6 replies to this topic

[pietz]

what do think of the variety of Super-Takumar lenses?

many of them can be bought through ebay for a very low price, like the 50mm/f1.4 for under $100. i already read a few great reviews on them from photographers, so i wanted to know if any cinematographers had any experience with them.

thanks

[andy lee]

I use Super Takumar lenses alot that are very sharp and good !

I like using the 17mm f4

also Pentax 50mm f1.7 and 28mm f2.8 are great lenses in PK mount

the 28-80 zoom is useful too

[jgharding]

I had some before I got the Zeiss ones!

Here's the first video I ever shot with a 550D a couple of years ago. The main wide shot is a 28mm Takumar, it was great. The other shot is a Pentax mount 55mm f1.2. I sold it because the Zeiss equivalent 1.4 was actually faster and nicer looking, despite a tighter aperture. I only got rid of the 28mm f2 when I got the Zeiss 28mm f2 nicknamed Hollywood (no, really, it's official and stuff!), and I'd still be happy to shoot with a Takumar.

IMHO, almost any manual old prime is better than getting a cheap modern low-end plastic Canon lens. They're just vile to use.

[OzNimbus]

Super Takumars are excellent & affordable.

I've got the 20,24,28,35 (both f2 & f3.5), 50, 55, 135 & 300 mm versions, all relatively inexpensive, except for the 20 & 24 which are somewhat collector's items. Careful with the 35 f2 & 50mm, as they have thoriated lens elements (very low level, they're safe to use) which yellow over time. A few days in bright sunlight can clear this out, however.

For more info, check out:
http://www.pentaxfor...unt-Lenses.html

[jgharding]

Holy radioactive lenses, Batman! :0

[P4INKiller]

Holy radioactive lenses, Batman! :0

The best kind of lenses! I like a bit of danger to go along with my work.

And by "work", I mean expensive hobby.

[jgharding]

I wonder if there's any more un-dicovered gems out there? I've tried a lot of second hand stuff now. I never found a good but old Tokina, though the modern 11-16 is essential. I think these Takumars are great, as are many Olympus Zuiko OM lenses. The Zeiss ones are good but I'd never buy them at current prices, I just lucked out by getting in early. The exception being the Zeiss Contax 80-200mm f4, which was bloody awful to use and was flogged.

I suppose it depends on the look you want! There's a lot of ancient single or un-coated glass around that might give some crazy vintage looks to signature shots... I've used Canon L and though it all looks very sharp and bright it all feels a bit sterile to me. I reckon we're all saying: "thread starter, go buy some Takumar before the price goes up".