Panasonic is announcing a new natural perspective, everyday lens for L-mount hybrid shooters, the LUMIX S 40mm f/2 lens. With its compact form factor, normal focal length, and wide maximum aperture, the lens is an effective solution for walkaround storytelling in both stills and video.
The new LUMIX S 40mm f/2 comes in black and silver colorways, weighing 5.1 oz and measuring less than 2” long. The optical design features seven elements in six groups, including three aspherical elements to limit aberrations and distortions. A seven-blade diaphragm complements the f/2 maximum aperture to produce smooth bokeh when shot wide open.
The lens also has a minimum focusing distance or 11.8”, supporting close-up shooting with a maximum magnification of .17x.
Video shooters will benefit from reduced focus breathing and micro-step aperture control for smooth, consistent footage across settings. The lens also features a Crop Zoom function that doubles the telephoto effect without compromising image quality.
Fitting its all-day, everyday-use profile, the lens has a dust-, splash-, and freeze-resistant design.
Long neglected by major manufacturers in favor of the legendary 35mm and 50mm focal lengths, the 40mm lens has been having something of a renaissance in recent years, as the relative simplicity of its optical construction yields smaller lenses at wider maximum apertures for lower prices, all without surrendering image quality. With this latest offering, Panasonic joins rivals Nikon, Canon, and Sony with its own affordable, high-quality prime lens.
For more information about the new lens, including additional features, specs, and highlights, be sure to check out the detailed product page for the LUMIX S 40mm f/2.
