Panasonic Lenses Get Custom Focus Ring

credits: Panasonic

Panasonic has released a new Firmware Version 2.0 update for four of its Lumix S lenses, bringing a small but useful change for photographers using the latest Lumix S cameras. The update is available for the Lumix S 14-28mm f/4-5.6 Macro, S 18-40mm f/4.5-6.3, S 28-200mm f/4-7.1 Macro OIS, and S 70-300mm f/4.5-5.6 Macro OIS. Rather than improving image quality or autofocus performance, Panasonic is changing how the focus ring can be used.

With the new firmware installed, you can now assign a custom function to the focus ring when shooting in autofocus mode, effectively turning it into a function ring. Panasonic also lets you change the rotation direction of the ring, making it easier to match personal preference or maintain consistency with other lenses. These new features only work on compatible camera bodies, including the Lumix S1 II, S1 IIE, S1R II, S5 II, S5 IIX, and S9.  If you are using an older Lumix S camera, the focus ring will continue to work as it always has.

As with previous Panasonic lens updates, the firmware cannot be installed directly onto the lens. Instead, the lens must be attached to a compatible camera body, and Panasonic recommends updating the camera firmware first before installing the lens update. The company also notes that teleconverters should be removed during the update process.