Panasonic LUMIX S Series 35mm F1.8 Lens

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88%
92%
Image Quality
89%
Build Quality
91%
Low-Light Performance
74%
Autofocus Speed
85%
Manual Focus Control
88%
Durability (Weather-Sealing)
93%
Size & Portability
90%
Bokeh & Depth of Field
86%
Ease of Use
94%
Compatibility with L-mount Cameras
92%
Value for Money
80%
Video Performance (Focus Transitions)
More

Overview

The Panasonic LUMIX S Series 35mm F1.8 Lens is a highly versatile prime lens designed for L-mount full-frame mirrorless cameras. This compact lens delivers exceptional image quality with its wide F1.8 aperture, perfect for both photographers and videographers. Its rugged, weather-sealed construction ensures durability in a variety of shooting conditions, making it a reliable option for outdoor use. Weighing just 10.4 oz, it’s a portable choice for those who need flexibility without compromising on performance. Whether you're capturing landscapes or portraits, this lens offers remarkable sharpness and beautiful background blur.

Features & Benefits

One of the standout features of this 35mm lens is its wide F1.8 aperture, which provides excellent low-light performance and allows for stunning depth of field control. It excels in video work as well, offering minimal focus breathing to maintain consistent framing. The lens also includes a programmable manual focus ring that gives users complete control over focus transitions, making it easy to achieve smooth, cinematic results. Whether you're shooting stills or video, the combination of image quality and versatility makes this lens a strong contender in its class.

Best For

This L-mount lens is ideal for a wide range of users, including portrait photographers who require a reliable, portable lens for sharp, high-quality shots. It's also perfect for content creators and videographers who want a lens that produces smooth focus transitions and beautiful bokeh effects for video. If you're an enthusiast or professional using a full-frame mirrorless camera, this lens offers top-tier optics that enhance your imaging system. Its rugged design and compact form make it a great all-around option for anyone seeking versatile performance in various shooting scenarios.

User Feedback

Users are particularly impressed with the sharpness and image quality of this 35mm lens, even when shot wide open at F1.8. Many reviewers appreciate the smoother autofocus and manual focus control, especially for video work. However, some note that its autofocus is slightly slower compared to other lenses in its category, which may affect fast-paced photography. While the lens performs well in a variety of settings, those in fast-action or sports photography may want to consider alternatives. Overall, it's a highly regarded lens for those prioritizing image quality and versatility.

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Pros

  • This 35mm lens delivers exceptional sharpness, even when shooting wide open at F1.8.
  • The large F1.8 aperture ensures excellent low-light performance and beautiful background bokeh.
  • Its compact size makes it highly portable, ideal for travel or everyday photography.
  • The rugged, weather-sealed build offers good durability in challenging conditions.
  • Many videographers appreciate the minimal focus breathing for smooth focus transitions during video recording.
  • The programmable manual focus ring provides precise control, making it easy to adjust focus for different scenarios.

Cons

  • Autofocus is slower than other lenses in this category, which may be problematic for fast-moving subjects.
  • Some users find the autofocus not responsive enough for action or sports photography.
  • The lens lacks built-in stabilization, which might be a limitation for handheld video shooting.
  • While well-built, the lens is still relatively lightweight and might not feel as premium as some other options.
  • The absence of an auto-focus limiter can lead to slight focus hunting in certain conditions.
  • A few users mentioned that the lens is not as fast as other primes for quick setups in dynamic environments.

Ratings

After analyzing verified user reviews from multiple languages and platforms, the Panasonic LUMIX S Series 35mm F1.8 Lens receives strong feedback for its image quality, versatility, and durable build. Authentic feedback was gathered worldwide, filtering out spam, bot-driven, or exaggerated comments. Both positive aspects and common pain points have been reflected in the following scores to provide a balanced view of the product’s performance.

Image Quality
92%
Users are highly impressed by the sharpness and clarity of images produced with this lens. Many report stunning results even at wide-open apertures, capturing fine details with minimal distortion. The high-resolution performance makes it ideal for both professional photographers and hobbyists alike.
A few reviewers noted that while the image quality is generally excellent, there can be slight softness at the edges, especially when shooting at wide apertures. However, this is a minor issue compared to the overall performance, and most users find it negligible for most shooting conditions.
Build Quality
89%
The lens's build quality is praised for its rugged design and weather-sealing, ensuring durability even in challenging environments. Its compact size and lightweight nature add to its practicality, making it a go-to choice for both travel photographers and daily use. The construction feels premium and solid in hand.
While the lens is generally well-built, a few users found the materials a bit prone to scratching over time, particularly on the lens body. The lack of a fully weatherproof seal for some may also be a concern for photographers working in extreme weather conditions.
Low-Light Performance
91%
The F1.8 aperture offers exceptional low-light performance, allowing for clear, bright images even in dim conditions. This makes it an ideal choice for indoor shoots or evening photography. Users appreciate how it handles low light with minimal noise, maintaining a clean, crisp image quality.
Though low-light performance is solid, a few users mentioned that it can struggle with autofocus in very low-light environments. This could be a minor inconvenience when shooting in extremely dark settings, though it's not a dealbreaker for most.
Autofocus Speed
74%
26%
When it comes to focusing accuracy, the lens does a good job in standard conditions, delivering sharp results for most subjects. It’s often preferred for controlled environments like studio work, where precision is key. The autofocus speed is generally adequate for portrait and product photography.
Several users pointed out that the autofocus system is slower compared to other lenses in this category, particularly in fast-moving scenes or when shooting action shots. This can be frustrating for those who rely on quick focus transitions, such as wildlife photographers or videographers in dynamic environments.
Manual Focus Control
85%
The smooth manual focus ring is highly appreciated by videographers, enabling seamless focus pulls. Many users enjoy the precision it offers for controlled focus adjustments, especially when recording video with shallow depth of field or working in creative setups.
While the manual focus control is generally praised, some users found it a bit too stiff at times, requiring extra effort to adjust. This could be a slight inconvenience for those who need rapid and continuous focus adjustments during shoots.
Durability (Weather-Sealing)
88%
The weather-sealed construction ensures this lens can handle various shooting conditions, from light rain to dusty environments. It’s an excellent choice for outdoor photographers who need reliability in unpredictable weather. Users find peace of mind knowing their equipment is well-protected from the elements.
Despite its weather-sealing, a few users experienced minor performance issues when shooting in heavy rain or extreme weather, noting that the lens's weather protection could be improved further. However, these instances are rare and often related to more extreme conditions.
Size & Portability
93%
This 35mm lens is both compact and lightweight, making it an ideal choice for photographers on the go. Its small size doesn’t sacrifice performance, and many users appreciate how easy it is to carry during long shoots or travel. It’s well-suited for a wide range of photography styles and settings.
While its small size is a major advantage, a small group of users felt it could have been even lighter. Some mentioned that the slightly larger size compared to other prime lenses in this class makes it a bit bulkier in certain setups, but this is largely subjective.
Bokeh & Depth of Field
90%
The F1.8 aperture creates a beautiful, creamy bokeh, making this lens especially popular for portrait photographers and those seeking artistic background blur. Many users love how it isolates the subject with a smooth, pleasing effect, ideal for both photos and videos with shallow depth of field.
A few reviewers noted that while the bokeh is pleasing, there is some noticeable edge fringing in certain lighting conditions. However, this is generally not a major issue unless used in very specific situations, like shooting against strong light sources.
Ease of Use
86%
This lens offers an intuitive, user-friendly experience with both automatic and manual focus modes. Many photographers appreciate the comfortable handling, well-placed controls, and quick adjustments. The lightweight design further enhances its ease of use, making it an accessible choice for beginners and seasoned professionals alike.
Some users mentioned that the lack of advanced features, such as an integrated image stabilization system, could make it less versatile for certain shooting conditions. In particular, those used to features in higher-end lenses might feel a bit limited in their options.
Compatibility with L-mount Cameras
94%
As part of the L-mount system, this lens is seamlessly compatible with a wide range of full-frame mirrorless cameras. Users appreciate the consistent performance across different L-mount bodies, providing a high-quality, reliable option for those invested in the L-mount ecosystem.
A small percentage of users noted compatibility issues with certain third-party L-mount cameras, though these instances are rare and often related to specific model or firmware incompatibilities.
Value for Money
92%
Many users find this lens to offer great value for the price, given its performance and build quality. The balance between affordability and high-end image results makes it a top choice for photographers and videographers who want solid performance without breaking the bank.
While the lens provides good value for most users, some buyers feel that a slightly lower price would make it even more competitive. However, this is often seen as a fair trade-off for the quality and features it offers in this price range.
Video Performance (Focus Transitions)
80%
20%
For videographers, the lens offers smooth manual focus transitions that help create professional-quality video content. The minimal focus breathing enhances its appeal for those capturing video in dynamic settings, allowing for smooth and seamless focus pulls.
However, some users found that the autofocus speed can be a bit slow during video shoots, especially when tracking moving subjects. This can be an issue for those who require faster focus transitions in fast-paced videography.

Suitable for:

The Panasonic LUMIX S Series 35mm F1.8 Lens is ideal for photographers and content creators who need a versatile, high-quality lens for both photography and videography. Its compact and lightweight design makes it especially suitable for travel photographers or anyone who values portability without sacrificing image quality. Users will appreciate the sharpness and clarity of images, even at wide apertures, as well as its impressive low-light performance. Videographers, in particular, will benefit from its smooth manual focus control and minimal focus breathing, which helps create professional-looking footage with beautiful bokeh effects. This lens is a perfect match for L-mount full-frame mirrorless camera owners seeking a reliable, durable lens for everyday use, portraits, and creative video work.

Not suitable for:

While this lens offers excellent features, it may not be the best option for those who prioritize extremely fast autofocus, especially for action or sports photography. Some users have noted that autofocus can be slower compared to other lenses in this category, making it less ideal for capturing fast-moving subjects. Additionally, users who frequently shoot in very challenging weather conditions might find the weather-sealing insufficient for extreme environments, as reported by a few reviewers. If you're a videographer who needs rapid focus transitions in dynamic video shoots, this lens may also feel a bit slow in autofocus response. Overall, those needing a more specialized, ultra-fast autofocus system might want to explore other options.

Specifications

  • Focal Length: The lens has a fixed focal length of 35mm, providing a standard wide-angle perspective suitable for everyday photography.
  • Aperture: The lens features a wide F1.8 maximum aperture, allowing for excellent low-light performance and beautiful background blur.
  • Lens Mount: This lens is designed for L-mount full-frame mirrorless cameras from brands like Panasonic, Leica, and Sigma.
  • Lens Type: This is a prime lens, meaning it has a fixed focal length and offers superior sharpness and image quality.
  • Dimensions: The lens measures 3.23 x 2.9 x 2.9 inches (82 x 74 x 74 mm), making it compact and portable.
  • Weight: The lens weighs 10.4 oz (295g), making it lightweight and easy to carry for extended periods.
  • Minimum Focus Distance: The minimum focus distance is 0.24m (0.79 ft), allowing for close-up shots with detailed subject rendering.
  • Weather-Sealing: The lens features weather-sealing, making it resistant to dust and moisture, suitable for use in challenging environments.
  • Focus Type: The lens supports both manual and autofocus, providing versatility for various shooting styles and situations.
  • Focus Ring: The lens includes a programmable manual focus ring for precise and smooth control over focus adjustments.
  • Optical Construction: The lens construction consists of 9 elements in 8 groups, contributing to sharpness and minimal distortion.
  • Included Accessories: Included with the lens are a front lens cap and a rear lens cap for protection during storage and transport.
  • Compatibility: This lens is compatible with L-mount full-frame mirrorless cameras, ensuring high-quality performance on supported models.
  • Country of Origin: The lens is manufactured in Japan, ensuring high-quality craftsmanship and attention to detail.
  • Bokeh: The F1.8 aperture allows for creamy and visually pleasing bokeh, making it ideal for portrait photography and video work.
  • Video Performance: With minimal focus breathing and smooth focus transitions, this lens is ideal for video recording and filmmaking.
  • Color: The lens is available in a classic black finish, offering a professional and sleek appearance.

FAQ

The Panasonic LUMIX S Series 35mm F1.8 Lens is a compact, lightweight, and versatile prime lens for full-frame L-mount mirrorless cameras. It features a large F1.8 aperture for sharp, high-resolution images and beautiful background bokeh. The lens is also weather-sealed for durability in tough conditions, making it suitable for both photography and videography.

Yes, this lens is fully compatible with any L-mount full-frame mirrorless camera, including those from Panasonic, Leica, and Sigma. It’s designed to take full advantage of the L-mount system, ensuring high-quality optics and smooth performance.

The large F1.8 aperture makes this lens excellent for low-light situations. It allows more light to reach the sensor, which helps you capture brighter, sharper images without increasing ISO too much. This makes it a great choice for indoor and nighttime photography.

Yes, this lens supports both manual and autofocus, but users have noted that the autofocus can be slower compared to other lenses in the same category, especially for fast-moving subjects. It’s best suited for more controlled environments or slower-moving subjects.

Yes, many videographers appreciate the smooth manual focus control and minimal focus breathing of this lens, which helps create smooth and professional-looking focus transitions in video work. Its large aperture also provides a pleasing bokeh effect, enhancing the visual quality of video footage.

Absolutely! The 35mm focal length is ideal for portrait photography, providing a natural perspective and enough subject isolation with its F1.8 aperture for beautiful background blur. It’s compact and portable, making it a convenient option for both studio and outdoor shoots.

The lens is built with a rugged, weather-sealed design, making it durable enough for use in challenging conditions such as rain or dusty environments. Its compact size also makes it easy to handle, while the weather-sealing ensures protection against moisture and dust.

Some users have reported that the autofocus is slower compared to other lenses in its class, which could be an issue for fast-paced shooting or action shots. Additionally, the lens lacks built-in image stabilization, so you may need to use a tripod or rely on your camera’s stabilization system.

The manual focus ring on this lens is highly praised for its smoothness and precision. It allows for easy and accurate focus adjustments, making it ideal for videographers or photographers who prefer manual control over their focus, especially in controlled shooting environments.

Yes, this lens is a versatile choice for everyday photography. Its compact size, sharp image quality, and ability to perform well in various lighting conditions make it a great option for casual or professional photographers looking for a reliable, high-quality lens for daily use.