Digital camera and vintage macro lense compatibility

soro · 01-12-2016, 02:54 PM

I have a digital Pentax camera (model K-m) and I want to purchase an inexpensive macro lense (for photographying painting).

I found a PENTAX Takumar SM 50MM F4 MACRO and I was wondering if I can use it with my digital camera.

Thanks.

bertwert · 01-12-2016, 03:00 PM

Welcome to the forum!
Yes you can use that lens, that's the great thing about Pentax.
How to Use Manual Lenses on Pentax DSLRs - Tutorial Videos | PentaxForums.com

Adam · 01-12-2016, 03:02 PM

You can, if you also get an M42 to K adapter ring.

Instructions can be found here:

https://www.pentaxforums.com/forums/54-pentax-lens-articles/110657-how-use-me...k-x-k-7-a.html

**UncleVanya** · 01-12-2016, 03:11 PM

The genuine Pentax Adapter is generally recommended and preferred and will cost > 25 < 75 generally. You can use a flanged adapter if you ONLY want to focus on close objects not infinity as those adapters do not provide infinity focus.

soro · 01-12-2016, 04:20 PM

Thank you for your quick replies! Now, I wonder if it the right lense to shoot art works (like 30 '' x 40 '' paintings) ?

excanonfd · 01-12-2016, 05:32 PM

A macro lens would be perfect for photographing 2D artwork since it is a flat field lens (almost even sharpness from corner to corner). In order to get the best result, you should shoot with a tripod, making certain the camera is centred and parallel with the canvas. If you are shooting in a gallery or a museum that prohibits the use of a tripod, look for a camera like a K-5 with a built-in electronic level to compensate for the lack of a tripod.

soro · 01-13-2016, 05:31 AM

Thank you to all for your replies. I will follow your precious tips.

01-12-2016, 02:54 PM	#1
soro New Member Join Date: Jan 2016 Posts: 3	Digital camera and vintage macro lense compatibility I have a digital Pentax camera (model K-m) and I want to purchase an inexpensive macro lense (for photographying painting). I found a PENTAX Takumar SM 50MM F4 MACRO and I was wondering if I can use it with my digital camera. Thanks.

01-12-2016, 03:02 PM	#3
Adam Administrator Site Webmaster Join Date: Sep 2006 Location: Arizona Photos: Gallery \| Albums Posts: 51,595	You can, if you also get an M42 to K adapter ring. Instructions can be found here: https://www.pentaxforums.com/forums/54-pentax-lens-articles/110657-how-use-me...k-x-k-7-a.html Adam PentaxForums.com Webmaster (Site Usage Guide \| Site Help \| My Photography) PentaxForums.com server and development costs are user-supported. You can help cover these costs by donating or purchasing one of our Pentax eBooks. Or, buy your photo gear from our affiliates, Adorama, B&H Photo, KEH, or Topaz Labs, and get FREE Marketplace access - click here to see how! Trusted Pentax retailers:

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01-12-2016, 03:00 PM	#2
bertwert Veteran Member Join Date: Jun 2015 Location: Golden, BC Posts: 15,173	Welcome to the forum! Yes you can use that lens, that's the great thing about Pentax. How to Use Manual Lenses on Pentax DSLRs - Tutorial Videos \| PentaxForums.com

01-12-2016, 03:11 PM	#4
UncleVanya Loyal Site Supporter Join Date: Jul 2014 Photos: Gallery \| Albums Posts: 28,412	The genuine Pentax Adapter is generally recommended and preferred and will cost > 25 < 75 generally. You can use a flanged adapter if you ONLY want to focus on close objects not infinity as those adapters do not provide infinity focus.

01-12-2016, 04:20 PM	#5
soro New Member Join Date: Jan 2016 Posts: 3 Original Poster	Thank you for your quick replies! Now, I wonder if it the right lense to shoot art works (like 30 '' x 40 '' paintings) ?

01-12-2016, 05:32 PM	#6
excanonfd Veteran Member Join Date: Jan 2010 Location: Vancouver, BC Posts: 1,421	A macro lens would be perfect for photographing 2D artwork since it is a flat field lens (almost even sharpness from corner to corner). In order to get the best result, you should shoot with a tripod, making certain the camera is centred and parallel with the canvas. If you are shooting in a gallery or a museum that prohibits the use of a tripod, look for a camera like a K-5 with a built-in electronic level to compensate for the lack of a tripod.

01-13-2016, 05:31 AM	#7
soro New Member Join Date: Jan 2016 Posts: 3 Original Poster	Thank you to all for your replies. I will follow your precious tips.