Las Vegas, NV—Panasonic introduced two L-mount interchangeable lenses for its Lumix S series full-frame (FF) digital single-lens mirrorless cameras. Lumix S ILCs are for professional use; moreover, both new Lumix S Pro lenses achieve Leica standards.
The Lumix S Pro 70–200mm f/2.8 OIS (S-E70200) is a large-aperture telephoto zoom lens. What’s more, it boasts high descriptive performance across its entire zoom range. In addition, the Lumix S Pro 16–35mm f/4 (S-R1635) is a wide zoom lens that provides high-resolution images and bokeh; yet, it offers a compact, lightweight profile.
In addition to Panasonic’s existing portfolio of lenses for Lumix S cameras, the company is committed to designing and developing 11 or more lenses with emphasis on the Lumix S Pro class by March 2021. Currently, more than 46 interchangeable L-mount lenses are available or will be available from Panasonic, Leica Camera AG and Sigma.
Lumix S Pro 70–200mm f/2.8 OIS
For professional field shooting, the Lumix S Pro 70–200mm f/2.8 OIS uses two UED (ultra-extra-low dispersion) lenses and three ED (extra-low dispersion) lenses in a 22-element 17-group configuration. As a result, it effectively suppresses both axial chromatic aberration and chromatic aberration of magnification. Astigmatism is also corrected with an aspherical lens.
The lens also adopts a double focus system to suppress fluctuation of aberration, even at close distances. Panasonic says it achieves “high-descriptive performance from the center to the corners over the entire zoom range despite its large aperture.”
Moreover, the use of a teleconverter allows 280mm (1.4x, with DMW-STC14) and 400mm (2x, DMW-STC20) super-telephoto shooting; while a maximum 480-fps focus control enables fast, precise autofocus. In addition, the OIS (optical image stabilizer) in the lens works with the camera’s body IS; the 5-axis dual IS 2 system makes it possible to use a 7-stop slower shutter speed. What’s more, a focus clutch mechanism enables instant AF/MF switching and manual focusing.
In addition, the lens’s constant f/2.8 large aperture provides smooth defocus gradation from the focus peak to the neighboring image area. This results in a bokeh effect as well as a rich perspective. Furthermore, the lens is also an option for video recording; it integrates a mechanism that suppresses focus breathing.
Other features include: a dust/splash-resistant body that can withstand harsh conditions, even at 14ºF; an 82mm filter size; and an 11-blade circular aperture diaphragm. The 70–200mm f/2.8 retails for $2,599.
Lumix S Pro 16–35mm f/4
This new wide zoom lens also boasts high-descriptive performance in both photo shooting and video recording. It comprises 12 elements in 9 groups, including three aspherical lenses; an ED lens; and a UHR (ultrahigh refractive index) lens.
It also achieves MTF performance despite its compact size and light weight. “It boasts stunningly high resolution toward the corners, even at wide open, as well as a beautiful bokeh, suppressing double line bokeh and vignetting,” Panasonic announced.
Moreover, a double-magnet linear motor is integrated for the AF actuator; it reaches a maximum 480-fps sensor drive. Like the 70–200mm f/2.8 OIS, this lens also employs a focus clutch mechanism as well as a mechanism to suppress focus breathing.
Dust and splash resistant, it also features a 77mm filter size and a 9-blade circular aperture diaphragm. SRP: $1,499.
