Performance with an achromat close-up lens at 0.6x magnification
Today I did a quick test with my Canon 500D achromat. This close up lens goes up to 77mm, so a 82-77mm step-down ring is required when mounting on the FE 135/1.8 GM.
The bare lens achieve 0.25x magnification and with the help of the Canon achromat, magnification goes to 0.6x. (So, a bit more than 1:2)
I tried extension tubes but the results were much worse than using this achromat lens. (2+ diopter)
After reviewing an aperture sequence, f/5.6 seems to be the optimal aperture with this combo. (for optimal center and edges)
I while back, I tested the same close-up lens with my Batis 135/2.8 APO and the results were poor in comparison. The better performance for the Sony could be due to its excellent MFD performance.
Here are a couple samples followed by 1:1 crops:
BTW: These shots were handheld using AF-C. I can't do that with my CV 65/2 APO.
FE 135/1.8 GM + Canon 500D achromat (0.6x) @ f/5.6
1:1 crop from the image above
FE 135/1.8 GM + Canon 500D achromat (0.6x) @ f/5.6
Fred Miranda wrote:
That's sad news.
My review copy was perfectly centered and the same goes for my personal copy (received on Monday). I thought this lens would have low variance from my experience testing two great copies of it.
I suspect most folks would not notice, but it was pretty clear to me testing at F1.8 and infinity using manual focus. All the corners were sharp if I focused there, but the corners on the other side were not. On the flip side, I am pretty happy with my second copy of the CV 50. It may supplant my Loxia 50 in my bag. I am probably crazy tho as it is so close in Focal length to the CV 40....
Fred Miranda wrote: Performance with an achromat close-up lens at 0.6x magnification
Today I did a quick test with my Canon 500D achromat. This close up lens goes up to 77mm, so a 82-77mm step-down ring is required when mounting on the FE 135/1.8 GM.
The bare lens achieve 0.25x magnification and with the help of the Canon achromat, magnification goes to 0.6x. (So, a bit more than 1:2)
I tried extension tubes but the results were much worse than using this achromat lens. (2+ diopter)
After reviewing an aperture sequence, f/5.6 seems to be the optimal aperture with this combo. (for optimal center and edges)
I while back, I tested the same close-up lens with my Batis 135/2.8 APO and the results were poor in comparison. The better performance for the Sony could be due to its excellent MFD performance.
Here are a couple samples followed by 1:1 crops:
BTW: These shots were handheld using AF-C. I can't do that with my CV 65/2 APO. ...Show more →
Are you telling me I can sell my CV 65 now since I only use it for product photography....? That would be great news....
Yes, I can't wait to see the review from you. I was about to order the Canon filter but then I realized the working distance on the 65 is perfect for my use. The 135 or 100 will be too long.
I just got done looking at some infinity test images from my 135GM and oh my. It's very very sharp at f/1.8 and excellent across the frame by f/2.8. The AF system is not accurate enough to achieve critical focus wide open, but when you use MF the sharpness really stands out.
jhinkey wrote:
I just got done looking at some infinity test images from my 135GM and oh my. It's very very sharp at f/1.8 and excellent across the frame by f/2.8. The AF system is not accurate enough to achieve critical focus wide open, but when you use MF the sharpness really stands out.
John,
Have you tried AF in Focus Mag.? I find it a great feature and it works great with most Sony natives.
in case anyone complained about the "high" Sony price, definitely check the new Canon RF 85/1.2 at $2700. I believe Sony lens price, especially for their GM, has been on the very reasonable side lately. It would be sure unrealistic to expect Sony price their GM lenses around the Sigma prices.
Sort of a valid point,Sony execs love guys like you lol
But, expensive is expensive. Comparing it to more expensive items doesn’t change that.
hiepphotog wrote:
in case anyone complained about the "high" Sony price, definitely check the new Canon RF 85/1.2 at $2700. I believe Sony lens price, especially for their GM, has been on the very reasonable side lately. It would be sure unrealistic to expect Sony price their GM lenses around the Sigma prices.
KarmaKramer wrote:
Sort of a valid point,Sony execs love guys like you lol
But, expensive is expensive. Comparing it to more expensive items doesn’t change that.
What do you mean by guys like me? How much do you think Sony should price it so it's right for you? I said it in context. I didn't say the 1900 lens is inexpensive, did I? Do you expect Sony to price this as low as Sigma?
hiepphotog wrote:
What do you mean by guys like me? How much do you think Sony should price it so it's right for you? I said it in context. I didn't say the 1900 lens is inexpensive, did I? Do you expect Sony to price this as low as Sigma?
The upcoming RF 85/1.2 DS could cost even more than $2,700.
So when I read this than you realize why you DO pre order on a lens that you know you want or need anyway. If I waited til June that’s about how many lost images and for me how much lost revenue. Obviously we all have our own threshold for pain to the wallet. But when read this I know to myself I made a good move. It’s like the 24mm and a few other products like even the A7rIII which I really needed. I certainly do not like the announce and wait 60 days. To me that’s just bullshit marketing and hyping. I’m much more in tune with 30 days. People need to plan and since no roadmaps are in play you really have to be smart about the market and how it works. I’m very well seasoned,
Copied from SAR
Now the bad news: The new Sony 135mm GM is expected to be in Stock again in June only at BHphoto:
The sad part here is could be even longer if we are talking one store only.
The part before this was about the 24 it will finally be in stock for a grand total of 5 seconds in a week or so. Obviously Sony is very popular. Sure some products may not sell fast anyway and you can wait but you need to have the market figured out.
Your not going to always get this right but if you pay attention you learn. I rather be shooting than waiting.
I don't really buy into the idea of missing shots or losing revenue because someone has to wait a couple months on a particular piece of gear. The market is saturated with insanely capable gear. Not having a 24GM or 135GM for a minute isn't holding anyone back. Even the big whites that Sony is missing...gosh, guess you'll have to use that old dog, the 1DxII and the extremely proven Canon big whites while you wait.
You’re right,of course. But rationalization gets people through the night
drew.a wrote:
I don't really buy into the idea of missing shots or losing revenue because someone has to wait a couple months on a particular piece of gear. The market is saturated with insanely capable gear. Not having a 24GM or 135GM for a minute isn't holding anyone back. Even the big whites that Sony is missing...gosh, guess you'll have to use that old dog, the 1DxII and the extremely proven Canon big whites while you wait.
Totally disagree with both of you. Having the right tools makes my job better and with some gear the only way to get it done correctly. I’m also tired of this judging bullshit going on around here
I don’t need to rationalize anything to anyone on any given day. I shoot big runway shows in 4 days that net me 20 grand in sales twice a year. That’s 40 grand. That’s revenue, need anymore rationalization. Than write me the check. Love to sit home
drew.a wrote:
I don't really buy into the idea of missing shots or losing revenue because someone has to wait a couple months on a particular piece of gear. The market is saturated with insanely capable gear. Not having a 24GM or 135GM for a minute isn't holding anyone back. Even the big whites that Sony is missing...gosh, guess you'll have to use that old dog, the 1DxII and the extremely proven Canon big whites while you wait.
Yep...people have been shooting great images for ages and will continue to do so. How the hell did we ever shoot with last years gear.
