At first glance, Panasonic’s GH4 may seem like another camera, but it represents much more. It was the first affordable 4K-capable camera for the average user. This article will review the best lenses for the Panasonic GH4.
The Canon 5D Mark II was used to shoot a portion of the sixth season finale of the TV show “House.” Since then, many people have considered the Canon 5D Mark II and its successors the gold standard for compact, reasonably priced, high-quality film cameras.
Professionals widely use the EOS series for photography and filming, including independent film productions, video reporters, and event filmmakers. These cameras have completely transformed what can be achieved with reasonably priced, lightweight equipment. Then the Panasonic Lumix GH4 appeared.
It was the first commercially available camera capable of shooting high-resolution 4K video. The Panasonic camera is primarily intended for filming, and we will discuss some of its many modes and settings later in the post.
Which lenses are the best for Panasonic GH4?
1. Panasonic LUMIX G Lens, 25mm, F1.7 ASPH H-H025K
Key-Specifications:
Brand: Panasonic | Focal Length Description: F 1.7 | Lens Type: Standard | Compatible Mountings: Micro Four Thirds | Camera Lens Description: 25 millimetres | Product Dimensions: 3.23 x 3.23 x 4.41 inches | Item Weight: 0.634 ounces | Item model number: H-H025K | Date First Available: September 1, 2015, | Manufacturer: Panasonic | Country of Origin: China |
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Panasonic LUMIX G Lens, 25mm, F1.7 ASPH H-H025K, is one of the best lenses for Panasonic GH4. The H025K is one of the best and most popular micro four-thirds lenses on the market because it combines an appealing and sturdy design, excellent performance, and a low price that won’t only have a significant impact on your budget but also has performance that can easily compete with most lenses that are priced in the midrange.
A single ultra-high-refractive-index lens element, one aspherical element, and nine elements totaling seven groups make up this model’s incredibly lightweight and trim design.
The manufacturer has added their renowned Nano Surface Coating to eliminate ghosting and flare. A diaphragm with up to seven rounded aperture blades will also ensure a convenient and high-quality shooting experience!
Due to its shape, this lens won’t provide robust performance, but it will also allow you to fit it easily in the palm of your hand so you can shoot comfortably without becoming tired! Excellent work, Panasonic!
The H025K delivers sharp images at f/1.7, which by default implies that you will usually be happy with the performance. It also outputs a rapid and practically silent focusing, one of its best qualities. Many who have been using this lens state that the image was sharp even at f/11 and f/22, yet, surprise, at f/22, photographs were still reasonably sharp, which caught my attention as well.
Due to its fast-action stepping motor focusing, this device allows you to capture high-quality films and sharp still images. Honestly, I don’t think you can expect more for the price you spend. The best combination is this lens and your GH4!
The only thing missing, in my opinion, is optical image stabilization. However, this is not surprising given how few lenses I am aware of that have it as capable as this one. In any case, I believe you won’t be disappointed.
Last but not least, consumers have told me they didn’t notice any substantial distortion or chromatic aberration because this lens is quite good at reducing it.
In conclusion, I strongly advise you to consider the H025K as your next buy because it is incredibly reasonable and works well enough to please even the most exacting photographers!
2. Leica DG SUMMILUX 25mm / F1.4 ASPH H-X025
Key-Specifications:
Brand: Panasonic | Lens Type: Fisheye | Compatible Mountings: Micro Four Thirds | Camera Lens Description: 9 elements in 7 groups (2 aspherical lenses, 1 UHR(Ultra High Refractive Index)Lens | Maximum Focal Length: 25 Millimeters | Product Dimensions: 2.48 x 2.2 x 2.48 inches | Item Weight: 15.2 ounces | Item model number: L-X025 | Date First Available: July 29, 2013, | Manufacturer: Panasonic |
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A standard and best lenses for Panasonic GH4 for Micro Four Thirds camera, the H-X025, was introduced in 2011. What’s notable about this lens is that Leica created the optics while Panasonic handled the manufacture.
Therefore, given that such well-known companies produce this lens, it didn’t take long for the H-X025 to dominate the market. As a result, it is still one of the best lenses available today.
This specific model has a stylish, compact design primarily composed of metal, though there are also a few plastic components. In actuality, it resembles those vintage Minolta lenses.
Additionally, the optical design consists of nine elements arranged in seven groups, two aspherical lenses, one ultra-high refractive index lens, two aspherical lenses, and a nano-coating significantly reducing flare.
Speaking of autofocus, some users have told me that it takes this lens about half a second to lock onto a specific subject. Even more intriguing is that most users use this lens for portrait shots to capture young children or babies prone to hyperactivity.
This lens is excellent for taking portrait photographs, but bear aware that if you focus very closely on an object, your images can exhibit some distortion.
Moving on, you shouldn’t limit yourself to taking portraits because this lens will produce the greatest results whether you’re shooting indoors, outdoors, or in low light. Leica optics are renowned for turning seemingly ordinary subjects into excellent quality photographs!
Before we wrap up, there is one more thing I want to talk about, and that is the bokeh at wide aperture settings. Those who have used this lens claim that the bokeh is smooth and appealing, which is extremely intriguing. Why? Even though this lens is somewhat constrained in its ability to deliver excellent performance at tight focusing distances, the bokeh remains stable, which is fantastic.
Overall, the H-X025 would be the lens of your dreams if you’re seeking a sharp lens that would deliver outstanding performance throughout a wide aperture range while producing photos that are as distortion-free as possible!
3. LUMIX G 714MM, F4.0 ASPH H-F007014
Key-Specifications:
Brand: Panasonic | Lens Type: Fisheye | Compatible Mountings: Micro Four Thirds | Camera Lens Description:16 elements in 12 groups (2 Aspherical lenses, 4 ED lenses) | Maximum Focal Length: 14 months | Product Dimensions: 2.76 x 3.27 x 2.76 inches | Item Weight: 10.6 ounces | Manufacturer: Panasonic | Country of Origin: Japan |
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The best lenses for Panasonic GH4, an incredibly versatile wide zoom lens, the Panasonic Lumix G 714MM, F4.0 ASPH H-F007014, or just the H-F007014, can significantly enhance your shooting abilities, especially if you enjoy photographing landscapes, nature, or architectural subjects!
From a design standpoint, this lens has 16 elements in 12 groups, including 2 aspherical and 4 ED lenses. On the other hand, it has a sturdy metal mount and employs multi-coated lens elements to provide more control over flare and ghosting, ensuring that you always get the best-desired results.
However, let’s not forget that this unit’s autofocus motor is specifically made to support your camera’s contrast detection and give you a precise focusing performance. These components make this unit unique because the manufacturer focuses on bringing you the best colour accuracy and clarity results.
One of the most excellent features of this lens in terms of performance is the incorporation of built-in petal-shaped lens hood shields that may efficiently decrease flare if you’re shooting outside in bright sunlight.
I’d also want to highlight that the lens’s maximum aperture is f/4, and its focal length varies from 7 to 14mm. I must acknowledge that even if the 7 to 14mm range can be considered modest, this lens still has excellent specifications.
The ultra-wide zoom on your camera will have an equivalent focal length range of 14-28mm. Yet, its constant f/4 maximum aperture will ensure you anticipate nothing less than consistent performance and illumination across the zoom range!
Moving on, I’d also want to point out that distortion is practically non-existent with this lens; if you notice a tiny bit of distortion, you can correct it by utilizing software, maintaining the overall sharpness and colour correctness of your photographs.
Let’s be clear, though. Nothing in this world, even this lens, is perfect. There are a few things that might be deemed a “remark,” such as the model’s inability to accept filters, the existence of lateral chromatic aberration if you choose to use the widest settings, and of course, its price, which ought to have been a little more reasonable.
Since this lens is excellent for traveling, I advise you to also look at our list of the best cameras for photographing architecture and choose a camera that works well with this lens.
In conclusion, even though this lens may not be the widest angle zoom lens, its build quality and image quality are excellent, making it a strong candidate to be paired with your Panasonic GH4 by default. Comparing the pros and cons, I can easily say that the pros outweigh the cons.
4. Olympus M.Zuiko Digital ED 75mm F1.8
Key-Specifications:
Brand: Olympus | Lens Type: Telephoto | Compatible Mountings: Micro Four Thirds | Camera Lens Description: 75 millimeters | Maximum Focal Length: 75 Millimeters | Product Dimensions: 2.72 x 2.52 x 2.52 inches | Item Weight: 10.8 ounces | Item model number: V311040SU000 | Date First Available: May 24, 2012, | Manufacturer: Olympus | Country of Origin: China |
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The Olympus M.Zuiko Digital ED 75mm F1.8 is a top-notch, quick telephoto lens that is one of the best lenses for Panasonic GH4 for photographing indoor scenes, sports, portraits, and even in the studio and on stages! This lens must be unique if you’ve observed this name frequently appearing online. Let’s find out what, then!
This model comes in two distinct color finishes: the silver I’m presently evaluating and the black. However, don’t be afraid to switch if you want a different color finish because the only difference between the two lenses’ performances is their color.
If you look closely, you will see that this particular model is broader than the majority of micro four-thirds lenses now on the market. It boasts an all-metal construction and a significant front element.
Even though the lens is vast, its light weight won’t make you uncomfortable even if you shoot for a long time, and I must admit, I like the way it’s built!
Additionally, this lens features a nine-blade circular aperture unit, ten elements split into nine groups, and as of right now, I’m pretty happy with how it was put together and the parts it came with!
So, regarding the performance, I’d advise taking a moment.
Because of its capacity to guarantee a better level of sharpness in each photo you take and put an end to any distortion that may be present throughout your photography sessions, the Olympus M.Zuiko Digital ED 75mm F1.8 has received high praise.
Additionally, due to its maximum aperture of f.18, you will automatically have more than adequate control over the depth of field on one side. At the same time, on the other, you will be able to blur away any form of background distraction that may emerge while taking portrait photos. Sound good? It does, of course!
As I’ve already indicated, this 150mm-equivalent lens will enable you to produce good results in various situations. In addition to taking portraits, you won’t encounter any problems shooting sports!
Finally, I’d like to let you know that the colors are unreasonably vibrant. You can tell this throughout your photography sessions since your images will appear realistic and catch your eye immediately!
Overall, the Olympus M.Zuiko Digital ED 75mm F1.8 lens deserves consideration because its performance justifies its cost and provides even more value for its price, so give it a shot and see for yourself what it’s capable of!
5. Olympus M.Zuiko Digital ED 300mm F4.0 PRO
Key-Specifications:
Brand: Olympus | Lens Type: Telephoto | Compatible Mountings: Micro Four Thirds | Camera Lens Description: 300 millimeters | Maximum Focal Length: 300 | Product Dimensions: 8.9 x 3.6 x 3.6 inches | Item Weight: 2.8 pounds | Item model number: V311070BU000 | Date First Available: January 6, 2016, | Manufacturer: Olympus | Country of Origin: China |
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You should choose the Olympus M.Zuiko Digital ED 300mm F4.0 PRO if you are willing to spend money on a high-end telephoto lens that will enable you to take amazing telemacro photos! Because of one of the best lenses for Panasonic GH4.
Regarding the design, this lens has a compact, lightweight body that is incredibly well-made. It uses a weatherproof design, making it a perfect portable solution and partner to assist you in taking high-quality pictures in several weather situations. If you’ve questioned why, Well, since the flawless performance it provides will never be hampered by splash, dust, or frigid conditions!
However, as no one likes to deal with ghosting and flare, the manufacturer has included a feature known as Z Coating Nano that will significantly aid in your ability to capture artifact-free photos with high contrast and exceptionally accurate color.
Another fantastic feature of this lens is the manual focus clutch, which helps switch between auto and manual focus, and its configurable Lens function, which you can use to control your camera’s features right from the lens barrel!
The lens’s performance would make you glad to own such a high-quality lens if all of these design-related aspects were appealing.
This model, specifically, offers incredible image stabilization that was recognized as one of the most potent 6-steps of compensation synchronized in-lens and in-body stabilization at the time of its release and will always be available to you so you can get the most out of any situation!
How about the crispness now? Since the sharpness remains consistent throughout the entire frame, even at f/16-4 to f/22, you won’t be dissatisfied with the results. Users have said that they have just marginally detected chromatic aberration, whereas there is officially no distortion on this lens when it comes to chromatic aberration and distortion.
Last but not least, the lens’s minimum focusing distance of 4.5 feet and highest magnification of 0.48 make it ideal for shooting up close because you’ll never have to troubleshoot macros. When we put all of these features together, I believe the manufacturer did an outstanding job!
Because of its adaptability, build quality, and performance, the Olympus M.Zuiko Digital ED 300mm F4.0 PRO is a must-have lens. If you ever decide to buy it, you won’t regret it.
6. OLYMPUS 12-40mm f/2.8
Key-Specifications:
Brand: Olympus | Lens Type: Wide Angle | Compatible Mountings: Micro Four Thirds | Camera Lens Description: 40 millimetres | Maximum Focal Length: 40 Millimeters | Product Dimensions: 3.31 x 2.76 x 2.76 inches | Item Weight: 13.5 ounces | Manufacturer: Olympus | Country of Origin: China |
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OLYMPUS 12-40mm f/2.8 is one of the best lenses for the Panasonic GH4. The Olympus 12-40mm f/2.8 gives you a lot of flexibility with its focal range of 12-40mm, which is a full-frame equivalent of 24-80mm. Although it may not have the same range as the Tamron 14-150 mm, it still performs well enough to match the latter’s quality.
Because of the broad focus range, you may use it for nearly any form of photography. Change to the 24mm setting or zoom for good pictures with lovely bokeh for landscape and architectural photography.
The f/2.8 maximum aperture, while not the biggest on our list, provides plenty of light in low-light conditions, especially at night. Additionally, thanks to the big aperture, you may achieve a pleasantly blurred background to focus on your subject.
It costs around three times as much as the Olympus 25mm f/1.8 is our primary worry. But the former’s greater characteristics guarantee a better result than the latter.
7. Sigma 18-35mm F1.8 Art DC HSM Lens
Key-Specifications:
Brand: Sigma | Focal Length Description: 35 | Lens Type: Wide Angle | Compatible Mountings: Canon EF-S | Camera Lens Description: 35 millimetres | Product Dimensions: 4.76 x 3.07 x 3.07 inches | Item Weight: 1.79 pounds | Manufacturer: SIGMA | Country of Origin: Japan |
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Sigma 18-35mm F1.8 Art DC HSM is one of the best lenses for Panasonic GH4. The Sigma 18-35mm F1.8, the first zoom lens with an f/1.8 maximum aperture, is our top lens for the GH4 that is well worth the cost.
Its enormous aperture lets in a lot of light, which is necessary to guarantee sufficient brightness for dimly lit situations. Additionally, the aperture can produce double as much bokeh as possible with the OLYMPUS 12-40mm f/2.8.
It might not have as wide a zoom range as most of the selections on our list. Despite being essentially a wide-angle zoom lens, it is impressive, especially since it boasts the largest aperture to stand out from the competition.
With the ability to overlook its higher price, real estate, scenery, or landscape photographers can gain a lot from using this wide-angle lens on their GH4.
8. Olympus M.Zuiko Digital 25mm F1.8 Lens
Key-Specifications:
Brand: Olympus | Lens Type: Normal | Compatible Mountings: Micro Four Thirds | Camera Lens Description: 25 millimetres | Maximum Focal Length: 25 Millimeters | Product Dimensions: 1.61 x 2.2 x 2.2 inches | Item Weight: 4.8 ounces | Manufacturer: Olympus |
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Olympus M.Zuiko Digital 25mm F1.8 is one of the best lenses for Panasonic GH4. The Olympus 25mm f/1.8 is an excellent option if you’re seeking the best prime lens for the GH4. Many photographers can use this equipment.
The Olympus 25mm f/1.8 is not wholly dismissable, even though it lacks the focal range flexibility of our other options. You have a broad field of view for cityscapes, landscapes, or real estate with the 25mm sweet spot. With the lens, you can also take stunning portrait photos.
The Olympus 25mm f/1.8 features the largest aperture on our list, much as the Sigma 18-35mm f/1.8. As a result, you can enjoy nicely lit photographs and lovely background blur in close-up views.
Additionally, it is the smallest and lightest lens on our list, adding only a modest amount of weight to your GH4 and making for a fantastic combination for extended shooting sessions.
9. Panasonic Lumix G Vario 14-140mm f/3.5-5.6 Lens
Key-Specifications:
Brand: Panasonic | Lens Type: Telephoto | Camera Lens Description: 140 millimetres | Maximum Focal Length: 140 Millimeters | Product Dimensions: 2.95 x 2.64 x 2.64 inches | Item Weight: 9.3 ounces | Manufacturer: Panasonic | Country of Origin: Japan |
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Panasonic Lumix G Vario 14-140mm f/3.5-5.6 Lens is one of the best lenses for Panasonic GH4. The first feature you notice is the zoom range of the Panasonic Lumix 14-140mm. With this wide range, you may transition from taking extensive street or landscape photographs to macro photography.
Because of its small shell, it is easy to carry about. If you only want to bring one lens, the range of flexibility and low mass make it one of the best for the GH4.
Although more expensive than the Olympus 25mm f/1.8, it is still within a desirable price range, especially given its versatility. It has the shortest maximum aperture on our list, ranging from f/3.5 to f/5.6.
10. Tamron AFC001700 14-150mm F/3.5-5.8 Di III Zoom Lens
Key-Specifications:
Brand: Tamron | Lens Type: Wide Angle, Telephoto | Compatible Mountings: Micro Four Thirds | Camera Lens Description: 14-150mm F/3.5-5.8 Di III | Maximum Focal Length: 150 | Product Dimensions: 3.2 x 4 x 4 inches | Item Weight: 10.1 ounces | Manufacturer: Tamron |
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Tamron AFC001700 14-150mm F/3.5-5.8 Di III Zoom Lens is one of the best lenses for Panasonic GH4. If the Panasonic Lumix 14-140mm offered something alluring, the Tamron 14-150 mm offered something that some people would think is too wonderful to be true. Is this camera’s superzoom lens sacrificing image quality as they often do?
Due to the low-dispersion glass used in this lens, aberration is reduced to a minimum, resulting in excellent image quality. The widest zoom range on our list broadens your options for valuable specialties. The wide-ranging zoom makes it simple to focus on your subject when photographing in small spaces.
It is made of a robust, small design and only weighs 10.05 ounces. This makes it more portable than our top two recommendations and a great zoom lens for general photography.
The maximum aperture at f/3.5-5.8 might be the major problem. It does let in a reasonable amount of light while not being the ideal option for situations with very little light.
What to Look for in a Lens for the GH4?
The GH4 is a fantastic camera for real estate photography, but its video capabilities set it apart from the competition. Overexposed areas can be identified using two zebra settings. Its 4K support and color bar generation for calibration provide flawless performance.
When choosing the best GH4 lens, you should look for features that can optimize this potential.
Focus Distance:
One of the most important qualities to seek in a lens for the GH4 is versatility, and focal length is one of its key factors.
You can experiment with different framing possibilities using a flexible focal range like the Tamron 14-150 mm. Consider a sufficiently broad lens to allow shooting in or outside confined spaces.
If you want to prevent distorting your subject’s features as you get closer to them when shooting house tours or interviews, think about using a lens with a long focal length.
With these things in mind, the 25mm is the GH4’s most adjustable focal length. This level is excellent for both indoor and outdoor use. Additionally, it is long enough to avoid severely distorting the characteristics of people and making them appear normal.
Aperture
Your GH4 has flexibility thanks to a strong lens with a large aperture in two key ways:
The Sigma 18-35mm f/1.8’s high maximum aperture guarantees that more light can enter the lens.
Such lenses are fantastic for photographing in low light. You won’t need to raise your ISO if you use a lens like that. Additionally, it guarantees proper exposure, enabling you to shoot in any lighting conditions.
The second benefit is the availability of a shallower depth of focus, which is made possible by lenses with bright apertures like the Olympus 25mm f/1.8.
You can tell the subject from your background with shallow depth. By adding emphasis to your images, you may draw readers’ attention to the elements that are most important to you.
Focusing
Pick a lens with a smooth, well-designed focusing ring. Such a lens is essential for video shoots because catching footage of loose or inflexible rings can be difficult.
A focus is essential when shooting pictures of subjects who frequently change postures. Although manual focusing improves accuracy, the lengthy time required will force you to forgo some photographs.
For the GH4, choosing a lens with both manual and autofocus, like the OLYMPUS 12-40mm f/2.8, is ideal.
Prime or Zoom?
Using a zoom or prime lens with the GH4 depends on the type of photography you intend to perform. A prime lens presents learning opportunities, but a zoom lens has several advantages.
A zoom range like the Tamron 14-150 MMS enables you to get close to your subjects when photographing in small spaces. You may not need to carry about or invest in many prime lenses.
However, prime lenses are typically more cost-effective than zoom lenses. For instance, the Olympus 25mm f/1.8 is lighter than the Sigma 18-35mm f/1.8. Also, prime lenses have a wider maximum aperture, making them more appropriate for low-light shooting.
Questions and Answers
Q: Can Canon lenses be used with the Panasonic GH4?
A: Your GH4 is compatible with Canon lenses. However, an adapter might be necessary to use a Canon lens on your GH4 efficiently.
Q: Has the Panasonic GH4 been image stabilized?
A: GH4 doesn’t have picture stabilization. Choosing a lens with image stabilization, such as the Panasonic Lumix 14-140mm for handheld footage, is crucial.
Conclusion
Which flash do you like for the GH4? Our top options should provide excellent performance when you take clear pictures or 4K video with your camera.
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