HD PENTAX-D FA645 MACRO 90mm F2.8 ED AW SR

Pentax has just announced a new lens for the 645D system, the HD PENTAX-D FA645 MACRO 90mm F2.8 ED AW SR.That’s a ridiculously long name for a camera lens but all those letters are actually quite important and go a long way to explaining the price tag.

HD – new high grade multi layer lens coating

FA 645D – As with the new 55 and the 25mm lens the image circle is that of a full frame 645D sensor so you can use it on both the current 645D and (in theory) on a future full frame 645D camera

MACRO Ability to focus very close allowing 0.5x magnification of the subject.

90mm A good short portrait lens length. Fits nicely between the 55mm and the 150mm (I currently use the 67 105mm lens with an adapter for this range)

F2.8 A large aperture for a medium format lens  gives the option of shooting with a shallower depth of field and faster shutter speeds.

ED (Extra-low Dispersion) Optically excellent glass. Clearer, sharper images.

AW (All Weather) Dust and water resistant seals, protect you from the elements

SR (Shake Reduction) Reduces motion blur when you’re shooting without a tripod. Great for street photography and festivals.

A couple of caveats with this lens, the same ones that I had with the 25mm lens. The first is it’s heavy. At 1040 grams for just the lens it’s going to give your arms and back a real workout. The second is the cost, at around 4000 dollars, it’s a serious investment in a very serious piece of glass.

Hopefully I’ll get to test the lens out in the coming weeks, and I’ll be better able to give comment on this bohemoth.