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This is related to my other post #984503
(Here is part 1 #985194)
This is day two of testing the Leica Summaron 35mm f2.8 on the Fujifilm X-Pro2.
TL;DR: I think I’m really enjoying this lens.
I went into it thinking I’d probably just sell it since it was gifted to me - assumed I wouldn’t like it. But after just a couple of days with it mounted on the X-Pro2, I’ve been surprisingly drawn to it.
Shooting wide open at f2.8 (which is how I’m testing it - to best reveal the lens’s character), the soft roll-off is really pleasing. It feels organic. The lens is over 50 years old, so I expected some quirks-but the quality feels natural, not overly “vintage". Takes the digital edge off.
The short focus throw is also really nice. Compared to the Summicron 35mm f2 v3 I usually shoot on my M262 (which has a longer throw), the Summaron feels tighter and more responsive when zone focusing.
One gripe: the infinity lock. It’s kind of annoying. I find myself accidentally locking it too often, but I’m getting used to holding the button down as I rotate the ring. I’ve read others complain about it, so I know I’m not alone there.
Most of these shots were from a bike ride to the river - about 6 miles out to swim and enjoy the sun. Perfect day for making a few photos.
This kind of work is honestly just fun. I enjoy the process, and even more so once I’m happy with the results and can share them.
Still building confidence in my work over time. I think I’m slowly refining my style - even if the subject matter is simple. Easier said than done, as any editor/curator knows (and I say this as one through NOICE Magazine).
Let me know what you think. I’ll try to upload higher resolution versions this time around (but not too high).
*Also, I use a program called Dehancer for creating the grain in these photographs. I highly recommend the program actually, I've been using it for a long time. If you would like to try it out, I have a promo code. Use "Pictureroom" for 10% off I believe.
this territory is moderated
The Summaron is very underrated!
I switched to that from a Canada Summicron (version four?) in 96 I think it was, not only was it cheaper but also it has NO vignetting open, which the Summicron had...
That mattered a lot on E6 of course, especially since I had some prospective, paid work in the pipeline.
Also I just painted it black myself, same with the M-2 that I used during those years :-)
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