[anngrant]

Make sure to check out these Pentax camera lenses . They are quite affordable. I'm happy that Pentax users don't need to spend a lot to get good quality optics.

[Des]

I really don't find it overly sharp for portraiture

I meant human portraits. I'd say that is primarily a cat photo (and very nice too). The DFA 100 is wonderful for animal portraits, where there is no such thing as too sharp.


I tried it for a few human portraits when I got it, but stopped using it when I got the 77. I haven't got any examples to hand.

If I did need to soften the result, I'd rather soften the light with modifiers than work with it in PP if I can help it, especially if we're talking portraiture.

Fair enough, if it's feasible. I was really thinking of casual outdoor and natural light shots, or a simple bounce flash indoors.

[Mentium]

Well in life I'm not known for dithering and faffing (British term!) around but there is something about the minefield and complexity of lens choice that brings it out in me. (I wrote the OP).


Anyway after some consideration, not to mention reading posts here and watching numerous YouTube clips I have decided the 100 mm (Pentax DFA 100mm F2.8) is too long and a little too limiting as a prime. It would seem to me that the best bet for a first prime would be a 50 mm, which gives one plenty of options for street photography with just a tad of wideness. Will probably go for the 100 mm for my next purchase.

There is only one D FA 50 mm listed on this site. Any other options?

---------- Post added 12-08-16 at 12:30 PM ----------

OK - the DA 50mm F1.8 ( SMC Pentax-DA 50mm F1.8 Reviews - DA Prime Lenses - Pentax Lens Reviews & Lens Database ) has excellent reviews and is relatively inexpensive. I have a K1, which can use the DFA range of lenses including the DAs. Are there limitations or issues one should be aware of?

[HopelessTogger]

First prime for the K-1?

Without question the FA43.

Gives the perfect field of view and is quite incredible on the K-1.

I have the 31/43/77, FA 1.4/50, FA and M 1.7/50, K 1.2/50, Zeiss Distagon and Planar . . . so most of 'em and if I we're to give up the lot leaving only one prime, I'd keep the FA43.

[normhead]

Pentax options currently available for sale... DA 50 1.8, FA 50 1.4, FA 50 macro 2.8. and their close cousin, the DA* 55 1.4. That's four clear choices. I'd add the DA 40 XS 2.8 as the bargain but good enough option if you want a bit wider for street photography.

The 31/43/77 limited are the kings of Pentax primes, but they are pricey and a little extreme for a first lens, if you're really searching to discover what you need. But if you know you want them all, you may as well get started.

[surfar]

DA hd 40mm f2.8 is still available too,i believe.

[clackers]

Pentax options currently available for sale... DA 50 1.8, FA 50 1.4, FA 50 macro 2.8. and their close cousin, the DA* 55 1.4. That's four clear choices. I'd add the DA 40 XS 2.8 as the bargain but good enough option if you want a bit wider for street photography.

Embarrassed for choices. They're all good.

The D FA 50 Macro is terrific as a studio portrait lens as well as a walkaround.

The 40 XS is great value, and I've used it as a cap and all-round street lens.

People should check out Norm's great shots with both these lenses.