The M. Zuiko Digital ED 12-100mm f4.0 IS PRO lens is the lens I would recommend to most photographers if they could only afford to buy one lens. It really is in a class by itself. It’s the only professional high magnification zoom to cover a 35mm equivalent 24-200mm focal range all on its own. One lens covering this wide focal range is unheard of. This Micro Four Thirds lens features premium construction and superior glass to provide spectacular optical performance. It is SUPER sharp and SUPER contrasty and performs very well in low light thanks to its 5-Axis Sync IS, the world’s most powerful image stabilization system. It has a ridiculously short close focusing distance.

Every inch of this lens is PRO: weatherproof construction, fast auto focusing and effortless control. Its broad focal length lets you shoot portraits, wide-angle, landscapes, and macro. One lens. Unprecedented versatility.

Even though it is an approximation of a 10X zoom, it exhibits incredible sharpness at all focal lengths, even wide open. No other zoom lens I’ve tested in this range is this sharp and exhibits so little chromatic aberration. There’s virtually no vignetting and no distortion. It also focuses very quickly. It’s so versatile, it can even double as a poor man’s macro lens.

Having an effective focal length of 24 to 200mm with a relatively fast, constant aperture of f/4 – all in a Micro Four Thirds package, offers the flexibility, portability and utility that I used to dream about before this lens started shipping. It has met or exceeded my expectations every time I use it.

Its pro-quality metal construction is hermetically sealed to keep out moisture and dust for splashproof, dustproof, and freezeproof performance. Pair this lens with a weatherproof OM-D body so that you can take advantage of every photo opportunity without ever worrying about your equipment.

I have tested these claims. I’ve used this lens for a couple of years now and it’s built to extremely high standards. It balances well on the flagship Olympus body and feels good in the hand.

The versatility of a lens that covers such a wide focal range with a relatively fast constant aperture makes it my hands-down choice for Micro Four Thirds shooters deciding which lens to buy. It’s more expensive than many M43 lenses but it’s worth every penny and more.

Conclusion

The M. Zuiko Digital ED 12-100mm f4.0 IS PRO lens has won many awards and it’s proven itself in the three plus years it’s been available. It’s rock solid, and its performance is consistently top-shelf. It has amazing stabilization that will allow shutter speeds so low you won’t believe it.

You can buy a cheaper lens, but not a better lens. If you’re dubious about a 10x zoom performing at pro levels don’t be. I can tell you that I never worry about grabbing this lens if I need to have the flexibility of a zoom, but the sharpness of a prime. It’s so good that it has caused me to completely re-think how I feel about zoom lenses. I usually have it with me at all times. Highly recommended.

Picture Methods has partnered with Hunt’s Photo & Video to bring you the best gear at a competitive price and backed by personal service. Call Alan Samiljan at 781-462-2383 or Noah Buchanan at 781.462.2356. If you cannot reach either one try Gary Farber at 781-462-2332. You will ALWAYS get the best prices if you call the store v. Using the web site. You can also email Noah at: nbuchanan@huntsphoto.com or Gary at: gfarber@huntsphoto.com. Hunt’s has been around a long time and you can trust them. Make sure to mention that Scott Bourne sent you. That will get you the best deal.