Steve M.
Veteran
I finished testing a Makinon MC Macro 135 2.8 lens vs a Soligor 135 2.8 on my Nikon SLR. The only information I gleamed is that this is how MY particular two samples image, and that 135 is too long. I don't take posed portraits or usually use a tripod, and a 135 2.8 isn't suited for that, while an 85 or 90 lens is much better. For still portraits, the 135 is fine, but not for fast shooting. This was with consumer Fuji 400 film and low rez scans. No editing, just took out a few dust spots.
It's a portrait lens test, so it wasn't about sharpness, just looking at overall IQ and bokeh.
The first shots are w/ the Makinon wide open and at f4, followed by the Soligor at the same apertures. The last one was the Soligor at 2.8. I don't much care for the Soligor, too much of the face is in focus wide open and it's a little (surprisingly) contrasty, but I sorta like the last shot. They sure image differently! Ck out how the crows feet in June's eyes disappear outside, but are prominent inside. Lighting is a real deal killer w/ portraits.
Makinon
Soligor
Soligor at 2.8
It's a portrait lens test, so it wasn't about sharpness, just looking at overall IQ and bokeh.
The first shots are w/ the Makinon wide open and at f4, followed by the Soligor at the same apertures. The last one was the Soligor at 2.8. I don't much care for the Soligor, too much of the face is in focus wide open and it's a little (surprisingly) contrasty, but I sorta like the last shot. They sure image differently! Ck out how the crows feet in June's eyes disappear outside, but are prominent inside. Lighting is a real deal killer w/ portraits.
Makinon
Soligor
Soligor at 2.8
Steve M.
Veteran
Forgot to show the lenses. These are small, inexpensive Japanese made 135 2.8 lenses. I bought both for under $70 including shipping. The Makinon Macro is tiny for a 135 2.8 SLR lens.
