Panasonic has added to its Lumix G series lens range, today unveiling two new interchangeable lenses.Both the Lumix G 42.5 mm/F1.7 ASPH./Power OIS (H-HS043) and the Lumix G Macro 30 mm/F2.8 ASPH./Mega OIS (H-HS030) are based on the micro four-thirds system standard and are aimed at first-time interchangeable lens camera buyers.
The H-HS043 features a 42.5 mm middle-telephoto focal length (equivalent to 85 mm on a 35 mm camera), suitable for portraits – with Panasonic stating its F1.7 high-speed aperture “creates beautiful shallow depth-of-field for impressive, creative shots” – and has a minimum focusing distance of 0.31 m.
The H-HS030 offers a 30 mm focal length (equivalent to 60 mm on a 35 mm camera), F2.8 high-speed aperture with “sharp high-contrast image rendering”, along with a maximum 1x magnification and a closest focusing distance of 0.105 m for true-to-life macro shots.
Both lenses incorporate an aspherical lens to suppress spherical aberration and distortion, with a stepping motor designed to make the focusing action smooth and silent for use in both photo and video recording.
Mounted on Lumix G cameras, the lenses take advantage of the contrast autofocus system, and are also compatible with the sensor drive at a maximum of 240 fps.
“These new lenses are designed to be affordable portrait and macro-lens solutions – ideal for consumers purchasing their first interchangeable lens camera, or for those adding to their lens kit to broaden their creative capabilities,” commented Doug Campbell, Panasonic Australia Imaging Group senior product manager.
Designed to be reliable and durable in the field, both lenses sport a metal design and mount, with the H-HS043 available in metallic black and silver and the H-HS030 available in metallic black.
Both lenses will be available in Australia in May, with Panasonic to announce pricing closer to the release date.
