When Four thirds or Micro Four thirds cameras were first announced, they were quite limited in native Auto Focus lenses. Sure you can adapt other lenses, but the size and speed of having an actual four thirds lens can't be substituted. In the last few years, the MFT camera lineups have grown and so has the availability of different lenses.
Two new micro 4/3 Prime lenses that people are anxious to grab is the new 12mm F/2.0 (about 24mm) and the 45mm F/1.8 (about 90mm). If you're not too familiar, these lenses also work on the Panasonic GH1, GH2, GF2, G3 type cameras. It's all Micro Four Thirds. These new lenses fill in some of the gaps that have been missing in the lens lineups, and further reiterate that small mirrorless cameras are in demand. (Rumor is that Canon already has one in the pipeline).
M. Zuiko Digital ED 12 mm f/2.0 Lens
Espana
We'll start of with the greatness of this lens. This lens is the best constructed m4/3 yet. It is optically amazing and fast. The autofocus is ultra silent and quick (I only have Pani bodies). The feel of this lens is magnificent. When you pull back the ring to manual focus, it has hard stops and the focus speed is variable depending on how fast you turn the ring. While not up to the quality of Leica (what is?), this lens is a true gem. There are currently only 2 m43 lenses that go this wide (7-14 and 9-18) and they are bigger, heavier, and 2 stops slower. I am not sure why the m43 bunch is caught up on the 28mm length but this lens is a welcome step in the right direction.
Apostolos
My approach for m43 sensors, for wide angle coverage would be to go with the 14-42 (about $100), and if that's not wide enough with the 8 mm Rokinon/Samyang etc for under $300. Canon mount so I can use it with my 60D if need be.
Apostolos
Don't you think that 14-42 kit lens would be an acceptable option for video, as far as wide angle goes? It's 3.5 on the wide end and if you buy it with a body, GH1 or GH2 it's only $100. It's 5.6 on the long end, but at 42mm you can find other cheaper solutions, like Canon FD lenses.
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Mister O
Hahahahahahahaha (sorry, just saw the prices)
Can't imagine the price in Europe 🙁
Apostolos
Unfortunately that 12 mm ain't cheap.
Emm
Post author@Apostolos - Good catch, thanks!
Apostolos
You have the 45mm on both links.
Emm
Post author@shams - The lens is extremely small, the Canon cameras have larger sensors. Wouldn't work well.
shams
Ne way of using this on canon eos