Panasonic introduces affordable, lightweight Lumix S 50mm F1.8

Panasonic has introduced a relatively lightweight and affordable standard prime for its L mount full-frame mirrorless cameras. The Lumix S 50mm F1.8 is the second in a line of lenses that share the same dimensions, control layout and 67mm filter thread, joining the Lumix S 85mm F1.8 short telephoto that appeared towards the end of the last year. Two more lenses, a 24mm f/1.8 and a 35mm f/1.8, are under development in the same range.

The Panasonic Lumix S 50mm F1.8 incorporates sealing against dust and moisture

Boasting a dust- and splash-resistant design for outdoor use, the lens is designed to operate in temperatures as low as -10°C. Optically it employs 9 elements in 8 groups, including one extra-low dispersion glass element and one ultra-high refractive index glass element to suppress chromatic aberration, along with three aspherical elements to maintain sharpness across the frame, even at larger apertures. The aperture diaphragm employs nine curved blades with the aim of delivering attractive blur in out-of-focus regions.

With much more svelte dimensions than the Lumix S Pro 50mm F1.4, the new lens should be a good match to the compact Lumix S5 full-frame mirrorless camera

As usual from Panasonic, the lens is designed with both stills and video shooting in mind. The firm is promising low focus breathing, along with smooth exposure adjustments during recording thanks to a micro-step aperture control. The Lumix S 50mm F1.8 is due to ship at the end of June for £429.