Through the Lens: Exploring the Olympus 17mm f1.2 PRO Lens

In continuation of my previous post about my experience with the MFT System and the reasons for my admiration of it, I am pleased to introduce my new acquisition: the Olympus 17mm f1.2 PRO lens. I combined it with my Lumix G85 Micro Four Thirds camera, and the results are exceptionally impressive. I am highly impressed with the sharpness that this lens can produce. Additionally, the bokeh effect is exceptionally pleasing, creating a beautifully blurred background. Their advertisement is designed to meet expectations, and the feathered bokeh it produces is notable. The Olympus 17mm f1.2 PRO lens is an exceptional piece of equipment that will undoubtedly impress you. It will become an indispensable part of your photography gear, making you inclined to take it with you on every occasion.  

I've noticed that this lens has an ergonomic design that promotes a comfortable grip, making it hard to put down. It feels perfectly balanced and secure in your hands, making it a pleasure to use for extended periods. I am confident that acquiring this lens will enhance your confidence in utilizing the MFT System for photography. This lens is highly recommended for daily use, particularly for street photographers. Moreover, this is highly suitable for portrait photography as well.

Superb Image Quality

One of the key advantages of this lens is its ability to produce high image quality due to its wide f/1.2 aperture. The wide aperture allows for a significant amount of light to be gathered, which is beneficial for capturing images in low-light conditions. It provides an image with a smooth bokeh effect. This lens is suitable for portrait photography and artistic shots, as it allows for capturing the surroundings without being as tight as a 45mm lens. The 17mm lens enables the capture of both the subject and the environment, adding more context to the photos.

High-Precision Autofocus

The first time I used this lens, I assessed its focusing performance. I was impressed by the lens's fast and accurate autofocus system, which allows you to easily focus on both moving and stationary subjects. This lens consistently performs well in capturing dynamic scenes. Additionally, for those who prefer manual control over focusing, the lens is equipped with a focus clutch. By engaging the clutch, you can manually adjust the focus, which is particularly advantageous for videographers.

Weather-Sealed

This is one of the reasons why I decided to transition from DSLR to a mirrorless camera, specifically to the MFT System. Most cameras produced by Panasonic and Olympus come with weather-sealed bodies. Consequently, when your camera body is weather-sealed, it is essential to select a lens that also features weather sealing. This is why I highly value the Olympus 17mm f1.2 PRO lens. It is dustproof, splashproof, and freezeproof, allowing usage in various challenging environments without the risk of damaging the lens.

Compact and Lightweight

Although this lens is slightly heavier than the Panasonic Leica 12-60mm f2.8-4.0 lens, it remains more compact and lightweight compared to a full-frame lens. It can be carried around and handled without causing strain on your hands. 

Build Quality

This lens exudes a premium feel, evident in its construction and durability. Manufactured from magnesium alloy, its robust design ensures reliable performance under frequent use and challenging conditions.

Versatile Focal Length

The 17mm focal length (34mm equivalent on a 35mm camera) is more versatile than 25mm or 45mm lenses. It provides ample background without being too tight or wide, making it ideal for street photography, landscapes, and portraits.

Here are test shots from my Olympus 17mm f1.2 PRO lens:

Panasonic DMC-G85 with Olympus 17mm f/1.2 1/640 sec ISO 200

Please observe the exceptional sharpness of the image produced by this lens. The leaf details are remarkably clear. With a wide-open aperture at f/1.2, it gathers more light, allowing for an increased shutter speed of 1/640 at ISO 200. 

Check out my pre-debut photoshoot with this lens here: Joemen Bayan - Kennah Bernal Pre-Debut Photoshoot

For Further Reading: 

Gordon Laing (16 May 2018). Olympus 17mm f1.2 PRO review so far. Cameralabs.