Panasonic has announced a new 30mm f2.8 macro lens for its micro 4/3s system. Giving the equivalent of a 60mm on a 35mm camera, the lens has a minimum focusing distance of 0.105m. It is fitted with optical image stabilization.

It will be available in May. Prices are to be confirmed.

From Panasonic’s press release:

H-HS030 - a versatile F2.8 30mm macro lens

Elegantly designed with a sharp, metallic black finish, the new 30mm macro lens perfectly matches the style of the latest LUMIX G interchangeable lens cameras. With a 30mm (35mm camera equivalent: 60 mm) wide angle and a high speed F2.8 aperture, the lens provides sharp, high contrast image rendering. Utilising 1x life-size magnification, deep depth of field, and a focusing distance starting at just 0.105 m, the lens offers excellent performance even when shooting true-to-life macro shots.

A durable and reliable metal mount means the lens is perfectly suited for day-to-day use, while the multi-coated lens elements minimise ghosting and flaring to further enhance shooting performance. With a 240 fps Drive Auto Focus (AF) and MEGA O.I.S. (Optical Image Stabilizer), you can achieve fast, accurate focusing and stable framing with every shot.

Black, available from May