Newark, NJ—Panasonic unveiled a wide-angle, large-aperture, fixed–focal–length lens—the Panasonic Lumix S 35mm F1.8 (S-S35). It is also the latest addition to the company’s series of four f/1.8 large-aperture lenses based on the L-mount standard.
Moreover, the four f/1.8 Lumix S series prime lenses—the 85mm (S-S85), 50mm (S-S50), 24mm (S-S24) as well as the new 35mm (S-S35)—feature a common size and position of controls.
In addition, the center of gravity of these lenses is comparable. Consequently, photographers can quickly exchange lenses with minimum balance adjustment when the camera is on a gimbal. A consistent diameter also enables the use of common filters.
Panasonic Lumix S 35mm F1.8
The Lumix S 35mm f/1.8 prime is an option for shooting landscapes, snapshots and portraits. Its minimum focusing distance of less than 10 inches also produces quality close-ups.
The new lens employs 11 lens elements in 9 groups. They include three aspherical lenses and three ED (extra-low dispersion) lenses. The use of three aspherical lenses realizes both high descriptive performance and bokeh. The ED lenses also effectively suppress chromatic aberration.
In addition, the lens is capable of smooth, silent operation; it works with the camera’s contrast AF system with the sensor drive at a max of 240 frames per sec. “For the nonlinear setting, focus is shifted with a variable amount according to the rotation speed of the focus ring, while focus is shifted with a designated amount according to the rotational quantum of the focus ring for the linear setting,” Panasonic announced.
Furthermore, photographers can select sensitivity, or the amount of focus shift per rotational quantum, from 90º to 360º by 30º to enable intended focus operation.
The S series lens is also a solution for video recording; it features a mechanism that suppresses focus breathing—a problem with all interchangeable lenses designed for still photography. Together with a micro-step aperture control for smooth exposure change, the lens can achieve professional–quality video recording.
Plus, weighing in at 10.4 ounces, the 35mm f/1.8 lens offers portability when coupled with the Lumix S5, Panasonic’s smallest full-frame model. It also features a dust/splash-resistant body that can withstand harsh conditions, even at 10º below zero. Other features include a 67mm filter diameter and a 9-blade circular aperture diaphragm.
The Panasonic S 35mm f/1.8 (S-S35) will ship at the end of November. It will have a suggested retail price of $699.99.
Lumix 18mm f/1.8 Lens in Development
Panasonic also announced that it is developing an 18mm ultrawide–angle, fixed–focal–length lens with a large f/1.8 aperture.
In addition, firmware update programs are available for the S-R70200, S-E70200, S-R70300 as well as S-R24105 lenses to improve image stabilization during video recording. The IS performance of the company’s Dual I.S. 2 technology was also increased from 6.5 stops to 7.5 stops when the S-R24105 is mounted on the Lumix S1H, S1R or S1 cameras.
