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Panasonic Announces New Telephoto Lens for LUMIX G Range Cameras at CES 2016

Reviewed

Jan 7 2016

Panasonic announced today at CES 2016 a new telephoto lens for its LUMIX G range of Micro Four Thirds System cameras – the LEICA DG VARIO-ELMAR 100-400mm F4.0-6.3 ASPH. Telephoto-Zoom (H-RS100400) with Power Optical Image Stabilization (O.I.S.).

Panasonic Launches LUMIX G 100-400mm Telephoto-Zoom, LEICA DG VARIO-ELMAR Lens

Small, light and highly durable, the latest addition to Panasonic's range of interchangeable lenses is perfectly suited for photographing birds and other wildlife in all types of environments.

The lens is constructed of 20 elements in 13 groups and incorporates a number of aspherical and extra low dispersion elements to assure best quality and avoid flaring. The advanced construction of the new Telephoto-Zoom leads to highest quality standard earning the LEICA Logo for a LUMIX Lens once again.

Outstanding image quality and Telephoto-Zoom performance

Elegantly designed with a metallic black finish, the new 100mm-400mm LEICA DG VARIO-ELMAR lens from Panasonic provides superb image rendering across the entire zoom range. The lens' 200-800mm focal length (35mm equivalent) and 0.5x Magnification capability provide highly detailed shots from distance, as well as stunning close up capability– ideal for subject matter regardless of shape and size.

In order to capture steady, vibration free images across the entire zoom range, the lens also incorporates Power O.I.S. to keep unwanted shaking under control and ensure pictures look crisp and clear.

The 100mm-400mm lens is also suited to a variety of photographic styles – with nine diaphragm blades providing a circular aperture to produce a smooth and beautiful bokeh.

Smaller and lighter than other Telephoto-Zoom lenses

When compared with conventional super telephoto DSLR lenses, the latest addition the LUMIX G line up offers outstanding mobility – perfect if you're travelling and don't want to pack too much. Similarly, the lens also boasts a durable, gapless construction so you no longer have to worry about unwanted dust or light rain damaging your equipment.

In addition to the lens' practical size and weight, a compact, two-part tripod mount has also been incorporated to enable faster conversion between landscape and portrait orientation. While conveniently and speedily turning to the 90 degree angle, the levers for Focus Limiting, Power O.I.S. and the manual focus switch remain right at your fingertips as they do not move when you turn the lens.

The lens also incorporates an integrated, hideaway hood to help you capture that perfect shot, without having to worry about sun glare.

Stunning 4K video capability

Panasonic's new LEICA Telephoto-Zoom lens is perfectly suited for 4K video recording with its construction assuring the best contrast and colors. Furthermore the Telephoto-Zoom incorporates Panasonic's high speed and precise 240 fps AF-motor. Due to the modern design, filming can also be conducted silently, so you can get up close to the subject without drawing attention.

As well as high resolution video, the lens' 4K capability also enables you to take photos like never before. Panasonic's 4K Photo function – found on LUMIX G cameras including the LUMIX DMC-G7 – lets you extract an 8-megapixel still from 4K video (30fps) easily right on the camera's screen with a simple fingertip touch.

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