Panasonic has just announced a new compact prime: the LUMIX S 50mm f/1.8, as the second addition to the series of four f/1.8 large-aperture lenses based on the L-Mount system standard. A total of four f/1.8 lenses from the LUMIX S Series feature a common size and position of control parts which, for example, make it easy to exchange lenses quickly when the camera is on a gimbal with minimum adjustment of connected gears. In addition, because the diameter is consistent, users can also apply the same filters across this set of lenses. The filter diameter is 67 mm, with a 9-blade circular aperture diaphragm.

The LUMIX S 50mm f/1.8 is comprised of nine lens elements in eight groups including three aspherical lenses, one ED (Extra-Low Dispersion) lens and one UHR (Ultra-High Refractive Index) lens. Three aspherical lenses achieve high descriptive performance and beautiful bokeh across all f/1.8 lenses in the series, and are suitable for a wide range of images, from portrait to landscape. Notably, the ED lens effectively suppresses chromatic aberration.

The LUMIX S 50mm f/1.8 also excels in video recording performance with a mechanism that suppresses focus breathing, previously a fatal problem of all interchangeable lenses designed for still image photography. This advantage, together with a micro-step aperture control for smooth exposure change produces professional quality video.
Compact, lightweight (approximately 300g), dust/splash-resistant, and able to withstand use under harsh conditions as low as 14 degrees Fahrenheit, the LUMIX 50mm f/1.8 is designed for excellent mobility.

A note on the dust and splash resistance: it does not guarantee that damage will not occur if the lens is subjected to direct contact with dust and water. This is a pretty standard warning across manufacturers, and the lens should be able to withstand dust that is kicked up by the wind as well as light rain. Below is a photo that illustrates where on the lens the weather sealing exists.