Newark, NJ—Along with the Lumix G9II interchangeable-lens mirrorless camera, Panasonic introduced two Panasonic Leica DG Vario-Elmarit F2.8 telephoto lenses. The H-ES35100 and H-RSA100400 interchangeable lenses for the Lumix G series both comply with the Micro Four Thirds (MFT) system standard.
What’s more, the telephoto zoom lenses are in line with Leica’s stringent optical standards. Panasonic now has a lineup of 32 Micro Four Thirds interchangeable lenses; 15 are Leica DG lenses.
Two Panasonic Leica DG Vario-Elmarit F2.8 Telephoto Lenses
Leica DG Vario-Elmarit 35–100mm f/2.8 Power OIS (H-ES35100)
Redesigned, this is a new large-aperture telephoto zoom lens. The Elmarit full-range f/2.8 lens delivers brightness in all zoom ranges. Moreover, it allows photographers to enjoy a range of photography. This includes, for instance, evening shots that make use of the f/2.8 brightness and bokeh effects unique to telephoto shots that help to highlight the subject.
Its 18-element, 13-group optical structure comprises two ED (extra-low dispersion) lenses and one UED (ultra-extra-low dispersion) lens to achieve enhanced photographic performance throughout its 70–200mm-equivalent zoom range. In addition to Panasonic’s Nano Surface Coating technology, it uses a light-shielding part to eliminate unwanted light inside to produce natural color with little ghosting and flare. Plus, a seven-blade rounded diaphragm contributes to smooth, pleasing bokeh.
Panasonic says the lens also achieves high-speed, high-precision autofocus for videography with built-in 5-axis Dual IS 2 (optical image stabilization) technology. Moreover, the compact, lightweight lens is an option for handheld photography and when portability is needed. It measures 2.6×3.9 inches and weighs 12.7 ounces.
Other features include a 2.8-foot minimum focus distance with a 0.1x max magnification and dust-, splash- and freeze-resistant construction (14ºF). It has a suggested retail price of $1,149.49.
Leica DG Vario-Elmar 100–400mm f/4.0–6.3 II Asph Power OIS (H-RSA100400)
This teleconverter-compatible Leica DG lens is for full life-size macro shooting as well as ultra-telephoto zoom photography.
For center of the frame to the edge optical performance, it features one aspherical lens, two ED lenses and one UED lens to produce detailed, textured high-resolution images. With an equivalent focal length range of 200–800mm, the lens can capture a range of subjects that are difficult to approach, such as wild birds and animals, as well as sporting events.
Furthermore, the separately sold 2.0x teleconverter enables 1600mm full life-size macro shooting for more detailed shots of flowers, animals and other subjects. The lens has a 4.3-foot minimum focus distance and 0.25x max magnification. Additional features are a 9 rounded blade diaphragm; a removable tripod collar; as well as dust-, moisture- and freeze-resistant construction.
The lens is also compact and lightweight. It measures 3.3×6.8 inches (9.8 inches at max extension) and weighs in at 2.2 pounds. SRP: $1,599.99.
