Mark Ellington
Panasonic LUMIX G II 100-300MM Zoom Lens
Introduction
The Panasonic LUMIX G II Vario 100-300mm Lens is a powerful zoom lens designed specifically for Micro Four Thirds mirrorless cameras. Manufactured by Panasonic, a renowned brand in the imaging technology sector, this lens is ideal for photographers and videographers looking to capture high-quality images and videos from a distance. With a focal length of 100-300mm and a variable aperture of F4.0 to F5.6, this lens is particularly suited for wildlife, sports, and landscape photography.
Product Overview
The LUMIX G II 100-300mm lens is sleek and modern, featuring a classic black finish that gives it a professional look. The lens body is constructed with durable materials that not only enhance its aesthetic appeal but also contribute to its robustness. One of the standout design features is the weather-sealing, which makes it splash and dust resistant, allowing photographers to use it in various environmental conditions without worry.
Key Features and Specifications
- Focal Length: 100-300mm
- Aperture: F4.0 – F5.6
- Closest Focusing Distance: 1.5m / 4.92 feet
- Optical Image Stabilization: POWER O.I.S., compatible with LUMIX Dual I.S. 2.0
- Focusing System: 240 fps linear motor for faster focus tracking
- Diagonal Angle of View: 12° (Wide) to 4.1° (Tele)
- Part Number: H-FSA100300
- Release Date: February 26, 2017
- Price: $747.99
User Experience
During my time using the Panasonic LUMIX G II 100-300mm lens, I had the opportunity to test it in various scenarios, including wildlife photography, sports events, and landscape shots. The autofocus performance was impressive, with the 240 fps linear motor providing quick and accurate focusing, particularly in fast-paced environments. The lens produced sharp images with excellent color rendition, even at full zoom.
In wildlife photography, the lens’s long reach allowed me to capture distant animals without disturbing them. The optical stabilization feature helped keep images steady, especially in low-light conditions, where hand-holding the lens can often lead to blurred photos.
In sports photography, the quick focus tracking ensured I could keep up with moving subjects, resulting in sharp action shots. The weather-sealing provided peace of mind during unexpected rain, allowing me to continue shooting without fear of damaging the lens.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Excellent image quality with sharpness and color accuracy.
- Robust weather-sealing for use in challenging conditions.
- Fast and reliable autofocus system.
- Lightweight and compact design for a telephoto lens.
Cons
- Price may be high for beginner photographers.
- Variable aperture may limit performance in low light compared to fixed aperture lenses.
- Some users may find the zoom range somewhat limiting for very distant subjects.
Conclusion
Overall, the Panasonic LUMIX G II Vario 100-300mm Lens is a remarkable piece of equipment for any serious photographer looking to expand their capabilities. With its exceptional optical performance, robust build quality, and advanced autofocus system, it stands out as a compelling choice in the Micro Four Thirds lens market. While the price point may be a consideration for some, the features and quality it delivers make it a worthwhile investment for those passionate about photography.
