Panasonic Lumix S 50mm f/1.8
The Compact Powerhouse for Travel and Portraits
Introduction
When it comes to capturing stunning images with unparalleled sharpness and precision, having the right lens can make all the difference. The Panasonic Lumix S 50mm f/1.8, is a compact yet powerful prime lens designed for full-frame L-mount camera systems. In this review, I’ll chat about the technical marvels of this lens and explore why it is an ideal choice for both travel photography and captivating portraits.
Rugged Design
The Lumix S 50mm f/1.8 is built to withstand the rigors of travel and outdoor photography. It features dust, moisture, and a freeze-resistant design that ensures your lens remains operational in challenging conditions, even in temperatures as low as -10 °C/14 °F. Whether you're shooting in dusty environments, humid climates (like here in South Florida), or freezing temperatures, this lens has got your back, allowing you to focus on capturing incredible images without worrying about your gear.
Superior Optics
This lens boasts an impressive optical design, comprising 9 elements arranged in 8 groups. This arrangement includes 3 aspherical lenses that work together with 1 ED lens and 1 UHR lens to minimize aberrations and ensure superb resolution, delivering exceptional image quality. From edge to edge, your photos will be sharp, vibrant, and free from any unwanted optical anomalies. Below are examples of how sharp the images are rendered with this lens. The first photo of the man fairy is cropped to show how sharp the eye detail is at f/1.8. The second photo, set to f/2.8, is extremely sharp with a nice falloff (bokeh).
Sharp image with excellent detail, shot at f/1.8, zoomed to show detail.
Shot with the Lumix S1 and the 50mm f/1.8 lens set at f/2.8.
Wide Aperture Magic
With a bright f/1.8 aperture, this lens allows for exceptional control over depth of field. It's a boon for portrait photographers, enabling them to create striking separation between the subject and the background, resulting in a beautifully creamy bokeh. Even in low-light conditions, the wide aperture ensures that you can capture stunning images without sacrificing image quality. Photo tip: When using a really wide aperture, stand as still as possible. Below is an example of using an aperture set to f/1.8. The first image is a little soft (out of focus at the eyes), and that’s because I was swaying forwards and backward. I was not as still as possible.
Photo tip: When using a really wide aperture, stand as still as possible for the sharpest image.
I am a character shooter and love capturing people in their environments. When photographing environmental portraits, I usually start with a full-length pose and work inward. Below is a good example of a character portrait. I started with the subject framed about 3/4 with the lens aperture at f/2.8. I then moved forward and changed the lens aperture to f/1.8 for the headshot. This lens does an excellent job of capturing environmental portraits.
Focusing Performance
The Lumix S 50mm f/1.8 comes equipped with a highly capable autofocus motor that ensures quick and accurate focus. Photographers demand precision when it comes to focusing, and this lens delivers. From capturing the subtle nuances in facial expressions during portrait sessions to locking in on intricate details while exploring new destinations, this lens will not let you down. The Lumix S1 has many different focus options. When I’m photographing people, I set the camera to human/eye focus detection to ensure my subject’s eyes are in focus.
Travel-Friendly Companion
Measuring compact in size and lightweight in nature, this lens is a perfect travel companion. It won't weigh you down as you embark on your photographic adventures, making it easier to carry your gear for extended periods. Its compactness and lightweight nature ensure that you have more room in your bag for other essentials, allowing you to travel light without compromising on image quality.
Key Specifications
This review is not about photographing charts to show how the lens performs. This review is about using the lens in real-world scenarios to show how it performs. All the images in this post have been tweaked. I adjust (when needed) the white balance, add some contrast, change exposure, crop, and/or convert to black & white. The pixel peepers that like the charts and want to know about vignetting probably don’t photograph people. I use the vignetting to my advantage. I don’t remove it. But for the ones that do like to see the specs, I have listed the key specs below.
Focal Length: 50mm
Maximum Aperture: f/1.8 Minimum
Aperture: f/22
Lens Mount: L-MountAngle of View: 47°
Minimum Focus Distance: 0.45m / 1.48ft
Optical Design: 9 elements in 8 groups
Diaphragm Blades: 9, rounded
Filter Size: 67mm
Dimensions (Diameter x Length): 73.6mm x 82mm / 2.9in x 3.2in
Weight: 300g / 10.6oz
Conclusion
The Panasonic Lumix S 50mm f/1.8 is a true gem in the world of lenses. Its superior optics, wide aperture, quick autofocus, and rugged design make it a versatile tool for both travel photography and captivating portraits. Whether you're exploring new destinations or capturing the essence of a subject up close, this lens delivers outstanding image quality with every click. With the Lumix S 50mm f/1.8 in your arsenal, you're sure to elevate your photography to new heights. Below are a sample of images taken at the Renaissance Festival, enjoy.
