Archived posting to the Leica Users Group, 1998/11/24
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Arturo,
>>How is this lens?...had to choose between the 100 f2.8<<
>>Macro, 90 f2, & the 80 f1.4.<<
First & foremost, as a objective reference point, get Erwin's
report; "Test report that ends all reports? dated Nov. 14th.
It compares the 80 f1.4 with the 75 f1.4 (M), new 90 f2 apo &
the 100 f2.8 macro. Now onto subjective usage comments.
I've had this lens over a year & have used it under a wide
variety of lighting conditions; from low light to noon-day sun.
This lens is responsible for some of my most "beautiful"
shots. It has a unique "character" in contrast to some of
the latest lenses from Leica. Another discussion ;-)!
That "character" ( bear with my subjective terms) seems to
render portraits with a more "lifelike" feeling; i.e., hair is softer,
overall facial tones literally "glow", & the eyes seem more
alive. In addition, the OOF areas, relative to the in-focus areas,
create an almost "impressionstic" background. In essence,
with portraits, slides have an almost "painterly" effect.
Balance & viewfinder brightness with the R8 make this combo
a joy to work with in hand-held work. Needless to say,combined
with the R8's optimal mass & low levels of mirror vibration, body
shake is more the critical path for low light work.
The 80f1.4 is a lens which justifies its ownership for handheld
portrait work in difficult light. Buying the 100 f2.8 or the current 90
f2 would be for reasons other than discussed!
My opinion ;-)!
TomD.