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Tilta has introduced a new full camera cage designed specifically for Panasonic’s latest full-frame mirrorless cameras: the S1RII, S1II, and S1IIE. This cage offers enhanced protection and expanded mounting options, addressing the needs of video professionals using these hybrid cameras.
The Panasonic LUMIX S1RII, announced earlier this year, features a 44.3MP full-frame sensor capable of recording 8K video at 30fps and 5.8K ProRes RAW internally. The newly announced S1II is the video-centric model, which introduces a 24.1MP partially stacked CMOS sensor, offering faster readout speeds, 6K open gate recording, and improved autofocus performance. The S1IIE serves as an “Essential” version, retaining many of the S1II’s features while aiming for a more accessible price point.
Panasonic’s naming conventions aren’t super eye-catching, but CineD has done a good job breaking down the differences between the models in a way that makes sense to working shooters. We have provided detailed coverage of these models, including S1RII announcement, S1II release, S1IIE announcement, and S1II lab tests.
The cage fits tightly around the S1-series body without interfering with controls, ports, or battery access. NATO rails on either side make it quick to attach side handles, arms, or monitor mounts. ARRI rosettes give you a secure mounting point for grips or accessories that need rotational stability. Threaded mounting holes with locating pins let you build out the rig without relying on extra cages or adapters.
Up top, there’s a cold shoe mount for mounting audio or wireless gear. The built-in Arca-Swiss plate means you can move the camera between tripods and gimbals without swapping baseplates. For vertical shooting, 1/4″-20 threads on each side give you straightforward rigging options for upright configurations.
One of the most important functional additions is the included cable clamp. HDMI and USB-C ports are fragile, and it doesn’t take much to knock a monitor offline or damage the jack. Locking those cables in place helps avoid one of the most common headaches during production.
While the cage is designed for the S1RII, S1II, and S1IIE, Tilta also lists compatibility with the S5II, S5IIX, and G9II, which share the same body shape. That makes it a flexible option for shooters using multiple LUMIX bodies.
In practice, the cage solves the rigging limitations of these cameras. It adds structural protection, secure mounting points, and better cable management without altering the feel of the camera too much. Whether you keep it minimal or rig it out with rods, handles, and follow focus, it stays out of the way and does its job.
Let’s be real. Using a hybrid camera for video without a cage is kind of like using your phone without a case. Yeah, it technically works out of the box, but the moment you drop it or try to plug in three things at once, you’ll wish you had some protection and a few more mounting points.
That’s exactly where Tilta’s cage for the S1RII, S1II, and S1IIE comes in. It’s not just about style or selling you extras. It’s about keeping the gear running and making the camera easier to work with. That’s what this cage does.
Tilta offers two configurations. The $69 version includes the cage, HDMI/USB-C clamp, and tools. The $179 base kit adds Tilta’s Xeno top handle, a height-adjustable 15mm LWS Arca baseplate, and two 15mm rods. Both are available via B&H Photo or Tilta’s official site.
Do you use a camera cage with your mirrorless cameras, or are you living dangerously? Let us know in the comments.
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Dave Kratz is a freelance documentary & commercial editor, and DP based out of Philadelphia, PA. His work includes films & series for Discovery Channel, History Channel, A&E, and HBO.