Zuiko 50mm f1.4 G version
Thanks Simon for link... The discussion is interesting.. but I rarely find the real life comparison of Oly 50/1.4 with Tak 50/1.4.
An old thread but perhaps the world might find this of use. I recently bought a Canon 5D MkII and set out to evaluate the centre-frame performance of my 50mm lenses wide open and at f/2.8, using live view to focus on Iker Spozio's cover art for "Electrosonic". This is not really a real-life comparison because I do not generally photograph album covers. But it might be handy.
First up is Pentax Super Takumar 50mm f/1.4 #2955676. Delia Derbyshire is at the bottom; the background (which is about two feet further away) is at the top. This is a 100% crop from the original 5D MkII file, with no sharpening at any point. The absolute central point of the image is just below the kink in Delia's right eyebrow.
And now Olympus G-Zuiko 50mm f/1.4, 739300, apparently not part of the most desirable batch of serial numbers:
My Takumar is yellowy ("golden" if you're in a romantic mood), which is noticeable in the image. When sharpening is applied it is my opinion that the Takumar image is slightly sharper at f/2.8, but that this is of very little practical consequence. Mechanically the Takumar feels a little bit more substantial. I believe this is because the focus ring is metal, whereas the Olympus lens has a rubber ring, and so on a psychological level Takumar = metal, Olympus = rubber, even though both lenses are infinitely tougher than my Canon 50mm f/1.8.
Of the other lenses I tested it was the Contax 50mm f/1.7 that impressed me most. I rarely use the Olympus 50mm f/1.4, not so much because it is a poor lens, but because it has no romantic appeal. The Takumar makes me feel happy when I use it, because everybody likes it. It is one of the most-liked lenses on the internet. The Contax lens makes me feel happy when I use it because I know that if I get the focus right it will not let me down. The Olympus 50mm f/1.4 does not move me on an emotional level. It is an anonymous discontinued lens that means nothing to me. Its performance does not leap out at me.
"The kink in Delia's eyebrow" would be a superb name for a song by Stereolab.
]]>About 50mmcollection, I think its better not start this discussion at this forum. We did few months back..
]]>When I get the chance, I will post my review of my collection.
If you have time, have a look at the comments posted here:
"Super Tak 50mm F1.4 vs Zuiko 50mm F1.4"
http://www.nabble.com/Multi-spot-meteri … 64660.html
http://www.nabble.com/Multi-spot-meteri … l#a6667963
Regards,
Simon
I am really disappointed.. May be, I need more captures to get the better feeling (We may not see any sun for next 4 months.. Columbus is notorious for Cloudy winter).
I really liked Oly Zuiko 50mm f1.8 (still my fav 50mm, tiny.. just like pancake.. and sharp).
Good, I didnt pay much, $21 for Oly 50/1.4 (incl S&H)...
I paid around $30 (combined, incl S&H) for Super Takumar and Sears...
Of course.
Why "of course"? your sentence can also mean literally placing the lens in a room with low contrast lighting. I thought it's some kind of a new trick that I haven't heard before.
]]>Very expensive option!
Official Lens catalogue
http://www.olympus.com/files/OMlens.pdf