Olympus announces plans for 60mm macro lens

by adamhanlon Wednesday, February 8th, 2012

Article Summary:

In the press release about the new E-M5 EVIL camera, Olympus mention that they are working on producing the M.ZUIKO DIGITAL ED 60mm F2.8 Macro for their EVIL cameras. It is further highlighted in a press release on the Olympus Global site. This will be the first truly useable macro lens for underwater use with EVIL systems. It will offer 1:1 life size magnification (equivalent to 2:1 in 35mm) at the closest focusing distance of 0.19m/0.62ft and will feature a dust and splash-proof design.

It is expected to launch by the end of the 2012. Specifications and price are not yet determined.

I would expect the image quality of this lens to be every bit as good as the outstanding Olympus 50 mm macro for 4/3 DSLR's. I have also used the Pana 45 macro and find that it will hunt more than I would like it to. The new Olympus 60mm macro has a four setting focus limiting switch on the lens barrel. One of the settings is .19-.4 meters (6-16 inches) this limits the lens from 1:1 to about 1:5or6. This should cut down on the hunting issue a great deal and allow the lens to auto focus very fast. Phil Rudin
Posted by Phil Rudin on 2012-02-16 10:24:55 Hate to quibble, Adam, but the Panasonic 45mm Macro lens has been around for years now and is very usable on micro 4/3 systems (I've shot it extensively). It focuses to 1:1 and has excellent optical quality. My biggest complaint about it is working distance, and sadly, it seems the Olympus version has not improved that by much more than an inch. The weatherproofing is certainly a welcome addition though.
Posted by Sterling Zumbrunn on 2012-02-14 16:31:30