As I said in the Lumix 20 image, this is the lens that "sold" me on
. Put differently, this was the lens that enabled me to feel good about selling my DSLRs.
When I think about the Lumix 20, my thoughts go to the system I connected with more than any other so far: an OM-2n with an OM 40/2 mounted. For the first time, I get the same feeling with the Lumix 20 on my G1/GH1.
I've always loved the 40mm angle of view. It's a normal lens that can function as a wide. Having spent a lot of time with a 40mm lens on a film camera, I know what framing to expect with the Lumix 20 before I even raise it to my eye or look at the LCD.
The next piece is the size. The Lumix 20 size put my G1/GH1 in a different size and feel category than my small SLR kit (Nikon D5000 and 35/1.8). I don't have a direct image comparison, but here are both cameras compared to a Sigma DP2:
Another piece is the speed: f/1.7 is fast enough to give me the low light capability and DOF control I want.
However, none of this would have worked if Panasonic hadn't nailed the optics, and they did nail them. I can shoot with confidence at f/1.7, knowing that my cameras will nail the focus and the pictures will be sharp. The bokeh is pleasing without harsh characteristics under usual circumstances. Color fringing has not been a problem. Colors are neutral. Barrel distortion is at a reasonable level. Flare, which is said to be a weakness of this lens, honestly hasn't troubled me. Build quality seems very good.
Focus speed is not at the level of the Panasonic kit zooms, slow by DSLR standards, but fast enough not to interfere with my photography. I would much prefer a mechanical focus ring and distance scale to the "focus-by wire" ring, but I know I'd use AF almost all the time anyway, so it isn't an issue for me.
Well done Panasonic
. My favorite lens for
.
How do you like your Panasonic Lumix 20mm f/1.7 lens?
.
20mm Panasonic on myEP-1
