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Posts Tagged ‘Lens’

Tamron announces versatile 28-200mm F2.8-5.6 zoom lens for E-mount

11 Jun

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Tamron has introduced the 28-200mm F2.8-5.6 Di III RXD zoom lens for full-frame Sony mirrorless bodies. This compact lens is just 11.7cm (4.6″) long and weighs in at 576g (20.3oz).

It features a total of 18 elements, including glass-molded aspherical, hybrid aspherical, extra low-dispersion (known as XLD) and low-dispersion elements. A ‘BBAR’ coating reduces flare and ghosting. The minimum focus distance is just 19.1cm (7.5″) at wide-angle and 80cm (31.5″) at telephoto.

The 28-200 uses a stepping motor for autofocus (‘RXD’ in Tamron-speak) that the company says keeps focus noise to a minimum, making it ideal for video. It is threaded for 67mm filters. The lens is moisture resistant, and the front element’s fluorine coating helps to repel oil and water.

The 28-200mm F2.8-5.6 Di III RXD is expected to go on sale in late June for $ 729, though Tamron notes that the ship date is subject to change due to possible supply chain issues related to COVID-19.

Press release:

Tamron Announces Launch of the World’s First[1] All-In-One Zoom Lens Starting at F2.8 for Sony E-Mount Full-Frame Mirrorless Cameras

28-200mm F/2.8-5.6 Di III RXD (Model A071)

June 10, 2020, Commack, NY – Tamron announces the launch of the 28-200mm F/2.8-5.6 Di III RXD (Model A071), an all-in-one zoom lens for Sony E-mount full-frame mirrorless cameras. The lens is scheduled to be available on June 25 at $ 729. Due to the spread of COVID-19, the release date or the product supply schedule could be delayed.

In 1992, Tamron demonstrated breakthrough innovation with the release of the AF 28-200mm F/3.8-5.6 Aspherical (Model 71D), a compact and lightweight all-in-one zoom lens. The amazingly compact size, light weight and reasonable price made the lens immediately wildly popular with photographers around the world. In the years since, Tamron has continued to be a pioneer in the category, releasing epoch-making all-in-one zooms tailored to each era, including the recent 18-400mm F/3.5-6.3 Di II VC HLD (Model B028) that boasts the world’s highest magnification of 22.2x [2] and which currently enjoys robust sales. The new 28-200mm F2.8-5.6 is a distillation of all Tamron’s accumulated all-in-one zoom expertise and has been specifically developed as an all-in-one zoom for daily use on a full-frame mirrorless camera. Tamron chose Model A071 as the model name in a nod to “71” representing the world’s original compact all-in-one zoom.

The 28-200mm F2.8-5.6 is the first all-in-one-zoom in the world [1] to achieve a maximum aperture of F2.8 at the 28mm wide-angle end. To assure superb optical performance, it features a precise arrangement of special lens elements that accommodate the increasingly high resolutions of today’s digital cameras. Enabling high quality image rendering throughout the zoom range, the lens responds to users’ photographic expressions in powerful style. Moreover, with its 4.6” length, 20.3 oz. weight, and filter diameter of a mere 67mm, the 28-200mm F2.8-5.6 offers excellent portability. When combined with a compact, lightweight full-frame mirrorless camera, it allows photographers to capture virtually every scene they encounter in daily use, travel, sports and nature.

The 28-200mm F2.8-5.6 takes the convenience of an all-in-one zoom (which incorporates various angles of view from wide to telephoto in a single lens) and adds a fast-maximum aperture of F2.8 and superb image quality to enhance the potential for photographic applications. Breaking conventional limitations and broadening the horizons of photographic possibilities, this zoom lens writes a new chapter in the history of the all-in-one zoom lens.

PRODUCT HIGHLIGHTS

1. The world’s first F2.8 all-in-one zoom lens for full-frame mirrorless cameras
A remarkable first for an all-in-one zoom lens: the 28-200mm F2.8-5.6 achieves a fast F2.8 aperture at the 28mm wide-angle end. Additionally, maximum apertures at intermediate zoom ranges are F3.5 at 50mm, F4.5 at 100mm, and F5.6 at 150mm through 200mm. As an unprecedented all-in-one zoom that combines fast aperture with compact size, the 28-200mm F2.8-5.6 delivers greater versatility and usefulness than ever before available.

2. Lightweight and compact size for superior mobility
Tamron’s series of full-frame mirrorless camera lenses, starting with the 28-75mm F2.8 (Model A036), has been developed with the overall goal of balancing high performance with convenience. In addition to the series-standard 67mm filter diameter, and leveraging the camera integrated image stabilization, engineers concentrated on achieving compact size and light weight. Length is just 4.6”, maximum diameter is 74mm, and the weight is a mere 20.3 oz. With a size that offers excellent portability, the lens lightens your load, allowing you to travel comfortably and shoot unencumbered.

3. Uncompromising image quality that lets you focus on creativity
This new zoom lens contains 18 elements in 14 groups. A generous assortment of special lens elements that includes GM (Glass Molded Aspherical), hybrid aspherical, XLD (eXtra Low Dispersion) and LD (Low Dispersion) lens elements is precisely arranged to effectively control chromatic and other aberrations, enabling high resolving power. Meanwhile, the BBAR (Broad-Band Anti-Reflection) Coating provides powerful anti-reflection properties to effectively reduce ghosting and flare, resulting in clear and crisp images. In-camera correction features are utilized to mitigate distortion and shading to achieve uniformly high image quality from edge-to-edge at all zoom settings. Tamron has concentrated all its all-in-one zoom technologies into achieving optical performance that sets a new standard among existing all-in-one zoom lenses. From casual snaps to serious photos, this single lens lets you enjoy a wide range of shooting situations with complete freedom of composition.

4. Superior up-close shooting performance
The 28-200mm F2.8-5.6 delivers superior close-up shooting performance for an all-in-one zoom. At the 28mm wide-angle end the MOD (Minimum Object Distance) is 7.5”, achieving a maximum magnification ratio of 1:3.1. This performance, combined with the fast F2.8 aperture, allows users to move in close so that the subject is large while simultaneously showcasing a beautifully blurred background. Close-up shooting is remarkable at the telephoto end as well, with an MOD of 31.5” and maximum magnification ratio of 1:3.8. Users can capture impressive images with highly blurred backgrounds and create exceptional compositions.

5. The RXD stepping motor unit is exceptionally quiet?
The AF drive incorporates a sensor that accurately detects the position of the lens while the RXD motor unit delivers optimized AF control. This achieves very fast and accurate autofocus operation, allowing users to maintain tack-sharp focus on continuously moving subjects or when filming video. The exceedingly quiet operation is an important advantage because it virtually eliminates extraneous sounds during video recording. In addition, the compact configuration of the RXD AF drive system contributes to the unprecedented size and weight reduction.

6. A full family of superb, compact lenses made especially for mirrorless cameras
The 28-200mm F2.8-5.6 zoom is based on Tamron’s stratagem of creating a series* of lenses for full-frame mirrorless cameras that leverage the characteristics of compact camera bodies. Consequently, photographers can more easily enjoy various combinations of interchangeable lenses. For example, when the Model A071 is combined with the 17-28mm F2.8 (Model A046), the combined weight of the two lenses is less than 35.1 oz. This lightweight, portable zoom set covers everything from wide-angle to telephoto with a zoom range of 17-200mm. Additionally, when combined with a lens from Tamron’s series of fixed focal lenses such as the 20mm F2.8 (Model F050) or 24mm F2.8 (Model F051), the weight is less than 28.2 oz., expanding the possibilities of shooting at the wide-angle end without adding excessive weight or bulk.

All lenses in the series share the common filter diameter of 67mm, thereby eliminating the hassle associated with using different size filters and lens caps. Costly filters (e.g., PL, ND, etc.) can be shared instead of buying separate units for each lens. In this way, Tamron has expanded its series of lenses to make it truly practical to carry multiple lenses at the same time.

7. Moisture-Resistant Construction, Fluorine Coating, and Zoom Lock switch
Seals are located at the lens mount area and other critical locations to deter infiltration of moisture and/or rain drops and afford Moisture-Resistant Construction. This feature provides an additional layer of protection when shooting outdoors under adverse weather conditions. Also, the front surface of the lens element is coated with a protective fluorine compound that has excellent water- and oil-repellant qualities. The lens surface is easier to wipe clean and is less vulnerable to the damaging effects of dirt, moisture or oily fingerprints, allowing for much easier maintenance. Additionally, the handy Zoom Lock switch prevents unwanted barrel extension during transportation.

8. Compatible with main camera-specific features* and functions

Tamron’s new 28-200mm F2.8-5.6 is compatible with many of the advanced features that are specific to certain mirrorless cameras. These include the following:
– Fast Hybrid AF
– Eye AF
– Direct Manual Focus (DMF)
– In-camera lens correction (shading, chromatic aberration, distortion)
– Camera-based lens unit firmware updates

1) Maximum aperture in zoom range among currently available all-in-one interchangeable zoom lenses with a zoom ratio of 7x or higher (As of May 2020: Tamron)
2) Among interchangeable lenses for DSLR cameras (As of May 2017: Tamron)

* Tamron lineup of lenses with 67mm filter diameter for full-frame mirrorless cameras: 28-75mm F/2.8 Di III RXD (Model A036), 17-28mm F/2.8 Di III RXD (Model A046), 20mm/24mm/35mm F/2.8 Di III OSD (Model F050/F051/F053), 70-180mm F/2.8 Di III VXD (Model A056)

Tamron 28-200mm F2.8-5.6 Di III RXD specifications

Principal specifications
Lens type Zoom lens
Max Format size 35mm FF
Focal length 28–200 mm
Image stabilization No
Lens mount Sony FE
Aperture
Maximum aperture F2.8–5.6
Minimum aperture F16–32
Aperture ring No
Number of diaphragm blades 7
Optics
Elements 18
Groups 14
Special elements / coatings Aspherical, hybrid aspherical, extra-low dispersion, low-dispersion elements + BBAR coating
Focus
Minimum focus 0.19 m (7.48″)
Maximum magnification 0.32×
Autofocus Yes
Motor type Stepper motor
Full time manual Yes
Focus method Internal
Distance scale No
DoF scale No
Physical
Weight 576 g (1.27 lb)
Diameter 74 mm (2.91″)
Length 117 mm (4.61″)
Sealing Yes
Colour Black
Zoom method Rotary (extending)
Zoom lock Yes
Filter thread 67 mm
Hood supplied Yes
Tripod collar No

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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MS Optics is back with a 24mm F2 Leica M-mount lens that’s almost as small as a body cap

10 Jun
A comparison between the 24mm F/2 Aporia and a standard Leica body cap.

Boutique Japanese optics manufacturer MS Optics has released its latest bespoke lens, a 24mm F2 pancake lens for Leica M-mount cameras.

The MS Optics Aporia 24mm F2 M-mount lens is a return to Miyazaki’s specialty — wide-angle pancake lenses. This Gauss lens is barely larger than a Leica M body cap, yet manages to pack inside six elements in four groups and a focusing range from .5m (1.5ft) to infinity.

We promise that’s a lens on the Zeiss Ikon.

According to MS Optics founder and lens designer, Mr. Sadayasu Miyazaki, Gauss lenses tend to struggle with ‘coma flare from mid-frame into the corners causing reduced contrast and peripheral light falloff.’ Miyazaki says it was a struggle to get around this shortcoming, he’s managed to ‘bring it to a satisfactory level of performance’ thanks to low-dispersion elements.

The lens measures just 50mm (2”) diameter, 5.8mm (.23”) thick and weighs just 45g (1.59oz) — roughly the weight of a golf ball. Below are a few sample photos, captured by Bellamy Hunt of Japan Camera Hunter (JCH):

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The 24mm F2 Aporia is being stocked in very limited numbers on the JCH website in gold, black chrome and silver chrome. Right now all models are sold out, but Bellamy Hunt of JCH tells us units are currently being put through quality assurance and will go live ’in the coming weeks.’

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Notice: Tamron issues product advisory for its 70-180mm F2.8 Sony E-mount lens

10 Jun

Tamron has issued a product advisory noting that select units of its 70–180mm F2.8 Di III VXD (Model A056) lens for Sony E-mount cameras were shipped without proper calibration of the internal floating optics, which could result in decreased image quality.

The internal floating optics are designed to correct for chromatic aberration when properly calibrated, but according to Tamron’s notice, ‘some lenses have already been shipped out without the value being optimized.’ Tamron says affected units that have shipped will be inspected and adjusted or exchanged for entirely new units.

Tamron doesn’t specifically say what set of serial numbers are potentially affected, but they have set up a dedicated website for entering your unit’s serial number to verify whether your unit is affected. Above is a graphic on where you can locate the serial number of your lens.

Tamron ends the notice saying it ‘sincerely apologize(s) to all users and potential purchasers for any inconvenience this issue may cause […] We appreciate your continued support for our products.’

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Sony to Announce Ultra-Wide 12-24mm f/2.8 GM Lens

03 Jun

The post Sony to Announce Ultra-Wide 12-24mm f/2.8 GM Lens appeared first on Digital Photography School. It was authored by Jaymes Dempsey.

dps Sony 12-24mm f/2.8 announcement

If you’re a landscape photographer, you’re in for a treat.

Sony is preparing to announce its brand-new, ultra-wide 12-24mm GM lens, which will offer a great range of focal lengths, an impressive f/2.8 maximum aperture, and (likely) stellar optics.

Let’s take a look at what we know.

First, the lens specs:

The Sony 12-24mm will feature a focal length range custom-made for landscape photographers. At 24mm, you’ll be poised to capture some wide images. And once you zoom out to 12mm, you’ll have wide-angle capabilities that few lenses can match, able to capture sweeping vistas that would normally be impossible to shoot.

Sony will announce the 12-24mm f/2.8 lens

A consistent problem with ultra-wide lenses is a bulbous front element, which makes it impossible to mount circular polarizers and neutral density filters. But Sony seems to have addressed this too, with the (rumored) inclusion of a rear-mounting filter option. That way, landscape photographers can take advantage of drop-in filters, and don’t have to choose between a wide focal length or enhanced image quality.

As for the optics:

Given the G Master designation, we can expect the lens to offer excellent sharpness from corner to corner, very limited chromatic aberration, and more.

In other words, the new Sony 12-24mm is a landscape photographer’s dream.

Note that Sony does already offer a 12-24mm lens, one that’s well-known for its optical prowess. But the current 12-24mm only shoots as wide as f/4, and while this is fine for most landscape situations, there’s one area of landscape photography where a wider maximum aperture is almost always better:

Astrophotography.

For photographers who shoot skies in complete darkness, an f/2.8 aperture allows for a shutter speed fast enough to freeze the stars without boosting ISO too much. The difference between f/2.8 and f/4 may not seem huge, but it does matter; at f/2.8, you’ll often come away with a sharp, clean shot, compared to the blurry or noisy result you get at f/4.

Of course, a lens that offers such impressive specifications is bound to come with a matching price tag. While Sony has not yet revealed any details, rumors suggest that the 12-24mm f/2.8 GM will cost around $ 4000 USD.

Is this pricier than I would like?

Absolutely.

But it’s bound to be one heck of a lens!

So keep an eye out for further news; you should see a Sony announcement sometime in the next few weeks.

Now over to you:

What do you think about this new Sony lens? Do you think that $ 4000 USD is too high a price? Or will the lens be worth it? Share your thoughts in the comments!

The post Sony to Announce Ultra-Wide 12-24mm f/2.8 GM Lens appeared first on Digital Photography School. It was authored by Jaymes Dempsey.


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Cosina announces ‘Stills Edition’ version of its Nokton 40mm F1.2 lens for Sony E-mount

02 Jun

Cosina has announced the upcoming release of its latest ‘Stills Edition’ (SE) lens, the Voigtlander Nokton 40mm F1.2 SE lens for Sony E-mount camera systems.

The manual 40mm F1.2 SE lens is nearly identical to its non-SE version. It’s constructed of eight elements in six groups, features an aperture range of F1.2 – F22, has a 55-degree field of view and uses a ten-blade aperture diaphragm. The SE version also features the same built-in encoder for metadata and distance, which works alongside Sony’s in-body image stabilization to offer the best results.

As with other lenses in the SE series, the only notable difference compared to the non-SE version is a slightly changed external design, different groves on the rings and the removal of the aperture de-click button. Below are a few sample photos from Cosina, captured with the lens (the images feature borders and aren’t high-res):

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The lens weighs 340g (12oz), has a 58mm front filter thread and comes with a lens hood. Cosina’s website says the lens will be released on June 24 at a suggested retail price of 100,000 yen (~$ 930).

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Samyang announces its AF 85mm F1.4 lens is now available for Canon RF mount

29 May

Last year, Samyang1 released the AF 85mm F1.4 FE prime lens for Sony full-frame mirrorless cameras. Now, the lens has been updated with a Canon RF mount to work with Canon’s line of full-frame mirrorless cameras, too.

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Aside from the new mount, the lens remains unchanged from its Sony FE predecessor. The lens is constructed of 11 elements in 8 groups, including one Extra-Low Dispersion (ED) element and four High Refractive Index (HRI) elements to help minimize chromatic aberration. The optical elements also use Samyang’s Ultra Multi Coating (UMC) to keep flares and ghosting under control.

Autofocus is driven by Samyang’s Dual Linear Sonic Motor (DLSM) and the sole button on the lens is the AF/MF button for switching between auto and manual focus. The lens features weather-sealing, a nine-blade aperture diaphragm and a 77mm front filter thread. Below is a sample photo, provided by Samyang:

The Samyang AF 85mm F1.4 RF is expected to ship in June for $ 800, with pre-orders opening up before then. The RF version comes in at $ 100 more than the Sony FE version was launched at and $ 200 more than what the Sony FE is currently selling for. We will update this page when pre-orders become available.

1 Samyang is also sold under the Rokinon and Bowens brand names, depending on your region and the retailer you purchase from.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Tamron teases new zoom lens for full-frame Sony E-mount cameras

29 May

Tamron already has six full-frame Sony E-mount lenses in its lineup, but there’s another on the way. In a video shared on its YouTube channel earlier today, Tamron teased a new full-frame E-mount lens that appears to be a mid-range zoom lens.

The 18-second clip, embedded below, doesn’t divulge any additional details about the lens, but it does link to Tamron’s E-mount lens lineup page that shows how the forthcoming lens will stack up in size compared to the six current full-frame E-mount lenses — three primes and three zooms.

You can also see in the lineup photo the new lens will have what appears to be a focus locking switch sandwiched between the focus and zoom rings. Tamron’s 70–180mm F2.8 Di III VXD lens is the only current full-frame E-mount lens in the lineup to offer this switch.

We’ll keep you up to date, but you can also keep an eye on Tamron’s website for more information. There’s also Tamron Japan’s website, which sometimes posts press releases ahead of the U.S. site.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Ricoh introduces HD Pentax-D FA* 85mm F1.4 lens

28 May

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Just two weeks after Ricoh revealed more details of its long-teased portrait prime, the HD Pentax-D FA* 85mm F1.4 ED SDM AW has officially been released. The new lens offers numerous special elements, a new AF motor and the build quality we’ve come to expect from high-end Pentax lenses.

The 85mm F1.4 contains a total of 12 elements, including ‘Super ED’ and aspherical glass. An HD coating is used to reduce flare and ghosting. The lens has a new ring-type SDM lens motor to drive the focusing elements, which delivers 1.3x more torque than the motor on the 50mm F1.4, according to Ricoh. The lens has a nine-blade aperture that is electronically controlled.

Minimum focus distance is 0.85m (2.8ft) and the maximum magnification is 0.12x. It’s sealed against dust and moisture in eight places (that’s the ‘AW’ designation – standing for ‘All Weather’) and can be used in tough conditions when paired with a weather-resistant Pentax camera.

The FA* 85mm F1.4 will be available in mid-June for $ 1899.

Press release:

Ricoh announces HD PENTAX-D FA?85mm F1.4ED SDM AW for K-mount digital SLR cameras

Second fixed focal-length model added to next-generation, high-performance Star lens series

PARSIPPANY, NJ, May 27, 2020 ? Ricoh Imaging Americas Corporation today announced the HD PENTAX-D FA?85mm F1.4ED SDM AW lens, the second fixed focal-length lens in the new-generation PENTAX Star (?) lens series. Designed for use with PENTAX K-mount digital SLR cameras, Star-series lenses boast the highest imaging performance of all PENTAX lens lineups.

PENTAX developed a new, ring-type SDM (Supersonic Direct-drive Motor) exclusively for this new lens to enable flawless, high-speed autofocus operation, with an exterior design that assures a firm grip for manual-focus operation. The HD PENTAX-D FA?85mm F1.4ED SDM AW lens is designed not only to assure the highest imaging power currently possible, but also to optimize the joy of picture-taking.

The new lens incorporates three Super ED (Extra-low Dispersion) glass optical elements to effectively minimize chromatic aberration, and a glass-molded aspherical optical element to effectively compensate for spherical and chromatic aberrations and field curvature to deliver extra-clear, high-contrast images with edge-to-edge sharpness, even at open aperture. This design also reduces distortion to nearly zero at a focusing distance of four meters to deliver well-defined, distortion-free images over the entire focusing range, from the minimum focusing distance to infinity.

The HD PENTAX-D FA?85mm F1.4ED SDM AW lens boasts an F1.4 maximum aperture, useful with many different subjects in a range of applications, including portraiture with an effectively defocused background, handheld shooting of indoor scenes and scenic photography. The extra-large aperture produces a bright, clear viewfinder image that will surely inspire photographic creativity and imagination.

Developed as an AW (All Weather) model, the new lens features dustproof, weather-resistant construction with eight special seals to prevent the intrusion of water into the lens barrel. When paired with a dustproof, weather-resistant PENTAX digital SLR camera body, it assures a durable, reliable digital imaging system that performs superbly in demanding shooting settings — even in rain or mist, or at locations prone to water splashes or spray.

| Pricing and Availability |

The HD PENTAX-D FA?85mm F1.4ED SDM AW lens will be available in mid-June at www.us.ricoh-imaging.com as well as at Ricoh Imaging-authorized retail outlets for a manufacturer’s suggested retail price of $ 1899.95.

Main Features of the new HD PENTAX-D FA?85mm F1.4ED SDM AW

1. New-generation, high-performance Star-series lens to deliver ideal image quality

Anticipating the further advancement of SLR camera bodies in the future, PENTAX has designed this lens to deliver extra-clear, high-contrast images with edge-to-edge sharpness by compensating various aberrations to a minimum, while greatly enhancing resolving power — two factors absolutely essential in the next-generation Star series. It provides exceptionally high imaging performance even at open aperture, a beautiful bokeh (defocus) effect and outstanding image rendition at close ranges — all reasons why it produces high-quality, well-defined images. It also boasts an extra-large F1.4 maximum aperture, useful with many different subjects in a range of applications, including portraiture with an effectively defocused background, handheld shooting of indoor scenes and scenic photography. It helps the camera to produce a bright, clear viewfinder image that will inspire the photographer’s creativity and imagination.

2. State-of-the-art optical technology

This lens incorporates three Super ED (Extra-low Dispersion) glass optical elements to effectively minimize chromatic aberration, and a glass-molded aspherical optical element to effectively compensate for spherical and chromatic aberrations and field curvature to deliver extra-clear, high-contrast images with edge-to-edge sharpness, even at open aperture. It also reduces distortion to nearly zero at a focusing distance of four meters to deliver well-defined, distortion-free images over the entire focusing range, from the minimum focusing distance to infinity. This lens is also treated with high-grade, multi-layer High-Definition (HD) Coating, which reduces average reflectance in the visible ray spectrum to less than 50% of conventional multi-layer coatings, effectively reducing flare and ghost images to a minimum even in demanding lighting conditions such as backlighting.

3. Newly designed, large ring-type SDM

To deliver the highest image quality possible over the entire focusing range — from the minimum focusing distance to infinity — this lens features a newly designed, large ring-type SDM to efficiently drive the focusing mechanism, which consists of a larger number of optical elements than ordinary lenses, and is required to shift heavy rear-optical-element groups in unison. Generating a torque approximately 1.3 times that of the unit installed in the HD PENTAX-D FA?50mm f1.4 SDM AW, this new SDM assures flawless, high-speed autofocus operation.

4. Dustproof, weather-resistant construction

Developed as an AW (All Weather) model, this lens features a dependable dustproof, weather-resistant construction with eight special seals to prevent the intrusion of water into the lens barrel. When paired with a dustproof, weather-resistant PENTAX digital SLR camera body, it assures a durable, reliable digital imaging system that performs superbly in demanding shooting conditions — even in rain or mist, or at locations prone to water splashes or spray.

5. Other features

  • Nine-blade, round-shaped diaphragm to produce a natural, beautiful bokeh (defocus) effect up to the F2.8 aperture setting, while minimizing the streaking effect of point light sources
  • Exterior design that facilitates focus-ring operation in manual-focus shooting and provides a firm hold
  • Electromagnetic diaphragm-control mechanism** for flawless, high-precision exposure control during video recording
  • SP (Super Protect) coating to keep the front surface free of dust and spots

** This mechanism is available when the lens is mounted on a K-1 Mark II, K-1, K-3 II, K-3, KP,
K-70, K-50, K-S2 or K-S1 camera body.

HD Pentax-D FA* 85mm F1.4 ED SDM AW specifications

Principal specifications
Lens type Prime lens
Max Format size 35mm FF
Focal length 85 mm
Image stabilization No
Lens mount Pentax KAF4
Aperture
Maximum aperture F1.4
Minimum aperture F16
Aperture ring No
Number of diaphragm blades 9
Optics
Elements 12
Groups 10
Special elements / coatings 1 aspherical + 3 Super ED elements, HD coating
Focus
Minimum focus 0.85 m (33.46″)
Maximum magnification 0.12×
Autofocus Yes
Motor type Ring-type ultrasonic
Full time manual Yes
Focus method Internal
Distance scale Yes
DoF scale No
Physical
Weight 1255 g (2.77 lb)
Diameter 95 mm (3.74″)
Length 124 mm (4.88″)
Sealing Yes
Colour Black
Filter thread 82 mm
Hood supplied Yes

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Panasonic announces Lumix S 20-60mm F3.5-5.6 lens for L-mount

27 May

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Panasonic has announced its new Lumix S 20-60mm F3.5-5.6 lens for L-mount bodies. Its 20-60mm focal length is shorter but significantly wider than most variable aperture standard zooms, which are typically around the 28-80mm range.

Of the 11 elements on this unstabilized lens, two are aspherical, three are extra-low dispersion and one is ultra-high refractive index. The lens has a minimum focus distance of 15cm (just under 6″) with a maximum magnification of 0.43x.

Panasonic says the lens has been designed to suppress focus breathing (the change of effective focal length at different focus distances) for video shooters, who are likely to appreciate its wide-angle capabilities.

The lens weighs in at just 350 grams (12 ounces) and is dust and splash resistant, and functional down to –10°C (14°F). A fluorine coating on the front element repels water and oil.

The Lumix S 20-60mm F3.5-5.6mm lens will ship in late July for $ 599.

Press release

Panasonic Launches a New L-Mount Interchangeable Lens for the LUMIX S Series Full-frame Digital Single Lens Mirrorless Camera

LUMIX S 20-60mm F3.5-5.6 (S-R2060)

Newark, NJ (May 27, 2020) – Panasonic is proud to introduce a new interchangeable standard zoom lens, the LUMIX S 20-60mm F3.5-5.6 (S-R2060) based on the L-Mount system for the LUMIX S Series Full-frame Digital Single Lens Mirrorless Camera. Designed for professional use, the LUMIX S Series pursues uncompromising photographic expression with its high-quality cameras and lenses.

The new LUMIX S 20-60mm F3.5-5.6 is a compact, lightweight standard zoom lens that covers from ultra-wide 20mm to standard 60mm focal length for versatile use including landscape photography. The wide viewing angle makes it easier to shoot indoors where space is limited and stunning close-up capability of 5.9 inches / 0.15m (maximum magnification 0.43x) supports still life photography. The new LUMIX S 20-60mm F3.5-5.6 also ensures smooth, high quality video recording because of a mechanism that suppresses focus breathing, which can an issue in interchangeable lenses designed for still image photography.

With 11 elements in 9 groups, the use of 2 aspherical lenses and 3 ED (Extra-low Dispersion) lenses effectively suppresses both axial chromatic aberration and chromatic aberration of magnification. Astigmatism is also corrected with these aspherical lenses, achieving high resolving performance. Furthermore, a UHR (Ultra-High Refractive Index) lens achieves uniform image quality from the center to edges of the image while contributing to downsizing of the lens unit.

With its compact, approximately 12.3 oz / 350g of light weight, the LUMIX S 20-60mm F3.5-5.6 features stunning mobility. The rugged dust/splash-resistant* design withstands use under harsh conditions even at 14°F / -10°C for high mobility. In addition, a fluorine coating on the front element repels water and oil and prevents them from attaching. The filter diameter is 67 mm, with a 9-blade circular aperture diaphragm.

Panasonic and L-Mount system alliance are committed to the development of L-Mount lenses for the further expansion of its lineup to fulfill the needs of end users .

The LUMIX S 20-60mm lens will be available at the end of July for $ 599.99.

*Dust and Splash Resistant does not guarantee that damage will not occur if this lens is subjected to direct contact with dust and water.
•Design and specifications are subject to change without notice.

Panasonic Lumix S 20-60mm F3.5-5.6 specifications

Principal specifications
Lens type Zoom lens
Max Format size 35mm FF
Focal length 20–60 mm
Image stabilization No
Lens mount Leica SL
Aperture
Maximum aperture F3.5–5.6
Minimum aperture F22
Aperture ring No
Number of diaphragm blades 9
Optics
Elements 11
Groups 9
Special elements / coatings 3 ED + 2 aspherical + 1 UHR element
Focus
Minimum focus 0.15 m (5.91″)
Maximum magnification 0.43×
Autofocus Yes
Motor type Stepper motor
Full time manual Yes
Focus method Internal
Distance scale No
DoF scale No
Physical
Weight 350 g (0.77 lb)
Diameter 77 mm (3.03″)
Length 87 mm (3.43″)
Sealing Yes
Colour Black
Zoom method Rotary (extending)
Power zoom No
Zoom lock No
Filter thread 67 mm
Hood supplied Yes

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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Lensrentals tears down Nikon’s $10,000 Nikkor AF-S 120-300mm F2.8 lens

15 May
Aaron of Lensrentals uses his new, specialized driver to carefully remove screws from the Nikkor AF-S 120-300mm F2.8 FL ED SR VR lens.

Roger and Aaron at Lensrentals are back again with another lens teardown; this time, the Nikkor AF-S 120–300mm F2.8 FL ED SR VR lens.

While no reason is needed to take apart another lens to see what goodies lurk within, Roger specifically notes he chose this lens because he wanted to see if the new modern design of Nikon’s Z-mount lenses is being carried over to newer F-mount lenses as well. In the introduction paragraph of his teardown post, Roger says:

‘We were interested to see if newer F lenses would pick that up, or if they would continue in ‘classic’ format. While it’s pure speculation on my part, I thought that if F lenses were starting to pick up Z characteristics, it would, perhaps, signify a unified approach going forward. If not, maybe then Nikon is maintaining separation of the Z and F design teams.’

Roger notes Lensrentals only has ‘a few of these,’ almost all of which have been rented out. However, one came in with dust inside and although it wouldn’t affect the image quality of the lens, Roger thought it’d be a perfect opportunity to do a teardown. Plus, ’t customers like to receive really sparkly clean lenses, and we didn’t want to deal with the inevitable “I can’t believe there’s dust in this $ 10,000 lens” complaint,’ he says.

The disassembly started in the front, as that’s where the dust was located. The first notable observation is that Nikon has made the front filter barrel fairly easy to remove—and therefore replace—as it slides out after removing half a dozen screws and a bit of tape.

From there, it was onto removing the first group of lenses, which Roger believes consists of 3–4 elements (Nikon is yet to publish an optical diagram for this lens yet). After a brief moment of concern that the dust was lodged between these elements, he and Aaron discovered the dust was instead on the next group of lenses—the optical zoom group. As you might expect for a 120–300mm F2.8 lens, this group has quite a bit of travel in it.

Upon diving further into the lens, Roger found the answer to the initial question he had for this teardown. When looking underneath the rubber grip of the zoom optical group, he saw an aluminum cover; a discovery that made him ‘sad.’ He elaborates:

Note the clear plastic tape and aluminum shielding beneath the zoom ring rubber.

[The aluminum covers are] what Nikon uses to cover old-time position-sensor brushes, which means this lens has ‘classic’ brush position sensors, not newfangled optical sensors. They work just fine, don’t get me wrong, but this is a strong hint we’re not going to find new ‘Z- style’ electronics inside this lens.

At this point, no further assembly could be done from the front of the lens, so he and Aaron turned it around and started taking off the rear bayonet mount, which was ‘thoroughly weather resistant with both hard rubber and foamed rubber gaskets.’

From there, Roger and Aaron break it down all the way to the aperture assembly, carefully maneuvering through a messy array of soldered wires, ribbon cables and enough glue that it might just give Roger nightmares. In wrapping up the teardown, Roger says:

‘We had seen what we most wanted to see. The lens is well built in the old, classic Nikon F way. Obviously, we don’t think that’s pretty, and it’s not fun to work on. But it’s been an effective method of manufacturing for decades. The moving parts are solid, the chassis and assembly are solid, the weather resistance is as good as anything, maybe better.’

While the teardown was done, Roger also ran an optical test on the lens to see how this copy performed. He notes ‘there will be better or worse copies’ out there ‘but given the price of the lens, I assumed it should be clearly better than the Sigma 120–300mm F2.8 lens.’

His assumption ended up being correct, with the MTF curves looking much cleaner than the Sigma (which he notes is a great lens in its own right) and ‘at least as good as, perhaps better than’ Nikon’s own 300mm F2.8 lens.

Nikon AF-S Nikkor 300mm F2.8G ED VR II Average MTF vs Nikkor 120-300mm F2.8 FL ED (@300mm) Average MTF Sigma 120-300mm F2.8 DG OS HSM Sport (@300mm) Average MTF vs Nikkor 120-300mm F2.8 FL ED (@300mm) Average MTF

When all was said and done, Roger concludes that ‘Roger’s Law,’ which states ‘that Zooms Are Never as Good as Primes has at least one very expensive exception. At one of its focal lengths. This zoom is ‘prime good’ at 300mm.’ Other lessons learned include that the 120–300mm F2.8 is incredibly well-build and ‘spectacularly good optically, particularly at the long end.’

You can see more images and read a more detailed breakdown of Roger’s thoughts over on the Lensrental blog post.

Articles: Digital Photography Review (dpreview.com)

 
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