Newark, NJ—Panasonic introduced a large-aperture ultrawide, fixed-focal-length lens, the Panasonic Lumix S 18mm F1.8 (S-S18). It is the fifth addition to the company’s series of f/1.8 large-aperture lenses based on the L-mount system.
A total of five f/1.8 fixed-focal-length lenses from the Lumix S series feature a common size and positioning of control parts to provide practical advantages in use. The lenses include the 85mm (S-S85), 50mm (S-S50), 35mm (S-S35), 24mm (S-S24) and the new 18mm (S-S18) lens.
Moreover, the center of gravity of the S f/1.8 lenses is almost the same. Consequently, it is easy to exchange lenses quickly with minimum balance adjustment when the camera is on a gimbal. In addition, the lenses can use common filters, thanks to the same diameter.
“The large-aperture Lumix S 18mm f/1.8 (S-S18) boasts high optical performance passing the quality standard of professional use despite its compact size. An ultrawide 18mm perspective provides versatile ways of use at different shooting distances,” Panasonic announced.
In a long shot, the lens captures more foreground or background elements to deliver a dynamic impression. It is also possible to add artistic expression to the foreground subject by shooting from a short distance.
Panasonic Lumix S 18mm F1 Specs
The Lumix S 18mm f/1.8 employs 13 lens elements in 12 groups. They include three aspherical lenses; three ED (extra-low dispersion) lenses; one UED (ultra-extra-low dispersion) lens; as well as one UHR (ultrahigh refractive index) lens. Moreover, the use of three aspherical lenses realizes both high descriptive performance and bokeh—common advantages to the series of f/1.8 lenses. Further, the three ED lenses effectively suppress chromatic aberration.
As a result, the lens is an option for situations like landscapes, astrophotography and architecture photography, taking advantage of the ultrawide angle of view. Photographers can also use it to capture close-up shots thanks to a minimum focusing distance of 7 inches.
In addition, the Lumix S 18mm f/1.8 is capable of smooth, silent operation to work with the camera’s high-speed contrast AF system with a max 240-frames-per-sec sensor drive. For the non-linear setting, focus is shifted with a variable amount according to the rotation speed of the focus ring; focus is shifted with a designated amount according to the rotational quantum of the focus ring for the linear setting. Plus, users can select sensitivity from 90º to 360º by 30º to enable intended focus operation.
The lens is also a solution for video recording. It features a mechanism that suppresses focus breathing—a problem with interchangeable lenses for still image photography. Together with a micro-step aperture control for smooth exposure change, professional quality video can be recorded.
What’s more, the lens is portable, with an approximately 12-ounce weight. It also features a dust- and splash-resistant body to withstand use under harsh conditions; even at 14º F. It also features a filter diameter of 67mm and a 9-blade circular aperture diaphragm. The lens has a suggested retail price of $998.
