Pentax-DA* 55mm F1.4 Review
Image Quality: Sharpmess
For sharpness testing, we used an Edmund Resolution Power Chart and field tests. Since the Pentax DA* 55mm is considered a short telephoto, it was necessary to place the chart 5 feet from the camera on the K5. Once the chart filled the viewfinder, a series of pictures were taken at various apertures. The use of a standard test chart allows the viewer to compare different lenses subjectively. Since this not a comparative review we are able to include a greater F-stop range than we normally do.
For the field sharpness testing, we selected an interesting building. We then cropped the picture to include an area with sufficient features that allow for a detailed examination.
Verdict
The results of the lens test chart indicated that the Pentax DA* 55mm F1.4 is a little soft at F1.4 in both the chart and the outside test. But once the Pentax DA* 55 was stopped down beyond F2.8 it performed exceptionally well.
