Marking its first venture in the interchangeable Micro Four Thirds lens category, the Olympus M.Zuiko Digital ED 12-50mm F3.5-6.3 EZ lens has been unveiled by the company. Incorporated with an electronic motorized zoom, the lens is compatible with the Olympus PEN compact system cameras.
The new lens offers a zoom ratio of about 4.2x, letting photographers capture wide-angle group images as well as medium telephoto range shots by using the same lens for almost all purposes. Gauging the shoot requirement, the zooming speed can be controlled by rotating the barrel. But for those who prefer complete control over the process, an option of manual zooming is also available.
By nudging the zoom ring forward while also depressing the macro button which is located at the side, the device can be set in macro mode. This enables users to focus within the 8 to 20 inches range, which will deliver a close-up shot with the highest image magnification maintained at 0.72X. Using the L-Fn button placed at the side, photographers can temporarily suspend the auto focus function to avoid concentrating on unexpected obstacles.
Suitable for still images as well as HD videos, the system is housed in a dust-proof as well as splash-proof body to make it safe enough for carrying around. This can be attributed to the numerous sealing rings fitted throughout its body. The mechanism was first seen in the Four Thirds SHG series of lenses.
The M.Zuiko Digital ED 12-50mm F3.5-6.3 EZ lens price is revealed to be $499.99 (approx. Rs. 26,260) and it is expected to hit markets in the U.S. by mid-January next year.
