Amid the understandable excitement surrounding the OM-D E-M1 Mark III, Olympus also debuted a new optic specially designed for Nimble Photographers desiring the highest quality in a compact package - the M.Zuiko Digital ED 12-45mm f/4 PRO zoom ($649). This lens is a gem.
Here are the spec highlights:
- 12 to 45mm (35mm Equivalent Focal Length: 24 to 90mm)
- F/4 constant aperture
- Minimum focusing distance of 4.72" / 12 cm with 1:2 Macro Reproduction Ratio
- 12 Elements in 9 Groups with 7 rounded aperture blades
- 2.5 x 2.76" / 63.4 x 70 mm and weighs only 8.96 oz / 254 g
It mounts beautifully on the PEN-F, E-M5 Mark III, and E-M1 Mark III. The autofocus is fast. But what I really like about it are the images it produces - colorful, sharp, and with excellent contrast. I also like that it features a nicely dampened manual focusing ring that feels great - a welcome feature in pro AF lens.
Roadside Fruitstand in Costa Rica - JPEG - Olympus E-M1 Mark III with 12-45mm f/4 PRO zoom, ISO 200, f/5.6 at 1/125th, -0.7 EV, 13mm. Photo by Derrick Story.
Other niceties include a ZERO (Zuiko Extra-low Reflection Optical) coating that has been applied to individual elements to minimize lens flare and ghosting for improved contrast and color fidelity when working in strong lighting conditions. Plus it's dust, freeze, and drip-proof design ensures the lens performance in inclement and harsh conditions.
Christmas Cactus - Olympus PEN-F with 12-45mm f/4 PRO zoom, ISO 800, f/8 at 1/80th, +0.3 EV, 45mm at 1:2. Photo by Derrick Story.
The M.Zuiko Digital ED 12-45mm f/4 PRO zoom will begin shipping on Feb. 24th. You can pre-order is now... just in time for our travel season!
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