Panasonic's compact MFT portrait prime — 85mm equiv at f/1.7 with OIS in a tiny package.
The Panasonic Lumix G 42.5mm f/1.7 ASPH Power OIS (H-HS043) is a compact fast portrait prime for Micro Four Thirds, providing an 85mm full-frame equivalent perspective with Power OIS built in. Stepping motor autofocus. Ten elements in 8 groups. Seven rounded aperture blades. 37mm filter thread. At 130g. 0.31m MFD.
The optical design uses 10 elements in 8 groups (1 aspherical element). Seven rounded aperture blades. The 37mm filter thread is compact. At 130g the lens is very lightweight. Minimum focus distance of 0.31m. Stepping motor for quiet AF (240fps sensor drive compatible). Power OIS. f/1.7 maximum aperture. MFT image circle (85mm full-frame equivalent).
The Power OIS distinguishes the 42.5mm f/1.7 from MFT portrait primes without stabilisation: on MFT bodies without IBIS (older Panasonic bodies), the Power OIS provides in-lens stabilisation for handheld portraits and video. The 85mm equivalent compression at f/1.7 produces shallow depth of field suitable for subject separation in portrait photography.
On the used market the Panasonic 42.5mm f/1.7 Power OIS is affordable as a compact MFT portrait prime. Condition checks: stepping motor AF response, OIS engagement, 37mm front element for marks. Compatible with all Micro Four Thirds bodies from Panasonic, Olympus, and OM System.