Archived posting to the Leica Users Group, 1999/04/19
[Author Prev] [Author Next] [Thread Prev] [Thread Next] [Author Index] [Topic Index] [Home] [Search]Hans- Recently I took a batch of 50mm/5cm lenses to the backyard, tacked a resolution target to the neighbor's fence and tested the Summar, Summitar, Summicron, Elmar, Summarit and a Nikkor 50/1,4... all performed well at the various stops, and I was told to reshoot with a subject in the middle ground and then examine the foreground and background renditions ( Bokeh?). All the lenses are servicable, but you have to decide how you want the 'out of focus' areas to be rendered. I like the Elmar because if folds up and makes the III a literally pocketable camera. The Summicron, even the old one will beat many modern lenses hands down for sharpness and contrast. It's like wine- do you prefer a nice stout Merlot, or a robust Beujoulais, a dry Chianti or a Bourdeaux? It is a matter of taste, and you really should experience as many lenses as possible. Having said that, if the Elmar comes with the III, don't be ashamed to use it! If it is uncoated, I would definitely suggest a shade! The Summar I have is uncoated, and while it is a nice lens, a shade does help a lot to cut flare, even from indirect light hitting the lens! Dan