Tom Scales scribed:
>I can't share any 38/2.8 experiences. One passed through my hands, but I
>didn't use it enough. I thought, however, that another fine lens to
>consider is the 90/2 Macro. My single favorite lens.
I always forget about that lens since it's not listed in my copy of "The OM
System Lens Handbook". Nonetheless, perhaps I *should* forget about it
considering that yours is listed as "never sell- don't ask" and the KEH
price on a used one is $725US. Still, you're not the first listee to
mention this lens as a favorite. If you find one for me for about
$250-$300....... <g>
*********
Robert asked:
>Mike, what has been your experience with use of the 50mm/f3.5 Zuiko macro
>with the extension tubes? That combination works well. Did you try it and
not
>like the results? Or do you require more magnification?
Robert my ext. tubes are generic Cambron branded gizmos in sizes 13mm,20mm
and 27mm. They're dark. Very dark. The interior opening is 30.5mm and on
the 27mm ext tube that translates to a 2 stop loss. Stacking them for more
extention pretty much stops me right out of many lighting situations.
To augment the natural lighting I've taken to using a reflective screen
meant to keep sunlight out of a car's windshield. I've also experimented
with a mylar space blanket (highly compact, but too flimsy) and a section
of poster board with a cutout to stick the lens through. (a po'boys ring
reflector,.. sorta)
The other thing I don't like about the rings is that focal distance becomes
so critical that merely setting up the shot becomes tedious. Trying to get
moving bugs or flowers in even the slightest of barely perceptable breezes
becomes really frustrating. I suspect that's the case with many macro
setups. I'm unclear on whether the tele. ext. tube would alleviate some of
that. (Seems like it might.)
>And your reason for considering purchase is 1:1 reproductions or greater?
Let me confess my haphazard Zuikolust. My reason for considering the 38/2.8
is primarily because I found one forsale at http://www.usedphoto.com for
$250US. When I first saw it I felt like this was perhaps my one chance to
acquire one at a reasonable price, and since I've seldom seen anything like
that for sale used, I was temporarily considering putting my plans to
expand my Med. Format system on hold. Since then, and due largely to the
excellent and timely coments that I've gotten here, I've decided to tell
Brad not to hold the 38/2.8 for me any longer. (Have at it folks!)
If it didn't need the auto tubes or bellows to work, it might be very
intriguing. However, it's apparently a lot more specialized equip. than I
really need at this time.
>In short, unless you have some specific objective in mind I'd go for the
>least
>expensive (but quality) solution to the *present* problem and save up for
the
>other lens to purchase when/if photo requirements dictate it.
>My US$0.02,
>Robert
That's very sound advice, Robert, and I think I shall take it. I _need_ a
wide angle for my Kowa MF, I don't necessarily need another Zuiko macro.
(Unless Tom wants to sell me his 90/2 ;-)
>------------------------------
>------------------------------
Brian P. Huber did further contribute to my photo education:
>In a nutshell, the 135 will get you working distance, the 38 will get more
>magnification, but you'll be on top of your subject.
>
>I'd recommend the 65-116 tube for field work over the bellows any day.
>Bellows is really a table-top device - too bulky, and likely to fragile.
>Not sure how I'd react if it rained on my bellows!
Thanks again Brian! It sounds like the 38 won't necessarily eliminate some
of my objections to the ext. rings without also getting the tele. auto
tube, which sounds like it might be more useful to me with some of my
existing gear.
Brad at usedphoto.com also lists a Viv. 90/2.8 macro but at $120 it looks
like it might be a little high. KEH has a few of the Viv. series I's for
more $$ but representing perhaps a better buy.
Thanks to all who responded!!
Mike Swaim
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