Panasonic has announced the new Lumix S 18mm f/1.8 Ultra-Wide-Angle Lens.
The 18mm f/1.8 was designed to be a sleek and compact full-frame lens for use with L-mount mirrorless cameras. It’s 18mm focal length makes it suitable for a wide array of applications. The f/1.8 maximum aperture offers shallow depth of field control, and the nine-blade circular aperture is claimed to be able to create a soft, beautiful bokeh effect.
Key features
- L-Mount Lens/Full-Frame Format
- Aperture Range: f/1.8 to f/16
- 1x Ultra ED, 3x ED Dispersion Elements
- 1x Ultra-High Refractive Element
- 3x Aspherical Elements
- Minimum Focusing Distance: 7.09″
- Linear AF Motor
- Rounded 9-Blade Diaphragm
- Weather-Sealed Construction
- Includes Lens Hood
The optical design of the lens comprises thirteen lens elements in twelve groups. It includes three aspherical elements, three extra-low dispersion elements, one ultra extra-low dispersion element, and one ultra-high refractive index element. This design is claimed to effectively suppress chromatic aberration. The lens has a minimum focusing distance of about 7″.
For anyone shooting video with the lens, Panasonic has included a linear focus ring control that allows the focus to move at a constant speed in accordance with the rotating angle of the focus ring. The lens is claimed to feature a silent autofocus mechanism that suppresses focus breathing. Smooth exposure changes can be made via the micro-step aperture control.
The lens has the same approximate size, weight, and filter size as other f/1.8 S-series prime lenses to minimize balance reset time when using a gimbal.
It features a dust, moisture, and freeze-resistant design for increased protection from the elements.
Price & Availability
The Panasonic Lumix S 18mm f/1.8 Ultra-Wide-Angle Lens retails for $999.99 USD and it is now available to pre-order.
