviews. I am also a one-man operation. Is stellar AF necessary for me, considering all these things?
UPDATE - my review of the Lumix S5ii: th-cam.com/video/FHL1G5-1aMg/w-d-xo.html
I do a lot of portrait photography and eye autofocus was a novelty turned necessity. Ever since switching to Sony I hardly ever miss a shot and with the a7iv improved AF system it’s like cheating. Great comparison 👍🏼
That’s a great point. I think cuz I don’t do portraits the AF on both cameras for photos have been great.
Try the canon R6 it has Ant Eye AF.
@@letsfindout6587 that sounds fucking stupid
@@impatrickt Says the Fool.
Jobs are shorter since I use Sony
Good insights, Mr. Tomato. 👍💜
keeping these receipts in case someone says you're mean again
@@impatrickt lmao
@@impatrickt I live in Ontario - there are mean Undone receipts lining the streets
LOL, Tomato, Potato, Patricko, Tomassito. Good review, or better. good talk about your experience with video machines. I realize and despite having an S5, having had a G80, a G9 and an XT-4, my favorite machine is a BMPCC6K PRO... which, in addition to incredible color science, doesn't have much else...
Switched to fx3 from the s5. Im already missing shutter angle, ibis, screen brightness and simplicity of menu. But hot damn the af on the fx3 is smooth af. Walking backwards shooting and having the focus locked tight on the eyes of the subject was something I didnt know I needed.
You answered my question perfectly! I’m definitely aiming for that S5 now. Thanks for another honest and practical review.
I bought an S5 the week after the S5 Mark2 was announced. The body + 20-60mm + 50mm + 85mm for £1600 new. The deal was great and now have the confidence in investing in L mount because of the S5 Mark2.
im still not willing to invest in L mount.
BANGING NEW LOGO SEQUENCE :D !!!
You’ve been on an absolute hot streak since you switched to 4:3. Great work!
Had a similar experience last year when I switched from the Lumix S1 to the Canon R6. I needed a camera that I could trust in all scenarios and sadly the S1 really is a camera you have to work with to get good results rather than a camera that works with you. Great video and good points all around!
A lot of great points here, as someone who is primarily behind the camera ive never relied on autofocus on any camera because I do like video shots being messup up by it in critical points and not having full control over shallow depth shots. I still prefer the S1 over the S5 because of the screen and additional internal codecs, but i rarely find missed focus in photos because of focus peaking helping me nail manual pulls on the fly as well.
Honestly I've been following your page because I'm a lumix s5 shooter but I think you brought up some great points of to the sony vs lumix debate. Great video as always!
Excellent video 🎉❤. It feels like AF has become a baseline expectation that cannot be walked back on for many of us. And woah the TV raining scene totally made this video vibes love it
Couldn’t have said it better. Both baller cameras.
If only Panasonic would put tracking Phase Detection AF in their cameras they would instantly rise to the top for camera choices and probably be way more popular. They have most of the other pieces of the puzzle. They just need the AF piece and they are golden.
Yeah can’t understand why they’re not doing it. So stupid:(
100%, there'd be a big spike in the video industry for LUMIX
On 22 Feb the GH6 will be released.. let's see how the auto-focus will be on that one, and from there we can tell how the future in Lumix cameras look.
@@nfcmedia5411 Definitely, if they don't step it up and get the autofocus sorted now they are going to be in trouble of losing so many people
What I don't understand about Panasonic is that they'd figured out everything else five years ago. The GH5 from 2017 is still a competitive camera today in every way except for continuous autofocus. Panasonic was so far ahead of everyone else in 2016-17. Their cameras had unlimited 4K, deep buffers, really fast operation, great UI, amazing build, etc. All they needed was to make one body with PDAF. If they didn't want banding from PDAF pixels on their GH bodies, they could have given us PDAF on the less cinema-oriented G or GX series, and most of us would have bought one of those and been happy, and we probably would have followed Panasonic to FF, too. I don't know what Panasonic has been working on for the last five years because there had one job, to solve autofocus, and they still haven't done it it.
As a Panasonic user I really hope they at least implement an autofocus technology that I can see them improving on, even if it’s a work in progress. Just for some piece of mind when it comes to me investing in their lenses/ecosystem and their future lol.
agreed
You are a cannibal?
Really like your honesty in discussing the pros and cons of each camera. I purchased a G85 a few years ago and based my decision on multiple factors but IBIS was a key factor for sure. Also, you mentioned you had a G85 and it "absolutely slapped"! That made me laugh. Thanks again for the video.
the g85 is so good.
This was really interesting. I've got a Gh5 and hoping for a little better low-light performance. The auto-focus doesn't usually worry me -- I just set it to manual and shoot.
I hope you need Sigma 18-35 f1.8. These lenses boost low light performance and overall quality.
LUMIX is 3 year behind in AF. If they are on par, they will beat out ALL competition.
But Lumix color clearly looks better than Sony, and IBIS too.
color is subjective im starting to prefer sony
I am exactly like you, I switched from the S5 to the A7IV! xD I got the S5 on a heavy discount, which caused me unnecessary pain to make the decision of switching to the Sony. But it was all worth it. When using the Sony, you feel immersed in the creating process, because it just works.
Totally agree.
Hi Patrick. I'm here from your suggestion comment on your other channel. I didn't know about this channel, but I knew the other one. So I subscribed here as well. This was something I really needed to watch to make an informative purchase. Thank you so much for creating this comparison video.
cheers! thanks for stopping by!
@@impatrickt Sure thing. 😃
Really balanced argument for both. I can totally appreciate your requirements and decision to buy the a7iv. Keep up the great work but do keep the s5 footage coming too. You’re too good with it not to show the world your skills!
Thanks for this! I’ve always been curious about Panasonic since they do some really awesome stuff and I know next to nothing about it.
New intro is awesome, I’ll honor it by playing this on a tv strapped to a wheeled cart.
LOL I need a wheel cart!
Great comparison. Behind or in front of the camera makes perfect sense if you're trying to decide!
Well-balanced assessment. When the LUMIX is on sale, though, there's a $1000 difference in price. The A7iv isn't going on sale anytime soon. $1000 is a big difference.
Honestly I crunched more numbers and the S5 would have cost me more to get the same focal lengths. It’s cheap because the lenses are bloody expensive.
@@glebmazur9892 you can put the same vintage lenses on the a7iv. Better bang for your buck.
@@impatrickt exactly, just talking about how to make your videos better for 1000$ price difference and not be robbed by native Pana L mount lenses)
I was browsing your channel for reasons of switching and in the meantime this drops. Nice!
S5 has been great for me so far, the only time at work it has failed me was when I had to redo a shot 10 times to get a nice focus pull shot from foreground to background. But that’s 1 in like 300shots I’ve taken.
yeah the AF is awful
@@impatrickt The thing is though. When im doing a focus pull, I wouldnt be doing that with any cameras autofocus. Focus pulls will always be better done manually as you can control the speed with much better accuracy and be reacting tow hats happening in front of you. Its when you have the S5 on a gimbal without a wireless follow focus or when youre filming yourself where it can become an issue.
I will still choose the Lumix S5. Sure, poor AF performance as compared to the Sony A74 but for what I do, (weddings, corporate, fashion) the Lumix S5 is more than enough and its $1,000 less, maybe cheaper. I got 2 Lumix S5 as my A and B cam and they both perform really well!
I just cant rely on it as my only camera
Really enjoyed an interesting and practical review of both cameras. I sold my Sony A7riv and all my lenses, I am not a professional photographer or film maker, I am just someone who likes to have the best gear I can afford at the time. I sold my Sony A7riv because of the jitter you mentioned and the ergonomics of the camera and the LCD screen that is more decorative than functional. For the same reasons I sold a Sony A9ii earlier in the year. What have I got now ? I bought a nearly new S5 that came with the 20-60mm kit lens and 50mm 1.8 prime lens and I also bought a nearly new S1 body that I later got the 24-105mm lens for. Here is the thing, both cameras feel right when I hold them and in the main they deliver what I want clear sharp photos. No doubt as time goes on and if I have the cash I might look for something else, but right now I couldn’t be happier with them.
my body is ready for this
Great content brother! As I stated in your post the other day, we switched to the S5 and S1 and are exceedingly pleased! Also cool to see another Indipro VMount setup. Love their stuff👊🏼 Keep up the good work!
This video made me switch! Thanks for the honest review and pointing out the use cases and not just the features. Thank you from a a new A74 owner!
Thanks for the video but the S5 has unlimited record time in 4k 24 and 4k 30 8 bit. The unlimited time is if you use 10 bit. I'm pretty sure that is what you were thinking. I also am thinking about the Sony A7IV for the same reasons. great video, thanks again.
im not shooting 8 bit because I need to shoot log, so that mode is useless.
8:10 - Markets must be different around the world - I purchased an S5 kit with the 20-60 Lens for $A2400 ($US1700) in Australia - the A7iv with the 28-60 (a poorer lens) is $A4199 ($US2930) from the same retailer or $A3750 ($2600) grey import no warranty - that's a huge difference. 10:15 - also always behind the camera (photo/vid) - not interested in vlogging good summary
i don’t know how old you are but whatever the age if this video is what informs you of geo-finances… that’s pretty sad.
This was great a watch! Great seeing someone be sensible about both cameras and their use cases! I went for the S5 and it's been great for my video business, the Sony autofocus does look amazing though! Keep up the great work!
Great comparison! Really sensible and not full of cliches! The only thing I would add is that the A7iv active stabilization really helps, sure it crops in a notch but is nearly not noticeable
Cameras are not mobile phones that we will fix all the issues with a software update .As these are serious hardware machines we need to calcualte how much we have to spend after a camera purchase gimbals,nd filters batteries etc. So, buying a system based on a hipe or y tube videos is a sales pitch. But in countries where we can't return or rent a camera so easily everything matters. So, what we want and what a system offers must be our highest priority as its hard earn money you see. I thank you Patrick for starting this conversation simple short,clear and also not any brand specific.
That background is amazing!
I just wrapped up (like 2hrs ago) filming a talking head bit of my Lumix S5 review that starts with the exact same postulate as the one you open this video with (pitting it against the A7c though). Now i'm torn between being very happy realizing that other prominent content creators can put things in perspective for their audience when it comes to camera as I wish to do... and feeling like I should scrap it altogether because it is basically the same thing (just in a different language)!
Dope piece anyways!
Make it! Your perspective will still be yours and that’s what matters.
@@impatrickt will do 👍🏾…, but yeah, same conclusions
Did you just say "absalutley slapped" 😎😂😭🚀🍨
Thank you so much for making this video from a TH-camrs perspective this is one of the best videos I’ve seen giving a comparison of the Panasonic camera
No problem Patrick. I shoot Fuji and Ricoh :D
Why not both?
not everyone is crazy like us
@@impatrickt BUT THEY COULD BE!
I think A7iv for gimbal work,and S5 for handheld run and gun It is the best combo
Love your style man, great video!
Would love better auto focus but the S5 is what I’m going to go with I actually like to manually focus on anything whether it’s photos or videos I just did a whole video performance straight manual focus on a old canon and I still did pretty good idk maybe it’s just be but I love the feeling of having a good as video and knowing it was all shot manually.
Great video and perspective. I am part of the Lumix gang thanks to you and Gary.
Awesome video. Trying to decide between an S5 and Fuji XT3, mainly shoot stills. Tough choice given the deals on new S5s, but have been a fuji shooter for years 🤔
I sold all my Fuji stuff. It’s a personal thing I will leave to you. All cameras are good.
Thanks for your balanced perspective!
Similarly, this is how I'm currently splitting out my cameras. For my purposes, I use my Canon setup for "work" and my Fujifilm for everyday filming/photos. It's all about the use case and what you need for the time and place!
Great breakdown here!
I have the S5 and I'm about to pull the trigger on the Sony mainly for Slog3 and real estate videos. I've also heard and seen amazing in regards to the phantom luts. Any input would be much appreciated
the phantom luts are phenomenal.
Noice vid. Definitely helped me decide, because I never heard anywhere about the recording limit on the s5. Thanks! Though I don't really get the argument, that the s5 is a better "cinema" camera than the a7iv, when this is the camera with a recording limit.
if you shot film you’re limited to 10 minutes at a time. 30 min is nothing, and never in my 15 years doing this have I shot something narrative with a take longer than 4-5 min. it’s a non starter issue. the a7iv will overheat before you get annoyed by the 30 min limit.
@@impatrickt well, definitely a point there. And let´s face it when you need longer recording time, like an interview, you won't need 4k
Excellent and honest perspective of both the Panasonic S5 and Sony A74
Here is where Im drawing the line to choose this month of February which camera to get... at $2600 the Sony A7iv (sucky kit lens) OR Lumix S5 (dope kit lens) + Ninja V. Even cheaper if you buy the Lumix and lens OB youll spend less. Im going with the Lumix S5 to film music videos and higher image quality. Miss the RAW workflow and storage is not a issue for me.
Both kit lenses are great.
@@impatrickt @Patrick Tomasso I would give it to the Sony Kit lens if it started around the 24mm, I think the application of a 20mm in comparison outclasses the 28mm. Even a 20mm to a 50mm kit lens is more useful, anything over 50mm is a specialty lens IMO.
@@alldreamsmedia I prefer the 28mm. the 20mm looks like a fisheye to me.
@@impatrickt I hear you man, the eye wants what it wants hahaha, 20mm to me is perfect as I love the distortion for music videos. It allows for more room and creativity. Currently using a 12mm on my XT3. Have you had any overheating issues on any of these two cameras?
@@alldreamsmedia I answer that in the video
Keep up the good work my friend .Great video.
Not related to the video but I can't wait to see you and Danny Gevirtz in one video. The vibe and look kinda complement each other. I don't know. Just my opinion. Anyway, as always, you're spitting facts and personal unbiased opinion so great job on this one!
Danny is the 🐐
as a film student and content creator, this helped me alot. Thanks!
happy to hear that!
Great video! saw u in Gerald undone's video with Make Art now!
These companies need sun $2,000 cameras. Like $1800 or less to fill that gap since the mainstream is now $2500. The a7c is a bit dummed down, the z6ii is good and the Eos R isn’t competitive rn. Flip screen all the things too. Just a solid 4k 30p camera with great usability: evf + lcd + joystick etc
Thank you for this comparison. Not very many videos out there like this one. With your experience with both systems, I’m curious Which one you would most likely rig up. Alpha or Lumix?
Lumix - but I haven't tried rigging the a7iv up yet. I'm planning on it to see if it fixes the IBIS issues I have with it. I'd like to make a run and gun doc style rig for it.
I'm looking forward to picking up the s5iix to pair with my stack of Sony bodies/lenses.
Thank you gor making this content my body of work are youtube videos yet people come and ask for production usage which not easy for me to answer since I have no professional experience this helps me a lot
Such a fantastic point! The most important part is just what inspires you to shoot! I really appreciate your perspective. Thanks for making this video!
S5 was $997 on B&H and other sites recently, brand new. Don't think anything can beat it for that price.
Thank You Patrick true review for both the worlds youtube and real world with client work. I have been waiting for such a video :short and to the point what actually we want instead of fixing into one brand eco system.
Great review
Recently you could get hold of a new S5 for 1300€ after cashback (200€) in germany.
Panny is sold dead cheap here. It just shows what a steal this camera is, considering your point about using it as a sort of cinema camera.
Whilst the a7IV is back ordered and costs 2800€
in canada its like 2500 lol
Yeah this. I even got a drawing tablet and all kinds of other stuff with it for free which I was able to resell, taking it down to about €1000. Almost 1/3 the price of the A7IV with things more important to me (IBIS, RAW). The value is incredible.
@@dregdata how you gonna shoot raw without spending $1k on a recorder?
@@impatrickt well, he can invest the money he saved, for not buying the a7IV in an atomos recorder and a good lens, maybe a decent mic and a cage
@@dawuddawid I don't see an equation where getting the S5 lens upped to anything decent can be cheaper than the a7iv.
the 35mm f1.8 L mount is $900. I paid $300 for an E mount 35mm.
Great talk. I love how you put everything in perspective. My question is will Panasonic improve their Af, apparently they had many chances and they still not there. Maybe because they still believe in “cinema is all about manual focusing and be creative” . Why built hybrid cameras, than? I am confused 🤔
You said it yourself, autofocus is a consumer oriented feature. Pro’s usually opt to focus manually. Gives better creative control.
I think the difference in price makes things more difficult now with used prices. S5s can be found for $1350 or so right now whereas the a7iv is still $2450ish (based on Mpb prices). Maybe the IV will get a sale after Christmas though
i woukldnt buy an S5 even at that price
@@impatrickt good to know 👍 any other options you'd consider right now for a hybrid shooting enthusiast?
Magic video. Thanks. ❤️✨
Patrick excellent video as usual. Would you recommend the A7IV over the Fuji X-T4?
without question
Great video as always and opinions on point! 🌹
Yeah, I'm sticking with the S5 for both being in front and behind the camera. Not really to toss my Canon lens and RP to hop on over to Sony just yet. :)
how do you manage the AF with canon lenses? I've tried using the MC-11 adapter but it's awful for AF.
@@impatrickt , I have an RP for when I need reliable AF. As far as AF with my MC-21 adapter, I can't AF at all with my S5 in video mode. I only use my Canon lenses on the S5 for when I'm doing slow pace photography work because it can focus, but kind of hunts before locking focus. For video work and being in front of the camera with my S5, I use only Panasonic lenses. It's decently reliable, but you already know the deal since you're more experienced with the S5 and Panny lenses than me. I'm happy with the S5 AF for my vlogging this far since people are forgiving when I walk and talk vlog. I notice you do more sit down talking head type videos, so that Sony is definitely needed.
I guess it all comes down to user experience and if you're okay with the limitations of gears you own and use. :)
So I mostly use Sony a7iv. But in low light, with a bright window shining light into the room, I find Vlog recovered much better than slog3 from the a7iv. That surprised me. Generally, the Panasonic color looks better to me vlog is just wonderful. But in bright sunlight, Sony's standard profile and HLG look fantastic, has a "magical" quality even, not sure why. But most of the time, I love the Panasonic color, quite a bit better.
each profile has their nuances for exposure too. ive been able to shoot a lot cleaner under exposed with the a7iv than I can with the panasonic and that just fits my style a bit better. I agree you'll likely get more highlight detail and DR out of the panasonic.
Regarding the recording limits on the S5, it is because of its smaller size. To reduce the size, they excluded the fan that is present in the other no-limit models. Without that dedicated cooling, they wanted to protect it from overheating.
That's what I read anyway, though I don't recall where I read it.
a7iv is even a bit smaller and has no limits. no fan.
@@impatrickt does overheat though… mine did after an hour of recording with temp set to high…
@@ThePistonPit ive shot 12 hour days of non stop back to back interviews in 4K. zero over heating.
@@impatrickt That's interesting. Was that at 60fps or 30fps? The S5 allows unlimited on 4K/30fps 8-bit 4:2:0 at 100Mbps.
Also, I didn't realize the a7iv was so small and without a fan. Thanks for sharing info.
@@bjyoungblood I cant do 8 bit 420 because I shoot log. I truly haven't used the S5 since I made this video. it's on a shelf.
Great video! I have both cameras as well as the G85 too 😅.. also the Sony ZV-E10.
What is your best way to color match the S5 and the A7iv if you're using both for the same video?
Haven’t had to match them, don’t think I likely ever will. But it seems like it would be pretty easy with both in log.
Here in the UK it's £1300 for s5 with 50mm 1.8 panasonic lens, and £2300 body only with the Sony A7iv so a huge price difference in the UK at least.
Also s5 will do unlimited recording in 4k as long as you don't mind 420 8bit recording
So what though? Price is irrelevant if the camera doesn’t do what you need it to do. I actually haven’t even touched the S5 since I got the a7iv.
@@impatrickt I agree 100%
For me I needed 2 cameras I could record over 30 minutes with for things like wedding ceremonies and funerals where focus is locked off so for me s5 made most sense as video ergonomics seem nicer on s5, that it's also half the price is a bonus.
I'd been running s5 alongside my a7iii so it was ahead there and the upgrade cost of A7iv didn't make sense for my usage.
Anything requiring good af track though the sonys win hands down.
Interestingly for photos the af is actually pretty decent as the dfd wobbling isn't a problem for stills.
Great to have the choice of 2 great cameras either way
That intro is 🔥 🔥🔥🔥🔥
Great point. The VAST majority of people that buy these cameras are not TH-camrs.
On 22 Feb the Lumix GH6 will be released. Let's see how the auto-focus will be on that one, and from there we can tell how the future will look for Lumix cameras.
My opinion for clients work: I will always "show to impress" and what I mean with that is that I will always go with my cameras rigged out, a lot of accessories, extra gear, lights, etc...
Keep in mind that the clients are paying for something that looks professional, they don't want to see a guy with a camera and 1 lens.
Great Video man!
I'm actually not finding the A7IV really useable for my vlogging and photography while traveling. Lost a lot of shots over the last 10 months and the battery life is sadly pretty short. Not ideal for my situation and I'm probably going back to the S5. The photos missing eye focus is maddening even after the firmware updates.
If the S5 mark ii has phase detect comparable to A7iv would you consider it worth $2200 - $2500, wait for a sale around $1500 or still not consider it at all since Sony already seems to have all you need? My major needs are travel-sized, IBIS, DR, AF and 10-bit 4:2:2. I told myself I'd finally go full frame from my G9 once something comes out that has all of those but I'm a bit squeamish about the cost of restarting a lens collection.
if you have to start a new lens collection then it makes more sense to go sony
@@impatrickt Even with their sub-par IBIS?
@@BryanPopeProductions its more than usable still especially with OIS lenses
@@impatrickt Awesome thank you
just the review that I need before buying an s5 .
The stuff you put out is always well thought out and I always learn something new when I leave. I look at your final few questions from the Sony viewpoint - If Sony could just figure out IBIS … mic drop.
And if Panasonic could figure out autofocus…
I wished they listened to you. I went A73R because the A74 was not out (and it is cheaper) as I wanted photo resolution and easy video with good AF. But in every other respect, shooting Pana is just easier and more enjoyable... And the L ecosystem with Sigma would be perfectly fine.
My main concern is the lens ecosystem. Is Leica L mount going to have newer, better lenses in the future, or is the current selection kind of it? I love that Tamron 28-200mm zoom lens for the Sony E-mount, it's lightweight, versatile and not too expensive. I wish L mount had something like that with that range, size and price.
who knows. its a mount that isn't going anyway anytime soon so it will naturally grow.
Nice video….. as you said if Panasonic implemented reliable autofocus they would be on the top of the game.
Nice video.
What luts do you use for S5? Your footage is really cinematic looking
just the standard rec709's
Not considering the price difference. How is the S5 compared to the Sony A7S III? I was shopping for the S5 when I went to buy it the store had an A7S III in stock. I bought it because they had it and the low light capability. However, I still want the S5. Will I notice any difference in quality in video? I use my A7 III for stills and have a bunch of Sony glass already. Thanks
I mean, didn't I answer that in this video?
@@impatricktTitle of video >>>>> "LUMIX S5 VS SONY A7IV" " I mean, didn't I answer that in this video?" NO it doesn't answer anything about the S5 Vs A7S III. Thanks for nothing.
Shoot on everything, but my personal fav camera to use as an everyday carry is the S5. I don't rely on auto focus much on any camera but I haven't really had much trouble with the s5 auto focus when I've had to use it. (Much more trouble than working with a sony a7s3 or a canon r5 anyway, even their systems aren't as fool proof as everyone seems to gush over them being) I can see where it might make a difference if you're using auto focus every day on a really shallow depth of field but for me af is a once in a blue moon thing and I always play back/check my clips on any camera if I have to rely on it. The one thing I will say that has made me debate swapping my EDC cam from an S5 to a sony is the Sony cinema line. The S5 itself scales to a really great little cinema camera but panasonic's mid range cinema camera line (Looking at you EVA 01) kinda sucks till you get to the higher priced varicams. Sony has a lot better options covering the range from prosumer to pro and having a camera with a color space that matches the things you're scaling up to when using a crew can make a difference. I'd love to see panasonic close this gap a bit more, maybe release a S5 or an S1 in a cinema camera body with better af to go head to head with the fx 3 and fx 6.
yeah i use AF for everything. work and personal. it's the deal breaker.
I went for the A7IV after using a GH5 for about 3 years.
The stabilization of the A7IV isn't good I agree. It was so much better on my GH5...
But the AF was a deal breaker for me !
On the Sony I can let the camera roll without thinking about the focus, it is a much better experience for run and gun shooting.
do you hear for catalyst browser?
@@lukaslukatiify yup, you must have stab turned off on the camera to make it work. The crop of catalyst browse is also big, I’ve never used it for any client video since I got the A7IV.
Thanks for sharing. I would like to ask about the S5 iso, what is the most you use?
I have s5 for 8 months, never have problems with autofocus.
Panasonic is rumored to be coming out with an S5 Mark ii to have face detect and better autofocus.
I really like the grading of your video! Do you use a specific LUT?
i use the phantom luts for sony. thanks!
I shot my family ice skating a few weeks ago, and set the S5 to human detect. There were many other people around but the S5 by itself picked out my family to focus on.... it was wild. I think that me shooting in 60fps (of course with the APS-C crop) helps the auto focus by giving the camera DOUBLE the scanning per frame. Of course this does not help when shooting in 24 or 30 FPS with the entire sensor.
It’s better in 60 cropped but I still wouldn’t consider it reliable
@@impatrickt I think if Panasonic had a way to quadrouple the scan it would do the trick... but I am not an electrical engineer so I really don't know what I am talking about. BTW- Your videos are dead on and very good.
You're one of the coolest, tbh
I started on Sony and still use Sony cameras…and I think tbh after using them without no ibis for so long it doesn’t really matter once you get used to it and learn how to get good video despite the lack of ibis. I guess it pays off to start without ibis so you don’t have to depend on that
That’s not really the issue. It’s that IBIS ruins shots that would be fine without it lmao
Can you do professional landscape photography with the lumix ?
you can do that with any camera
I was doing a video for a client 5 years ago with a Lumix G7, there was one shot, very difficult to get, because the actor was not getting it, we had to do the shot at least 20 tries, when one of them we thought we got the right shot, I was tired because of holding a gimbal, and realize the shot was out of focus, that was bad, like really bad, then when the A7iii came out I bought it and never looked back..... AF is a must, Lumix have so much features that are so usefull, but all of those are irrelevant if the shot is out of focus
I'm filmmaker, always behind the camera. But I have some questions about this--i.e. using gimbals. It seems to me that having a camera with good AF is needed for the Ronin-type gimbals, right? Though I am never in front of the camera, I sometimes need to operate away from the camera, like conducting interviews. I am also a one-man operation. Is stellar AF necessary for me, considering all these things?
it would be nice piece of mind to have, yes. a deal breaker for what you're describing? not really.