Panasonic Lumix S 35mm F1.8 (S-S35E)

Lens Design and Optical Performance

The Panasonic Lumix S 35mm F1.8 (S-S35E) is a large-aperture wide fixed focal length lens, the fourth in a series of four F1.8 large-aperture lenses based on the L-Mount system. It shares a common size and control layout with the 24mm, 50mm, and 85mm F1.8 lenses, facilitating easy lens exchange with minimal balance adjustment on gimbals. The consistent diameter allows use of common filters, enhancing practical usability.

The lens construction includes eleven elements in nine groups, featuring three aspherical lenses and three Extra-Low Dispersion (ED) lenses. The aspherical elements deliver high resolution and beautiful bokeh, while the ED lenses effectively suppress chromatic aberration. This optical design suits versatile shooting scenarios such as landscapes, snapshots, and portraits. The minimum focusing distance is 0.24 meters, enabling high-quality close-up photography.

Advanced Autofocus and Video Features

The Lumix S 35mm F1.8 supports smooth and silent autofocus operation, compatible with the camera's high-speed, high-precision contrast AF system operating at up to 240 frames per second sensor drive. It offers both linear and non-linear focus ring control modes: in non-linear mode, focus shift varies with the rotation speed of the focus ring; in linear mode, focus shift corresponds directly to the rotation angle. Sensitivity can be adjusted from 90° to 360° in 30° increments for precise manual focus control.

For video recording, the lens incorporates focus breathing suppression to minimize image size changes during focusing, a common issue in still photography lenses. Additionally, a micro-step aperture control enables smooth exposure transitions, supporting professional-quality video capture.

Build, Size, and Durability

Weighing approximately 295 grams and measuring 73.6 mm in diameter by 82 mm in length, the lens is compact and lightweight, ideal for the Panasonic Lumix S5 full-frame mirrorless camera. It features a rugged dust and splash-resistant design, operable in temperatures as low as -10°C, ensuring reliability in harsh environments. The lens has a 67 mm filter thread and a 9-blade circular aperture diaphragm for pleasing out-of-focus rendering.

Additional Information

• Aperture range: F1.8 to F22
• Maximum magnification: 0.22x
• Focus breathing suppression for video
• Linear and non-linear focus ring control with adjustable sensitivity
• Weather-sealed construction resistant to dust, rain, and frost down to -10°C
• Lens elements: 11 elements in 9 groups (3 aspherical, 3 ED lenses)
• Dimensions: 73.6 mm diameter, 82 mm length
• Weight: 295 grams
• Filter size: 67 mm