The Panasonic Leica DG Summilux 12mm f/1.4 is a Panasonic 12mm prime for Micro Four Thirds, released in 2016. It covers 24mm in full-frame terms at a maximum aperture of f/1.4. It offers weather sealing and a 350g build.
Best for: Low-light, street, and everyday photography
Pros
- Wide f/1.4 aperture for low-light and subject separation
- Weather sealed for outdoor and adverse conditions
Cons
- High price point
What this lens is good for
Landscapes and architecture
The 24mm full-frame equivalent is a classic wide focal length for landscapes, cityscapes, and interiors, and this lens is sharp into the corners even wide open. Weather sealing means you can use it in the conditions landscape work often demands, from coastal spray to light rain.
Astrophotography
A 24mm equivalent at a fast f/1.4 is close to ideal for the Milky Way, and this lens controls coma, the smearing of corner stars into comet shapes, better than most. That combination of wide field, bright aperture, and clean corners makes it one of the best native astro primes for the system. Full guide →
Reportage and interiors
The wide angle and fast aperture suit environmental work where you want context around your subject and the ability to shoot in low light without flash. The metal weather-sealed build holds up to heavy use, which is why it is a favourite for documentary and event coverage.
Specifications
| Lens | |
| Brand | Panasonic |
| Type | prime |
| Status | current |
| Released | 2016-07 |
| Mount | mft |
| Optics | |
| Focal length | 12mm |
| FF equivalent | 24mm |
| Max aperture | f/1.4 |
| Min aperture | f/16 |
| Aperture blades | 9 |
| Elements / Groups | 15 / 12 |
| Focus | |
| Autofocus | Linear Motor |
| MF override | Yes |
| Min focus distance | 0.2m |
| Max magnification | 0.1x |
| Stabilisation | |
| OIS | No |
| Dual IS compatible | No |
| Physical | |
| Weather sealed | Yes |
| Filter size | 62mm |
| Weight | 350g |
| Dimensions | 70.5mm length x 73.5mm diameter |
| Pricing | |
| Price (approx.) | $1,297 USD |