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05-28-2019, 04:18 PM   #16
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I almost forgot that I also have a Tamron Adaptall 135mm f2.5 and a Vivitar (Komine) 135mm f2.8. Both are better than my M135/f3.5, but I just never think of a fixed 135mm as a portrait lens. I know that the Tamron had a good reputation for portraits in the film days (i.e. on full frame). Both of these can be found very cheap and the Tamron can be used as fully manual or as auto-exposure with the PKA adapter.

05-28-2019, 06:10 PM   #17
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Choose a fast 50mm, any fast 50mm...well almost any...

Which one depends on how "manual" you want to go. There is a huge advantage in keeping auto-aperture actuation (limited to K-mount) so my top three might include any mix of:
  • Pentax-K, M, or A 50/1.4
  • Pentax-K 55/1.8 or M or A 50/1.7
  • KMZ Helios 44K-4 58/2.0
Special consideration might be given to the Helios, in that it comes packaged with soft corners and unique bokeh. Hint: There is no shame in shooting the DA 50/1.8.

Going full-manual (focus and aperture), meaning M42, opens huge doors. Of those on my shelf, I would suggest:
  • Super-Takumar 55/1.8
  • Auto Rikenon 50/1.8
  • Auto Rikenon 55/1.4
  • KMZ Helios 44M 58/2.0
Yes...I know...that makes four...

In case anyone is wondering, the FOV for 50mm on APS-C is the same as 75mm on 35mm FF and right in the range of a traditional portrait lens. What that buys you is adequate working distance to avoid spooking the subject and also less tendency for perspective distortion of features.


Steve

Last edited by stevebrot; 05-28-2019 at 08:02 PM.
05-28-2019, 06:28 PM   #18
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QuoteOriginally posted by stevebrot Quote
Choose a fast 50mm, any fast 50mm...well almost any...

Which one depends on how "manual" you want to go. There is a huge advantage in keeping auto-aperture actuation (limited to K-mount) so my top three might include any mix of:
  • Pentax-K, M, or A 50/1.4
  • Pentax-K 55/1.8 or M or A 50/1.7
  • KMZ Helios 44K-4 58/2.0
Special consideration might be given to the Helios, in that it comes packaged with soft corners and unique bokeh. Hint: There is no shame in shooting the DA 50/1.8.

Going full-manual (focus and aperture), meaning M42, opens huge doors. Of those on my shelf, I would suggest:
  • Super-Takumar 55/1.8
  • Auto Rikenon 50/1.8
  • Auto Rikenon 55/1.4
  • KMZ Helios 44M 58/2.0
Yes...I know...that makes four...


Steve
I totally agree Steve. If the original request was not for 90-135mm, then pretty much any 50mm would do the job beautifully. I have a K55/1.8, M50/1.4 and an A50/1.7 - any of these would be perfect for most portrait work, and gives you total control of bokeh. You can also buy a 49mm-thread centre-spot and sand-spot filter pair for $10 so you can completely kill off any background when you want to.
05-30-2019, 05:56 AM   #19
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QuoteOriginally posted by zzzxtreme Quote
or should I just get nikon to pentax adapter to adapt my nikon 105mm f2.5 ais? i reckon the glass element in the adapter would degrade image quality
The non Ai version of the Nikon 105 can be mounted directly without an adapter. It will be turned only about 1/4 of the way and won't lock on unites you modify the mount on the legs to add a recess for the lock pin where it aligns with the body.

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