The Panasonic Leica DG Nocticron 42.5mm f/1.2 is a Panasonic 42.5mm prime for Micro Four Thirds, released in 2014. It covers 85mm in full-frame terms at a maximum aperture of f/1.2. It offers Dual IS compatible OIS and a 425g build.
Best for: Portraits and light telephoto shooting
Pros
- Very wide f/1.2 aperture for low-light and subject separation
- OIS with Dual IS support for Panasonic bodies
Cons
- Bulkier than compact alternatives
- Not weather sealed
- High price point
What this lens is good for
Portraits
Widely regarded as one of the finest portrait lenses ever made for Micro Four Thirds. The 85mm full-frame equivalent is the classic portrait length, and at f/1.2 it produces the strongest subject separation and most three-dimensional rendering of any native lens, with beautifully smooth bokeh.
Low-light and events
The bright f/1.2 aperture and built-in OIS, which coordinates with Panasonic Dual IS, make it capable in dim venues for weddings and events. The stabilisation is a genuine advantage over the other fast portrait primes when working handheld in low light.
Dual IS compatibility
This lens triggers Dual IS on compatible Panasonic bodies, combining lens OIS with body IBIS for improved stabilisation.
Specifications
| Lens | |
| Brand | Panasonic |
| Type | prime |
| Status | current |
| Released | 2014-02 |
| Mount | mft |
| Optics | |
| Focal length | 42.5mm |
| FF equivalent | 85mm |
| Max aperture | f/1.2 |
| Min aperture | f/16 |
| Aperture blades | 9 |
| Elements / Groups | 14 / 11 |
| Focus | |
| Autofocus | Linear Motor |
| MF override | Yes |
| Min focus distance | 0.5m |
| Max magnification | 0.1x |
| Stabilisation | |
| OIS | power_ois |
| Dual IS compatible | Yes |
| Physical | |
| Weather sealed | No |
| Filter size | 67mm |
| Weight | 425g |
| Dimensions | 74mm length x 74mm diameter |
| Pricing | |
| Price (approx.) | $1,297 USD |