The Technical Image Press Association is an independent association of writers and editors representing 30 publications in 13 European nations, and annually presents awards honoring products and technologies of special merit in the fields of photography and imaging.

The ZUIKO DIGITAL ED 12-60mm f2.8-4.0 SWD is a high-performance standard zoom lens that features the SWD (Supersonic Wave Drive) autofocusing system and covers a zoom range equivalent to 24 to 120 mm on a 35 mm camera lens.

The TIPA jury noted that: "With its fast aperture of f2.8-4.0, it's suitable for use in all lighting conditions". The lens' rugged dust and splashproof build along with the inclusion of SWD technology - enabling the world's fastest autofocusing speeds - were further winning arguments cited by TIPA in choosing to bestow it with the "Best Expert Lens 2008" award. The judges concluded that the ZUIKO DIGITAL ED 12-60mm f2.8-4.0 SWD lens represented "a very attractive option for all Four Thirds users".