Panasonic Lumix G 20mm F1.7 II ASPH

Micro Four Thirds (MFT/M43)

Review

The Panasonic Lumix G 20mm F1.7 II ASPH is a compact and versatile prime lens designed for the Micro Four Thirds mount. Known for its portability and excellent optical performance, this lens is a favorite among travel photographers, street photographers, and anyone looking for a fast lens that doesn't compromise on quality. With a focal length equivalent to 40mm in full-frame terms, it's perfectly suited for a variety of shooting situations, from portraits to landscapes.

One standout feature of the Lumix G 20mm F1.7 II is its impressive maximum aperture of f/1.7. This allows for beautiful background separation and is particularly useful in low-light conditions, making it easier to achieve a shallow depth of field. The lens produces sharp images with pleasing bokeh, resulting in professional-looking photographs. Additionally, the lens incorporates the ASPH (Aspherical) design, minimizing lens distortion and aberrations, which are common in other lenses of similar focal lengths.

The build quality of the lens is solid yet lightweight, making it an excellent companion for anyone on the go. The lens also features a sleek and unobtrusive design, which allows photographers to work discreetly, especially when shooting candid moments. Its lens hood is an optional accessory, providing extra protection and reducing flare in bright conditions.

However, the lens is not without its drawbacks. Some users have pointed out that the autofocus can be somewhat slow, particularly in low-light situations or when tracking moving subjects. Additionally, the absence of optical image stabilization may be a concern for videographers or those who prefer shooting handheld in challenging conditions. While the lens is incredibly sharp, there is some slight vignetting that may be noticeable at the wide-open aperture, which could require adjustments in post-processing for those who desire perfectly balanced images.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Excellent maximum aperture of f/1.7 for low-light performance and depth of field control.
• Compact and lightweight design, ideal for travel and street photography.
• Sharp image quality with minimal distortion thanks to the aspherical elements.
• Discreet look, making it suitable for candid photography.

Cons

• Autofocus can be slow in low-light conditions or with moving subjects.
• Lack of optical image stabilization may hinder handheld shooting.
• Slight vignetting at wide-open aperture could require post-processing adjustments.

Verdict

In conclusion, the Panasonic Lumix G 20mm F1.7 II ASPH is a fantastic lens that offers great versatility and optical performance, making it a fantastic addition to any Micro Four Thirds camera kit. Its speed and compact design outweigh the minor drawbacks, especially for those seeking a lens for everyday photography. Whether you are capturing street scenes, low-light portraits, or landscapes, this lens won't disappoint. If you're looking for an affordable prime lens that excels in both qualitative and practical aspects, the Lumix G 20mm F1.7 II is definitely worth considering.