Panasonic has recently introduced a new large-aperture ultra-wide fixed focal length lens, the LEICA DG SUMMILUX 9mm F1.7 for the LUMIX G Series is based on the Micro Four Thirds standard.
The LEICA DG SUMMILUX 9mm is an ultra-wide-angle lens with a large aperture, as well as an unparalleled lens that features an exceptionally short focusing distance of 0.095m (3.7 inches) with an outstanding magnification ratio of 0.25x (35mm camera equivalent: 0.5x). The combination of these lenses makes it possible to distinguish the subject’s presence against the background. It also boasts high descriptive performance and smooth, beautiful bokeh, clearing the stringent LEICA standards, and is suitable for use by professionals and high amateur users for both photo shooting and video recording.
A quick glance at the characteristic of this lens:-
- Lightweight
- Bright F1.7 Aperture
- Near Silent Focusing
- Excellent video performance
- Half Macro
- Weather Proof
The LEICA DG SUMMILUX 9mm F1.7 comprises 12 lens elements in nine groups including two aspherical lenses: two ED (Extra-Low Dispersion) lenses and one UHR (Ultra High Refractive Index) lens to effectively suppress axial chromatic aberration and chromatic aberration of magnification. Astigmatism is also corrected with these aspherical lenses, achieving high resolving performance. Furthermore, an Ultra-High Refractive Index (UHR) lens achieves uniform quality from the centre to the edges of the image while downsizing the lens unit.
The LEICA DG SUMMILUX 9mm F1.7 is capable of smooth, silent operation, complementing the camera’s high-speed, high-precision contrast AF system with the sensor drive at max.240 fps. For the non-linear setting, the focus is shifted with a variable amount according to the rotation speed of the focus ring while the focus is shifted with a designated amount according to the rotational quantum of the focus ring for the linear setting.
Sensitivity (the amount of focus shift per rotational quantum) can be selected from 90 to 360 degrees by 30 degrees to enable the intended focus operation. The LEICA DG SUMMILUX 9mm F1.7 also excels in video recording performance with a mechanism that suppresses focus breathing, which was a fatal problem of all interchangeable lenses designed for still image photography. Together with micro-step aperture control for smooth exposure change, professional-quality video can be recorded.
With its approximately 130g (4.5 ounces) compact size and lightweight, the LEICA DG SUMMILUX 9mm F1.7 features stunning mobility characteristics of a Micro Four Thirds system. The rugged dust/splash-resistant design of the lens can withstand high mobility and harsh conditions, including frigid temperatures at 10 degrees below zero. The filter diameter is 55 mm, with a 7-blade circular aperture diaphragm.
The LEICA DG SUMMILUX 9mm F1.7 will be available in late July with, probably below RM2,500 in Malaysia (it’s $499 international). Visit Panasonic Malaysia website for more information.
Would you like to receive daily photography news and updates from us? Subscribe to our newsletter:-