leica macro-elmar m 90 mm: Any feedback on use ?

[kennedda]

I am interested in macro photography and use nikon equipment for that purpose rather than my Leica m camera. In 2003, Leica introduced the new macro-elmar 90 mm lens. And, just recently, they have introduced a right angle view finder. Has anyone used this lens and the macro adapter in the field? While I can read the specs, it is difficult to judge how the lens and adapter are going to function. Any input or comments would be appreciated.

 

[r-h]

Hi,
did you find these:
http://www.leica-camera.de/imperia/md/content/pdf/objektive/datenbltterm-objektive/32.pdf
and the animation on
http://www.leica-camera.de/produkte/msystem/objektive/makro/index_e.html
The macro adapter is mounted like a regular lens, and the macro lens is mounted 180° on the adapter and extended. It has on the bottom a second DOF and distance scale, which is used instead the original one.

The next two parts on my shopping list: Macro elmar and macro adapter.
I played a little with the macro/adapter/angle view viender during an exhebition/nature photography contest here in Germany. Very nice stuff. Looks like it will work for me.
Hope this helps.
Best regards
Robert

 

[Tim]

I've got the 90 macro elmar, but no macro adaptor.
My thoughts, for what it's worth........

As a compact 90mm lens, it's absolutely superb, if f4 is fast enough for you. For me, it's fine, and therefore it's a really compact and great lens that with the 35 'cron is my main take everywhere kit.

I didn't buy the macro adapter because a) it's ludicrously expensive, and b) it's not **really** all that macro.........
It allows the lens and camera to focus from 0.77m (from the manual, not measured.... 🙂 ) down to 0.5m, with a reproduction ration of 1:3. Better than any "normal" rangefinder lens, but still not all that useful for true macro photography. And the adaptor alone costs more than half again what the lens does.

I love my Leica, and it's going to have to be prised from my cold dead hands, but I know it's shortcomings - if you really want to do macro work - use an SLR.
Saying that technically you can do it is true, like saying that using a visoflex you can use 300 or 400 mm lenses. Sure you can, but there are better tools for the job.......

Of course, YMMV...........
:angel:

 

[Roger Hicks]

I have the 90/4 and macro adapter and use them less than I expected -- I think it's becausa RF cameras get you out of the habit of macro. But even at 1:3 the quality is superb and the setup is very easy to use. If you shoot macro and RF, this is the only real alternative to Viso III+16464+65/3.5 (which I also have and use less than I expected...)

Cheers,

Roger (www.rogerandfrances.com)

 

[kennedda]

Response to Comments on Leica's M macro 90

Response to Comments on Leica's M macro 90

Thanks all for your comments. I noted the limits of 1:3 macro ratio and the cost. However, I also note the ease of use and quality of the 90 lens. As well, I noted that this is almost the only modern macro m alternative. While I do like my 105 macro on my SLR and I do get good results, it would be great to be able to carry one light weight system into the field on hiking and outdoor occasions. Thanks again for your input.

 

[Fred]

I've tried a borrowed 90 f4 with specs from Leica at a Leica day in Milton Keynes UK a month or so ago. I didn't expect too much but the lens performed very well indeed. 1:3 is still very good reproduction and it's very small. The adapter is flat and packs into a small pouch.

I'm looking for a Leica 90 and this could well be on my shopping list. The size and clarity are very good, the macro is a real bonus though. You don't always have an SLR with you when you want to work a little closer up.