Elmar 50mm f2.8 question

[Marsopa]

Hi:

I hope is not a silly question, please forgive me in the case... I've bought an Elmar 50mm f2.8 (not the last version), I've noticed that the front and aperture ring turns while focusing the lens... that's the way it should be?

Thanks

 

[ITD]

Yep, mine does that too. Often it's easier to set the focus infinity lock to hold the whole things still whilst setting the aperture.

 

[Nokton48]

Yes, what has already been said. Changing the aperture on this is a bit fiddly, you have to refocus each time you make a change. That is just the case with the Elmar.

 

[Marsopa]

Thanks... tomorrow morning I'll do my first roll.

 

[Steve Hoffman]

Can anyone comment on the differences in picture "look" between the vintage Elmar 50 f/2.8 and the Summicron 50 f/2 of the same era?

Is there a difference in softness, contrast, color rendition, etc.? I've recently received both (from 1962) in a trade and was curious.

Thanks!

 

[Nokton48]

No, but I was out shooting side-by-sides today, in an attempt to discover the answer to that very question, myself. Don't know yet, but I'm fairly sure they are different "looks". Already know all about the Summicron, but the Elmar is a Tessar formula, I believe.

 

[Steve Hoffman]

I guess I'll have to do that too.

My Summicron (actually a Dual Range model) is easy to operate and the Elmar is fiddly (which makes me nuts).:bang: I guess I don't have enough practice with it but it's a real pain when I need to get a shot off in a hurry..

 

[Nokton48]

Changing the aperture (and having it move the focus helical, so you have to re-focus) is why I find it fiddly. It's more of an issue for me, because I often shoot the same view at several exposures, to give myself a choice. But, I don't dislike the Elmar, at all. So far, images I've pulled from it have been quite satisfying. Steve, is that Diana Rigg in your avatar? COOL.

 

[Steve Hoffman]

Yes, same reason that I find it fiddly. I'm sure most people have no problem with the Elmar, it's a famous lens and was made for years..


That is Diana Rigg in my avatar. Beautiful shot, photographer unknown.