OM System has announced a new 90mm true macro professional lens, which macro photographers have long been waiting for.
This new lens promises to be a revolution in macro photography. Macros actually have at least 1:1 magnification, like placing the subject on the sensor. Smaller lenses misrepresent the terminology and only have a magnification of 1:2 or ½ or less, which is not true macro. This new lens improves macro sharpness, with a 2:1 magnification, doubling the size of the image. Alternatively, add a 2x teleconverter to the lens and then the magnification is doubled again. Thus, with this lens, one won’t need to get too close to the subject, making it easier to take close-up shots of insects.
The lens features built-in image stabilization, which works in tandem with the in-body image stabilization of OM System cameras in a system they call Sync-IS. That will give you up to seven stops of compensation when used with a compatible body, such as OM-1. Photographers will be able to hand-hold and focus macro shots with this lens.
It is equipped with the same IP53 weather resistance as their latest cameras, including the OM-1 and OM-5. It is also freeze resistant down to 14°F (-10°C). It weighs about 0.95 lbs (453 g).
This lens features a focus limiter switch and manual focus clutch, a quick way to switch between autofocus and manual focus and a much less unwieldy way than a switch. This lens also allows for in-camera focus stacking and bracketing with compatible cameras.
Of course, 90mm lenses aren’t just for macros; One can also take advantage of the nearby focusing distance for creative landscape work. Its lightness makes it a great travel fixed focal length lens, and it can also be used for portraits and still lifes, as well as some wildlife photography.
Specifications of the M.Zuiko 90mm f/3.5 Macro IS PRO Lens
Lens construction
lens configuration
- 18 elements in 13 groups
- 2 SED . lenses
- 4 ED . lens elements
- 1 super human factor
- 1 human factor
- Closest focusing distance: 0.224 m
- Maximum image magnification: 2.0x
- 7 aperture blades
There’s a discussion with top macro photographer Aaron Harivel about the lens in the following video:
Lens Available for pre-order and will be available in the US from the beginning of March. Europe gets access a little earlier at the end of February. It costs $1,499, £1,299 and €1,499. I’m looking forward to using this lens and will be reviewing it here in the near future.
