[paul47]

Has anyone had any experience using the Panasonic macro lens for the Panasonic Lumix G-series (micro four-thirds) range?

It's quite expensive (£500+), I just wondered if it was worth the money.

[iveljay]

While you wait for a possible owner to respond, these are my personal thoughts.
I assume that you have read the excellent review http://www.dpreview.com/lensreviews/...nic_45_2p8_o20.

I use both the Olympus 4/3 macros, the older 35mm and the 50mm with its matching extension tube which will get it to a true 1:1.

I obviously looked at this lens as a possible technology refresh, but it is expensive unless I feel I will see sufficient benefit.

I am drawn by its size which is a very positive point and the reason why I use the Oly 35mm macro a lot.

The image stabilisation is another plus point though it is usually the target rather than the camera that needs stabilising! My macro rig at high mags are very rigid Benbos. Though for larger targets, amphibians etc., where you have no choice other than hand held I would appreciate it on a camera without built in stabilisation - not a problem with my Olys though (so not a gain for me) but it would certainly help you with a Panasonic.

The reported battery drain to get effective stabilisation is a bit of a red herring as far as I am concerned - at the price of the lens you can afford spare batteries.

I suspect the implementation of manual focussing would annoy me, however, this is a purely personal thing based on how I work and may not be a problem to others, however, it clearly niggled the reviewer to some degree. Without trying it (and this is where we hope for a real user) this can only be speculation.

The 'bellows' effect mentioned in the review is usually handled by the camera metering mechanism and to complete the review the 50mm Oly matches the others at 1:1 with a 2 stop correction with its ex tube at 1:1 as you would expect. This is a feature of all macro lenses - though some zooms with a macro feature can react differently.

If I were in your position I would be sorely tempted by this lens, it makes enormous sense for a mft Panasonic user - for me it doesn't really add anything other than size, so I am passing on it.

I think it simply boils down to whether you really need (want) a prime macro lens.

Good luck with whatever you decide.

[Robert Wallace]

According to the Wex website there is a £50 cash back offer on this lens. This is a Panasonic offer linked to participating retailers. I am waiting to find out whether John Lewis is a also participating retailer.

[paul47]

Thank you for your comments on the review, they're very helpful.

Still undecided!

[Robert Wallace]

Me too! My local natural history society is heavily into botany and fungus, not my strongest areas. The lens may also be good for butterflies and dragonflies, Hill and Twist (1996) mentioned the classic Tamron 90mm macro for use on 35mm film cameras. I am desparately trying to persuade myself to buy one. The Panasonic £50 cashback offer may be the incentive.