Nokton 35mm 1.4MC or SC

[Dwayneb9584]

Hey all, has anyone have experience with these two lenses. To my understanding the SC version is a bit softer. I shoot a lot of B&W film and once and a while color as well. I do like the classic look of images. But I would like to hear from those who are experienced with them. Also if you know anyone who is selling any used versions that would be solid. I am currently lensless lol. I checked the classified section but none are up for sale.

Thanks,
D

 

[kshapero]

I have the 35/1.4 SC and it really has a nice glow when shooting Tri-X. Yes it is a softness.

 

[bidnez]

Both are great ...

Both are great ...

I´ve used both versions and loved them. Lately I shoot only digital and the MC works great on the M8 IMO. The SC shows its (softer) brilliance on BW film, first of all. I´d grab any one if I was lensless! 😀

 

[Bruin]

40/1.4 SC was my first CV lens... I went through the same decision of MC/SC. SC has more veiling flare (therefore less contrast), which softens the bokeh compared to MC. If you shoot mostly B&W, most people will recommend SC to you. Though I always remember ferider's color SC pics, which showed how wonderfully gently SC can render in color.

Try placing a WTB ad in the classifieds if you're looking for one.

 

[Dwayneb9584]

Thanks for all the fast replies guys. I definitely will keep an eye out for a used one in the classifieds section or even doing what Bruin said by placing a WTB ad on there. Does anyone have images they can post of each?

 

[Dwayneb9584]

I've been doing a lot of research on them and I read that the SC version will be good for B&W while the MC version is best for color. The SC version is soft I see in pictures. I'm a bit unsure as to which to get as they both look great. I'm leaning more toward the SC version because I shot a lot of B&W but not sure how it's gonna work for color.

 

[umboody]

I'm currently using an SC and the results I am getting are very nice for black and white work. In my eyes, it's a decision you have to make based on the amount of black and white you are going to be shooting. Because I almost exclusively shoot BW, it's a no-brainer to me.

 

[photogdave]

I shoot a lot of color with the SC version and it looks great. I have no problems with lack of contrast or too much 'softness'. It's a great lens - go for it!
Here's a sample:

 

[robbeiflex]

I use my SC with colour film more than I had originally expected, and I'm happy with the results. It all started with the following test shot on an expired no-name shop-brand film, wide open on ISO 200:

 

[healyzh]

35mm f/1.4 MC

I scanned this with a Nikon Coolscan IV, and can read 2 of the 3 signs that are visible. The film was Kodak Ektachrome E100G.

 

[ferider]

I have both. The two lenses behave only differently with very strong backlight. Like sun-shine through a window, and you photograph inside against the window. Then the SC will have more noticable veiling flare. If you don't want that get the MC, otherwise it doesn't make any difference.

Roland.

 

[Dwayneb9584]

Robbeiflex, I love the colors in that photograph. I've been leaning more toward the SC versioin as I love the classic look in the B&W's and even the look in the color.

 

[richfx]

I tried two copies of the 35mm Nokton 1.4 MC. Both had horrible barrel distortion, bad IQ and were nowhere near f/1.4 in light gathering capability, so I passed on the lens. Others really like the lens, but it didn't work for me.
Rich

 

[robbeiflex]

Robbeiflex, I love the colors in that photograph. I've been leaning more toward the SC versioin as I love the classic look in the B&W's and even the look in the color.

Thanks, me too!

 

[robbeiflex]

...and here's a favourite recent black & white:

You'll find more on my flickr

 

[Vincent.G]

Great shot, Rob! That's during the mid-Autumn festival in Singapore right? Some times I think of getting the MC version to complement my SC version.

 

[kshapero]

Use an SC lens. UV Filter or not?