Panasonic launches 14mm, 100-300mm and 3D Micro Four Thirds lenses

With the Lumix GH2, Panasonic announces a new 14mm wide angle prime lens, a 100-300mm telephoto zoom, and a 3D interchangeable lens for their Micro Four Thirds system. Read on for more details and hands-on photos of the new 3D lens.

The 3D lens, introduced as a concept earlier this year, features a fixed 12.5mm focal length and a fixed f/12 aperture. Two separate optical systems allow for the capture of left and right images simultaneously. Panasonic calls this an advantage over competing Sony and Fujifilm 3D methods, and that the Lumix 3D system can capture moving objects more easily.

The just-announced Panasonic Lumix GH2 is 3D-ready, and the G2 will be able to accept the 3D lens with a forthcoming firmware update. No other Lumix G camera available at the time of launch will be able to use the 3D lens.

Pansonic showed me a few sample images on of their Viera 3D HDTVs (naturally) and I was very impressed. The colors and details popped in a way I haven't seen from any other system. It didn't hurt that I was viewing these images under every optimal circumstance, but they were impressive nonetheless.

Also debuting are the Panasonic Lumix G 14mm f/2.5 ASPH and Panasonic Lumix G Vario 100-300mm f/4-5.6 Mega O.I.S. lenses. They may not record 3D, but they do help to round out Panasonic's Micro Four Thirds lens selection. They both feature seven-blade apertures and lightweight construction. The 14mm, equating to 28mm when coupled to a G series camera, is comprised of six elements in five groups and measures 20.5mm in total. The optically stabilized 100-300mm reaches out to an equivalent of 600mm.

Pricing and availability
The Panasonic Lumix G 12.5mm f/12 3D lens will cost $249.95, the Lumix G 14mm f/2.5 $399.95 and the Panasonic Lumix G Vario 100-300mm $599.99. All lenses will be available in November.