Archived posting to the Leica Users Group, 1997/03/28
[Author Prev] [Author Next] [Thread Prev] [Thread Next] [Author Index] [Topic Index] [Home] [Search]Paul wrote: <<<<<<<<<<because these lenses will often be used in bad light, this compensates for overly contrasty lighting conditions. I'm not sure that I buy this--I would think that you'd welcome increased contrast in dim light. Is this true, or is this simply rationalizing?>>>>>>>>>>> PMFJI Paul, I believe you are thinking of an "overall no contrast low light level" rather than the contrast level of an operating room, theater or where there is a contrast of light and deep shadows in a restaurant or lounge. Or even the home with someone primarily lit by a reading or desk lamp. In the above instances, the Noctilux records an image unlike other lenses, as this "high contrast" difference between light source and subject is where it really shines as a lens, by softening the flare from the light source, therefore opening shadows. And one doesn't want added contrast in these situations, but a softening or flattening of the contrast. However in your description of "low light no contrast" which beleive you are thinking of, you are right in having a lens that aids the contrast rather than flattening. The reverse of the Noctilux. ted Victoria, Canada http://www.islandnet.com/~tedgrant