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Your content is always very informative. For those that haven't joined Matt's patreon, I joined about a month ago and it is well worth the money. The additional content is worth far more than the low prices. He is also very responsive and always willing to answer questions and help out. I highly recommend supporting Matt due to his knowledge, skill, and because he's genuinely a really decent guy with a big heart.
Thanks Zoltan! I think that is to combat my thought that people will not wanting to listen so I try to keep it as short as I can plus all the info I’d like to find if researching a lens for myself. Thanks for the feedback!
Hi Matt, I follow your UA-cam channel for quite a long time. All are GREAT REVIEWS! I have this Canon 50/1.4 LTM too. The only draw back for this lens is quite inconsistency with the RF focusing, most of them I heard from my friends are kind of back or front focus. I spent a whole afternoon to put extra shims and make the focus dead on even at wide open. Then I was amazed by the quality of this lens, so sharp with very nice bokeh. It is definitely under-value by the current market price. Thanks again for your detail review.
Additional remark: Even the Canon f/1.4 lens is nicknamed "Japanese Summilux", the lens design is different from its Leica successor. The Canon 50/1.4 LTM is a Planar lens design, 6 elements in 4 groups. Canon made two identical versions of the 50/1.4 LTM lens - version II starts around SN 29700. Optics of both versions are exactly the same.
Thanks Martin, great info! I'm surprised it has so much chararcter if a Planar but it accounts for the sharpness I guess. My Zeiss Planar was very sharp. (ZM)
Ever notice how every other 50/1.4 from this era needed 7 elements, but Canon made an excellent lens with only 6? How (IMO): If you can find the optical diagram, you'll see that it has very thick, very steeply curved inner elements compared to other lenses of the day. These would have been hard to manufacture, so doing it this way was a bit of flex on Canon's part.
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom I haven't! I just got my 50mm summar f2 CLA'd, so I'm playing with that. But if I know myself, that summitar will make its way onto my camera shelf soon.
Great video, thank you for posting. I purchased this lens as a result of your video and the Analog Insights video and web reviews, and it came yesterday. It might be noteworthy that although there are full stop aperture clicks, the lens allows the blades to narrow/widen between stops so there are infinite aperture settings possible. Engaging the infinity focus lock seems to help while mounting/removing the lens. Cheers from Canada.
Great overview! Thanks Matt! I had the 50mm f1.4 - my first 50mm rangefinder lens. It does some great things and perfect for digital if like you say, you want that slightly vintage, non-modern look. I recently picked up the 50mm f1.8 and keen to try it out. It is certainly lighter and compact in size...perfect for a M mount film body, keeping the overall weight down.
Shane I have a q for you. I have been using the 1.8 on my M9 for a while now and so impressed with the vintage canon lenses I have been looking at the 1.4 and the 1.5 Now that you have both and as you say are working in digital, how much of a real difference is there in output. I am tempted to stay with my sharper 1.8 knowing that turning down the clarity in LR may have the desired vintification we all love. I guess what I am asking is apart from the extra stop can you not get the same effect via the 1.8 in a much smaller package. Mmmm
I always look forward to your reviews and advice, always spot on. The only Canon 50mm lens I've used is a modern version: the Canon EF 50mm F1.4 USM, and it's very sharp. I got great results from it. I must look into these Canon lenses! Thanks so much Matt!
Wish you could add a paragraph on F1.2 and F0.95 LTM Canon rangefinder lenses too, in comparison to these two and whether that astronomical price jump is justifiable/ more importantly, that shallow DOF is usable?
Great video again! I prefer using this fast lens on my M3 with largest focus magnification to allow most precise focusing at f/1.4 but also use it on my M-E 240 well. I am not a big fan of the focus lock but got used to it. I can confirm the flaring which can add to artistic value. The lens has a swirly bokeh, but it depends on the scenery - it is a different swirl compared to the Leica 50/2 Summitar lens. Agree also with vignetting, sharpness, and color rendition you mention. I never used this lens so far for portraits but for many nature shots very successfully.
Thanks Martin, yes some of the photos in the video were shot with the M3. Great combo.. thanks for confirming the details and yes I bet nice for nature too. Maybe I will try in 2021!
I have both of these lenses. I am currently shooting the 1.8 a lot but will go back and shoot some more with the 1.4. They are both great lenses for a hack like me and I suppose a pro like you.
I like this lens so much I bought two copies. I paid a bundle for the first one, and more for service. It actually turned out to be cheaper to get my second copy sourced from Japan Camera Hunter as it was already perfect. I have been unlucky with f/1.8 Canon lenses, out of five copies, all had problems and had to be returned or repaired. All had haze despite being sold as "Mint". I kept an early chrome model, but it is still far from ideal even after expensive cleaning. Great example photos, thanks for sharing.
Thanks Jon, sorry you had so much trouble with the 1.8s. I feel quite fortunate now hearing that. Yes it can be cheaper to buy from Japan, no question. Just make sure it's a good copy or can return it. (I'm just in the process of sending a lens back to Japan) :)
I had this Canon 1.4 and I loved it except the long long long scale for focus from 1 m to infinity as you explained... I prefer short rings like other Leica M lenses. So I sold it when I got a nice bargain on a Summilux 1.4 Silver that I'm using more and more on my M and CL .... Thanks for this very good video
Thanks yes technically the modern Summilux wins of choice and is my choice for client work but i'm enjoying the less perfect more arty look of the Canon currently.. i'm working backwards and started with the 'nicer' lens haha ..only because I didn't know of Canon back then!
Got 1.4 LTM version years ago to shoot with Fuji, still has it and won’t sell it. It has it’s on character and look on images and now after changing to Leica hope that it gets more use.
Im eyeballing this and the 1.8 but they are really hard to find here in eu. I'm thinking tobbuy it when I get back to philippines and get it from japan. Cheers as always thank you for your reviews! The best!
Hi, hmm, Canon is awesome, I just bought another as mine has haze. Excellent sharpness for price. Nikkor wins for contrast, lack of flare, and can close focus
sorry for the silly question but, if i get one of these lenses will i have to calibrate my m2 for this lens to shoot accurately? or can i be confident enough to take photos with it right out the gate? thanks!
@@BlueHourVisions I'm not sure if you are asking me or Matt but MY answer is it should be fine an any M mount body once you get an adaptor for it. Also note, there are different adapters based on focal length so shop carefully. If it matters to YOU a downside to this particular lens is its size.....it DOES block the lower left corner of the viewfinder window a bit more than my mid 1950's Canon 50 f1.8 that is a bit smaller.
I own one (got it from Japan for 117 € plus an original T-50-2 Canon lens hood from another Japanese seller) 140 € not bad at all for a very good lens in excellent mechanical and optical condition. I fully agree with you: the Japanese Summilux is "both sharp and soft" and so perfect for low light portraiture. In my opinion it's on par with my M Summilux of 1973 but being "front heavy' the " Lux" feels totally different in terms of balance once mounted on a M camera...
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom Out of curiosity ? I have checked the invoices of my Leitz lenses (bought second hand in 1998). I did'nt know anything about Leitz glass then: 3800 francs (580 €) for my 35 mm f 2 "8 element" (1966) and 4130 francs (630 €) for my 50 mm f 1,4 (1973). It does'nt take 23 years of inflation into account of course but I have the feeling I have done two very good deals...Thanks for yr videos, Matt !
Hi, eek, please check Google to be sure. If I remember it’s a 40mm~ filter snd takes push on hoods. I think the LLL hood for the LLL ELCAN 50mm f2 is the same diameter FYI (see my recent video on vintage lenses).
Hi Matt, thanks for a great video on this lens. If I purchased this lens for my M6 and got the LTM to M mount adapter would I have any focusing issues?
Matt: Have had that lens for a couple years, I like the pastel glow from it and enjoy using the light playing in the lens for effect. Having a Canon L39 50mm 1.2 refitted with new rear block at KANTO CAMERA in Japan. Will have the 0.95 , 1.2 , and 1.4 as a set soon.
Hi, I also have the 50 1.2 but the rear (?) element has fogged up so badly that I can’t use it. I had the lens CLA’d but within a few months it hazed up even worse. How was your experience with Kanto Camera’s refit? Do they replace the element with a new one that definitely will not have haze issues again? I’m reluctant to spend more money on the lens unless I can repair it properly. Thanks
@@Cactaceae33 eek sorry to hear. No they dont replace anything. Just clean it. If you are in humid country you need a dry storage for lens I think. Not an issue in UK.
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom I think you're right... I'm going to cut my losses and try and sell it (if that is even possible) and replace it with the 1.4. Helpful review thanks
Sorry for my delayed reply and thank you! I adjust contrast in post if needed but good light gets you most the way. I only really use filters for blue sky days with no models.
Great video as usual, do you have any comments on the Canon 50mm f1.2? I bought one on a iiig in the mid 60’s when I was in high school. It seems decent, but very heavy. The iiig came with a auxiliary finder as the size of this lens blocked the view finder
The f1.2 has the unfortunate tendency to develop an unrepairable haze on one of the inner elements. Looking for a very clean one can fetch a pretty penny and the performance of the 1.2 is not better than the 1.4 version.
@@caldera878 thanks for the info! Yes my expectation would be a softer heavier lens to the 1.4.. that’s why I’ve never really listed for one but on digital I’m sure it gives a nice soft look for female portraits.
Great video. Thank you for posting. I wonder if this Canon f1.4 has perfect/proper function of the focus with a Leica M6 rangefinder patch? I wonder if when this Canon f1.4 is on a Leica M6 whether the lens release is still accessible on the M6 camera body. I have used some adapters with old Pentax screw mount lenses onto my M6 and was shocked that in some cases there is very little space around the lens to access the lens removal button - I do not want the Pentax lenses to be permanently fixed to the M6. Cheers from Canada.
Thanks yes I feel your fear ha! Yes this very small adapters will not block anything. See some of my other LTM videos and I show the adapter much better.
Hi Matt Im loving your channel I use the contax 139 with the Zeiss 50 mm f1.7 . I love it but I really struggle to focus with my old eyes , so Im considering a rangefinder ( Perhaps canon P ) Do you think this will make focussing easier ? cheers
Hi Austen, welcome and thanks for your kind words. Yes absolutely, RF cameras are much better for "bad" eyes. I will make a video on this soon as I have the same issue.
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom well that's me even more broke then ! I wear plus 3 reading glasses , what do you think would be the ultimate easy fine focus rangefinder? Please don't say Leica !
When buying either of these lenses avoid like the plague any examples which are "cheap" because they have haze. The haze generated by the lubricants in these lenses, in particular, seems to etch the glass. This makes the images soft. As damage to the glass is one of the most difficult and time consuming to repair it is probably best to pay the market price and get a pristine one from a reputable a dealer.
Great advice. Sadly my 1.8 lens developed haze and I did look on eBay and all the cheaper listings have haze. Yes, as I understand too it's important to get a clean copy as not so easy to fix.
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom Thank you! I am trying to use a Nikkor-S.C 50mm f/1.4 ltm on my M240. The focus throw on the lens is huge so my 50-75 or 35-135 adapters don't seem to work correctly. Can you tell me the specific adapter I need to buy so the 2 can work together? My Canon 50mm F/1.4 ltm works just fine with the 50-75 adapter. Thank you, in advance!
hello Matt , I need your help please . i bought recently one Canon 50mm 1.4 LTM. It is my first Canon LTM purchase . I noticed the focus ring is a little hard to turn , is it normal ? What can be done : should I lubricate the lens focus helicoid ? Also i am using an LTM/M adapter from Amazon to mount the lens on a M3 or a M6TTL camera but the 50mm view frames of the camera are not set automaticaly to 50mm ? it is normal ? ( with a leica 50mm it is perfectly working ) . thanks in advance for your help . daniel
Hi Daniel, remember these are old lenses so each is different and it’s possible some are tight to turn. You can send for CLA. The adapter gives the framelines not the lens. Make sure the adapter has 50 75 on it. If not it won’t give those lines.
Great post Matt, as usual. Ah the Great Debate. A bit of history. The Nikkor 50/1.5 was a copy of the prewar Zeiss Sonnar 50/1.5 obtained (some would say stolen)by Nippon Kogaku after WW2. It is a very rare lens since it was made for only a short period of time before being “recalculated” as the Nikkor-SC 50/1.4. It was made in great numbers and was popularized by western Photojournalists during the Korean War who used them primarily on their screwmount Leicas. This lead to the popularization of Nikkors (Nikon ) lenses, and by extension their later SLRs as professional tools. It is arguably the most important lens in Nikon history. It remained king of the fast 50’s until (arguably) the second Summilux-M. Despite large production it remains very much in demand today with high prices attesting to its continued utility. Canon at the same time also cloned the 50/1.5 Sonnar as the Canon 50/1.5 a very similar lens and a relative bargain today. They are the zenith of Sonnars, certainly in ltm. The Soviet Jupiter-3 is also a clone of the 50/1.5 Sonnar but suffers minor incompatibilities that result in misfocusing, particularly at or near full aperture. Amazing lens value for a mirrorless digital as you have seen. The Canon 50/1.4 is an excellent much more modern Planar design which I used for many years on my first Leica (postwar IIIc 408xxx). Tried a Summarit 1.5 but didnt like it. When the Summarit was lost (along with alot of other gear) in a 1987 burglary my insurance replaced it with a new Summilux-M, which I found no better than the Canon 50/1.4 and underutilized. About a decade ago I bought the 50/1.4 Nikkor which I could use on all my ltm bodies (at that time IIIa, IIIc, IIIfRD, Canon L-1 and P)as well as M cameras. Hard to describe, there is just something special about Sonnars. Sold the Summilux which more than financed the Nikkor 1.4, Canon 1.4 and a recently acquired Canon 1.5. Difficult for a Canon guy to say but would rate the Nikkor 1.4 slightly ahead of the Canon 50/1.4 and (overpriced) Summilux. Evaluation of Canon 50/1.5 is incomplete due to pandemic, but it is promising. The scale is not linear because the Sonnars are different, with different uses.
Thanks Adam!! Great information as usual and I’m grateful you confirm my thoughts that the Nikon is the sharpest. I have a future video planned that might interest you in this topic :). I’ve not seen a Canon 50/1.5 listed for a long time now. I hope you got a nice copy.
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom I didnt imply that I thought the Nikkor was the sharpest, rather the best overall. The Canon is sharper at 1.4, but the Nikkor markedly sharpens up just before f2 (ca f1.7-1.8) which I find to be the sweet spot of that lens. My new Canon 1.5 is immaculate optically and mechanically and so I have wed it to a Canon VI-L which came with a lovely brown leather case that looks like it was bought yesterday. Short of time travel I cannot explain the condition of this case. It came with said VI-L and a contemporary 50/1.8, both cosmetically gorgeous. My Canon 50/1.4 and Nikkor 50/1.4 are optically perfect, but having bounced around in various camera bags, cosmetically not so much....
@@AGL93311 Thanks Adam, I appreciate the clarification.. OK here is one for you.. I read some time back that the Nikkor is more optimised up close (so sharper) and the Canon is better at infinity.. The Nikkor does capture a lot of fine detail in close..
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom Yes in my Experience the Nikkor 50/1.4 is best close up and in the range f1.7-f4. At infinity The corners of a full frame never sharpen up even stopped down, supposedly a generalized Sonnar feature; not landscape lenses. I believe you may have been reading the posts of A certain Detroit-area lawyer, Dante Stella. I believe he says the Nikkor was optimized for close up performance, but doesnt quote any evidence that it was intentional. Nevertheless I belief he is correct about The lens whether intentional or not. You really need to buy one to use on your M3, lose that Contax/Nikkor version. It also focuses, like the 50/2 Nikkor, to 0.5m. Either lens mount can be modified to RF focus closer, I believe to near 0.7m which is even more down your alley....
@@AGL93311 thanks Adam, yes both my M3s are modified to 0.7m so I’m ready on that front. ..and I may be closer to your suggestion than you may think in terms of using on the M3. The video will come ;) Thanks for info verses close focus - yes you are correct about the website from memory so great knowledge from you on that. Thanks
i just bought a canon 7, as i really can't justify the cost of a simular leica (M3) i have been looking at lenses, and the Canon screw mounts seem much more affordable. and as i am looking for a film look, not the sharp digi result, these older lenses are a good choice. i was looking for a Nikor, but have yet to see a LMT, did they even , ever make them? i used to do a huge amount of 50 mm shooting, but in the past few years have gone much wider. but i do have a 50mm summerit f2, that after i get the apture working correctly, should work on the Canon. ( i am taking it off my one Leica lllc.) anyway, i enjoy your evals of these older lens, makes shopping a little easier. money, as i am retired, fixed income, is always an issue, so i will never have the Leica glass, so i am hoping that i can do with the canon/perhaps Nikor.. have a good day.
Thanks Bob, yes see my lens videos, the canon 50s are excellent. You don’t need Leica glass. Yes Nikkor made ltm, I have 50 f2. Some Nikkor wides are expensive.
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom thank you. i will watch for a 50. i think i am watching one, not pretty, has hase, but i think that is better than scratches, haze can be cleaned, scratches? no so much. but it seems nikor lmt are not as common...thanks for your vids.
I found one of these 50 1.4 in mint conditionCLA done. Can you put a UV filter on it as any other modern lens? I just put BW 007 on all my lenses . Thanks
I own this lens and it's so nice with very cheaper price than Summilux. I would like to know how much difference between this LTM and Summilux, is it worth to pay more for something greater?
Hi Matt. What lense you would use or recommend for black and white portrait ? I would really like to create photos especially like those from Vivian Maier and Tri X era .Thank you !
One of my favourites! I love using this lens with high contrast films or push processing. It has such a lovely mellow quality that just seems to dampen all kinds of harsh contrasts and textures. The same goes for colour saturation. Never getting rid of this lens, that's for sure. Edit: It costs that much these days?! Wow! Glad I bought it a few years ago :-) Then again, it's still super cheap compared to a Summilux!
Hi sorry no. I only bought them in the last year or so and they are lenses to keep. I just bought them on eBay so maybe look there. I hope you find what you need. (50 1.8 are quite common)
Firstly, would just like to say that your content is wonderful!!! Just watched content by Mark McMahon (ua-cam.com/video/k6RkPx73E_o/v-deo.htmlsi=Ce9zox9cojRQY4vy). In this video, he says his nikon 50 f1.4 screwed up/bent his focusing tab on the zorki 4k… From watching your video, i got the canon 50mm f1.4, and plan to use on a zorki 4…. Dont risk your cameras on my account; but just wanna check if you have used the canon 50 f1.4 + zorki 4k combo, and if there were any issues with bent focus tab?
⭐️ Patreon: Join us today for more videos! From £1/mth - www.patreon.com/mrleicacom
✅ Check price on eBay: (US) ebay.us/MQ8zhj (UK) ebay.us/h5OBJn
▶️ Watch Next: Series 2: Leica Thread Mount Lens Reviews - ua-cam.com/play/PLQrNLZpnEw8ByZcJCXoa2iM-I6oRfAq2b.html
Your content is always very informative. For those that haven't joined Matt's patreon, I joined about a month ago and it is well worth the money. The additional content is worth far more than the low prices. He is also very responsive and always willing to answer questions and help out. I highly recommend supporting Matt due to his knowledge, skill, and because he's genuinely a really decent guy with a big heart.
Aww thanks James, I'll put the mentioned cheque in the post to you haha :) (Joking everyone!*) Much appreciated thank you.
Direct, succinct and knowledgeable as usual. Thanks.
Thanks Zoltan! I think that is to combat my thought that people will not wanting to listen so I try to keep it as short as I can plus all the info I’d like to find if researching a lens for myself. Thanks for the feedback!
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom I think you cost me the price of the 1.4. It's a good lens at a good price. Thanks for your knowledge and solid advice.
Hi Matt, I follow your UA-cam channel for quite a long time. All are GREAT REVIEWS!
I have this Canon 50/1.4 LTM too. The only draw back for this lens is quite inconsistency with the RF focusing, most of them I heard from my friends are kind of back or front focus. I spent a whole afternoon to put extra shims and make the focus dead on even at wide open. Then I was amazed by the quality of this lens, so sharp with very nice bokeh. It is definitely under-value by the current market price.
Thanks again for your detail review.
Thank you! You sound much smarter and more skilled than me! Mine works luckily and yes a lovely lens for sure. (A keeper!)
Great review, phantastic pictures! This has become the best place for lens recommendations I know of.
Thanks Lugen! More lens reviews to come including some high end new ones :)
Thanks Matt, just taken the plunge and bought an M8 with this as my first lens, very excited to get out there and enjoy
Congrats Rich!
Additional remark: Even the Canon f/1.4 lens is nicknamed "Japanese Summilux", the lens design is different from its Leica successor. The Canon 50/1.4 LTM is a Planar lens design, 6 elements in 4 groups. Canon made two identical versions of the 50/1.4 LTM lens - version II starts around SN 29700. Optics of both versions are exactly the same.
Thanks Martin, great info! I'm surprised it has so much chararcter if a Planar but it accounts for the sharpness I guess. My Zeiss Planar was very sharp. (ZM)
Ever notice how every other 50/1.4 from this era needed 7 elements, but Canon made an excellent lens with only 6? How (IMO): If you can find the optical diagram, you'll see that it has very thick, very steeply curved inner elements compared to other lenses of the day. These would have been hard to manufacture, so doing it this way was a bit of flex on Canon's part.
@@jlwilliams thank you! That optical design probably helps with the look of this lens.
Thanks Martin ! Mine is serial number 36830 ( version II then...).
I can vouch for the quality of this lens! It's really delightful. Definitely my favorite ltm lens.
Thanks Sean! How you tried the Summitar.. to me that’s even more characterful!
Sean ; yes this is a crackerjack lens. I do not shoot lovely women....so is probably a waste for me...
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom I haven't! I just got my 50mm summar f2 CLA'd, so I'm playing with that. But if I know myself, that summitar will make its way onto my camera shelf soon.
@@Seapatico nice I’ve still not tried the Summar
Great video Matt - don’t forget the Leica T series L mount cameras also - I love my TL2 as well as M’s. Love the images too !
Ah yes thanks Ivor, sorry I forgot the T series (I think mainly as I’ve never used one). Thanks!
Great video, thank you for posting. I purchased this lens as a result of your video and the Analog Insights video and web reviews, and it came yesterday. It might be noteworthy that although there are full stop aperture clicks, the lens allows the blades to narrow/widen between stops so there are infinite aperture settings possible. Engaging the infinity focus lock seems to help while mounting/removing the lens. Cheers from Canada.
Thanks and congrats on your Canon!
Spot on. My favorite ltm lens.
Thanks John!
Great overview! Thanks Matt! I had the 50mm f1.4 - my first 50mm rangefinder lens. It does some great things and perfect for digital if like you say, you want that slightly vintage, non-modern look. I recently picked up the 50mm f1.8 and keen to try it out. It is certainly lighter and compact in size...perfect for a M mount film body, keeping the overall weight down.
Thanks Shane! The 1.8 is a good performer, see that video for samples, yes I love the size and weight of it too!
Shane I have a q for you. I have been using the 1.8 on my M9 for a while now and so impressed with the vintage canon lenses I have been looking at the 1.4 and the 1.5 Now that you have both and as you say are working in digital, how much of a real difference is there in output. I am tempted to stay with my sharper 1.8 knowing that turning down the clarity in LR may have the desired vintification we all love. I guess what I am asking is apart from the extra stop can you not get the same effect via the 1.8 in a much smaller package. Mmmm
This lens is currently undervalued. The prices for the 50mm f1.4 LTM will certainly go up.
Great lens I think.. don't blame me if the price changes then! :) :)
I always look forward to your reviews and advice, always spot on. The only Canon 50mm lens I've used is a modern version: the Canon EF 50mm F1.4 USM, and it's very sharp. I got great results from it. I must look into these Canon lenses! Thanks so much Matt!
Thanks Lucy, yes this should have more character than modern lenses, nice if you can find one!
Wish you could add a paragraph on F1.2 and F0.95 LTM Canon rangefinder lenses too, in comparison to these two and whether that astronomical price jump is justifiable/ more importantly, that shallow DOF is usable?
Thanks. If I get to use these lenses I will make a video 👍🏻
Great video again! I prefer using this fast lens on my M3 with largest focus magnification to allow most precise focusing at f/1.4 but also use it on my M-E 240 well. I am not a big fan of the focus lock but got used to it. I can confirm the flaring which can add to artistic value. The lens has a swirly bokeh, but it depends on the scenery - it is a different swirl compared to the Leica 50/2 Summitar lens. Agree also with vignetting, sharpness, and color rendition you mention. I never used this lens so far for portraits but for many nature shots very successfully.
Thanks Martin, yes some of the photos in the video were shot with the M3. Great combo.. thanks for confirming the details and yes I bet nice for nature too. Maybe I will try in 2021!
I have both of these lenses. I am currently shooting the 1.8 a lot but will go back and shoot some more with the 1.4. They are both great lenses for a hack like me and I suppose a pro like you.
Thanks Zoltan, both are great lenses!
I like this lens so much I bought two copies. I paid a bundle for the first one, and more for service. It actually turned out to be cheaper to get my second copy sourced from Japan Camera Hunter as it was already perfect. I have been unlucky with f/1.8 Canon lenses, out of five copies, all had problems and had to be returned or repaired. All had haze despite being sold as "Mint". I kept an early chrome model, but it is still far from ideal even after expensive cleaning. Great example photos, thanks for sharing.
Thanks Jon, sorry you had so much trouble with the 1.8s. I feel quite fortunate now hearing that. Yes it can be cheaper to buy from Japan, no question. Just make sure it's a good copy or can return it. (I'm just in the process of sending a lens back to Japan) :)
I had this Canon 1.4 and I loved it except the long long long scale for focus from 1 m to infinity as you explained... I prefer short rings like other Leica M lenses. So I sold it when I got a nice bargain on a Summilux 1.4 Silver that I'm using more and more on my M and CL .... Thanks for this very good video
Thanks yes technically the modern Summilux wins of choice and is my choice for client work but i'm enjoying the less perfect more arty look of the Canon currently.. i'm working backwards and started with the 'nicer' lens haha ..only because I didn't know of Canon back then!
Got 1.4 LTM version years ago to shoot with Fuji, still has it and won’t sell it. It has it’s on character and look on images and now after changing to Leica hope that it gets more use.
Great yes they are nice for Leicas too.
Just bought mint in near mint for 180$. Can't wait to try it out! Thanks champ
Wow great price! Congrats
Im eyeballing this and the 1.8 but they are really hard to find here in eu. I'm thinking tobbuy it when I get back to philippines and get it from japan. Cheers as always thank you for your reviews! The best!
Thanks! 1.8 should be easier to find but yes 1.4 less common. Japan is great idea if you will be that way for sure :)
Hi Matt, do you have, perchance, a comparison of sharpness and contrast between the LTM canon 50 f1.8 and ltm Nikkor H.C. 50 f2?
Hi, hmm, Canon is awesome, I just bought another as mine has haze. Excellent sharpness for price. Nikkor wins for contrast, lack of flare, and can close focus
I love mine!!! I can also adapt it to my Leica M10 for interesting color renditions when it isn't on my Canon 7 shooting b&w..😎
Nice! Yes great lens for sure!
sorry for the silly question but, if i get one of these lenses will i have to calibrate my m2 for this lens to shoot accurately? or can i be confident enough to take photos with it right out the gate? thanks!
@@BlueHourVisions I'm not sure if you are asking me or Matt but MY answer is it should be fine an any M mount body once you get an adaptor for it. Also note, there are different adapters based on focal length so shop carefully. If it matters to YOU a downside to this particular lens is its size.....it DOES block the lower left corner of the viewfinder window a bit more than my mid 1950's Canon 50 f1.8 that is a bit smaller.
Always enjoy your very useful videos Matt. Can you tell me if this lens can be used on a Leica SL camera please? Many thanks
Thanks Philip! Yes for sure. I use on my digital Leica SL.
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom Thanks Matt. Sorry I forgot to ask you if I need an adaptor to use this lens on an SL? Thank you
@@philiplevick5508 yes 2, M-L & M-LTM
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom Thank you very much Matt
I own one (got it from Japan for 117 € plus an original T-50-2 Canon lens hood from another Japanese seller) 140 € not bad at all for a very good lens in excellent mechanical and optical condition. I fully agree with you: the Japanese Summilux is "both sharp and soft" and so perfect for low light portraiture. In my opinion it's on par with my M Summilux of 1973 but being "front heavy' the " Lux" feels totally different in terms of balance once mounted on a M camera...
Thanks and great price! I find the Summilux ASPH front hevy but i've not tried the old version.
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom Out of curiosity ? I have checked the invoices of my Leitz lenses (bought second hand in 1998). I did'nt know anything about Leitz glass then: 3800 francs (580 €) for my 35 mm f 2 "8 element" (1966) and 4130 francs (630 €) for my 50 mm f 1,4 (1973). It does'nt take 23 years of inflation into account of course but I have the feeling I have done two very good deals...Thanks for yr videos, Matt !
@@leguennecthierry3033 Yes you got some great deals! :)
Hello, very good video. A question about how many millimeters should I buy the lens hood for this canon lens?
Hi, eek, please check Google to be sure. If I remember it’s a 40mm~ filter snd takes push on hoods. I think the LLL hood for the LLL ELCAN 50mm f2 is the same diameter FYI (see my recent video on vintage lenses).
Hi Matt, thanks for a great video on this lens. If I purchased this lens for my M6 and got the LTM to M mount adapter would I have any focusing issues?
Hi, no it will work fine on your M6.
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom thanks Matt
Matt: Have had that lens for a couple years, I like the pastel glow from it and enjoy using the light playing in the lens for effect. Having a Canon L39 50mm 1.2 refitted with new rear block at KANTO CAMERA in Japan.
Will have the 0.95 , 1.2 , and 1.4 as a set soon.
Thanks Chris, an impressive trio for sure!! I've I get to test the 0.95 or 1.2 I will put a video together with samples.
Hi, I also have the 50 1.2 but the rear (?) element has fogged up so badly that I can’t use it. I had the lens CLA’d but within a few months it hazed up even worse. How was your experience with Kanto Camera’s refit? Do they replace the element with a new one that definitely will not have haze issues again? I’m reluctant to spend more money on the lens unless I can repair it properly. Thanks
@@Cactaceae33 eek sorry to hear. No they dont replace anything. Just clean it. If you are in humid country you need a dry storage for lens I think. Not an issue in UK.
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom I think you're right... I'm going to cut my losses and try and sell it (if that is even possible) and replace it with the 1.4. Helpful review thanks
@@Cactaceae33 sorry if I made you want to sell your lens. Maybe watch other videos first for a balanced decision.
Your contrast range is always bang-on. Do you use color filters?
Or do you just manage in post?
Sorry for my delayed reply and thank you! I adjust contrast in post if needed but good light gets you most the way. I only really use filters for blue sky days with no models.
PERFECT timing. Just got the Canon 50 1.4 delivered for my iiic
Ah perfect!! Congrats and enjoy it! :)
Great video as usual, do you have any comments on the Canon 50mm f1.2?
I bought one on a iiig in the mid 60’s when I was in high school. It seems decent, but very heavy. The iiig came with a auxiliary finder as the size of this lens blocked the view finder
Thanks Patrick, i've not had the chance to use a 1.2 yet but if and when I do I will be sure to report back on UA-cam. Thanks for the finder info.
The f1.2 has the unfortunate tendency to develop an unrepairable haze on one of the inner elements. Looking for a very clean one can fetch a pretty penny and the performance of the 1.2 is not better than the 1.4 version.
@@caldera878 thanks for the info! Yes my expectation would be a softer heavier lens to the 1.4.. that’s why I’ve never really listed for one but on digital I’m sure it gives a nice soft look for female portraits.
Great video. Thank you for posting. I wonder if this Canon f1.4 has perfect/proper function of the focus with a Leica M6 rangefinder patch? I wonder if when this Canon f1.4 is on a Leica M6 whether the lens release is still accessible on the M6 camera body. I have used some adapters with old Pentax screw mount lenses onto my M6 and was shocked that in some cases there is very little space around the lens to access the lens removal button - I do not want the Pentax lenses to be permanently fixed to the M6. Cheers from Canada.
Thanks yes I feel your fear ha! Yes this very small adapters will not block anything. See some of my other LTM videos and I show the adapter much better.
Hey Matt! Is there anyway you can do a video on the canon 50mm 1.2 ltm? Thank you! 🙏🏽
If I ever get one yes 👍🏻
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom Thank you!
Hi Matt Im loving your channel
I use the contax 139 with the Zeiss 50 mm f1.7 . I love it but I really struggle to focus with my old eyes , so Im considering a rangefinder ( Perhaps canon P ) Do you think this will make focussing easier ? cheers
Hi Austen, welcome and thanks for your kind words. Yes absolutely, RF cameras are much better for "bad" eyes. I will make a video on this soon as I have the same issue.
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom well that's me even more broke then ! I wear plus 3 reading glasses , what do you think would be the ultimate easy fine focus rangefinder? Please don't say Leica !
When buying either of these lenses avoid like the plague any examples which are "cheap" because they have haze. The haze generated by the lubricants in these lenses, in particular, seems to etch the glass. This makes the images soft. As damage to the glass is one of the most difficult and time consuming to repair it is probably best to pay the market price and get a pristine one from a reputable a dealer.
Great advice. Sadly my 1.8 lens developed haze and I did look on eBay and all the cheaper listings have haze. Yes, as I understand too it's important to get a clean copy as not so easy to fix.
Between the f1.8 and f1.4 lens, which one would you recommend for street photography? You mentioned the 1.4 has a long throw. How about the 1.8?
1.8 is smaller but for street you dont need a fast lens. Get a smaller 5cm f3.5 Elmar or something.
Is the LTM to M adapter a 50-75 adapter? Thank you!
For this lens yes. 50-75 means for any 50 or 75mm 👍🏻
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom Thank you! I am trying to use a Nikkor-S.C 50mm f/1.4 ltm on my M240. The focus throw on the lens is huge so my 50-75 or 35-135 adapters don't seem to work correctly. Can you tell me the specific adapter I need to buy so the 2 can work together? My Canon 50mm F/1.4 ltm works just fine with the 50-75 adapter. Thank you, in advance!
What lens profile do you use on a Leica M, say M10-P, with this lens?
I don’t use profiles but just try a 50/1.4 profile
Hi Matt, besides Leica lens and this lovely Canon LTM. Are there any other lens you would suggest looking into? Thanks :D
Hi, for LTM mount? Voigtlander are good
How you compare to nikkor sc 5cm 50mm f1.4?
Nikkor is even better. Brilliant lens. See that video!
hello Matt , I need your help please . i bought recently one Canon 50mm 1.4 LTM. It is my first Canon LTM purchase . I noticed the focus ring is a little hard to turn , is it normal ? What can be done : should I lubricate the lens focus helicoid ? Also i am using an LTM/M adapter from Amazon to mount the lens on a M3 or a M6TTL camera but the 50mm view frames of the camera are not set automaticaly to 50mm ? it is normal ? ( with a leica 50mm it is perfectly working ) . thanks in advance for your help . daniel
Hi Daniel, remember these are old lenses so each is different and it’s possible some are tight to turn. You can send for CLA. The adapter gives the framelines not the lens. Make sure the adapter has 50 75 on it. If not it won’t give those lines.
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom i tried another adapater ( 50mm ) and it work perfectly . thanks
Great post Matt, as usual.
Ah the Great Debate. A bit of history. The Nikkor 50/1.5 was a copy of the prewar Zeiss Sonnar 50/1.5 obtained (some would say stolen)by Nippon Kogaku after WW2. It is a very rare lens since it was made for only a short period of time before being “recalculated” as the Nikkor-SC 50/1.4. It was made in great numbers and was popularized by western Photojournalists during the Korean War who used them primarily on their screwmount Leicas. This lead to the popularization of Nikkors (Nikon ) lenses, and by extension their later SLRs as professional tools. It is arguably the most important lens in Nikon history. It remained king of the fast 50’s until (arguably) the second Summilux-M. Despite large production it remains very much in demand today with high prices attesting to its continued utility. Canon at the same time also cloned the 50/1.5 Sonnar as the Canon 50/1.5 a very similar lens and a relative bargain today. They are the zenith of Sonnars, certainly in ltm. The Soviet Jupiter-3 is also a clone of the 50/1.5 Sonnar but suffers minor incompatibilities that result in misfocusing, particularly at or near full aperture. Amazing lens value for a mirrorless digital as you have seen. The Canon 50/1.4 is an excellent much more modern Planar design which I used for many years on my first Leica (postwar IIIc 408xxx). Tried a Summarit 1.5 but didnt like it. When the Summarit was lost (along with alot of other gear) in a 1987 burglary my insurance replaced it with a new Summilux-M, which I found no better than the Canon 50/1.4 and underutilized. About a decade ago I bought the 50/1.4 Nikkor which I could use on all my ltm bodies (at that time IIIa, IIIc, IIIfRD, Canon L-1 and P)as well as M cameras. Hard to describe, there is just something special about Sonnars. Sold the Summilux which more than financed the Nikkor 1.4, Canon 1.4 and a recently acquired Canon 1.5.
Difficult for a Canon guy to say but would rate the Nikkor 1.4 slightly ahead of the Canon 50/1.4 and (overpriced) Summilux. Evaluation of Canon 50/1.5 is incomplete due to pandemic, but it is promising. The scale is not linear because the Sonnars are different, with different uses.
Thanks Adam!! Great information as usual and I’m grateful you confirm my thoughts that the Nikon is the sharpest. I have a future video planned that might interest you in this topic :). I’ve not seen a Canon 50/1.5 listed for a long time now. I hope you got a nice copy.
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom I didnt imply that I thought the Nikkor was the sharpest, rather the best overall. The Canon is sharper at 1.4, but the Nikkor markedly sharpens up just before f2 (ca f1.7-1.8) which I find to be the sweet spot of that lens. My new Canon 1.5 is immaculate optically and mechanically and so I have wed it to a Canon VI-L which came with a lovely brown leather case that looks like it was bought yesterday. Short of time travel I cannot explain the condition of this case. It came with said VI-L and a contemporary 50/1.8, both cosmetically gorgeous.
My Canon 50/1.4 and Nikkor 50/1.4 are optically perfect, but having bounced around in various camera bags, cosmetically not so much....
@@AGL93311 Thanks Adam, I appreciate the clarification.. OK here is one for you.. I read some time back that the Nikkor is more optimised up close (so sharper) and the Canon is better at infinity.. The Nikkor does capture a lot of fine detail in close..
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom Yes in my
Experience the Nikkor 50/1.4 is best close up and in the range f1.7-f4. At infinity The corners of a full frame never sharpen up even stopped down, supposedly a generalized Sonnar feature; not landscape lenses.
I believe you may have been reading the posts of
A certain Detroit-area lawyer, Dante Stella. I believe he says the Nikkor was optimized for close up performance, but doesnt quote any evidence that it was intentional. Nevertheless I belief he is correct about
The lens whether intentional or not. You really need to buy one to use on your M3, lose that Contax/Nikkor version. It also focuses, like the 50/2 Nikkor, to 0.5m. Either lens mount can be modified to RF focus closer, I believe to near 0.7m which is even more down your alley....
@@AGL93311 thanks Adam, yes both my M3s are modified to 0.7m so I’m ready on that front. ..and I may be closer to your suggestion than you may think in terms of using on the M3. The video will come ;) Thanks for info verses close focus - yes you are correct about the website from memory so great knowledge from you on that. Thanks
i just bought a canon 7, as i really can't justify the cost of a simular leica (M3) i have been looking at lenses, and the Canon screw mounts seem much more affordable. and as i am looking for a film look, not the sharp digi result, these older lenses are a good choice. i was looking for a Nikor, but have yet to see a LMT, did they even , ever make them? i used to do a huge amount of 50 mm shooting, but in the past few years have gone much wider. but i do have a 50mm summerit f2, that after i get the apture working correctly, should work on the Canon. ( i am taking it off my one Leica lllc.) anyway, i enjoy your evals of these older lens, makes shopping a little easier. money, as i am retired, fixed income, is always an issue, so i will never have the Leica glass, so i am hoping that i can do with the canon/perhaps Nikor.. have a good day.
Thanks Bob, yes see my lens videos, the canon 50s are excellent. You don’t need Leica glass. Yes Nikkor made ltm, I have 50 f2. Some Nikkor wides are expensive.
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom thank you. i will watch for a 50. i think i am watching one, not pretty, has hase, but i think that is better than scratches, haze can be cleaned, scratches? no so much. but it seems nikor lmt are not as common...thanks for your vids.
@@bobk888 yes Canon easier to find. Yes an clean haze
I found one of these 50 1.4 in mint conditionCLA done. Can you put a UV filter on it as any other modern lens? I just put BW 007 on all my lenses . Thanks
Great. Yes you can add a UV filter no problem
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom Cool, thanks. It is on it way. Also with it lens hood 🙂🖖🏼📸
I own this lens and it's so nice with very cheaper price than Summilux.
I would like to know how much difference between this LTM and Summilux, is it worth to pay more for something greater?
Thanks the modern Summilux is very different. See that lens video I did and you can decide from the photos.
Good work
Thanks Jens, great lens! :)
New name. Mr. LTM if you knew about canon back then.
Ha yes Mr LTM and maybe have enough money for a house deposit instead of M glass! 😆
Hi Matt. What lense you would use or recommend for black and white portrait ? I would really like to create photos especially like those from Vivian Maier and Tri X era .Thank you !
This lens is a great starting point. It’s a big topic so get me on MrLeica.com/zoom if you want to chat.
One of my favourites! I love using this lens with high contrast films or push processing. It has such a lovely mellow quality that just seems to dampen all kinds of harsh contrasts and textures. The same goes for colour saturation. Never getting rid of this lens, that's for sure.
Edit: It costs that much these days?! Wow! Glad I bought it a few years ago :-) Then again, it's still super cheap compared to a Summilux!
Thanks! Yes like with most lenses the prices have gone up. You did well to get it sooner!
Hi Matt, does it work on a Leica M5?
Hi Cyril, yes of course, all screw mount lenses fit all Leica M cameras so you will have no problems.
Have you got any Canon LTM lens for sale maybe
Hi sorry no. I only bought them in the last year or so and they are lenses to keep. I just bought them on eBay so maybe look there. I hope you find what you need. (50 1.8 are quite common)
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom risky to by from Japan.
@@vitaliyturovskyy9122 No just make sure they offer returns. See my eBay tips video. I still buy from Japan.
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom bought 50mm 1.4 canon ltm from UK. Happy days. Are you Coventry based, right?
@@vitaliyturovskyy9122 nice, yes currently still here!
I wonder how this lens compares to the Nokton 50mm 1.5 ASPH.
I will review the 50 1.5 v2 as soon as I get chance ..I have with me
Pure enjoyment / Ulf
Thanks Ulf!
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom Always a pleasure / Ulf
Radioactive?
No
Thanks that was my thought too
To my knowledge no but Martin also replied and confirmed the same
Lol. I have both.
Good choice! :)
Firstly, would just like to say that your content is wonderful!!!
Just watched content by Mark McMahon (ua-cam.com/video/k6RkPx73E_o/v-deo.htmlsi=Ce9zox9cojRQY4vy). In this video, he says his nikon 50 f1.4 screwed up/bent his focusing tab on the zorki 4k…
From watching your video, i got the canon 50mm f1.4, and plan to use on a zorki 4…. Dont risk your cameras on my account; but just wanna check if you have used the canon 50 f1.4 + zorki 4k combo, and if there were any issues with bent focus tab?
Thanks Martin. I’ve not used that combo but never had issues with other cameras. Nikkor 50 1.4 is great. See that video.
Nice to have toy.
Yes fun for the softer more arty look when shot wide open.
I barely understand what he talks,a better mic would help
Thanks Oscar. I do have a boomed Rode mic but I can look to get a better one if I thought I’d see a difference.
Can't see any problem. Sound is clear 👌
@@vitaliyturovskyy9122 thank you for confirming 🙏🏻😊
You sounded clear in this video. Maybe he needs better ears. 😂
nikkor-s 50mm f1.4 . +1
& PENTAX. TAKUMAR 50mm f1.8
Thanks!