Which standard prime to get for my K3?

**pepperberry farm** · 09-28-2017, 07:16 PM

Originally posted by pres589

pepperberry, is it maybe due to better correction and across frame sharpness/IQ? Shots you've shared from your 28 makes me think the 30 isn't nearly as versatile although I'd still like to try one out some day.

no idea on that score, but I also know that the 28 is tough - I dropped it (attached to my K-3) awhile back and it didn't affect the lens at all...

pakinjapan · 09-28-2017, 07:52 PM

I used to have a FA35 which I really like it, but I often feel, I want a bit more room. So I got a F28, and it was fantastic. It sharps wide open too. However, After own both at the same time I feel their field of view are not that difference to me. What about get a 21 ltd?

**pres589** · 09-29-2017, 02:24 AM

The DA 21 should be noticeably wider without it feeling like an ultra-wide.

I didn't really "understand" the DA 21's purpose. Seemed like a weirdo focal length to try and implement. I've started thinking about it again, for street or general carry, and how the crop factor makes is just wider than the 35mm that so many famous photogs carried for decades. In that context it starts to interest me more.

**richard0170** · 09-29-2017, 06:29 AM

The f or fa 28mm are tempting, but they are rarer than hens teeth. I've just spent an hour or so looking! As has been pointed out there is not much difference between 28 and 35mm on a crop sensor, but for some reason, I find it easier to compose with the 28mm. Strange as it may seem on full frame I find much easier to compose with a 55 or 58mm lens than with a 50mm. On film I use either a 40mm or 45mm, coupled with a 55 or 58mm depending on what system I am using.

normhead · 09-29-2017, 06:35 AM

Originally posted by richard0170

The f or fa 28mm are tempting, but they are rarer than hens teeth. I've just spent an hour or so looking! As has been pointed out there is not much difference between 28 and 35mm on a crop sensor, but for some reason, I find it easier to compose with the 28mm. Strange as it may seem on full frame I find much easier to compose with a 55 or 58mm lens than with a 50mm. On film I use either a 40mm or 45mm, coupled with a 55 or 58mm depending on what system I am using.

It's pointless recommending a lens without a source where one can buy it. I've been watching for a Sigma 12-24 for over a year now. I have an FAJ 18-35 so it's not life or death, but, the fact that someone recommends someone buy a legacy lens, is almost a guarantee of a lot of time wasted, especially since the K-1 came out. Lenses are scarce, and prices tend to be high.

**pepperberry farm** · 09-29-2017, 06:57 AM

Originally posted by normhead

It's pointless recommending a lens without a source where one can buy it. I've been watching for a Sigma 12-24 for over a year now. I have an FAJ 18-35 so it's not life or death, but, the fact that someone recommends someone buy a legacy lens, is almost a guarantee of a lot of time wasted, especially since the K-1 came out. Lenses are scarce, and prices tend to be high.

I bought my refurbed Sigma 28mm from Adorama (they still have them, but not at the same price I paid)....

normhead · 09-29-2017, 07:00 AM - **1 Like**

Originally posted by pepperberry farm

I bought my refurbed Sigma 28mm from Adorama (they still have them, but not at the same price I paid)....

Excellent.... onward until morning then.

**TER-OR** · 09-29-2017, 10:46 AM

Originally posted by pres589

The DA 21 should be noticeably wider without it feeling like an ultra-wide.

I didn't really "understand" the DA 21's purpose. Seemed like a weirdo focal length to try and implement. I've started thinking about it again, for street or general carry, and how the crop factor makes is just wider than the 35mm that so many famous photogs carried for decades. In that context it starts to interest me more.

It really has a great focal length for casual use indoors or out. Pair it with the DA40 and you've got a nice combination.
The 21 renders better than any lens I have for casual close portraits etc, and it captures the eye-view better than the 28, which is closer to "normal."

Theov39 · 09-29-2017, 11:18 AM

Originally posted by ChristianRock

Honestly from looking at the original post, I would recommend looking at the DA 21mm Limited.

I second this choice. The DA 21mm is my favorite lens to use on my K-3 when i just want a light weight walk around lens. Wide enough to be useful in most situations.

tregubovav · 09-29-2017, 11:41 AM

My order of priorities is 31, 43, 21.
FA 31 is more universal lens to me.
FA 43, is pretty narrow on APC-S to me. I really liked using it with film camera. I hope it will returned as main prime to K-1,
DA-21 quite wide for everyday using. I agree this lens is good for making some kind street photos. But is pretty narrow lens if you plan using it in old European towns. I prefer using this lens for landscape photos.

bdery · 09-29-2017, 01:21 PM

Originally posted by pres589

I didn't really "understand" the DA 21's purpose. Seemed like a weirdo focal length to try and implement. I've started thinking about it again, for street or general carry, and how the crop factor makes is just wider than the 35mm that so many famous photogs carried for decades. In that context it starts to interest me more.

The 21 is amazing. I really, really wish Pentax made an exact copy compatible with FF.

It's a natural focal length on APS-C, perfect for cityscapes, landscapes, candids, etc. In fact it's the exact equivalent of the FA 31 on APS-C.

Since I've switched to FF, I have been looking for a FF replacement and have not found it. In particular its ability to generate starbursts is rivaled only by the DA15.

Lev · 09-29-2017, 01:26 PM

Originally posted by Ishpuini

During the first year of my photography training we were required to use 35mm only (in my case the FA35/2). And I agree with you: 35mm always felt too strict to me as a standard field-of-view on APS-C. Once the ban was lifted for the next three years of the course, I replaced it with the FA31/1.8, which made a world of difference. I used mostly that lens and a 24mm for my standard FoV photography.

However, more recently, the DA20-40 has taken the place as a preferred walk around standard lens. Obviously this is not a fixed focal length lens, but somehow, to me, it feels like one. Probably due to its limited zoom range, and its short and long ends not really being short or long. It feels like a 30mm lens with some framing flexibility. I've since become a huge fan of this lens!

hth, Wim

by the way, did you find your 20-40 lens soft at 20 wide open? as some reviewers are indicating?

Ascencio · 09-29-2017, 01:42 PM

20-40 especially if you want weather sealing. The 21mm is second choice. I already owned DA 35, DA 35 macro and 21. 20-40 is almost equal to 35 macro and better than the others plus weather sealing and light.

**aslyfox** · 09-29-2017, 02:08 PM

ok I'm sorry to hijack this thread but I have questions

I know that at one time, zoom lenses were regarded as not have the quality of a good prime lens

1 is that still true?

2 how would my HD Pentax-DA 16-85mm F3.5-5.6 ED DC WR stack up against the prime lens being discussed in this thread?

Should I be trying to convince the spouse that one of these nice prime lenses being discussed is necessary for a Xmas or Birthday present?

the 16 - 85 is my widest lens

my current primes are the SMC Pentax-DA 40mm F2.8 XS, the SMC Pentax-DA 50mm F1.8 and smc Pentax-D FA 2.8 100 mm macro

so I would be looking at primes shorter than the 40 mm

I use a K 3 and have a K 5 II as a back up

so does anyone have any opinion on whether the 16 - 85 will handle the job or should I look at the primes

**richard0170** · 09-29-2017, 02:19 PM

I find that primes are better, at least at the wide and standard focal lengths, not because of the IQ any more, but because they force you to get the best composition. Zooms make one lazy in this respect. Primes also give you a speed advantage, not that I usually need it but its still there.

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09-28-2017, 07:16 PM	#31
pepperberry farm amateur dirt farmer Join Date: Dec 2014 Location: probably out in a field somewhere... Photos: Gallery \| Albums Posts: 41,657	Originally posted by pres589 pepperberry, is it maybe due to better correction and across frame sharpness/IQ? Shots you've shared from your 28 makes me think the 30 isn't nearly as versatile although I'd still like to try one out some day. no idea on that score, but I also know that the 28 is tough - I dropped it (attached to my K-3) awhile back and it didn't affect the lens at all...

09-28-2017, 07:52 PM	#32
pakinjapan Veteran Member Join Date: Jun 2012 Location: Tokyo Photos: Gallery Posts: 1,041	I used to have a FA35 which I really like it, but I often feel, I want a bit more room. So I got a F28, and it was fantastic. It sharps wide open too. However, After own both at the same time I feel their field of view are not that difference to me. What about get a 21 ltd?

09-29-2017, 02:24 AM	#33
pres589 Site Supporter Join Date: Jan 2014 Location: Wichita, KS Photos: Albums Posts: 4,529	The DA 21 should be noticeably wider without it feeling like an ultra-wide. I didn't really "understand" the DA 21's purpose. Seemed like a weirdo focal length to try and implement. I've started thinking about it again, for street or general carry, and how the crop factor makes is just wider than the 35mm that so many famous photogs carried for decades. In that context it starts to interest me more.

09-29-2017, 06:29 AM	#34
richard0170 Site Supporter Join Date: Feb 2017 Photos: Gallery \| Albums Posts: 2,032 Original Poster	The f or fa 28mm are tempting, but they are rarer than hens teeth. I've just spent an hour or so looking! As has been pointed out there is not much difference between 28 and 35mm on a crop sensor, but for some reason, I find it easier to compose with the 28mm. Strange as it may seem on full frame I find much easier to compose with a 55 or 58mm lens than with a 50mm. On film I use either a 40mm or 45mm, coupled with a 55 or 58mm depending on what system I am using.

09-29-2017, 06:35 AM	#35
normhead Pentaxian Join Date: Jun 2007 Location: Near Algonquin Park Photos: Gallery \| Albums Posts: 40,451	Originally posted by richard0170 The f or fa 28mm are tempting, but they are rarer than hens teeth. I've just spent an hour or so looking! As has been pointed out there is not much difference between 28 and 35mm on a crop sensor, but for some reason, I find it easier to compose with the 28mm. Strange as it may seem on full frame I find much easier to compose with a 55 or 58mm lens than with a 50mm. On film I use either a 40mm or 45mm, coupled with a 55 or 58mm depending on what system I am using. It's pointless recommending a lens without a source where one can buy it. I've been watching for a Sigma 12-24 for over a year now. I have an FAJ 18-35 so it's not life or death, but, the fact that someone recommends someone buy a legacy lens, is almost a guarantee of a lot of time wasted, especially since the K-1 came out. Lenses are scarce, and prices tend to be high.

09-29-2017, 06:57 AM	#36
pepperberry farm amateur dirt farmer Join Date: Dec 2014 Location: probably out in a field somewhere... Photos: Gallery \| Albums Posts: 41,657	Originally posted by normhead It's pointless recommending a lens without a source where one can buy it. I've been watching for a Sigma 12-24 for over a year now. I have an FAJ 18-35 so it's not life or death, but, the fact that someone recommends someone buy a legacy lens, is almost a guarantee of a lot of time wasted, especially since the K-1 came out. Lenses are scarce, and prices tend to be high. I bought my refurbed Sigma 28mm from Adorama (they still have them, but not at the same price I paid)....

09-29-2017, 07:00 AM - 1 Like	#37
normhead Pentaxian Join Date: Jun 2007 Location: Near Algonquin Park Photos: Gallery \| Albums Posts: 40,451	Originally posted by pepperberry farm I bought my refurbed Sigma 28mm from Adorama (they still have them, but not at the same price I paid).... Excellent.... onward until morning then.

09-29-2017, 10:46 AM	#38
TER-OR Site Supporter Join Date: Apr 2009 Location: Dundee, IL Photos: Gallery \| Albums Posts: 6,699	Originally posted by pres589 The DA 21 should be noticeably wider without it feeling like an ultra-wide. I didn't really "understand" the DA 21's purpose. Seemed like a weirdo focal length to try and implement. I've started thinking about it again, for street or general carry, and how the crop factor makes is just wider than the 35mm that so many famous photogs carried for decades. In that context it starts to interest me more. It really has a great focal length for casual use indoors or out. Pair it with the DA40 and you've got a nice combination. The 21 renders better than any lens I have for casual close portraits etc, and it captures the eye-view better than the 28, which is closer to "normal."

09-29-2017, 11:18 AM	#39
Theov39 Pentaxian Join Date: Nov 2015 Location: Sydney Posts: 594	Originally posted by ChristianRock Honestly from looking at the original post, I would recommend looking at the DA 21mm Limited. I second this choice. The DA 21mm is my favorite lens to use on my K-3 when i just want a light weight walk around lens. Wide enough to be useful in most situations.

09-29-2017, 11:41 AM	#40
tregubovav Junior Member Join Date: Sep 2017 Photos: Albums Posts: 41	My order of priorities is 31, 43, 21. FA 31 is more universal lens to me. FA 43, is pretty narrow on APC-S to me. I really liked using it with film camera. I hope it will returned as main prime to K-1, DA-21 quite wide for everyday using. I agree this lens is good for making some kind street photos. But is pretty narrow lens if you plan using it in old European towns. I prefer using this lens for landscape photos.

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09-29-2017, 01:21 PM	#41
bdery Pentaxian Join Date: Mar 2008 Location: Quebec city, Canada Photos: Gallery Posts: 9,357	Originally posted by pres589 I didn't really "understand" the DA 21's purpose. Seemed like a weirdo focal length to try and implement. I've started thinking about it again, for street or general carry, and how the crop factor makes is just wider than the 35mm that so many famous photogs carried for decades. In that context it starts to interest me more. The 21 is amazing. I really, really wish Pentax made an exact copy compatible with FF. It's a natural focal length on APS-C, perfect for cityscapes, landscapes, candids, etc. In fact it's the exact equivalent of the FA 31 on APS-C. Since I've switched to FF, I have been looking for a FF replacement and have not found it. In particular its ability to generate starbursts is rivaled only by the DA15.

09-29-2017, 01:26 PM	#42
Lev Veteran Member Join Date: Aug 2015 Location: Tbilisi, Georgia Posts: 1,197	Originally posted by Ishpuini During the first year of my photography training we were required to use 35mm only (in my case the FA35/2). And I agree with you: 35mm always felt too strict to me as a standard field-of-view on APS-C. Once the ban was lifted for the next three years of the course, I replaced it with the FA31/1.8, which made a world of difference. I used mostly that lens and a 24mm for my standard FoV photography. However, more recently, the DA20-40 has taken the place as a preferred walk around standard lens. Obviously this is not a fixed focal length lens, but somehow, to me, it feels like one. Probably due to its limited zoom range, and its short and long ends not really being short or long. It feels like a 30mm lens with some framing flexibility. I've since become a huge fan of this lens! hth, Wim by the way, did you find your 20-40 lens soft at 20 wide open? as some reviewers are indicating?

09-29-2017, 01:42 PM	#43
Ascencio Senior Member Join Date: May 2016 Photos: Gallery Posts: 105	20-40 especially if you want weather sealing. The 21mm is second choice. I already owned DA 35, DA 35 macro and 21. 20-40 is almost equal to 35 macro and better than the others plus weather sealing and light.

09-29-2017, 02:08 PM	#44
aslyfox Seeker of Knowledge Join Date: Aug 2016 Location: Topeka, Kansas Photos: Gallery \| Albums Posts: 24,581	ok I'm sorry to hijack this thread but I have questions I know that at one time, zoom lenses were regarded as not have the quality of a good prime lens 1 is that still true? 2 how would my HD Pentax-DA 16-85mm F3.5-5.6 ED DC WR stack up against the prime lens being discussed in this thread? Should I be trying to convince the spouse that one of these nice prime lenses being discussed is necessary for a Xmas or Birthday present? the 16 - 85 is my widest lens my current primes are the SMC Pentax-DA 40mm F2.8 XS, the SMC Pentax-DA 50mm F1.8 and smc Pentax-D FA 2.8 100 mm macro so I would be looking at primes shorter than the 40 mm I use a K 3 and have a K 5 II as a back up so does anyone have any opinion on whether the 16 - 85 will handle the job or should I look at the primes

09-29-2017, 02:19 PM	#45
richard0170 Site Supporter Join Date: Feb 2017 Photos: Gallery \| Albums Posts: 2,032 Original Poster	I find that primes are better, at least at the wide and standard focal lengths, not because of the IQ any more, but because they force you to get the best composition. Zooms make one lazy in this respect. Primes also give you a speed advantage, not that I usually need it but its still there.