In a message dated 10/4/2002 11:38:50 AM Eastern Daylight Time,
agschnozz@xxxxxxxxx writes:
> How do you define "QUALITY" in a lens?
>
> Is it Sharpness?
> Is it Contrast?
> Is it Specifications?
> Is it Lens Test Results?
> Is it some esoteric calculations that only a geek can figure out?
Well, to me when you say "QUALITY IN a lens" my first thought is build
quality, but obviously that's not where you are going here.
> It's been a while since we've had our MC/SC/blacknose/silvernose
> wars and I'm in a mood to stir the pot, I guess.
> When is a flawed lens NOT a flawed lens? Is haze on an element
> necessarily a bad thing? Where does character come in?
I suppose any lens still capable of making an image, no matter what the
condition, has at least the potential to make a "QUALITY" image, given a
talented photographer. Some of the most pleasing photographs I've seen have
been quite soft. We all know about the desirablity for some softness in
portraits, for example. Given the choice, though, I'd rather have a pristine,
sharp, contrasty, flare-free lens (if such a lens exists - my 100/2 comes
close). It's a lot easier to get a soft image from a sharp lens than it is to
get a sharp image from a soft one.
> Science and art sometimes mix. With good science, you attempt
> to eliminate all possible variables that could affect the
> outcome of a test. In a lens you may seek absolute sharpness,
> color accuracy and flare control. Basically, you want exactly
> what is there to be captured by the film in exactly the manner
> that it exists in real life. Art is typically different,
> though. Art is typically less concerned with scientific
> accuracy as it is interested in affecting an emotion on the
> viewer.
> Which brings me to my point of discussion. When is a flaw in a
> lens actually a benefit?
When it contributes in a positive manner to the final image. Do I smell a
TOPE theme here? How to put lens flaws to best use, or something?
Paul Schings
< This message was delivered via the Olympus Mailing List >
< For questions, mailto:owner-olympus@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx >
< Web Page: http://Zuiko.sls.bc.ca/swright/olympuslist.html >
|