PentaxForums.com - Pentax SLR Lens Discussion http://www.pentaxforums.com/forums/ Discuss any Pentax K-mount, screwmount, or medium format SLR lens, as well as filters and attachments. en Fri, 20 Nov 2009 22:13:13 GMT vBulletin 30 http://www.pentaxforums.com/forums/images/pentaxforums/misc/rss.jpg PentaxForums.com - Pentax SLR Lens Discussion http://www.pentaxforums.com/forums/ <![CDATA[Lens "haze" worse at certain apertures?]]> http://www.pentaxforums.com/forums/pentax-slr-lens-discussion/80801-lens-haze-worse-certain-apertures.html Fri, 20 Nov 2009 20:03:43 GMT So I bought a couple of older (late 70's, early 80's) lenses on fleabay recently, and one has an optical problem that has me stumped.

I will post photos when I get home tonight, but it appears to have a "haze" that I can see in images (as a low contrast, bright spot) but here is the weird part; the effect of the haze is most prominent between f8-f16, with a peak at f11. Shoot above or below these apertures and the image contrast ramps back up and the bright spot disappears (along with expected changes in the DOF, etc.).

At f4 or f22 (the extremes of the range), the image has no problems at all! So I don't think this is diffraction, but is it a haze, or some other damage in the lens?

NB: the lens itself has a "ding" on the front element near the edge that doesn't seem to be more than multi-coating deep...

Otherwise, sharp as a tack and *huge* focus throw. Any ideas? ]]> Pentax SLR Lens Discussion panoguy http://www.pentaxforums.com/forums/pentax-slr-lens-discussion/80801-lens-haze-worse-certain-apertures.html 18-55mm WR compared to the original 18-55mm kit lens http://www.pentaxforums.com/forums/pentax-slr-lens-discussion/80778-18-55mm-wr-compared-original-18-55mm-kit-lens.html Fri, 20 Nov 2009 15:57:41 GMT I am considering to buy the new 18-55mm WR lens and was wondering how it compares to the original 18-55mm Pentax kit lens? How is the optical quality? I was never excited about the original kit lens and I... I am considering to buy the new 18-55mm WR lens and was wondering how it compares to the original 18-55mm Pentax kit lens? How is the optical quality?
I was never excited about the original kit lens and I have never tried any of the versions that came out later.
So if someone has the original kit lens and also the new WR, I would appreciate any advice if it's worth buying one.

I just want a real light lens for hiking and the Weather resistance might be helpful too if I have it on the K20D once in a while. ]]> Pentax SLR Lens Discussion HogRider http://www.pentaxforums.com/forums/pentax-slr-lens-discussion/80778-18-55mm-wr-compared-original-18-55mm-kit-lens.html <![CDATA[It's alive!! bwahahahahahahaha!]]> http://www.pentaxforums.com/forums/pentax-slr-lens-discussion/80775-its-alive-bwahahahahahahaha.html Fri, 20 Nov 2009 15:32:13 GMT Sorry about the title.

I've bought and repaired quite a few lenses recently and thought I'd give a conversion from one mount to another a try. So I was looking around for some Olympus OM lenses (register distance close to K-mount=easy conversion), but then I found a Vivitar Close Focus 2/28mm in Canon FD-mount for BIN £19.90 and without much thought I bought it. I knew there was a pretty big difference in register distances (M42/PK 45.46mm vs FD 42mm) but I thought I'd give it a go.

So after the packet from UK reached Finland I had myself a used but fully working Vivitar Close Focus 2/28mm with a filter with the sellers fingerprint on it:D



Then I chose an "organ donor" to get a mount from. An M42 Praktica 4.5/80-200mm Auto Zoom with hazy inner elements was my choice as it's mount part was about the same diameter as the Vivitar.


to be continued... ]]> Pentax SLR Lens Discussion ovim http://www.pentaxforums.com/forums/pentax-slr-lens-discussion/80775-its-alive-bwahahahahahahaha.html 18-50mm Sigma F2,8 mac w/K100Super http://www.pentaxforums.com/forums/pentax-slr-lens-discussion/80734-18-50mm-sigma-f2-8-mac-w-k100super.html Fri, 20 Nov 2009 02:54:28 GMT My daughter took that after some attempt with an active cat. She did that with no flash indoor with very little DoF Image: http://www.pbase.com/danieltong/image/119508198/original.jpg My daughter took that after some attempt with an active cat. She did that with no flash indoor with very little DoF









I tried that lens in DC area which is pretty much very close in character with my Sigma 24-60mm



Daniel ]]> Pentax SLR Lens Discussion danielchtong http://www.pentaxforums.com/forums/pentax-slr-lens-discussion/80734-18-50mm-sigma-f2-8-mac-w-k100super.html Repairing a stuck focus ring on pentax-m? http://www.pentaxforums.com/forums/pentax-slr-lens-discussion/80733-repairing-stuck-focus-ring-pentax-m.html Fri, 20 Nov 2009 02:53:31 GMT Anyone experienced with this? A M50/1.4 I purchased recently developed a stuck focus that will only rotate between the ~.58 m and the 0.45m mark on the focus ring (where the stopper for the closest focus is).... Anyone experienced with this? A M50/1.4 I purchased recently developed a stuck focus that will only rotate between the ~.58 m and the 0.45m mark on the focus ring (where the stopper for the closest focus is). :( The focus was smooth when I received it, but it got stuck the first time I tried shooting something close. The seller offered me a refund, but the optics look great and I'd like to try to repair it. Does anyone have any experience or tips on this? ]]> Pentax SLR Lens Discussion flmz http://www.pentaxforums.com/forums/pentax-slr-lens-discussion/80733-repairing-stuck-focus-ring-pentax-m.html SMA Pentax-A 1:1.7 50mm or SMC Pentax M 1:1.7 50 mm http://www.pentaxforums.com/forums/pentax-slr-lens-discussion/80712-sma-pentax-1-1-7-50mm-smc-pentax-m-1-1-7-50-mm.html Thu, 19 Nov 2009 22:45:45 GMT Going to sell one. Which one to keep? The "M" feels like a little more substantial lens in terms of glass, but the IQ seems about the same. Obviously the "A" is more convenient in Av mode. ]]> Pentax SLR Lens Discussion mrpackerguy http://www.pentaxforums.com/forums/pentax-slr-lens-discussion/80712-sma-pentax-1-1-7-50mm-smc-pentax-m-1-1-7-50-mm.html Rokinon/Samyang 85mm - still good? http://www.pentaxforums.com/forums/pentax-slr-lens-discussion/80699-rokinon-samyang-85mm-still-good.html Thu, 19 Nov 2009 20:54:10 GMT Hi all,

I've been doing a bit of searching around for details and it seems like the Rokinon (or Samyang or etc etc.) 85mm F1.4 is a heck of a steal in terms of image quality and, for the most part, build quality as well.

I had a chance to try one in Japan not knowing what it was until I left (and could not return. it was hidden somewhere in Harajuku...) but didn't end up buying it as I needed the cash for food and japanese vending machines. True story ;)

Anyways, it was a pretty good lens and after reading all the rave reviews and seeing the prices they go for, I have now come to re-consider it as I'd like to put some finishing touches to my 'low light portraiture' ultimate lens lineup.

Currently, I have the Sigma 30mm F1.4 and the Pentax DA*55 F1.4. The Samyang 85mm F1.4 seems to be a perfect lens for my purposes, considering I rarely shoot F22 landscapes.


My question is in regards to the reliability of this lens. I've heard of some isolated cases of apertures sticking either initially or after a few months. For those who own the lens: Is yours still working? Is there stuff I should look out for when purchasing this lens? ]]> Pentax SLR Lens Discussion dugrant153 http://www.pentaxforums.com/forums/pentax-slr-lens-discussion/80699-rokinon-samyang-85mm-still-good.html Questions on fast 50s http://www.pentaxforums.com/forums/pentax-slr-lens-discussion/80687-questions-fast-50s.html Thu, 19 Nov 2009 18:33:01 GMT Hello, I have the A50mm f1.7 and it is becoming my default lens. I love it! I am fixing an A50 f2 and I just purchased an M50mm f1.4 which is on its way. I will test it for myself eventually but I... Hello,

I have the A50mm f1.7 and it is becoming my default lens. I love it! I am fixing an A50 f2 and I just purchased an M50mm f1.4 which is on its way.
I will test it for myself eventually but I have a question:
We all know lenses are softer wide open and start to sharpen up as they close up.
Having these 3 lenses: Would the f1.4 be sharper at f2 than the f1.7 at f2?
Would the f1.4 be sharper at say f3.5 than the other 2 at the same aperture?
Just curious. I will eventually do the test myself when I get my hands at all three.
Why so many 50's? Have you heard of LBA? :p

Thanks, ]]> Pentax SLR Lens Discussion ismaelg http://www.pentaxforums.com/forums/pentax-slr-lens-discussion/80687-questions-fast-50s.html Quantaray 100-300 http://www.pentaxforums.com/forums/pentax-slr-lens-discussion/80684-quantaray-100-300-a.html Thu, 19 Nov 2009 18:00:03 GMT I am assembling a used kit for my daughter. This will be a Christmas gift and her first DSLR. I already have purchased a *istDS and a DA L 18-55mm lens. I just sent payment for a used Quantaray 100-300mm, I... I am assembling a used kit for my daughter. This will be a Christmas gift and her first DSLR. I already have purchased a *istDS and a DA L 18-55mm lens.

I just sent payment for a used Quantaray 100-300mm, I wanted her to have a long lens also. I'm a bit concerned about it because I see mixed reviews. Some say its a piece o crap, others says it great for the money. I know you get what you pay for but is this a good beginner's lens? is it that some examples are good and some are not?

I will encourage her to upgrade as soon as she can, but I dont want her crippled right out of the gate. ]]> Pentax SLR Lens Discussion skid2964 http://www.pentaxforums.com/forums/pentax-slr-lens-discussion/80684-quantaray-100-300-a.html Insuring lenses? http://www.pentaxforums.com/forums/pentax-slr-lens-discussion/80679-insuring-lenses.html Thu, 19 Nov 2009 17:13:07 GMT Now that I will soon own a FA 31mm, I am curious - do people insure their lenses? If so, whom do you approach for such insurance? Sorry for a pretty broad question. Now that I will soon own a FA 31mm, I am curious - do people insure their lenses? If so, whom do you approach for such insurance? Sorry for a pretty broad question. ]]> Pentax SLR Lens Discussion pentaman http://www.pentaxforums.com/forums/pentax-slr-lens-discussion/80679-insuring-lenses.html Lens identification help needed http://www.pentaxforums.com/forums/pentax-slr-lens-discussion/80670-lens-identification-help-needed.html Thu, 19 Nov 2009 15:59:27 GMT Am I correct in assuming that this is version 1 of the Super-Takumar 135mm 3.5? As you can see, two of the three markers are present..... the serial number & existence of the f:4 aperture marker puts it in the correct era, but for some reason there is no model number on the underside of the auto/manual switch, which would be the definitive marker.
Attached Images
  
]]> Pentax SLR Lens Discussion raymeedc http://www.pentaxforums.com/forums/pentax-slr-lens-discussion/80670-lens-identification-help-needed.html Ever buy a lens on Ebay... http://www.pentaxforums.com/forums/pentax-slr-lens-discussion/80665-ever-buy-lens-ebay.html Thu, 19 Nov 2009 15:18:49 GMT without much description of the condition other than the glass was good? Too late to ask questions because time was up. Thinking, for the money, I will probably get a workable lens. And then it shows up and... without much description of the condition other than the glass was good? Too late to ask questions because time was up. Thinking, for the money, I will probably get a workable lens. And then it shows up and has never been out of the box. Not a speck of dust. Not a single scratch. Perfect.

Jackpot.

Score one MINT A-50mm f1.7 that is beautiful! $70 delivered might be too much for a beater but it was a steal for a brand new lens. ]]> Pentax SLR Lens Discussion J-Rod http://www.pentaxforums.com/forums/pentax-slr-lens-discussion/80665-ever-buy-lens-ebay.html Sigma 35-70 http://www.pentaxforums.com/forums/pentax-slr-lens-discussion/80653-sigma-35-70-a.html Thu, 19 Nov 2009 12:25:36 GMT Recently purchased this very inexpensive ($14.00) lens - a Sigma manual focus, auto aperture 35-70mm, F2.8-4. It takes fine photos, colors and contrast not great, but certainly great for the price! Two... Recently purchased this very inexpensive ($14.00) lens - a Sigma manual focus, auto aperture 35-70mm, F2.8-4. It takes fine photos, colors and contrast not great, but certainly great for the price!

Two questions about this lens:

1. Although it does indicate F2.8 on the aperture ring, when the lens is set to auto, my K-m will only allow it to go as far as F 4 (no matter what focal length). How do I use F 2.8 and auto?

2. Anyone else ever used this lens, have any tips or suggestions?

Thanks! ]]> Pentax SLR Lens Discussion mole http://www.pentaxforums.com/forums/pentax-slr-lens-discussion/80653-sigma-35-70-a.html What size lens hood for DA L 55-300? http://www.pentaxforums.com/forums/pentax-slr-lens-discussion/80619-what-size-lens-hood-da-l-55-300-a.html Thu, 19 Nov 2009 03:00:35 GMT Hello,

I believe the normal DA 55-300 uses a 58mm. Does the DA L version use the same size?

I noticed the DA and DA L 55-200 use different sizes so that's why I'm not assuming both versions of the 55-300 use the same size.

Thanks.
Bill M ]]> Pentax SLR Lens Discussion DSLRnoob http://www.pentaxforums.com/forums/pentax-slr-lens-discussion/80619-what-size-lens-hood-da-l-55-300-a.html Purty flower and leaves- something wrong... http://www.pentaxforums.com/forums/pentax-slr-lens-discussion/80617-purty-flower-leaves-something-wrong.html Thu, 19 Nov 2009 02:35:49 GMT I got a new lens on ebay, the SMC M 50mm 1.7 pentax unit. Its an awesome little lens! Anyways, I took some practice shots today of some up close and low f stop photos. I need help though, especially with... I got a new lens on ebay, the SMC M 50mm 1.7 pentax unit. Its an awesome little lens!

Anyways, I took some practice shots today of some up close and low f stop photos. I need help though, especially with the flower. It doesn't seem right. Thanks


]]> Pentax SLR Lens Discussion Dynasty http://www.pentaxforums.com/forums/pentax-slr-lens-discussion/80617-purty-flower-leaves-something-wrong.html Limited Lens Recommendation http://www.pentaxforums.com/forums/pentax-slr-lens-discussion/80607-limited-lens-recommendation.html Thu, 19 Nov 2009 01:17:15 GMT I have the 21mm DA, the 55mm DA*, am getting the 77mm FA.
I am looking at the 35mm, 40mm DAs, or the 43mm FA.
Considerations:
1) I don't have a macro yet, but don't see 35mm as the ideal FL for that, it would be an asset, though.
2) compact size matters, but does not overrule. I see the 77mm as a fairly compact lens, same as the 55mm, and the 21mm is downright dwarfy by my standards. IQ is more important.
3) I don't really believe that Pentax will produce a FF camera, so having FF is not that critical. I do like faster rather than slower lenses, however.
4) Price doesn't matter very much, none of this is needed, and will be bought as circumstances allow.
Looking forward to ideas and experiences with the above lenses... ]]> Pentax SLR Lens Discussion Helmut_S http://www.pentaxforums.com/forums/pentax-slr-lens-discussion/80607-limited-lens-recommendation.html Best place to buy... http://www.pentaxforums.com/forums/pentax-slr-lens-discussion/80598-best-place-buy.html Wed, 18 Nov 2009 23:52:05 GMT Best place to buy K-x body only?

I've been contemplating a K-x with a 55-300(none kit) because I don't want to bother with the stripped downed version. And so I decided to go for a body only and a 55-300 separately. However, I'm finding that most body only prices are just as high as the basic 18-55 kits :eek:

Does anyone know if there is a reputable with decent K-x body prices or is this how just how it is typa thing? ]]> Pentax SLR Lens Discussion JohnBee http://www.pentaxforums.com/forums/pentax-slr-lens-discussion/80598-best-place-buy.html Restoring an old friend: 50mm f2 http://www.pentaxforums.com/forums/pentax-slr-lens-discussion/80592-restoring-old-friend-50mm-f2.html Wed, 18 Nov 2009 23:15:00 GMT Hello,

I've had this lens for a few years but didn't use it much because it had dust and some fungus inside. I have some experience disasembling cheaper lenses so last week I decided to give it a try to this one. After all, this is most likely the most common 50mm lens in Pentax history.

Before: fungus (or mold) was behind the aperture blades and the most dust behind the front element.




During surgery.


The end result:




Test with the K100DS. Absolutely no PP. Straight from the camera.
1/800 @ f8.0


Click here for the full size pic:http://images52.fotki.com/v644/fileI...4/IMGP0757.jpg

I feel like getting a new lens for free :)

What do you think?

Thanks, ]]> Pentax SLR Lens Discussion ismaelg http://www.pentaxforums.com/forums/pentax-slr-lens-discussion/80592-restoring-old-friend-50mm-f2.html Yet another mirror lens curiosity http://www.pentaxforums.com/forums/pentax-slr-lens-discussion/80585-yet-another-mirror-lens-curiosity.html Wed, 18 Nov 2009 22:46:55 GMT I have been fiddling around with the thought of acquiring a mirror lens, in the 500mm. Any thoughts as to what brand is good aside from the always expensive Tamron 55BB? There are so many brands around that... I have been fiddling around with the thought of acquiring a mirror lens, in the 500mm.
Any thoughts as to what brand is good aside from the always expensive Tamron 55BB?
There are so many brands around that it just makes me dizzy trying to google them all and comparing them.
In any case, non of the reviews I have come across tells about a brand that produces good results apart from the Tamron.
I have read about the Sigma 600mm but non has been conclusive and it is also one lens that is hard to come by.
Any thoughts?
Don't say just get a regular glass lens as this is better than the mirror lenses, but this not about regular glass lens inquiry or thread.
Anyone here have real experiences with mirror lenses and particular brands? ]]> Pentax SLR Lens Discussion GerryL http://www.pentaxforums.com/forums/pentax-slr-lens-discussion/80585-yet-another-mirror-lens-curiosity.html A*300/4 or FA*300/4.5? http://www.pentaxforums.com/forums/pentax-slr-lens-discussion/80584-300-4-fa-300-4-5-a.html Wed, 18 Nov 2009 22:43:22 GMT So, there am I. In about a month it's my birthday. And I can choose a long lens for my K20d. I know, there are many threads on long lenses, and people asking which to choose. But I did not find a recent one with the A*300.

So, this is my question: if I wanted a lens for wildlife and birding, and I had to choose between the A*300/4 and the FA*300/4.5, which should I buy? And why? Which teleconverters can be used with these two lenses? Or did you find a better one (at about the same price :D)?

Thanks! ]]> Pentax SLR Lens Discussion Rense http://www.pentaxforums.com/forums/pentax-slr-lens-discussion/80584-300-4-fa-300-4-5-a.html