Panasonic Lumix G 30mm f/2.8 Macro ASPH. Review

Panasonic Lumix G Macro 30mm f/2.8 Handling and Features

The lens barrel is constructed from a mix of metal and high quality plastics, with a glossy finish and the bayonet is metal. It is very compact for a macro lens and only weighs 180g. The compact size of this lens should make it perfect for use with even the tiniest Micro Four Thirds bodies and it also feels right at home on the Panasonic Lumix GX7 used for testing. There is no weather sealing in place, which may be a concern for those wishing to use the lens in inclement conditions.

As focusing is performed internally the 46mm filter thread does not rotate, which makes this lens ideal for use with graduated and polarising filters. There is a wide manual focusing ring, which is smooth to operate and nicely damped. The minimum focus distance is 10.5 cm, so care may need to be taken not to shade your subject when shooting near the minimum focus distance.

The optical stabiliser is activated from the in-camera menu on Panasonic cameras. With care, the stabilisation system allows sharp shots to be taken just over half the time at 1/8sec, which is roughly three stops slower than the usual rule of thumb would allow.

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