Archived posting to the Leica Users Group, 2004/05/29
[Author Prev] [Author Next] [Thread Prev] [Thread Next] [Author Index] [Topic Index] [Home] [Search]John Collier wrote: > > I tried out the current Summilux at the LHSA spring shoot and I was > pleased with the results. Only two things annoyed me. The > auto-collapsing hood and that there was no focusing tab. The new 'lux > solves both and may even match the performance of my 35/1.4 Asph. That > is nothing to sneeze at. > > I love(d) my Noctilux but the 1m close focus limit is something I was > constantly finding myself fighting. Once or twice is no problem but > constantly means I like to work closer with my 50s. If it isn't fitting > the bill, it has to go. > ... Am I the only one who don't care for focus tabs ? I have the current 50mm Summicron, and I just love the way it focuses: fast, short throw, a ribbed focus ring that is wide enough, and very smooth action. I can focus just by sliding my index finger under it when shooting horizontal. (For some reason, I prefer to use 2 fingers to turn the focus rinf when shooting vertical). In comparison, when I use my 35mm Summilux Asph (which has a focus tab), the position of my focusing finger changes with the position of the focus tab, and that is just not as nice a feeling. Also, I have to switch from using my thumb (for short distance) to my index finger, so the action is not as fast. It just a small detail, but I never understand why some people prefer the focus tab. As for collapsible hoods, making them lockable is the right solution. I prefer built-in hoods over removable hoods, if they provide the same protection from flare. If they are removable, I am sure to lose them over a long time, and they are expensive to replace. - Phong