Low contrast lens for high contrast situations?

[charjohncarter]

One thing I don't (among many) like about DSLRs is their dynamic range (lack of). I wonder if any one has used old lenses on their digitals, most likely M8s, and notice a better shadow range plus not so harsh colors? My DLSRs have new lenses or pretty new lenses. I can mount some Leica stuff but it only works macro.

 

[Dave Wilkinson]

I've used my old single coated Nikkors-from the sixties, to great effect on a Fuji S3 Pro, which already has a better dynamic range than most DSLR's, colour rendition was nice and subtle and beats those horrible kit zooms! 😀

Dave.

 

[charjohncarter]

Thanks Dave, it was just a thought within this thread. The Fuji S3 stands out on dynamic range so maybe not the most general observation. I guess my Super Takumars from the sixties would be old enough, and I could use those. I'll give it a try.

 

[MCTuomey]

John, if you check out the Alternative Gear forum on fredmiranda.com you might find some helpful ideas. Myself, I've been experimenting with manual focus contax/zeiss lenses with my 1Ds. I think the older Pentax lenses would be a great place to start.

 

[raid]

This thread has very useful information in it.

bump

 

[sanmich]

Well, I have decided to test my lenses for contrast.
Basically, I think that I will simply shoot a very contrasty scene at intermediate apertures and see how the shaddow/highlights are rendered.
I will use my regular combo: tri-X and Emofin. scans on Epson 4990.
Maybe this weekend...

Any suggestions before I start?

 

[mirrored]

Well, I have decided to test my lenses for contrast.
Basically, I think that I will simply shoot a very contrasty scene at intermediate apertures and see how the shaddow/highlights are rendered.
I will use my regular combo: tri-X and Emofin. scans on Epson 4990.
Maybe this weekend...

Any suggestions before I start?

What are your lenses? I have soon three M lenses: Summicron Rigid, its successor and Industar 61 L/D. Never met no-one earlier. 🙂