Prime Time With Panasonic

Last year, Panasonic revealed it was planning a line-up of four fast prime lenses in the full frame L mount, all identical in size and all with a maximum aperture of f/1.8. The first of these – the Lumix S 85mm f/1.8 is now available – and the three to come are a 24mm, a 35mm and a 50mm. Also on way is an S series 70-300mm f/4.5-5.6 zoom.

The 85mm f/1.8 has a compact design, measuring just 82mm in length and weighing 355 grams. It features a weather-sealed construction that includes insulation to allow shooting in subzero temperatures down to

-10 degrees Celsius. The optical construction comprises nine elements in eight groups, including two made from optical glass with extra-low dispersion characteristics to minimise both axial chromatic aberration and chromatic aberration of magnification. Additionally, the optic design minimises focus ‘breathing’ (a slight change in focal length that can occur when changing focusing) which is particularly important when shooting video.

There’s a nine-blade diaphragm for smoother out-of-focus effects and the screwthread filter fitting is 67mm (a specification that will be shared by all f/1.8-speed Lumix S primes).

Being an L mount lens, the Lumix S 85mm f/1.8 can also be used on the Leica SL/SL2 and Sigma fp camera bodies. It’s priced at $1,099.

For more information about the Panasonic Lumix S mirrorless camera system visit www.panasonic.com.au