Panasonic Leica DG Summilux 12mm f/1.4 Overview

A fast and optically refined wide-angle prime, the Leica DG Summilux 12mm f/1.4 ASPH. Lens from Panasonic is a 24mm equivalent lens designed for Micro Four Thirds digital cameras. Characterized by its truly bright f/1.4 maximum aperture, this lens is ideal for working in low-light conditions and also affords a wealth of control over focus placement for using shallow depth of field techniques. The optical design employs a pair of aspherical elements, two ultra extra-low dispersion elements, and one extra-low dispersion element in order to control both spherical and chromatic aberrations for a high degree of sharpness and clarity from edge to edge. Benefitting the optical assets, this lens also incorporates a smooth and quiet autofocus motor that is well-suited to both stills and video recording, and a manual AF/MF switch lends direct focus mode adjustment for more intuitive handling. Additionally, the all-metal construction of the lens is also weather-resistant in order to permit working in trying environmental conditions. Pairing Leica's design legacy with Panasonic's technological innovation, this versatile wide-angle prime is distinguished by both its optical merits as well as intuitive handling and contemporary functionality.