Pentax 50mm F2 Test results

eccs19 · 08-29-2008, 06:38 AM

Finally got some time to take a few test shots with my new / old 50mm lens. These shots were just to test the sharpness of the lens, so I know that none of these are great shots.

1. This was 100% crop, and hand held.

2. This again 100% crop, hand held, but also with 2x converter.

3. 100% crop, tripod mounted. About 250 feet away.

4. 100% crop, tripod mounted. About 15-20 feet away.

Overall for 100% crop, I don't think the clairity is that bad. Other than cropping, no other PP done. I can't remember 100% sure, but most were taken around F8.

eccs19 · 08-29-2008, 07:10 AM

Another thing that I noticed is that there is a filter on the front of the lens. It doesn't say what type of filter it is, or have a company name on it. I've read that some cheap filters can cause image issues. I suspect that it would be a good idea to remove the filter, and just shoot as it. What do you think?

*k100d* · 08-29-2008, 07:15 AM

the photos look kind of soft
try removing the filter that should improve quality

Miserere · 08-29-2008, 09:21 AM

Is it the Pentax-A 50mm f/2? I have this lens and have no complaints about sharpness. I've used it wide open without problems many times.

Like k100d suggested, try taking two pics of the same scene, one with and another without the filter, and compare the results.

eccs19 · 08-29-2008, 11:35 AM

Originally Posted by Miserere

Is it the Pentax-A 50mm f/2? I have this lens and have no complaints about sharpness. I've used it wide open without problems many times.

Like k100d suggested, try taking two pics of the same scene, one with and another without the filter, and compare the results.

Actually, it's the Pentax M 50mm f/2. Not sure if there is that much of a difference between the 2, but I'll try re-shooting with the filter off, and see if it makes a difference or not. I expect it will, just a matter of how much.

nixcamic · 08-29-2008, 12:56 PM

Some pentax M 50mm f/2 lenses are actually the A lens without the electrical contacts. Mine is, the easyest way to check is see if the aperture lever moves the same amount for each stop. Pretty darn sharp, esp stopped down to 2.8 or lower, I find peak sharpness is around 4.5~5.6.

eccs19 · 08-29-2008, 01:42 PM

Here's one at f8 filter off. 100% crop, hand held. Do you think this is any better?