[Sandy Hancock]

Great to have you back Aapo. I for one would be very interested to see some videos of your wonderful puppets!

[Minimonster]

. So what I'm looking at is one or two video/stopmotion/timelapse per week. would that be welcome? If not, I'll just post 'extra' and you can decide if you gonna look or not. But I'm in. Will decide about that lens later on tomorrow. (will be carrying 15-30 &70-200 still)

Sounds good to me. I might even try some more time lapse things if I can find the software I used to use for my new laptop...

[robgski]

I was just reminded that I was considering using the Theta S I purchased from SeveralSnakes. Using this might revitalize my lack of creativity, and encourage me to visit a few places I have been putting off.

[repaap]

Welcome aboard , why not, I will be looking forward to your efforts

Thank you

---------- Post added 10-01-18 at 08:58 ----------

Sounds good to me. I might even try some more time lapse things if I can find the software I used to use for my new laptop...

I’m planning to use both, incamera timelapse and my dedicated animation program.

[utak]

It's been a long time since I've added to my Takumar collection, or been on this challenge. But when a Takumar 200/3.5 preset from the late 1950s came up for sale in a local camera shop recently, I couldn't resist. The lens combines a simple 4 element design, with an impressive collection of 18 aperture blades. It's a beast/monster.

The lens gets stellar reviews from owners, and some even claim it's the best of all Takumars, in terms of IQ plus bokeh from all those blades. So I'm keen to find out what the hype is about...and as I type this, I've never used the lens, except to check it works in the shop. It's not my favourite focal length, and without the challenge of this challenge, I'm not sure I'd use the lens as much as it deserves.

Just one caveat. I'm not going to risk using the lens in the rain, although arguably I could use it (with hood attached) as a canopy to shelter under. Also, where I live and work in London, the MFD/focal length of this lens will cause problems inside. As it inevitably rains here in the UK, I'll substitute a fast fifty when absolutely necessary, if that's OK.

[iheiramo]

Just one caveat. I'm not going to risk using the lens in the rain, although arguably I could use it (with hood attached) as a canopy to shelter under. Also, where I live and work in London, the MFD/focal length of this lens will cause problems inside. As it inevitably rains here in the UK, I'll substitute a fast fifty when absolutely necessary, if that's OK.

With long focal lengths I have used extension tubes to reduce MFD when needed to shoot indoors. Macro also gives you a lot of shooting possibilities.

[MarkJerling]

For October I've decided to put this recent acquisition to work.

How are you finding it? I've just acquired one as well. Mine has a really strong chemical smell. Not sure if it's the lens cap plastic or if the previous owner stored it with something to cause the smell. It's pristine though.

[repaap]

Great to have you back Aapo. I for one would be very interested to see some videos of your wonderful puppets!

There will be some for sure

[D1N0]

How are you finding it? I've just acquired one as well. Mine has a really strong chemical smell. Not sure if it's the lens cap plastic or if the previous owner stored it with something to cause the smell. It's pristine though.

I will be able to tell at the end of the month. Mine doesn't particularly smell except from the behind there is some smell. Probably the lube. Focussing is a but uneven, maybe it will improve with use. I like how close it can focus and bokeh is well behaved.

[MarkJerling]

I will be able to tell at the end of the month. Mine doesn't particularly smell except from the behind there is some smell. Probably the lube. Focussing is a but uneven, maybe it will improve with use. I like how close it can focus and bokeh is well behaved.

Ha! I never considered it may be the lube. There's a thought. Picked it up for next to nothing too, so a real find. It looks brand new. Focus throw is beautiful and, you're right, nice close focus.

[utak]

With long focal lengths I have used extension tubes to reduce MFD when needed to shoot indoors. Macro also gives you a lot of shooting possibilities.

Good idea - thanks. The MFD of this lens is marked as 2.5 meters, so it needs some close focus help. I may also try the Raynox M250 on the end.

[D1N0]

It's been a long time since I've added to my Takumar collection, or been on this challenge. But when a Takumar 200/3.5 preset from the late 1950s came up for sale in a local camera shop recently, I couldn't resist. The lens combines a simple 4 element design, with an impressive collection of 18 aperture blades. It's a beast/monster.

The lens gets stellar reviews from owners, and some even claim it's the best of all Takumars, in terms of IQ plus bokeh from all those blades. So I'm keen to find out what the hype is about...and as I type this, I've never used the lens, except to check it works in the shop. It's not my favourite focal length, and without the challenge of this challenge, I'm not sure I'd use the lens as much as it deserves.

Just one caveat. I'm not going to risk using the lens in the rain, although arguably I could use it (with hood attached) as a canopy to shelter under. Also, where I live and work in London, the MFD/focal length of this lens will cause problems inside. As it inevitably rains here in the UK, I'll substitute a fast fifty when absolutely necessary, if that's OK.

I think it is a great lens. Very sharp, but rendering can be a bit harsh in sunny conditions.

[repaap]

I went with FA 35. have done this lens a while a go, but it is fun little lens so..game has begun.

[UncleVanya]

I'll sit this one out. Win one for the team folks!

[robbiec]

K-1 & 31, last min decision. Safety shot just taken and uploaded to Flickr..
BTW I have Love, Hate, Hate relationship with this particular lens. I know its good, has nice bokeh, exceptional rendering, can be reasonably sharp, expensive, stupidly unbalanced and a lot of people on here either have one or would love to have one but but I just don't get it at times and will leave it in the bag while its sister the 43 and 77 get pulled out to play more often. This month is as much about me trying to figure out what the magic of the 31 is, as I don't get it.