I really appreciated your thoughts of more elements actually causing inferior images. Now I'm going to try to learn more about that before I get my next lens.
There are a lot of intelligent people who make videos but there are very few who have intelligence and common sense with a knack of explaining things clearly and easily, you are one of these few. I'd like to say thanks for the lens you recommended me before and also for everything I've gained from your videos. Can I email you a question please?
30 years of translating ancient Greek Platonist texts and Prakrit metaphysics has left me FULL of simplex analogies hehee......... sure, email me at kenw111@insightbb.com however ive been up ALL night, and wont answer it for about 10 hours or so. Im heading to bed!
Few of my acquaintances with great digital gear understand why I'm still using manual lenses on my film camera. I stopped explaining a long go ago. Like to listen to your videos in the background while I'm doing something off computer!
your UNCOOL friends just arent smart like you to know why the hell to use prime manual lenses. tell them AUTOFOCUS IS FOR PUSSIES and D-BAGS ehehheehehe
Just got a Nikon-qQ 200 f4 and did a quick shootout with a 70-210 4.5-5.6 and my 180 2.8 AI. The zoom was as you would expect... acceptable but not special. The 180 is great, but I thought I got better micro contrast with the Q... 4 pieces of glass. Gotta get a 20, a 135 and a 300. Excellent video!
I am very new to photography. Just bought my first camera 3 weeks ago and tonight on my way home from my shitty factory job, i was thinking that i needed to get a 50mm prime. Well now that i hear it from you, that just reassures what i need to do. I'm going for primes and after that, if i need to, then i will buy expensive zooms that destroy the light i'm trying to capture. Anyways, thanks very much for this video and all your other videos as well.
Hey. sadly for me I have them all plus the 105 macro nikkor. After I have seen your videos I feel kind of bad because I don't have the tokina 105 macro. Or the 70-200 tamron. I wanted all my lenses to be nikkor and apparently is not the best choice. But for my needs as a wedding photographer is ok. And the idea with primes doesn't appley for weddings where you need the speed and different focal lengths. But for the trash the dress or other shootings are the real deal. Thanks for the replay. Ps: I mentioned twice in order to hear your opinion about 14-24 or about all three lenses.
I have that 50mm f1.4D but my lens has a little fungus on it that keeps the lens from getting sharp shots. I plan on taking it apart. Can you recommend any direction/videos that may point me in the right direction to be able to clean the fungus?
Received my 200mm 2.8, such a great lens! Thanks for this tip!! But to get a 50mm prime for my DX 7100, shouldn't I look for a 50mm divided by 1.5 = approx. 35mm prime? Or should I only make the distance to my subject 1,5x bigger? Thanks!!
+Joep van Os You have to consider working distance, distortion and DOF. 35mm will have possibly unflattering distortion when you fill the frame for portraits and when you back out the DOF size and quality will be different.
Hey there first of all nice videos straight to the point ! 👍 I have been watching a lot of videos on UA-cam untill I run into your, awesome videos! Im a beginner and im on the market for a camera even thought i think i will go with the nikon d3300 i will like your opinion on my choice. And some recommendations of lenses. I will like to be able to shoot sport and low light. Thanx !
best cheapest choice, get a USED minty D700 ($3000 formerly FX pro camera) or minty AS NEW Nikon factory refurb D7100 for $700 also. i have lens recommendations out the ass in these videos winks.
Best Fuckning stuff ever. So fukning true bout the glass, im just trying to garther all the must have cats ass lenes u recomend. Tbh. The pictures are amazing esp with the 50mm 1.8 Juuuust love it and u saved me a tons of dollars on these lenses. The thing is pictures comes alive with these lenses compared to new. atleats what i think. Running these lenses on D7200 and its working like a charm. And tbh my AF lenses is just gathering dust atm, simply no use for them atm... Keep it up! Regards From Sweden!!
Interesting video and informative but it does seem a bit odd to say that the primes will produce "better" photos but not show some sort of comparison to explain what is meant by that (since sharpness is one of the areas that is poo poo'd on in the video as quality of glass). I'm just learning about the legacy lenses so this video was definitely useful to know what to look for
Just wanted to say thanks so much for giving such great insight in a honest and funny way to help so many save $. I mainly have primes and been debating on getting the 70-200 2.8 for longest time after I just got tired of my sigma 150-500mm which weights 50 tons and takes damn soft pictures...but I am glad I watched this video to help me get the portrait focal length primes which are so well made! Thanks again!
Xetenor 80 200 2.8 is a better lens, however has SLOW AF (not very, perfect for weddings). Hey!!! WARM HUGS!!! ive got at least 800 or more videos to make!!!
Hi, thank you so much for all your videos. I've already bought a few lenses based on your recommendations, that includes the 70-300mm VR, the 35-75mm 2.8, and last the great 14-24 2.8. (even thought your recommendations on the Tamron 15-30mm) But the first (that's the 70-300 VR) I've had for about 6 months now (I bought it used) and it's all of a sudden giving me trouble to focus at infinity specially after 100mm, I'm going to have it checked but I would love to know your opinion about it first. Thanks again!
I have a Sony SLT A58 camera with a Zeiss 16-80 zoom on an APS C sensor. What primes should I get for that Sony Alpha camera that would augment that lens and save money? (PS Until January 2015 I used a Nikon D800) Thanks
Getting a crappy shot is better than getting no shot this applies to High ISO and also to Wedding photography. People do not see a difference between a 70-200 2.8 and a 135mm manual, they just want many and sharp pictures of everything.
Zooms are for when you can't get in closer (you can't get on the field or closer to the bird) and when weight is the primary factor. When I can only grab one lens, it is a fast prime 95% of the time.
What are your thoughts on the minolta Maxxum lenses? I have 50mm f1.4, 28-85 f3.5-4.5, 70-210 f4. Using mount adapter to nikon f. At least until I can safe for other lenses.
I have a budget of 800$ and I want to buy a wide lens, prime or zoom, doesn't matter. I have a DX body. I was thinking about Nikkor 18-35mm 3.5-4.5G ED or Nikkor 20mm 1.8G ED. What do you recommend me?
Hello man, I realy appreciate your videos. Keep up the good job. A cool thing is that some of the lenses you recomand I cand find the in Romania secound hand for good money :) One question if I may: waht is your opinion about 14-24 G? Or the Nikon Trinity 14-24, 24-70, 70-200 for a weeding photographer? Thak you so much. And all the best from Romania.
+Silviu Gheorghe you mentioned the 14 24 twice, why? the nikkor 70 200 is a dog, get the Tamron 70 200 2.8 VC instead, cheaper and far superior. the Nikkor 14 24 has been now surpassed by the Tamron 15 30 2.8, which is roughly half the price, i have both. see my video on the tamron 15-30 :)
Sometimes i cannot tell online man!!!!!! also depends on how much coffee ive had. been shooting out in the hot sun a lot lately and my brain is toasted.
Currently own D750 and D5100 with 50-f1.8, 85-f1.8, 105-f2.8, 24to120-f4, 14to24-f2.8, 70to300 vr and fisheyeDX 10.5. ( all Nikon ) I'm thinking in getting 35-f1.8, 28-f1.8 and 200to500 f5.6 in future. What do you think? ( please don't shoot me 😎✌🏼 )
Wow...thanks. I just picked up the manual 35mm f2.8 Nikon lens this week from EBay for $100 in great condition. Trying it out this weekend on my Nikon F3. Now I'm searching for. 135mm either f3.5 or f2.8. Bit of a challenge because people are asking $250 to $300 on average. I'm optimistic to find one in good condition at a good price. Quick question? Are the old canon manual lens as good as the Nikon? Or are the manual Nikons in a class all by themselves? Thanks again.
GenVirtu not only, but Canon doesnt support their legacy lenses. They are in a class by themselves and still are. Unlike Nikon, Canon has 2 utter classes of glass (however they deny this, but its blatant), they have consumer grade crap, and the VERY expensive "pro" lenses. While Nikon has their "gold ring" lenses, Nikon does not have 2 diff. classes of lenses. however both nikon and canon have pooper lenses that just arent worth a damn, theyre not in a separate class, thats another topic altogether.
Not in this video but in another I can’t find again regarding Nikon wide angle lenses.You are mentioning some 20mm lenses,but not the most important and maybe the sharpest one the f 4,0.The lens was advertised by Nikon as the first distortion free ,mass produced super wide angle lens. I had one but I have just sold it,it’s one of the sharpest Nikon lenses I ever have had,it consists of 14 elements.Is this a forgotten lens for you ?
since you're comparing vintage glass you should consider the difference between the 6 and 5 element takumar 135. one goes for $150 and one goes for $40 because it's significantly worse even though it has less lens elements.
what do you think about tokina 28-80mm f/2.8 lens coupled with a 35mm nikkon prime lens and one prime 300mm f/2.8 lens do you think my choice is good, if not what would I fix /add/ delete
do you have any of your favourite photos (photos that you've shot) on public display via some website? I think it would be very interesting to see of your work. thx
yes, youve and many others have asked for my portfolio, its on my private website at kathodos.com I made a huge mistake years ago by NOT compartmentalizing my works, and ended up getting some of my books i wrote trashed on amazon.com I keep things compartmentalized for a reason, and wont make the mistake i made years ago. this is also why i dont join FACEBOOK and have everything i do linked to EVERYTHING ELSE i do or write about, or shoot etc etc
its the most fun nikkor out there, it however takes a day or so to learn what NOT to shoot with a fisheye, like making a person look like an insane creature !! ive got 2 of em, wonderful !
San.Diego.Wedding.TV used to own one, great old lens, SLOW AF, optically dated, wouldnt pay more than $400 for a great used one, recently saw an idiot camera shot nearby wanting $700 for it, insanity. its dated in more ways than one, but still a great lens, however IMPOSSIBLE (just about) to get a deal it for what its worth.
people that OWN them think they do, ive used Zeiss now for 25 years, i can FOOL 95% of the people 100% of the time between the two hehehh!! because Zeiss is like my Rolex, its 40% quality, 50% NAME and 10% BULLSHIT hehehehehehheehh
Just bought the 135mm 2.8 on your recommendation. I paid $209 + 24 shipping from Japan. Did i just get diddly fucked Japanese style? or is this just the normal cost now since your video posted? Loving all your advice I'm a totally new to photography and your guidance is very helpful. Im grateful so if this lens turns out as good as you say i will donate to your cause! Keep the secrets coming! (Im hitting the notification button so i can see your videos when you post just incase you have anymore secret lenses. I've actually got a secret lens of my own i think is pretty good. Its a Tamron sp 35-80mm 2.8... Have you any thoughts on this lens?? Thank you kind sir!
Great video! Gives me a new perspective on how light and glass impacts the sensor's interpretation and hence the final image. Like your honest and spontaneous approach. I'm a Chinese-English translator/interpreter who is also obsessed with photography. Heard about your background working in Russian from the Chuck Jines interview. After purchasing my first new prime lens, the Nikkor 105mm VR F2.8, I then purchased a 50mm F1.4 and I've hardly ever gone back to using my zoom lenses since, although I did use a Nikkor 70-200mm F2.8 once for shooting raptors and was impressed with the sharpness and it was surprisingly light and intuitive to use despite not ever having prior experience with it. Thinking of purchasing the new Sigma Sport 150-600mm for bird photography because I want reach at a reasonable price for decent image quality and fast tracking speed. Does that lens make sense considering my requirements?
each glass element is a dielectric circuit and processes (think = McDonalds!) the light . While things have improved greatly, nothing can compensate for this, not even the best glass on earth. do you have the budget for a 400mm nikkor? www.nikonusa.com/en/Nikon-Products/Product/Camera-Lenses/AF-S-NIKKOR-400mm-f%252F2.8G-ED-VR.html i have not yet personally used that sigma lens and cannot make a logical conclusion one way or the other on said lens. you shooting FX or DX? As a birder, (im a bird fanatic), 400mm 2.8 nikkor and 80-200 2.8 D (current version) Nikkor ($600+ minty used) however the 400mm 2.8 is NOT CHEAP, of course. and you must have insurance on same!
Theoria Apophasis Understand what you mean about the diffusion, lost frequencies of light, et cetera, at least on a superficial level, since I've never researched this topic or even heard of this phenomenon before watching your video, but this concept will stick with me and hopefully I won't be so lazy as to not research this further. I liked the analogy that someone else made here about having a simpler amplifier with fewer filters and bells and whistles for a purer signal and purer sound. I have a crop sensor (D300s). I know, it's not the best camera, but I'm sticking with it for now while I beef up my skills and acquire more glass (with fewer elements ;-) ). I like the idea of having 900mm equivalent in the short-term and then still having 600mm for an FX body in future. Seems like I'm trying to convincing myself to get the Sigma Sport, but I don't want to end up just being another gear whore chump! Really appreciate your response and I will investigate the link for the lens you mentioned. Thanks for sharing your expertise on lenses and opening my ideas to new possibilities for lens choices that can produce good results without breaking the bank. A pro photog friend also recommended the Nikkor 135mm F2. One of his personal favourite lenses is the 200mm F2, but that's for closer set-up raptor shots. The birds are shy of humans and far and few between here in Beijing, so I want reach and tracking speed without spending 5-6 G's. Sorry for the long follow-up response.
well, bird shooters USE crop sensors for a reason, ...ive got the best FX cameras, and they are NOT shooting rainbows and gold eggs out of their sensors! Well, i have the Nikkor 135mm F2 ($1300 lens) , but the $180+ Nikkor 135mm F2.8 is AS SHARP, and a HELL OF A LOT cheaper! you see my video on this test? No, not long winded!!! good talking to ya! consider looking into THIS LENS, the best for the money, and only $600+ minty used Ebay: www.nikonusa.com/en/Nikon-Products/Product/Camera-Lenses/AF-Zoom-Nikkor-80-200mm-f%252F2.8D-ED.html got 2 of em'
Theoria Apophasis Thank you, Ken. I will archive these notes. Did see 3 of your must have Nikon lens videos. Have to look for the test video you mentioned in a minute. Appreciate all the videos and great advice. Look forward to viewing more of your insightful and 'colourfully-phrased' (loll) and down-to-earth yet expert commentary. Down with the gear sluts and kit whores and more power to you!!
180 2.8 D IS an autofocus, yo can find them for $300 to $400 usually its not VERY fast for MUCH sports shooting, FAST TELE Fat zooms are NOT cheap old or new! Tamron 70 200 2.8 VC for $1500 is best for the money. thats not "cheap", but comparatively it IS.
We all know about the ill-effects of placing a filter (of any description) in front of your lens. So it is logical to assume that; the more elements a lens has, the poorer the resolution. When I used to shoot 35mm, I only had a 50mm lens. I didn't need a zoom lens. I used my legs and my imagination. Man, were those pictures sharp!! Then came the Canon EOS . . . auto focus - zoom lens (!) I'll bite my lip! (Yuk!!)
Alright, I was looking up the 20mm and a lot of them were in pretty rough shape and were in the $250-$300 range. I'll keep my eyes peeled for a good one though.
I'm curious to know what you think about the new Sigma 50mm 1.4 art. You've said in other vids that you like what Sigma is doing with their new 50mm art, but it has way more glass than a traditional 50... so isn't it also ironing the light???
the Sigma art primes are wonderful (well, almost all of them). The sigma art 50mm is a beauty, however its price leaves much to be desired, equal quality can be found far cheaper in a Nikkor and for the same price i can get 2 likewise nikkors of EQUAL quality used.
Helene Peloquin Eeeeek!!!! an AI (manual focus circa mid 1970s) 50mm 1.4 is $100 all day long on Ebay thats my "top recommended best buy 50mm lens" (and i own them all!!!! Ive got 17 50mm lenses , Ugggh). do you need an AF 50mm due to eyesight issues or just prefer an AF lens? But yes, i also own the 50mm 1.4 AF Nikkor, and its a wonderful lens....... you ARE HOWEVER paying $200 more for just the AF, since the MF 50mm 1.4 can be had minty used for $100 all day long >>> IF however (to answer your question) the question is "best bang for the buck and I (meaning you) want an AF 50mm"........then yes, id recommend getting the 50mm 1.8 over the 1.4
9 років тому
Thanks so much. I have the Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 and was thinking of giving this one to my son. At the moment I am looking at a replacement and I am looking at the Canon EF 50mm f/1.4 USM and was curious to see if I would be seeing the difference in quality for my pics.
There is no perfect lens. You must get the best out of it. I know my lenses are razor sharp but it make it more difficult about the light. Light must be your best friend not your enemy.
Prime lenses are also good because they teach you to move forward and move back and get closer to your subject rather than hiding in a bush with a 400 mm lens
the trick to THIS is to call some of the HUGE photo stores in LA , Chicago, and NYC and Miami and find one there that ISNT ON EBAY you can EASILY find one cheap!!! at most maybe 5 phone calls buddy !!!!!!!
Theoria Apophasis wicked excited ... picked up a 2.8 on a new listing for 160 tonight ... love your straight forward advice, I just saved a ton of money ... I'm pretty sure I will get a refurbed D7100 ... so, so, so refreshing
Why's half the video's you upload junk? Not these but the ones with the star wars tracks aren't really that great... Sorry if I am offending you. Keep up the good work though.
Another great vid Ken but why is your camera in pussy mode lol? ha ha Seriously though a while ago when I was thinking of buying a new dslr I asked the guy in the camera shop if old lens from film cameras would work on dslr's and was told they wouldn't and I needed to buy new lens!!! At the time I couldn't afford a complete new set up so stuck with my film camera.
Dude, you're great, the best! The only guy who had the guts to show that good glass can come in low budgets. Salutations from Brazil!
For me the best philosophy is one camera and one prime lens, for more than 50 years. The picture is 80% photographer and 20% equipment.
I really appreciated your thoughts of more elements actually causing inferior images. Now I'm going to try to learn more about that before I get my next lens.
There are a lot of intelligent people who make videos but there are very few who have intelligence and common sense with a knack of explaining things clearly and easily, you are one of these few.
I'd like to say thanks for the lens you recommended me before and also for everything I've gained from your videos.
Can I email you a question please?
30 years of translating ancient Greek Platonist texts and Prakrit metaphysics has left me FULL of simplex analogies
hehee......... sure, email me at kenw111@insightbb.com
however ive been up ALL night, and wont answer it for about 10 hours or so. Im heading to bed!
Few of my acquaintances with great digital gear understand why I'm still using manual lenses on my film camera.
I stopped explaining a long go ago.
Like to listen to your videos in the background while I'm doing something off computer!
your UNCOOL friends just arent smart like you to know why the hell to use prime manual lenses.
tell them AUTOFOCUS IS FOR PUSSIES and D-BAGS
ehehheehehe
Love your 'plain' talk about photography gear ... glad to find someone who appreciates my 40 year old AI / AIS lenses as much as I do ..
i love that "old" shat!!!!!! I make sex to it !!!!
heheheheheh ! but seriously !!!!
Just got a Nikon-qQ 200 f4 and did a quick shootout with a 70-210 4.5-5.6 and my 180 2.8 AI. The zoom was as you would expect... acceptable but not special. The 180 is great, but I thought I got better micro contrast with the Q... 4 pieces of glass. Gotta get a 20, a 135 and a 300. Excellent video!
I am very new to photography. Just bought my first camera 3 weeks ago and tonight on my way home from my shitty factory job, i was thinking that i needed to get a 50mm prime. Well now that i hear it from you, that just reassures what i need to do. I'm going for primes and after that, if i need to, then i will buy expensive zooms that destroy the light i'm trying to capture. Anyways, thanks very much for this video and all your other videos as well.
Scott Kamrowski Im glad i could help some man!!
warm hugs!
Where in the WORLD did you find the 50mm 1.4 for $60/70?
Everywhere I look, it's $200+ if it's a penny.
The 50 f 1.8 are available for 50 60 dollar that what I paud for bith of mine.
Hey. sadly for me I have them all plus the 105 macro nikkor. After I have seen your videos I feel kind of bad because I don't have the tokina 105 macro. Or the 70-200 tamron. I wanted all my lenses to be nikkor and apparently is not the best choice. But for my needs as a wedding photographer is ok. And the idea with primes doesn't appley for weddings where you need the speed and different focal lengths. But for the trash the dress or other shootings are the real deal. Thanks for the replay. Ps: I mentioned twice in order to hear your opinion about 14-24 or about all three lenses.
+Silviu Gheorghe the 14 24 is a great lens,i have it, however the tamron 15 30 2.8 has surpassed it.
I have that 50mm f1.4D but my lens has a little fungus on it that keeps the lens from getting sharp shots. I plan on taking it apart. Can you recommend any direction/videos that may point me in the right direction to be able to clean the fungus?
I cleaned out a 50mm 1.8D, it was easy with the right screw drivers.
Received my 200mm 2.8, such a great lens! Thanks for this tip!! But to get a 50mm prime for my DX 7100, shouldn't I look for a 50mm divided by 1.5 = approx. 35mm prime? Or should I only make the distance to my subject 1,5x bigger? Thanks!!
+Joep van Os You have to consider working distance, distortion and DOF. 35mm will have possibly unflattering distortion when you fill the frame for portraits and when you back out the DOF size and quality will be different.
Hey there first of all nice videos straight to the point ! 👍 I have been watching a lot of videos on UA-cam untill I run into your, awesome videos! Im a beginner and im on the market for a camera even thought i think i will go with the nikon d3300 i will like your opinion on my choice. And some recommendations of lenses. I will like to be able to shoot sport and low light. Thanx !
best cheapest choice, get a USED minty D700 ($3000 formerly FX pro camera) or minty AS NEW Nikon factory refurb D7100 for $700 also.
i have lens recommendations out the ass in these videos
winks.
Best Fuckning stuff ever. So fukning true bout the glass, im just trying to garther all the must have cats ass lenes u recomend. Tbh. The pictures are amazing esp with the 50mm 1.8 Juuuust love it and u saved me a tons of dollars on these lenses. The thing is pictures comes alive with these lenses compared to new. atleats what i think. Running these lenses on D7200 and its working like a charm. And tbh my AF lenses is just gathering dust atm, simply no use for them atm... Keep it up! Regards From Sweden!!
LOL hahahahahhaha man you are the best
I just got the 80-200 2.8 from Japan. Like new, What a piece of optic, Iam impress.
Hi Ken, what do you think of the 28-70 3.5 - 4.5 AF-D? This has 8 elements in 7 groups, similar to the 28 2.8 AI-S. I have this 28-70 and I love it.
hi could you tell best lence ,,,,for taking people danceing movement slow to fast .ie forro dancing many thanks ,,,
Interesting video and informative but it does seem a bit odd to say that the primes will produce "better" photos but not show some sort of comparison to explain what is meant by that (since sharpness is one of the areas that is poo poo'd on in the video as quality of glass).
I'm just learning about the legacy lenses so this video was definitely useful to know what to look for
Just wanted to say thanks so much for giving such great insight in a honest and funny way to help so many save $. I mainly have primes and been debating on getting the 70-200 2.8 for longest time after I just got tired of my sigma 150-500mm which weights 50 tons and takes damn soft pictures...but I am glad I watched this video to help me get the portrait focal length primes which are so well made! Thanks again!
Xetenor 80 200 2.8 is a better lens, however has SLOW AF (not very, perfect for weddings).
Hey!!! WARM HUGS!!!
ive got at least 800 or more videos to make!!!
Awesome thank you sir. I decided to actually go with more primes for the telephoto range! :)
great idea, and a costly one too!!!!!! hehhehe
winks
warm hugs
love your videos, very informative and entertaining, you treat ignorance and stupidity the same way I do
Hi, thank you so much for all your videos. I've already bought a few lenses based on your recommendations, that includes the 70-300mm VR, the 35-75mm 2.8, and last the great 14-24 2.8. (even thought your recommendations on the Tamron 15-30mm) But the first (that's the 70-300 VR) I've had for about 6 months now (I bought it used) and it's all of a sudden giving me trouble to focus at infinity specially after 100mm, I'm going to have it checked but I would love to know your opinion about it first. Thanks again!
I have a Sony SLT A58 camera with a Zeiss 16-80 zoom on an APS C sensor. What primes should I get for that Sony Alpha camera that would augment that lens and save money?
(PS Until January 2015 I used a Nikon D800)
Thanks
Getting a crappy shot is better than getting no shot this applies to High ISO and also to Wedding photography. People do not see a difference between a 70-200 2.8 and a 135mm manual, they just want many and sharp pictures of everything.
LOL God I love this guy!!!!!!!!
I have the 50 and 135 in this video :) also a 28 and 80-200 4.5N :)
Zooms are for when you can't get in closer (you can't get on the field or closer to the bird) and when weight is the primary factor. When I can only grab one lens, it is a fast prime 95% of the time.
What are your thoughts on the minolta Maxxum lenses? I have 50mm f1.4, 28-85 f3.5-4.5, 70-210 f4. Using mount adapter to nikon f. At least until I can safe for other lenses.
excellent!!!!
I have a budget of 800$ and I want to buy a wide lens, prime or zoom, doesn't matter. I have a DX body. I was thinking about Nikkor 18-35mm 3.5-4.5G ED or Nikkor 20mm 1.8G ED.
What do you recommend me?
Thank you!
Hello man, I realy appreciate your videos. Keep up the good job. A cool thing is that some of the lenses you recomand I cand find the in Romania secound hand for good money :) One question if I may: waht is your opinion about 14-24 G? Or the Nikon Trinity 14-24, 24-70, 70-200 for a weeding photographer? Thak you so much. And all the best from Romania.
+Silviu Gheorghe you mentioned the 14 24 twice, why?
the nikkor 70 200 is a dog, get the Tamron 70 200 2.8 VC instead, cheaper and far superior.
the Nikkor 14 24 has been now surpassed by the Tamron 15 30 2.8, which is roughly half the price, i have both.
see my video on the tamron 15-30 :)
I love how much you care about people! :)
i guess that was sarcasm ehh? LOL
Yep, right before I left you some money for your videos :)
Sometimes i cannot tell online man!!!!!!
also depends on how much coffee ive had.
been shooting out in the hot sun a lot lately and my brain is toasted.
Currently own D750 and D5100 with 50-f1.8, 85-f1.8, 105-f2.8, 24to120-f4, 14to24-f2.8, 70to300 vr and fisheyeDX 10.5. ( all Nikon ) I'm thinking in getting 35-f1.8, 28-f1.8 and 200to500 f5.6 in future. What do you think? ( please don't shoot me 😎✌🏼 )
What is your opinion about film? Worse, better or just different to digital?
20+ years of film, i just cannot take it anymore
id ONLY still do 4x5 film, its fun and easy and WONDERFUL.
This is hilarious. Very true but so funny.
Wow...thanks. I just picked up the manual 35mm f2.8 Nikon lens this week from EBay for $100 in great condition. Trying it out this weekend on my Nikon F3. Now I'm searching for. 135mm either f3.5 or f2.8. Bit of a challenge because people are asking $250 to $300 on average. I'm optimistic to find one in good condition at a good price.
Quick question? Are the old canon manual lens as good as the Nikon? Or are the manual Nikons in a class all by themselves?
Thanks again.
GenVirtu not only, but Canon doesnt support their legacy lenses. They are in a class by themselves and still are.
Unlike Nikon, Canon has 2 utter classes of glass (however they deny this, but its blatant), they have consumer grade crap, and the VERY expensive "pro" lenses.
While Nikon has their "gold ring" lenses, Nikon does not have 2 diff. classes of lenses.
however both nikon and canon have pooper lenses that just arent worth a damn, theyre not in a separate class, thats another topic altogether.
Not in this video but in another I can’t find again regarding Nikon wide angle lenses.You are mentioning some 20mm lenses,but not the most important and maybe the sharpest one the f 4,0.The lens was advertised by Nikon as the first distortion free ,mass produced super wide angle lens. I had one but I have just sold it,it’s one of the sharpest Nikon lenses I ever have had,it consists of 14 elements.Is this a forgotten lens for you ?
since you're comparing vintage glass you should consider the difference between the 6 and 5 element takumar 135. one goes for $150 and one goes for $40 because it's significantly worse even though it has less lens elements.
mashersmasher thats an optical and design issue, not a light transmission issue.
where am I able to get the 20mm cheap? I can only find it for about $600
what do you think about tokina 28-80mm f/2.8 lens
coupled with a 35mm nikkon prime lens
and one prime 300mm f/2.8 lens
do you think my choice is good, if not what would I fix /add/ delete
remove that 28 80 pooper Tokina .
24-70 2.8 Nikkor
i just love your unique style. subbed you thanks a lot for your help
warm hugs! thanks man
do you have any of your favourite photos (photos that you've shot) on public display via some website? I think it would be very interesting to see of your work. thx
yes, youve and many others have asked for my portfolio, its on my private website at kathodos.com
I made a huge mistake years ago by NOT compartmentalizing my works, and ended up getting some of my books i wrote trashed on amazon.com
I keep things compartmentalized for a reason, and wont make the mistake i made years ago.
this is also why i dont join FACEBOOK and have everything i do linked to EVERYTHING ELSE i do or write about, or shoot etc etc
Theoria Apophasis So how do we get to see your work?
if youre a client, then. or someone i know ,or a reference.
i wont make that mistake in my work that i did on my books
Theoria Apophasis
ok thanks for letting me know. Ευχαριστώ.
winks
I think I would like to get a fisheye lens what do you recommend?
its the most fun nikkor out there, it however takes a day or so to learn what NOT to shoot with a fisheye, like making a person look like an insane creature !!
ive got 2 of em, wonderful !
You are hilarious!! What are your thoughts on the 17-55nikkor?
San.Diego.Wedding.TV used to own one, great old lens, SLOW AF, optically dated, wouldnt pay more than $400 for a great used one, recently saw an idiot camera shot nearby wanting $700 for it, insanity.
its dated in more ways than one, but still a great lens, however IMPOSSIBLE (just about) to get a deal it for what its worth.
Do Ziess primes have something that the Nikkor equivalents don't have? Why are Ziess optics so expensive compared to old Nikkor glass.
people that OWN them think they do, ive used Zeiss now for 25 years, i can FOOL 95% of the people 100% of the time between the two
hehehh!!
because Zeiss is like my Rolex, its 40% quality, 50% NAME and 10% BULLSHIT
hehehehehehheehh
Just bought the 135mm 2.8 on your recommendation. I paid $209 + 24 shipping from Japan. Did i just get diddly fucked Japanese style? or is this just the normal cost now since your video posted? Loving all your advice I'm a totally new to photography and your guidance is very helpful. Im grateful so if this lens turns out as good as you say i will donate to your cause! Keep the secrets coming! (Im hitting the notification button so i can see your videos when you post just incase you have anymore secret lenses. I've actually got a secret lens of my own i think is pretty good. Its a Tamron sp 35-80mm 2.8... Have you any thoughts on this lens?? Thank you kind sir!
Great video! Gives me a new perspective on how light and glass impacts the sensor's interpretation and hence the final image.
Like your honest and spontaneous approach. I'm a Chinese-English translator/interpreter who is also obsessed with photography. Heard about your background working in Russian from the Chuck Jines interview.
After purchasing my first new prime lens, the Nikkor 105mm VR F2.8, I then purchased a 50mm F1.4 and I've hardly ever gone back to using my zoom lenses since, although I did use a Nikkor 70-200mm F2.8 once for shooting raptors and was impressed with the sharpness and it was surprisingly light and intuitive to use despite not ever having prior experience with it.
Thinking of purchasing the new Sigma Sport 150-600mm for bird photography because I want reach at a reasonable price for decent image quality and fast tracking speed. Does that lens make sense considering my requirements?
each glass element is a dielectric circuit and processes (think = McDonalds!) the light . While things have improved greatly, nothing can compensate for this, not even the best glass on earth.
do you have the budget for a 400mm nikkor?
www.nikonusa.com/en/Nikon-Products/Product/Camera-Lenses/AF-S-NIKKOR-400mm-f%252F2.8G-ED-VR.html
i have not yet personally used that sigma lens and cannot make a logical conclusion one way or the other on said lens.
you shooting FX or DX?
As a birder, (im a bird fanatic), 400mm 2.8 nikkor and 80-200 2.8 D (current version) Nikkor ($600+ minty used)
however the 400mm 2.8 is NOT CHEAP, of course.
and you must have insurance on same!
Theoria Apophasis Understand what you mean about the diffusion, lost frequencies of light, et cetera, at least on a superficial level, since I've never researched this topic or even heard of this phenomenon before watching your video, but this concept will stick with me and hopefully I won't be so lazy as to not research this further.
I liked the analogy that someone else made here about having a simpler amplifier with fewer filters and bells and whistles for a purer signal and purer sound.
I have a crop sensor (D300s). I know, it's not the best camera, but I'm sticking with it for now while I beef up my skills and acquire more glass (with fewer elements ;-) ). I like the idea of having 900mm equivalent in the short-term and then still having 600mm for an FX body in future. Seems like I'm trying to convincing myself to get the Sigma Sport, but I don't want to end up just being another gear whore chump!
Really appreciate your response and I will investigate the link for the lens you mentioned. Thanks for sharing your expertise on lenses and opening my ideas to new possibilities for lens choices that can produce good results without breaking the bank.
A pro photog friend also recommended the Nikkor 135mm F2. One of his personal favourite lenses is the 200mm F2, but that's for closer set-up raptor shots.
The birds are shy of humans and far and few between here in Beijing, so I want reach and tracking speed without spending 5-6 G's.
Sorry for the long follow-up response.
well, bird shooters USE crop sensors for a reason, ...ive got the best FX cameras, and they are NOT shooting rainbows and gold eggs out of their sensors!
Well, i have the Nikkor 135mm F2 ($1300 lens) , but the $180+ Nikkor 135mm F2.8 is AS SHARP, and a HELL OF A LOT cheaper!
you see my video on this test?
No, not long winded!!! good talking to ya!
consider looking into THIS LENS, the best for the money, and only $600+ minty used Ebay:
www.nikonusa.com/en/Nikon-Products/Product/Camera-Lenses/AF-Zoom-Nikkor-80-200mm-f%252F2.8D-ED.html
got 2 of em'
Theoria Apophasis Thank you, Ken. I will archive these notes. Did see 3 of your must have Nikon lens videos. Have to look for the test video you mentioned in a minute. Appreciate all the videos and great advice. Look forward to viewing more of your insightful and 'colourfully-phrased' (loll) and down-to-earth yet expert commentary. Down with the gear sluts and kit whores and more power to you!!
heheh!!!!! see latest video uploading this eve everyone has been asking about !
warm hugs!
happy easter!
Do you have any cheap lens recommendations for sports photography? I was checking out the 180 2.8 but i don't believe it has autofocus...
180 2.8 D IS an autofocus, yo can find them for $300 to $400 usually
its not VERY fast for MUCH sports shooting, FAST TELE Fat zooms are NOT cheap old or new!
Tamron 70 200 2.8 VC for $1500 is best for the money.
thats not "cheap", but comparatively it IS.
We all know about the ill-effects of placing a filter (of any description) in front of your lens. So it is logical to assume that; the more elements a lens has, the poorer the resolution.
When I used to shoot 35mm, I only had a 50mm lens. I didn't need a zoom lens. I used my legs and my imagination.
Man, were those pictures sharp!!
Then came the Canon EOS . . . auto focus - zoom lens (!)
I'll bite my lip! (Yuk!!)
What is your opinion on the nikkor 24mm f2.8 wide angle as apposed to the 20mm f3.5?
24mm is a USELESS TURD focal length, dont buy it, get the 20mm in ANY focal length
yes yes, the 3.5 is great and CHEAP in price
Alright, I was looking up the 20mm and a lot of them were in pretty rough shape and were in the $250-$300 range. I'll keep my eyes peeled for a good one though.
its true finding a good used 20mm is TOUGH !
Any other wide angle primes you would recommend other than the 20mm?
honestly ONLY 2
20mm and a FIsheye !!!!
everything else.....FUCKIT !!! stick to a wide zoom
i notice your 135 f2.8 or 200 f4 always has filter on it. So what kind of filter that you recommend to increase the performance on these len ?
i have 7 of those lenses, most DONT have a filter on them.
which filter? HMC, hoya multi-coat.
Theoria Apophasis @9:18 what filter on 135 f2.8 ur using ?
HMC hoya multi coat
Hey what do you think about Nikon D300??
i feel the same about IT , as i do sandpapering my own crotch with broken glass.
Theoria Apophasis considering I am getting it under 200 bucks and I am starting out.... Is it that bad??
thats cheap!!! great deal !!!!!!
I'm curious to know what you think about the new Sigma 50mm 1.4 art. You've said in other vids that you like what Sigma is doing with their new 50mm art, but it has way more glass than a traditional 50... so isn't it also ironing the light???
the Sigma art primes are wonderful (well, almost all of them). The sigma art 50mm is a beauty, however its price leaves much to be desired, equal quality can be found far cheaper in a Nikkor
and for the same price i can get 2 likewise nikkors of EQUAL quality used.
they arent equal, the 50mm AI Nikkor F2 shot at F4 will blast the hell out of the Sigma art lens at F4
and for a TON less $$$.
Would you say it's best to buy a 50mm 1.8 for $100 or a 50mm 1.4 for $300?
Helene Peloquin Eeeeek!!!! an AI (manual focus circa mid 1970s) 50mm 1.4 is $100 all day long on Ebay
thats my "top recommended best buy 50mm lens" (and i own them all!!!! Ive got 17 50mm lenses , Ugggh).
do you need an AF 50mm due to eyesight issues or just prefer an AF lens?
But yes, i also own the 50mm 1.4 AF Nikkor, and its a wonderful lens....... you ARE HOWEVER paying $200 more for just the AF, since the MF 50mm 1.4 can be had minty used for $100 all day long
>>> IF however (to answer your question) the question is "best bang for the buck and I (meaning you) want an AF 50mm"........then yes, id recommend getting the 50mm 1.8 over the 1.4
Thanks so much. I have the Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 and was thinking of giving this one to my son. At the moment I am looking at a replacement and I am looking at the Canon EF 50mm f/1.4 USM and was curious to see if I would be seeing the difference in quality for my pics.
Well i have not kept up on the spread in cost $$$ between 1.8 and 1.4 in Canon glass
its basically 0$ in Nikkor glass however :)
(MF lenses that is)
Thanks, might keep my lens and decide in a month or two what I want to replace it.
Nice chatting Helene! Ask any questions anytime, i love to help anyone IF i can
This is the essence of The AP
There is no perfect lens. You must get the best out of it. I know my lenses are razor sharp but it make it more difficult about the light. Light must be your best friend not your enemy.
Prime lenses are also good because they teach you to move forward and move back and get closer to your subject rather than hiding in a bush with a 400 mm lens
yes yes, zoom with your feet.
Theoria Apophasis how do you zoom with your fucking feet? it's not zooming it's positioning
Angry... so angry 😂
Your funny dude
Ha, I actually have 2 prime lenses now out of 4 in total :D
I just swooped up on an 80mm f2.8 Hasselblad for $50.oo. It has 4 pieces of glass. I pinched my nipples when I found it. It's going on my mirrorless.
Now can you sat the 135mm 2.8 ais is a dried crubly turd with hair in it? You can reverse this position after I purchase one for less than $400
the trick to THIS is to call some of the HUGE photo stores in LA , Chicago, and NYC and Miami and find one there that ISNT ON EBAY
you can EASILY find one cheap!!!
at most maybe 5 phone calls buddy !!!!!!!
That's too smart
is that bad? Hehehehh
Good to know bill hicks is still around
was in auction today for 135mm 2.8 ... didn't win but it went for 427 bucks
thats absurd! go for a 135mm F3.5 , just as good!
also call around the country at the BIG camera shops, ask about the lens and snag one from them
Theoria Apophasis thanks man, I will do that
Theoria Apophasis wicked excited ... picked up a 2.8 on a new listing for 160 tonight ... love your straight forward advice, I just saved a ton of money ... I'm pretty sure I will get a refurbed D7100 ... so, so, so refreshing
135 2.8??? SWEET!!
theyre running out of refubs!! grab one quick, Adorama and a few others still have them. !
Theoria Apophasis yes, 135mm ... very happy
I couldn't have noticed that camera in *ssy mode :-P
Just joking! I love your videos man! :-)
i did that just to make the video prior as per doing slave flashes
Fucking perfect video
LOLOL YES YS YES YES
Why's half the video's you upload junk? Not these but the ones with the star wars tracks aren't really that great...
Sorry if I am offending you. Keep up the good work though.
Another great vid Ken but why is your camera in pussy mode lol? ha ha
Seriously though a while ago when I was thinking of buying a new dslr I asked the guy in the camera shop if old lens from film cameras would work on dslr's and was told they wouldn't and I needed to buy new lens!!!
At the time I couldn't afford a complete new set up so stuck with my film camera.
Theoria Apophasis
I had the feeling he thought a cash cow had just walked through the door!!!
tell him im the butcher and hes MY cow
Theoria Apophasis
Ha ha yeah, I would love to go back in there now but I think the shop is closed now. It was a while ago...
BOKEH!!
What makes you so pationed about ancient Greece my friend?
+andreas tsiamakis im a hardcore Platonist for one thing.
very hardcore.
+Theoria Apophasis can I hear the reason?
+andreas tsiamakis what makes you so interested
+Theoria Apophasis your tattoos, the name of your channel the picture and the emphasis you give to ancient Greek quotes
Im a strange person that lives by a diff set of values than anyone else living.
explaining it would take too long.
I have been asked to photograph a wedding do I shoot with all primes ?
Jeff Fahey oh god no, if you do, youll be sorry. you need a fast midrange zoom and likewise a wide zoom.