lens " character"

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Hi all,

I shoot a 28mm elmarit (4th version), current 50mm 'cron, and current 90mm elmarit. All three of these rotate between two M6 bodies, and all I shoot is neopan 400, or nph 400, at weddings/events. All three lenses exhibit a similar "character", and I like this when I present to clients as it keeps things looking consistent.

I am relatively new to Leica (going on two years now, and finally am using JUST these cameras for 'moments' rather than a long zoom) and would like to add another lens that has a different 'character' or 'footprint' than my modern glass. I am considering a 35mm summaron 2.8, or a 50mm elmar. I would use this lens for nostalgic portraits if the environment called for it, or just to have another 'look' in my work. I already have Zeiss softars I & II to use with the elmarit for women/skin, so it will not double as a soft focus lens...

Suggestions on how I should spend my $$$ ?
 
Most of the classic 50's have thier own character (summarit, summitar, early summilux), the summilux's have a different "footprint" from the summicrons, but you may also consider the newer Zeiss offerings, they would give you a different look from the Leicas.

Todd
 
I guess the Summaron and the Elmar will do just fine. Another thought is to opt for an old Summar in good condition. If you wish to consider longer lenses, the first version of the Elmarit 90 delivers also a uniquely vintage fingerprint.
 
I'd love a nikkor 50/1.4...I hear that is a fantastic lens. Saw one in classifieds, but it isn't ltm.

It would be nice to have another stop sometimes. I used to have a nokton 1.5 when I first started the RF thing a few years ago, and didn't like the lens' for a few reasons I shan't bore you with here...
 
I am strongly supporting the Summitar if you want a vintage look. By the way, have a look of the work by Todd.Hanz (I have to say that I chose a summitar because of amazing portraits by Todd and his "cigar" series / thanks Todd); I submitted also some pictures taken with a Summitar (if they are not good, don't blame the lens, but the photographer). Anyway, this is a great lens with its own character; you should at least try it, even a (near)perfect one is not expensive on eBay.
Best
 
I like the combination of a Collapsible Summicron 50mm - Tri-x (320) developed in HC110, I believe the G solution (2x the time of the B?... have to look that up..) with an addition of appr. 10% of the developement time.

I have recently bought this summicron which was in in perfect condition, recently cleaned and serviced by Leica Solms, it produces excellent B&W negatives in all "classical" combo's. I like the old fashioned "noir" look and have sought after the right lens to achieve this for quite a while now. I also tried the Summitar, which was Ok but not the thing I was looking for, but then it was pretty beat up....

Try to get your hands on a collapsible summicron in good condition, you will most certainly enjoy the results.
 
Thanks for the pics and the input on lens selection. I think the summitar will probably be my target - I really like your stuff with that lens, Todd.
 
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