Last Updated on 03/05/2019 by Chris Gampat
We got to spend some quality time with the Panasonic 70-200mm f4 OIS and the Panasonic S1; and we’ve got sample images.
Recently at WPPI 2019, we had the chance to use the new Panasonic 70-200mm f4 OIS lens for the new L mount cameras. We tested it on a shoot-ready pre-production version of the Panasonic S1; but it will work with any L mount camera like a Leica SL series for example. This lens is Panasonic’s first entry into a working telephoto zoom for the L mount and works with image stabilization on the sensor and in the lens itself. With an f4 aperture, it’s a smaller lens than what it should be, though arguably still larger than what Sony makes. Part of this philosophy is because Panasonic seems to be making no compromises with their new L mount glass.
The Panasonic 70-200mm f4 OIS is the company’s initial offering and an f2.8 lens version is on the way. The system itself seems to be really targeted to the professional level crowd more than anything else. This is evident not only in the huge size of the products but also with the feel, the weather sealing, and with the way that Panasonic seems to be talking about the products overall. A lens like the Panasonic 70-200mm f4 OIS may find its home amongst travel photographers who don’t really need the extra stop of light. It could also work for a variety of other conditions such as portraiture.
We’re still waiting for a final production unit to come into our hands in NYC. So stay tuned.
