Mark Ellington
Olympus M.Zuiko 14-150mm Lens for Micro Four Thirds
Introduction
The Olympus M.Zuiko Digital ED 14-150mm F4.0-5.6 II is a versatile zoom lens designed for Micro Four Thirds cameras. Manufactured by Olympus, a brand renowned for its quality optics and innovative imaging solutions, this lens is intended for photographers who seek flexibility in their shooting styles, from wide-angle landscapes to medium telephoto shots. With a price tag of $699, it is positioned as an all-in-one solution for travel and everyday photography.
Product Overview and Design
The lens exhibits a sleek and modern aesthetic, predominantly in a matte black finish that complements the design of most Micro Four Thirds cameras. It features a sturdy build quality, crafted from a combination of high-grade plastics and metals, ensuring durability while keeping the weight manageable. Unique design elements include a compact form factor and a smooth zoom ring that is easy to grip, allowing for quick adjustments in the field.
Key Features and Specifications
- Focal Length: 14-150mm (28-300mm equivalent in 35mm)
- Aperture: F4.0-5.6
- Minimum Focusing Distance: 20 inches
- Angle of View: 75° – 8.2°
- Lens Construction: 15 elements in 11 groups
- Coating: Zuiko Extra-low reflection optical coating
- Weather Sealing: Dustproof and splash proof
- Included Accessories: Lens hood (LH-61C), lens cap, rear lens cap
- Warranty: 1 year coverage for parts
- Release Date: April 25, 2015
Experience Using the Product
In practical use, the Olympus M.Zuiko 14-150mm lens shines in various photographic scenarios. On outdoor excursions, its weather-sealed design allowed for worry-free shooting in light rain, making it an excellent companion for nature photography. The lens performed admirably in low light conditions at F4.0, producing sharp images with pleasing bokeh effects in portrait shots, despite being a zoom lens.
Transitioning from wide-angle to telephoto was seamless, and the lens retained good sharpness and color accuracy throughout the zoom range. The minimum focusing distance of 20 inches allowed for engaging close-up shots of flowers and insects without the need to change lenses. However, users should note that at maximum zoom, some softness may appear at the edges, which is common in lenses of this type.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Versatile focal range suitable for multiple types of photography.
- Durable, weather-sealed construction ideal for outdoor use.
- Lightweight and compact design, perfect for travel.
- Good optical performance with minimal distortion.
- Includes accessories such as lens hood for added value.
Cons:
- Some softness at the edges at maximum zoom.
- Aperture range could be wider for improved low-light performance.
- Price may be a consideration for budget-conscious photographers.
Conclusion
Overall, the Olympus M.Zuiko Digital ED 14-150mm F4.0-5.6 II lens offers a compelling combination of versatility, durability, and good image quality. Its wide focal range makes it an excellent all-in-one solution for Micro Four Thirds camera users, particularly those who enjoy travel photography. While it has some minor drawbacks, such as edge softness at maximum zoom, its strengths outweigh these issues. For photographers seeking a reliable, lightweight zoom lens that can handle a variety of shooting situations, this lens is a worthy investment.
