Archived posting to the Leica Users Group, 1997/12/10
[Author Prev] [Author Next] [Thread Prev] [Thread Next] [Author Index] [Topic Index] [Home] [Search]LUG-devotees: I have recently purchased a chrome R8 and a 1.4/35 and a 1.4/80. I want a slightly longer lens for work, travel, and both hand-held/tripod use. Which 180 version is better for these things? I have heard good reviews about the 3.4, but I think I would prefer the 2.8 for the extra speed......the 2.0 would be nice but looks bulky and heavy. Also, would you people recommend the 1.4/50 if I already have the 35 and 80? Is there enough reason to have the normal lens? When I had my Nikon gear, I had a 24, 50, 85, and 180 and used the 50 and 85 most frequently. I do professional work with models (fashion, swimwear, lingerie, nudes), and I also travel in the US and abroad and like to carry a body and 2-3 lenses. I also like street photos and of course am asked by family members to be the family photog. So my needs are diverse, and I need the best equipment possible, especially for pro use, since my end goal is the ultimate in image sharpness and color accuracy. I know some of you will say I do not need sharpness for model work, but that is not my style. For my work, I transport images to the Internet, and the 35mm slides must be scanned, losing sharpness in the process. For this reason, I WANT super-sharp portraits, so I have more detail to work with when I necessarily lose sharpness by scanning. Another quick question.....I am going to Southeast Asia for 3 weeks in January. My destinations will be: Bangkok, the island of Bali, and Hong Kong/Macau. Do any of you have recommendations for any of these places, photographic or otherwise? I will be taking my R8, 1.4/35, 1.4/80, and one more lens that I purchase in the next month. That is the reason for my questions about the lenses above (50 and 180). Do any of the group members live in these areas? I would love to email you privately as pen pals before I travel to get added local tips! Thanks for your help again, LUGgers..... Francesco Sanfilippo fls@home.com