The Unsung Hero

I've had this lens now for over three years, firstly on a G6 and then on a GX8. On both bodies it has produced some images I am very fond of. It is suitable for everything that people have so far said, but I just want to add that it is actually a very competent lens for insects too, despite the short focusing distance - don't be fooled. Whether with natural light or a flash, it can still work very well, especially if you use a little patience and guile to get close to your targets. I won't clutter up the post with pics but If you want to see some photos, click here. Some of the images are cropped, but none have used an achromat to get close - close-up lenses do nothing extra with the 30mm.

I do wish sometimes it had a focus limiter, as it does tend to hunt for focus when suddenly presented with a close-range target (the trick is to focus away or alongside something first), and it does throw a shadow on very close subjects (as you would expect) if the light source is in the wrong direction. But all of its failings pale into insignificance when put against its pricing, performance and construction. I think it's a great lens, and a good choice for a walk-around prime if you also like flowers and insects. It's my little 'nifty sixty'

Thank you for the inspiring 🔗 provided with your review.

I deed i got mine as a bonus attached to my second g9 purchase a great little guy Indeed

Great pics!! It's the only lens I regret selling. Going to pick up another soon

DrHook59 wrote:

it is actually a very competent lens for insects too, despite the short focusing distance - don't be fooled.

+1

I think it's a great lens, and a good choice for a walk-around prime if you also like flowers and insects. It's my little 'nifty sixty'

Totally agree.

Love your pictures taken with it, by the way. Very good exemplification of what this little 'nifty sixty' is capable of.

I just bought this lens to use as a walk about lens to compliment my PL 15mm f1.7. I arrived two days ago and my new Panasonic GX8 arrived late yesterday. So today was my first day out with both. I was very please with both and while I don't know if I will ever do any macro, I think the 15mm f1.7 and Macro 30mm f2.8 will make an excellent two lens set for my photography, with either my GX8 or GX9.