Senko 25mm 0.95 on an EP2

[hebert01]

Last night I had an opportunity to try out the Senko 25mm 0.95 c-mount CCTV lens on my new EP2.

The results were...well, let's call it "different". As you know, it's a lens not intended to cover the M43 format, so it vignettes terribly. It's also got tremendous barrel distortion. But that's OK, I knew all this when I picked the lens up, and I can eliminate most of the vignetting or distortions with a little PS / cropping if I choose.

It also isn't a true f/0.95. Based on light meter readings, I'd say more like aroung f/1.1ish. Bokeh sure is swirly.

I think I'll use this lens occasionally when I'm searching for that melancholy, dreamy, lo-fi look. But it's not a highly refined optic or Noctilux killer, that's for sure.

Incidentally, I did have to modify the lens to get it to focus to infinity with an RJ adapter. I disassembled the focus ring and machined about 3mm off of it. Works great with the RJ adapter now.

Here are a few sample photographs, shot in the full 4:3 aspect ratio. A few more can be seen here

 

[jtzordon]

The new 4/3 petzval?

 

[squirrel$$$bandit]

Is there a 25/0.95 out there that is not insanely expensive and gives full coverage?

 

[ishpop]

Is there a 25/0.95 out there that is not insanely expensive and gives full coverage?

Same question...

How much does the Senko go for out of curiosity?

 

[hebert01]

Sort of looks like the product of a petzval lens, doesn't it?

I got my Senko lens for $340US from avsupply.com, and modified the lens focus ring myself. I've seen some modified Senkos or adapter/lens kits selling for $5-600 US.

As far as full coverage in a 25mm 0.95 goes... I wasn't able to find it myself, although I would love to hear differently. Sample photos I've seen from the Angenieux and Xenon lenses both show vignette.

 

[Vince Lupo]

Somewhere out there there is a list of C-mount lenses that don't vignette, but I think they are few and far between.....