M-Lens Focusing on GF1

[Steven Dooley]

I'm considering getting a GF1 to use for my M-lenses.
I've read many threads here about what I gain/lose with this combination but I was wondering about focusing. Is it a non-issue?

Thanks for your replies,
Steve

 

[greyelm]

I have adapted and used a number of my older Leica screw mount lenses on the GF1 so I expect the M mounts to be the same. Firstly I think you would need the LVF as this gives a steadier hold for focussing and is better in bright sunlight but it is not high res like newer versions. Secondly use of the view magnification is very helpful. I focus after setting the aperture to make the most of any DOF and for close focussing I move the camera in and out rather than trying to adjust the lens.

My experience with the older pre-ww2 lenses is a slight lack of contrast that can be fixed in post production.

This is a picture from a 1942 Summitar on a G1

This is from a 1937 Elmar on a GF1

 

[kbg32]

I have found that the dedicated M4/3 lenses perform better than adapting M lenses. Remember, any adapted lenses on M4/3 have their focal lengths doubled. I like having my wide angle lenses stay as they are.

 

[Steven Dooley]

Thanks for your input guys. Yeah, I'm thinking there is no easy answer to what I would like to do; m4/3 bodies just provide an inexpensive option to using M-lenses on a digital bodies.

That being said, I've read many positive reviews of the Panasonic 20mm. Not sure if I'm ready to commit to a new format.

 

[Thardy]

I've thought about shooting two or three shot panoramas to get around the crop factor.

Even some newer mFT bodies are pretty inexpensive, but I think the GF1 is hard to find.

 

[Steven Dooley]

I bought a GF1.
It was a Craigslist posting and I cannot tell you how clean and relatively unused it is. I'm psyched!

 

[jmkelly]

I've got adapters to shoot every lens in my collection on the GF1. The magnifier function makes pretty exact manual focus a piece of cake. I don't have the EVF - it would be useful outdoors but I don't really need it for 98% of what I shoot. When I stopped thinking of doubling the focal length and concentrated on thinking of a tight crop, I just took a step back and cognitive dissonance disappeared. I also have the 20mm and it is a fine lens.

 

[Jim Evidon]

I've had pretty good results with the Leica and CV M mount lenses on my GF1, but I am getting even better results with the Sony NEX5N since it had focus peaking and I am able to focus more accurately.

 

[Steven Dooley]

Thanks for your input, guys. I like to read that some folks are managing this combination well enough.

I was solely thinking about getting an adapter to use my M-lenses on the GF1, but I really should just get the 20mm and forgo the adapter for the time being.