Hi Ben,
I've been researching about getting started in DSLR astrophotography for fun, of course.
I've been referring to a post you shared a long time ago. https://www.pentaxforums.com/forums/10-pentax-slr-lens-discussion/158228-seek...endations.html

I'm wondering if you have any updates to this post as it is a little old.
I also have a question about Sigma APO prime lenses being any good for AP?
I've looked and seen nothing confirming this.
Basically, my journey has started here: Getting to some decision-making over my first dslr AP kit, help - Getting Started With Imaging - Stargazers Lounge

I know I've missed some things and appreciate any feedback, support!
\o/
John

Hi Jay

Sorry, that I couldn't reply sooner, as I was OOO for a couple of days.

I envisaged, that I could use the 28mm shift in the studio, for those quick shots, where I would not need to setup my view camera. That is not possible. With the longer extension of the focusing tube at short distances the aberrations of the lens in shifted position get so strong, that no post-processing can save anything in the final image, at least not near the corners. If it is possible to crop heavily, in order to use the center part of the image, then it could be used at short distances - but you wouldn't need it in the first instance...

The 28mm shift is meant for architecture and here it is very good. I usually use it a f/11, when I use shifting, but the vignetting isn't too bad even at f/8.

All in all it is a very fine lens and I do not regret in the least that I bought it. If you want to see examples, give me your email address and I send you some examples at short and far distances.

Ben

Hi Ben
I hear you have some experience with the 28mm shift? Im intrigued and my LBA is feverishly becoming a problem - i'd love to know about your experience with it, and or see any examples of photos (good and bad) with it - specifically as i understand you said it failed dismally for 'closer' work and i'd love to know details
thanks
J

Recently acquired from ebay, Pentax ES II, cosmetically and optically like new EXCEPT that Viewfinder blind is locked shut, and nothing I do (new batteries, fiddle the shutter-speed dial, battery-test button, exposure-compensation-dial, hitting it, praying) has any effect. I COULD just gestimate the distance frame bygolly, and shoot, and with that lovely Super-Multi-Coated Takumar 1.8/55, it would probably come out with a good photograph, ... but with such a beautiful TTL, it seems a shame.

H E L L P !!!

stevnewb