TECHWEEK
In March 2023, the Chinese company Yongnuo released a new ultra-wide-angle zoom lens for M4/3 cameras. Almost a year later, the Yongnuo YN 12-35mm F/2.8-4 lens has officially gone on sale.
The lens provides a standard set of focal lengths, equivalent to 24-70mm (at full frame). The manufacturer reported that the optical design of the new Yongnuo YN 12-35mm F/2.8-4 for M4/3 uses aspherical lenses, elements with low dispersion and high refractive index. All of them allow you to control aberrations and obtain a sharp image.
Proprietary coating reduces the likelihood of ghosting and glare. The lens also has macro capabilities with a minimum focusing distance of 11 cm at wide angle (maximum magnification factor 0.5x). This is a fairly unique option for a lens like this. To switch to macro mode there is a special button on the lens body.
Autofocus uses a stepper motor that works quickly and quietly. The lens mount is M4/3, the filter thread has a diameter of 67 mm. The lens dimensions are 79 x 94 mm and the weight is 318 g.
The manufacturing company specifically notes the quality of the image obtained using the new optics.
Main characteristics of Yongnuo YN 12-35mm F/2.8-4:
- The optical design consists of: 14 elements in 11 groups
- Aperture: F/2.8-4, 7 blades
- Minimum focusing distance: 13 mm
- The thread for installing light filters is: 67 mm
- Autofocus drive – DSM
Supports firmware updates via USB port
Bayonet mount made of metal
The new Yongnuo YN 12-35mm F/2.8-4 lens also has an internal zoom system. That is, it does not change in size regardless of the chosen focal length. This will provide additional convenience when working with stabilization systems that require balancing.
The expected flagship of the M4/3 system is the Panasonic Lumix GH7. It was reported that this camera will receive hybrid autofocus. For the first time, Panasonic implemented such technology in a camera with a full-frame sensor – the Panasonic Lumix S5 II. Then similar capabilities appeared in a model with an M4/3 matrix – Panasonic Lumix GH9 II. The next one, which sounds quite logical, given that the GH series is the flagship in the line with M4/3 matrices, will be the Panasonic Lumix G7.
This camera will have advanced video capabilities, an improved matrix stabilization system (traditionally one of the most effective on the market), a rotating display, a compact and lightweight body, and now an advanced autofocus system.
Price: $549
