Panasonic 12.5mm f/12 LUMIX G 3D

 
Lens Reviews / Panasonic Lenses i Lab tested

(From Panasonic lens literature) Panasonic has announced the world’s first1 interchangeable 3D lens, the H-FT012. The lens, based on the Micro Four Thirds System standard, is compact while featuring high optical performance and are compatible with Panasonic’s LUMIX DSLMicro cameras, such as the newly-announced LUMIX DMC-GH2.

Furthering Panasonic’s leadership in 3D technology, the new interchangeable 3D lens LUMIX G 12.5mm / F12 (H-FT012) features two optical systems installed within the diameter of the lens mount, creating stereo images from the left and right lenses that are then processed with a 3D image processing system. Panasonic's advanced technologies in optical technology, image processing systems, and lens barrel design, allow the 3D lens to be compact.

Previously, 3D shooting with an interchangeable lens system camera was possible only by using panorama systems or by combining two lenses and two CCDs. However, these systems are not ideal and have difficulty capturing moving objects. Panasonic’s new 3D-capable interchangeable lens allows instant 3D shooting (35 mm camera equivalent: 65 mm2)3, without time lag between left and right images – even when shooting objects in motion. As part of Panasonic’s 3D ecosystem of 3D-capable VIERA® televisions and Blu-ray™ 3D Disc Players, the 3D images taken with this lens – even close-up shots – are easily viewed on Panasonic’s 3D VIERA televisions.

“Panasonic’s delivery of the world’s first interchangeable 3D lens speaks to our commitment to leading the 3D era,’” said Darin Pepple, Senior Product Manager, Imaging, Panasonic Consumer Electronics Company. “Consumers can now enjoy shooting high-quality photos in 3D with this compact lens, from landscapes to people, while watching them back later on their 3D-capable VIERA televisions at home.”

The new Panasonic LUMIX G 12.5mm / F12 3D lens will be available in November for suggested retail price of $249.95.

1 For a digital interchangeable lens of September 21, 2010.
2 When setting the aspect ratio at 16:9 with the LUMIX DMC-GH2.
3 Compatible with LUMIX DMC-GH2 and LUMIX DMC-G2 with the firmware ver.1.1. A 3D media player that supports the MP (Multi-Picture) format is required to view 3D images.