Pentax announce ultra-wide-angle 12mm-24mm f4 zoom lens

Developed for exclusive use with Pentax digital SLR cameras, the smc Pentax DA 12mm-24mm F4 ED AL (IF) enables the photographer to capture unique, eye-catching images with its ultra-wide-angle perspectives.

The lens' image circle was designed to perfectly match the dimensions of the image sensor (23.5mm x 15.7mm) incorporated in the *ist D-series models, while its optics are configured to meet the specific requirements of digital photography. As a result, this not only assures outstanding image quality but it also offers a smaller, lighter body and superior cost performance than its 35mm-format counterparts with similar specifications. The incorporation of an ED (Extra-low Dispersion) element and two aspherical elements also contributes to this, assuring high-quality images reproduction in all applications and greatly contributing to the downsizing of the lens body.

Mounted on one of the Pentax *ist D-Series digital SLR cameras, this 2x zoom lens offers an angle of view from 99 degrees to 61 degrees (equivalent in focal length from 18.5mm to 37mm in 35mm format). This allows the user to create visual effects available only in ultra-wide-angle photography, including a greatly emphasized sense of perspective and an extremely wide depth of field (or in-focus area).

Other features of the lens include:
1) Pentax original Quick-Shift Focus System for instant shift to manual focusing after the subject is captured in focus by the AF system
2) Minimum focusing distance of 0.3 meters (approx. one foot) over the entire zoom range
3) Durable metallic lens mount