[jco]

Getting Flickr to actually transfer the images I uploaded, as uploaded, was a real bear. Clicking these links to the full size images.

On this image in particular* you can see how soft the edges are. Scroll to the left edge and look at the Daylilly seed pods and the grill cover. IMO the lens is quite sharp in the center, though f/8 could be hinging mis-focus (focusing manual lenses on the K-1 is the operational part of my hobby). I believe the colors are good - the flag in the one shot is accurate to the real colors. i did not boost any vibrance or color channels in PSE. All around, pretty nice I think if you don’t care about the edges.

FWIW, the only editing done to these images (aside from default PSE and flickr editing) was to reduce highlights by -15. Since matrix metering is not enabled in M Mode it’s pretty hard not to blow a high sky such as I had for these images. I used the hood labeled for the K20/4 which Phil (gofour3) says is also specified for the K18/3.5.

* Actually,I think I missed the focus on this one. I’ll see if other files are better and repost if I can find a better one.

All your K18/3.5 shots look pretty good to me. Why did you use SR=20 instead of 18? Does your K18/3.5 lens say "18" or"18mm" on the front ring?

[monochrome]

All your K18/3.5 shots look pretty good to me. Why did you use SR=20 instead of 18? Does your K18/3.5 lens say "18" or"18mm" on the front ring?

Thanks John. I hope they were helpful to you.

There’s no SR setting for 18mm - I had to use 20mm, which is why I noted it. I have the earlier version - SMC PENTAX 1:3.5/18 .

[jco]

Thanks John. I hope they were helpful to you.

There’s no SR setting for 18mm - I had to use 20mm, which is why I noted it. I have the earlier version - SMC PENTAX 1:3.5/18 .

I have the early version also. Thanks for taking/posting the photos.

[pinholecam]

The K18/3.5 is unfortunately showing its age for digital full frame.
Not that sharp on the edges stopped down and prone to CA.
The main positive is that its rather small.

The 20mm (ie. M20, A20, FA20) are all better options imo.
In fact, a cheap Samyang 14/2.8 does really well and should be the UWA to look for if on a budget.
Otherwise, a lens like the Laowa 12/2.8 is small, well built, 'A' lens, sharp to the edges (only thing is pricey).

[monochrome]

The K18/3.5 is unfortunately showing its age for digital full frame.
Not that sharp on the edges stopped down and prone to CA.
The main positive is that its rather small.

The 20mm (ie. M20, A20, FA20) are all better options imo.
In fact, a cheap Samyang 14/2.8 does really well and should be the UWA to look for if on a budget.
Otherwise, a lens like the Laowa 12/2.8 is small, well built, 'A' lens, sharp to the edges (only thing is pricey).

Yeah, but it sure is fun to break out now and then. I suppose I should do a shoot out with K18, K20 and A20 and throw in the K17FE for grins.

[manishved]

some older lenses also had a longer aperture lever causing issues with newer digital bodies.