Re: [Leica] Noctilux-some comments on the "blur"

[D Khong <dkhong@pacific.net.sg>]

At 04:02 PM 31/10/98 +0100, you wrote:
>SP wrote:
><I bought a used, mint Noctilux last week, latest 1.0 version, and ran a
><roll of Koday Royal Gold 400 through it this week The subject was 3 feet
><from me and all of the pictures of same were blurry. If this was not due
><to incorrect focusing in the M6 viewfinder, was this because I am
><unaware of the true minimum focusing distance at f 1.0? IOW, what is the
><true minimum and maximum depth of field allowance at f 1.0? Thanks!
>
>As I noted in my Noct report (Phototechniques) the Noct at 3feet (its
>minimum distance and full aperture) is not at its best. At this distance
>the DOF is 2cm at most. It is possible to get clear and sharply outlined
>pictures however. But you must take care. Do not expect at full aperture at
>this distance the kind of quality you easily get with a Summicron-M at
>f/2,0 and 1 meter. You will be disappointed for ever. The Noct is a
>thoroughbred lens and as a non-GP lens it has its limitations and strong
>points.
>

I have found that the blurred parts of pictures taken with the Noct is full
of nice bokeh, an attribute which takes time for one to appreciate.  I have
noticed that new users of Noctilux are unhappy with their initial results
because they are already accustomed to seeing the sharpness achievable with
smaller aperture lenses.  Again it takes time to get readjusted.

Subject movements can cause blur but not as bad as camera movements.  I
have used the Noctilux handheld at 1/15 sec but would be hesitant to use it
at slower speeds than that.

The Noctilux is not just a low light gem.  Use it in the evenings and
indoors (especially with dark furniture) and you will appreciate the
ability of this lens to exhibit microcontrast.  

Dan K.