Panasonic LUMIX S-R70300 70-300mm F4.5-5.6 Macro O.I.S. Lens

Panasonic LUMIX S-R70300 70-300mm F4.5-5.6 Macro O.I.S. Lens — image 1
Panasonic LUMIX S-R70300 70-300mm F4.5-5.6 Macro O.I.S. Lens — image 2
Panasonic LUMIX S-R70300 70-300mm F4.5-5.6 Macro O.I.S. Lens — image 3
Panasonic LUMIX S-R70300 70-300mm F4.5-5.6 Macro O.I.S. Lens — image 4
Panasonic LUMIX S-R70300 70-300mm F4.5-5.6 Macro O.I.S. Lens — image 5
Panasonic LUMIX S-R70300 70-300mm F4.5-5.6 Macro O.I.S. Lens — image 6
Panasonic LUMIX S-R70300 70-300mm F4.5-5.6 Macro O.I.S. Lens — image 7
Panasonic LUMIX S-R70300 70-300mm F4.5-5.6 Macro O.I.S. Lens — image 8
Panasonic LUMIX S-R70300 70-300mm F4.5-5.6 Macro O.I.S. Lens — image 9
Panasonic LUMIX S-R70300 70-300mm F4.5-5.6 Macro O.I.S. Lens — image 10
85%
89%
Image Quality
93%
Build Quality
85%
Macro Performance
91%
Stabilization Performance
88%
Usability for Video
90%
Weather Resistance
82%
Autofocus Speed
75%
Size and Weight
92%
Compatibility with L-Mount Cameras
70%
Aperture Performance in Low Light
85%
Price-to-Value Ratio
80%
Customer Support Experience
More

Overview

The Panasonic LUMIX S-R70300 70-300mm F4.5-5.6 Macro O.I.S. Lens is a versatile telephoto lens offering both macro and long-range capabilities. Designed for L-Mount full-frame mirrorless cameras, this lens is well-suited for photographers and videographers looking to capture sharp, detailed shots from a distance. With a focal length range of 70-300mm, it enables everything from distant landscapes to close-up macro photography. This macro zoom lens offers a solid balance of image quality and portability, making it a reliable choice for a variety of shooting scenarios.

Features & Benefits

One of the standout features of this telephoto lens is its maximum magnification of 0.5x at 300mm, allowing for detailed macro shots. The built-in Optical Image Stabilization (O.I.S.) ensures steady, blur-free images even at long focal lengths. In addition, the rugged design of the lens is dust, splash, and freeze-resistant, making it suitable for harsh outdoor conditions. For videographers, suppressed focus breathing ensures smooth focus transitions during video recording. These features combine to make the lens an all-around performer for both photography and videography.

Best For

The LUMIX S-R70300 lens is ideal for photographers seeking versatility in both telephoto and macro shooting. It is perfectly compatible with L-Mount cameras from Panasonic, Leica, and Sigma, making it a great option for users with any of these brands. Its image stabilization and focus features also make it an excellent choice for videographers who need stable footage at long focal lengths. Additionally, outdoor and travel photographers will appreciate the durable, weather-resistant build that can withstand varying conditions during field use.

User Feedback

Users generally appreciate the sharpness and image stabilization offered by the LUMIX S-R70300 lens, noting how it helps in producing clear, crisp shots even in challenging environments. The lens’s versatility, especially for both macro and telephoto photography, is another frequently praised feature. However, some users have mentioned its weight, making it less ideal for extended handheld shooting. Additionally, the aperture range of f/4.5-5.6 can be limiting in low-light conditions, especially when shooting indoors or during sunset. Despite these drawbacks, the lens continues to be highly regarded for its performance and build quality.

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Pros

  • This telephoto lens offers excellent versatility for both long-distance and close-up photography, making it great for wildlife and macro shots.
  • Users praise the image stabilization, which provides steady shots, even at longer focal lengths or when shooting handheld.
  • The rugged, dust, splash, and freeze-resistant design ensures reliability in harsh outdoor conditions, perfect for travel and nature photography.
  • With its smooth video recording capabilities, the suppressed focus breathing makes it ideal for videographers who need stable footage.
  • This lens performs exceptionally well in bright outdoor settings, delivering sharp, clear images even at full zoom.
  • It’s fully compatible with L-Mount cameras from Panasonic, Leica, and Sigma, providing seamless integration for photographers using these systems.

Cons

  • The lens's f/4.5-5.6 aperture range limits its performance in low-light conditions, making it less suitable for indoor or night-time shooting.
  • At 1 lb (454g), this lens feels heavy, which can be uncomfortable for users who need to carry it for extended periods.
  • Some users find the autofocus slower when tracking fast-moving subjects, especially at longer focal lengths.
  • Despite its rugged build, the lens's weight may be a deterrent for photographers looking for lightweight gear for casual or travel photography.
  • While it offers great sharpness, some users have noted that the lens can struggle to maintain consistent focus in challenging environments.
  • A few photographers mentioned that the aperture range can be limiting when shooting in low light, especially without a tripod.

Ratings

The ratings for the Panasonic LUMIX S-R70300 70-300mm F4.5-5.6 Macro O.I.S. Lens have been generated by analyzing genuine user feedback from multiple platforms and languages across the globe. Only verified reviews were considered, filtering out any spam, bot-driven, or incentivized content. These scores reflect both the strengths and pain points expressed by actual users, providing a balanced view of the lens's performance and overall satisfaction.

Image Quality
89%
Users are generally impressed with the sharpness and clarity of images produced by this telephoto lens. The high-quality optics provide detailed shots even at the maximum zoom range, making it suitable for both macro and telephoto photography. Its performance in various lighting conditions is solid, especially for outdoor and nature photography.
Some users have noted that the lens can occasionally struggle with sharpness at the edges, particularly when shooting at the longest focal lengths. A few also feel that it could perform better in low-light conditions, as the aperture range might not be wide enough to capture enough light without a noticeable drop in image quality.
Build Quality
93%
This lens is built to withstand challenging conditions, earning praise for its rugged design. The dust, splash, and freeze-resistant features make it a great choice for outdoor photographers who need a reliable lens for all types of weather. Many users report it feeling solid and durable, yet not overly heavy.
While most users are pleased with its build quality, a few have pointed out that it can feel a bit bulky for extended handheld use. Its solid construction might be a drawback for photographers who prefer lighter, more portable gear for travel or casual outings.
Macro Performance
85%
The macro capabilities of this lens are highly appreciated by photographers who need both telephoto and close-up shots. With a maximum magnification of 0.5x at 300mm, it allows users to capture intricate details with impressive clarity. Many find it a great option for nature and product photography.
A few users have noted that the lens can be challenging to use for very close-up macro photography, especially when trying to achieve higher magnification. While it offers solid performance, some feel that other specialized macro lenses could outperform it in terms of fine detail and focus accuracy.
Stabilization Performance
91%
The Optical Image Stabilization (O.I.S.) is one of the most praised features, especially by videographers and handheld photographers. Many users find it effective in reducing shake and blurriness, providing smoother shots even in difficult shooting conditions. It enhances overall usability, especially in dynamic environments or while shooting in low light.
Some users have mentioned that while the stabilization is good, it doesn’t entirely eliminate camera shake in very shaky conditions or at the longest focal lengths. A few feel that the O.I.S. system could be improved for even better results when shooting video or fast-moving subjects.
Usability for Video
88%
Videographers appreciate the lens for its smooth and stable performance, particularly when recording with long zoom ranges. The suppressed focus breathing ensures that focus transitions are smooth and natural, which is ideal for professional video work. Many also find the lens a great companion for video blogs and travel footage.
While the lens performs well for video, a few users feel that autofocus can be slow or inconsistent, especially in fast-moving scenes. There are occasional reports of minor focus hunting, which can interrupt smooth video recording, especially in lower light settings or when using continuous autofocus.
Weather Resistance
90%
This lens excels in adverse conditions, offering dust, splash, and freeze resistance. Users who frequently shoot outdoors in unpredictable weather conditions have found this lens to be a reliable companion, performing well in rain, snow, and humid environments without showing signs of wear. The robust design adds confidence during outdoor adventures.
Although most users appreciate the rugged build, some have raised concerns about how the weather resistance might affect the lens's overall weight and size. In very extreme weather conditions, a few still recommend extra care, especially in heavy rainfall, despite the lens's weather-sealed construction.
Autofocus Speed
82%
18%
The autofocus system is generally responsive, allowing users to quickly lock focus in most shooting conditions. Many users appreciate its ability to maintain focus during still photography, making it ideal for wildlife and sports shooters who need fast and accurate focusing.
Some users report that autofocus can be slower than expected, especially in low light or when shooting at longer focal lengths. A few have pointed out that there can be noticeable hunting in certain scenarios, such as shooting fast-moving subjects or in dimly lit environments, which can be a significant drawback for action shots.
Size and Weight
75%
25%
Many users note that the lens strikes a good balance between size and performance. It’s portable enough for travel, considering its versatility, while still maintaining a solid build. Photographers who prioritize a compact setup will appreciate that it doesn't feel too bulky for its zoom range.
However, some buyers feel that it is slightly heavy, particularly during prolonged handheld use. Its weight can become uncomfortable for long shoots, especially when used for video work or on a gimbal. Travelers also mention that the lens may be too heavy for lightweight camera kits.
Compatibility with L-Mount Cameras
92%
The lens is fully compatible with a range of L-Mount cameras from Panasonic, Leica, and Sigma. Users with these camera brands report seamless integration, with no issues in focusing, stabilization, or performance. Its versatility across multiple brands enhances its appeal for those who own different L-Mount systems.
While it works well with L-Mount cameras, some users with non-L-Mount systems have found the compatibility a bit limiting. Those who may want to use the lens with other camera brands might need additional adapters, which could impact performance or add extra costs.
Aperture Performance in Low Light
70%
30%
At its widest aperture of f/4.5-5.6, this lens performs decently in most standard lighting conditions. It's suitable for outdoor and daylight shooting, where light is abundant, making it a good option for landscapes and nature photography.
However, the aperture range can be limiting in low light conditions, especially when shooting indoors or at night. Some users have mentioned that they struggle to achieve proper exposure without bumping up ISO, which can lead to grainy images or reduced sharpness in darker settings.
Price-to-Value Ratio
85%
Users generally find the lens offers great value for the price, particularly given its performance in both telephoto and macro photography. The rugged design, image stabilization, and versatility for both photography and videography make it a solid investment for most users.
Some buyers feel that the lens is slightly overpriced compared to other similar lenses, especially when considering its aperture range and autofocus performance. While it offers good value for certain users, those looking for superior low-light performance or faster autofocus may feel the price is not entirely justified.
Customer Support Experience
80%
20%
Many users who reached out to customer support report positive experiences, with quick and helpful responses. Panasonic's warranty service is appreciated by those who have needed repairs or replacements, offering peace of mind to buyers.
A few users have expressed frustration with delays in response times or inconsistent service across regions. Some find it difficult to get in touch with support for troubleshooting, which can be an issue if the lens encounters technical problems after purchase.

Suitable for:

The Panasonic LUMIX S-R70300 70-300mm F4.5-5.6 Macro O.I.S. Lens is ideal for photographers and videographers who need a versatile lens for both telephoto and macro photography. Its compatibility with L-Mount full-frame mirrorless cameras makes it a great choice for users with systems from Panasonic, Leica, or Sigma. Those who frequently shoot outdoors will also appreciate the lens's rugged, weather-resistant design, making it reliable for travel, nature, and wildlife photography. Additionally, videographers will benefit from its image stabilization and suppressed focus breathing, providing smooth, high-quality footage in dynamic environments.

Not suitable for:

However, this lens may not be the best fit for users who prioritize low-light performance, as its f/4.5-5.6 aperture range can limit its effectiveness in darker conditions. While it excels in outdoor and daylight scenarios, those who need a lens for indoor or night-time photography may struggle with exposure and image quality. Its relatively heavy weight also makes it less ideal for those who prefer lightweight gear for extended handheld use or frequent travel. Additionally, photographers seeking rapid autofocus in fast-moving situations may find the performance lacking, particularly at longer focal lengths.

Specifications

  • Focal Length: Offers a versatile 70-300mm focal length range, suitable for both telephoto and macro photography.
  • Aperture: Has an aperture range of f/4.5-5.6, offering moderate light-gathering capabilities for various lighting conditions.
  • Maximum Magnification: Provides a maximum magnification of 0.5x at 300mm for detailed macro shots.
  • Image Stabilization: Features Optical Image Stabilization (O.I.S.) to minimize camera shake and ensure steady shots, especially at longer focal lengths.
  • Mount Type: Designed with an L-Mount, compatible with Panasonic, Leica, and Sigma L-Mount full-frame mirrorless cameras.
  • Weather Sealing: Dust, splash, and freeze-resistant construction, making it ideal for outdoor and adverse weather conditions.
  • Focus Breathing: Suppressed focus breathing during video recording, ensuring smoother focus transitions without noticeable framing changes.
  • Weight: Weighs approximately 1 lb (454g), offering a moderate balance between portability and durability.
  • Dimensions: Measures 5.83 x 3.31 x 3.31 inches, providing a compact form factor for a telephoto lens.
  • Compatible Cameras: Fully compatible with Panasonic, Leica, and Sigma full-frame mirrorless cameras using the L-Mount system.
  • Lens Design: Constructed with advanced optics to achieve sharp images and reduce chromatic aberrations throughout the focal length range.
  • Minimum Focusing Distance: Has a minimum focusing distance of approximately 1.2m (3.94 ft), allowing users to get close to subjects for macro shots.
  • Zoom Type: Features a smooth zoom mechanism that covers a wide range from 70mm to 300mm for various shooting scenarios.
  • Diaphragm Blades: Equipped with a rounded 9-blade diaphragm for producing pleasing bokeh in out-of-focus areas.
  • Intended Use: Designed for telephoto photography, macro photography, and videography, offering versatility in a wide range of creative applications.
  • Manual Focus Override: Allows users to override autofocus with manual focus for precise adjustments, especially in macro photography.
  • Minimum Aperture: The minimum aperture is f/22, providing users with a deeper depth of field in well-lit conditions.
  • Tripod Collar: No built-in tripod collar; users may need to use a separate tripod mount for better stability during long shoots.
  • Close Focusing Ability: Offers strong close focusing ability, making it an ideal choice for macro and close-up photography.

FAQ

This lens offers a versatile 70-300mm focal length range, allowing users to capture both distant subjects and close-up macro shots. With a maximum magnification of 0.5x at 300mm, it's perfect for detailed close-ups while also providing the reach needed for distant wildlife or sports photography.

Yes, this lens is compatible with any camera using the L-Mount system, including Panasonic, Leica, and Sigma full-frame mirrorless cameras. If you use one of these systems, it will integrate seamlessly for both photography and videography.

The Optical Image Stabilization (O.I.S.) in this lens helps reduce blurriness caused by small camera shakes, especially when shooting handheld at long focal lengths like 300mm. This feature is particularly helpful for both photos and videos, ensuring clear, stable shots even in challenging shooting conditions.

The lens is designed to be dust, splash, and freeze-resistant, making it a solid choice for outdoor photographers. Whether you're shooting in rain, snow, or dusty environments, this lens is built to withstand harsh conditions without compromising performance.

Yes, the lens features suppressed focus breathing, which helps maintain smooth focus transitions when shooting video. This minimizes the visible changes in the framing of your shots, a common issue with other lenses during focus adjustments, ensuring more professional-looking video footage.

The f/4.5-5.6 aperture range is relatively narrow, which means the lens may struggle in very low-light conditions, especially without a tripod. While it works well in outdoor and daytime environments, you may experience limitations when shooting indoors or at night without additional lighting.

Weighing approximately 1 lb (454g), this lens is considered moderately heavy, particularly for long photo sessions or when attached to a small, lightweight camera. While it's not overly bulky, it may be uncomfortable for some users during extended use, especially when traveling or on long shoots.

At 300mm, the Panasonic LUMIX S-R70300 lens provides a maximum magnification of 0.5x. This allows for relatively detailed close-up shots, such as capturing small insects or flowers, making it a versatile option for photographers who want both macro and telephoto capabilities.

Yes, this telephoto lens is excellent for wildlife photography due to its long 70-300mm focal length range. It allows photographers to capture animals from a distance while maintaining sharpness and clarity, especially when combined with the lens's image stabilization feature.

While the lens is rugged and designed for durability in outdoor conditions, its weight can be a consideration for travel photographers who need to carry gear for extended periods. If you prioritize lightweight equipment, you may want to consider a more compact option, though the image quality and versatility make this lens a great choice for most travel scenarios.