Why The S1II is The ULTIMATE Camera For Anamorphic

Why I Finally Enjoy Shooting Anamorphic – Lumix S1II & Sirui Ironstar Lenses

Lumix has long been ahead of the curve for anamorphic video, with features like in-camera desqueeze and stabilisation tuned for different squeeze factors. The full-frame Lumix lineup has provided excellent support for filmmakers chasing that anamorphic look.

Yet, despite all of this, I never truly enjoyed the process—until now. Historically, two big problems put me off. The Lumix S1II, paired with Sirui Ironstar lenses, finally solves both.

My First (Frustrating) Anamorphic Experience

My first anamorphic shoot was in 2022 on a Lumix press trip to Japan, using the Sirui Venus 50mm T2.9 on the Lumix S5II.

• Squeeze: 1.6x

• Issue: Severe rolling shutter ruined many handheld shots.

• Cause: Rolling shutter is magnified when stretching/desqueezing footage. The S5II/S5IIX has a 22ms readout speed in full-frame 4K, making wobble much worse.

Problem #1: Rolling shutter
Problem #2: Minimum focusing distance — most affordable anamorphic lenses can’t focus close without diopters, adding hassle.

At the time, anamorphic felt like a lot of extra work just for oval bokeh and horizontal flares.

The 2025 Solution: Lumix S1II + Sirui Ironstar Combo

The S1II tackles rolling shutter, and Sirui Ironstar anamorphics fix minimum focus distance.

• Partially stacked sensor → much faster readout speeds:

  • 9.3ms in 4K ProRes RAW

  • 12.7ms in 5.8K internal (Dynamic Range Boost off, CineD measurement)

• Nearly 2× faster than S5II → handheld wobble is far less noticeable.

Still Great Anamorphic Tools in-Camera

Like other Lumix cameras, the S1II keeps:

• In-camera desqueeze

• Stabilisation matched to squeeze factor

These make Lumix a top choice for creatives wanting straightforward anamorphic shooting.

Sirui Ironstar Lenses – Key Features

Tested: 45mm and 60mm versions.

• Changeable mounts → Ships with PL, includes EF mount

• Weight: ~1kg (PL) / slightly less (EF)

• Constant 1.5x squeeze → No subject distortion when pulling focus

• Close focus capability → Fixes one of the biggest frustrations

• Premium build → Quality packaging & carry case

• Smooth focus & aperture rings

• T1.9 aperture → Shallow depth of field (best results above T2.2–T2.5 for focus ease)

Flare options: Blue or Neutral (tested: Neutral).

Pricing: Early bird under $1000; retail around $1200 → excellent value for indie filmmakers.

One Remaining Downside: Manual Focus

Would I shoot anamorphic more now? Probably.

• The cinematic look and improved workflow are huge wins.

• Drawback: Manual focus only.

Sirui does make AF anamorphic lenses, but not yet for L-Mount. Given Lumix’s now excellent autofocus, that’s something I’d love to see.

That said, manual focus can slow you down—in a good, creative way.

Final Thoughts

With the Lumix S1II and Sirui Ironstar lenses, anamorphic finally feels fun and practical:

• Rolling shutter fixed

• Close focus solved

• Great in-camera tools

• Affordable for the quality

It’s the first time I can say I truly enjoy anamorphic shooting.