Panasonic Adds Fisheye Lens To G-Series Cams

By Greg Tarr On Jun 7 2010 - 4:01am

SECAUCUS, N.J. — Panasonic introduced a fisheye 8mm/F3.5 lens for its Lumix G series, DSL Micro (DSLM) cameras.

The H-F008 Lumix G fisheye 8mm/ F3.5 lens is the equivalent of a 16mm fisheye lens for 35mm cameras. The lens is billed as “the world’s smallest and lightest digital interchangeable fisheye lens.”

Featuring a 180-degree diagonal angle view, the Lumix G fisheye 8mm/ F3.5 lens offers an unusual perspective and unique deformation effects for a creative view of subjects. The lens will work for both photos and videos taken with its G-series cameras, Panasonic said.

Panasonic reduced the size of the lens by using 10 lenses in nine groups, to take advantage of the Micro Four Thirds system standard in the compact G-series hybrid interchangeable lens cameras.

“The addition of this lightweight Lumix fi sheye lens gives photographers of all levels the ability to enjoy a range of photo-taking possibilities and expand their creativity,” stated Darin Pepple, Panasonic imaging senior product manager. “This lens is not only extremely compact, making it easy to carry, but it allows for photos and videos to be made both up close and from far away — while capturing truly creative images.”

Panasonic said it used an extra-low dispersion glass lens to achieve a stable, descriptive performance at all distances, and to minimize chromatic aberration and distortion.

The Lumix G fisheye 8mm lens will capture extreme close-ups from far away, due in part to its advanced inner-focus system.

The H-F008 fisheye 8mm lens allows for use of the high-speed and accurate contrast AF system in the G-series cameras.

Seven blades give the aperture a rounded shape that produces a smooth effect in out-of-focus areas when shooting at larger aperture settings. The inclusion of a stepping motor allows for smooth and silent focusing in both photo and movie recording modes.

Pricing and availability for the lens will be announced 30 days prior to shipping, Panasonic said.