The ULTIMATE 50mm f2 Lens?

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  • Опубліковано 11 лис 2024

КОМЕНТАРІ • 101

  • @1davidpeter
    @1davidpeter Місяць тому +2

    Another lovely video. After 42 years of shooting Nikon, I went mirrorless and got rid of nearly all, including this beautifully engineered lens, keeping my first ever Nikkor, the 1.4. Plus a couple of Helios a pancolar and a few other oldies bought after watching your shows. They all work nicely on the new camera, but to be perfectly honest, the best overall experience of a 50 for me, now comes with the
    cheap and super light RF 1.8 from Canon.

  • @MichaelRusso
    @MichaelRusso Місяць тому +8

    I have all those lenses, and love them all. They all take nice photos. Shout out to the Takumar's and their derivatives.

  • @douggoodhill
    @douggoodhill Місяць тому +3

    I love this Nikkor too - classic planar design.

  • @bwest6275
    @bwest6275 Місяць тому +4

    The Leica 50mm cron will always be my favorite in this genre, both R and M.

  • @Yellowcatt
    @Yellowcatt 9 годин тому

    Thank you for the video!
    I understand that manual lenses have their own aesthetics, but personally I have played with them enough and more often I just want to not miss the moment and quickly focus. It is difficult to shoot something dynamic with manual optics.
    For the Sony system there is an excellent autofocus lens that is not available on other cameras. This is the Carl Zeiss Sonnar T* 55mm f/1.8 ZA. This is simply an incomparable, unique autofocus lens. It combines all the characteristics. It is sharp, with fast focusing and gives a very beautiful bokeh. It also does not have a high price.
    This is a real pearl in the Sony system.

  • @Wh33lsofFortune
    @Wh33lsofFortune Місяць тому +2

    Yessssss! The japanese summicron! I love that lens on my D700. I have the late 60s version with the knurled focus ring, and single coated in blue. Absolutely beautiful lens.

  • @TheOskaryn
    @TheOskaryn 20 днів тому +1

    I really love your videos and your passion for old lenses. I have two questions if you don't mind:
    1. How many lenses you have in your collection. (If you even know 🙂)
    2. I use Amount cameras, I can't find adaptors for my camera to MD Minolta, Nikon and actually nothing except M42. Do you know where can I find any?
    Many thanks for all you videos.

  • @musa7606
    @musa7606 Місяць тому +7

    As featured in Diamonds are Forever and used for filming in The Mandalorian (The Nikkor H version, that is)

    • @princeharbinger
      @princeharbinger Місяць тому

      Interesting. Do you know if the H.C. is just as good as the H version?

    • @musa7606
      @musa7606 Місяць тому +1

      @@princeharbinger According to Ken Rockwell, the formula is the same for all 50 f2s from 1964 to 1979. The only optical difference is multi coating added in 72.

  • @cameratrav
    @cameratrav Місяць тому +5

    An old school Zenography review and all the better for that. I enjoy the 'focus' on one lens instead of covering many at once. I note that the Chinese makers are churning out 50 1.8s, AF of course, but I wonder if they have any character.

    • @peterkwakman7440
      @peterkwakman7440 Місяць тому

      I've learned my lesson on Chinese 'goods', do not entertain them !

    • @zenography7923
      @zenography7923  Місяць тому

      Glad you enjoyed it, thanks for looking in.

  • @tammytrashbags
    @tammytrashbags Місяць тому +5

    my favourite by far is the Zuiko 50mm f2 macro - but it'll certainly come at a premium, in the hundreds rather than the tens of pounds! Sort of apples to oranges though. It's not a nifty fifty, it's a luxurious and high-end lens that can basically do it all, from 1:2 closeup work to shallow depth of field to super sharp landscapes and everything in between. Although larger than your typical little zuiko it's still remarkably compact for what it is. I'm still shocked by how well it performs on my 47mp Lumix S1R, as well as on film!

    • @mikhailshafeev9384
      @mikhailshafeev9384 Місяць тому +1

      I've just mentioned the same lens! Brilliant contrast but very nice bokeh the same time!

    • @tammytrashbags
      @tammytrashbags Місяць тому

      @@mikhailshafeev9384 yes! I love all of the zuiko 50mm lenses, but the f2 is just so special

    • @PMS1950
      @PMS1950 Місяць тому +1

      @tammytrashbags the zuiko digital f2.00 version is a great lens and still great fun even on an early four thirds E500 camera.

    • @tammytrashbags
      @tammytrashbags Місяць тому

      @@PMS1950 that's interesting - I've heard of it, but never got the chance to try it out myself. maybe a cheap old four thirds camera purchase is on the horizon :)

  • @PMS1950
    @PMS1950 Місяць тому

    As a Wedding Photographer during the 1970s-1980s, I used a Rokkor 50mm 1.7 optic on a Minolta 102 for a lot of my images. This lens deliverd a very distinctive, almost Leica quality rendering, which made it ideal for this type of photography. The 85mm rokkor was another little gem and perfect for portraits and candid shots.

  • @campbells0ups
    @campbells0ups Місяць тому +2

    i own the Nikkor-H 50mm F/2. its a classic design with bubble bokeh. still sharp and clean rendering!

  • @mamiyapress
    @mamiyapress Місяць тому +1

    Nice video ( at 1:25 as always ) and good news as I have several Nikkor 50mm F2's.

  • @j.f.7509
    @j.f.7509 Місяць тому

    I love that lens! This lens inspired Leica (W. Mandler) to make the Summicron 50mm R, and shortly after the M version.

  • @mgman6000
    @mgman6000 Місяць тому +2

    My favorite 50mm lens is my Canon f1.8 LTM from my Canon 7. I really like that the the adapter is only about a quarter inch thick

    • @GOLDDYNACO
      @GOLDDYNACO Місяць тому

      If you are lucky enough to have a copy without haze and/or fungus, you can enjoy old optics at their very, very best. In flawless condition (today, very rare and very expensive) it can compete with all - inclusive early versions of the Leitz 50mm Summicron. The humble, little 1.8 is by far the best of the old LTM 50's from Canon if you want a slightly more universal, modern look.

  • @tonyw.6813
    @tonyw.6813 Місяць тому

    I love my collection of Zuiko lenses. I pair these with my Olympus Penlite PL3 micro 4/3 camera. Although i admit it is a cheap lineup. I can get fantastic images with the these lenses. What I love about using vintage manual lenses, is that it forces me to slow down. With an all singing DSLR setup is that when I get the green square, I click and then move on to the next composition. With manual focus lenses, i have to spend time looking through the viewfinder. Adjusting the focus, and then the aperture. This also gives me a greater understanding of focul length and depth of field. I would recommend to any photographer to try this. I get all my advice on vintage lenses from this channel, and I will probably try getting my hands on this lens. I also have a couple of Leica R lenses that I also use on my Micro 4/3 camera. It really does open up a new world in photography.

    • @nicokremers7150
      @nicokremers7150 Місяць тому

      My advice, use the Zuiko lenses on a Full Frame camera. I started with an 4/3 OM10 but was disappointed. Than changed to a Sony A7 mark 1. The colours were so much better 🙂. (Just moved to a Leica SL, still learning)

  • @philmtx3fr
    @philmtx3fr Місяць тому

    Nice and affordable lens (more than the pan collar which now have an hype). Very interesting too in reverse position for macro.

  • @randywaldron2715
    @randywaldron2715 Місяць тому

    A vote for the Schneider Xenon 50mm f2. My favorite lens in 36mm format. Sharp and full of character

  • @stephentalas1940
    @stephentalas1940 Місяць тому +2

    Managed to track down a used Helios 58 in local charity shop for all of £15 nice glass but found out the hard way that it and my full frame Canon 6D are not going to work out, as at certain focusing points it catches on the edge of the Mirror, no damage done, works fine on my APS-C Canon 760D . That said, the Minolta 50mm Rokkor PF f1.7 I inherited is a stunner, only it works out as a 80mm on my Micro4/3 but makes a great porttrait lens.

    • @trels203
      @trels203 Місяць тому +2

      Is your helios silver? Some of the ealier helios lenses will catch the mirror but you should check out the later helios 44-2, its a black lens. My silver helios 44 cathes my 5Ds mirror but the later helios 44-2 doesnt!

    • @stephentalas1940
      @stephentalas1940 Місяць тому +1

      @@trels203 Yes it is the older version, thanks for the info.

  • @dgmwitz
    @dgmwitz Місяць тому

    I have the same! Great lens

  • @cwkronenberg9838
    @cwkronenberg9838 Місяць тому

    a truly enjoyable presentation. many thanks, from a life-long nikkor enthusiast. yiu hit the nail spot on and head on. that "uncomfortable blur" oh man ! is that not a common faultline in the nikon stable? 1, an unmatched colour spectrum, 2. with high class quality glass & 3. rendering images offering an "uncomfortable blur"? Greetings.

  • @justinmueller9579
    @justinmueller9579 Місяць тому +1

    Also check out the hexanon...

  • @bigrobotnewstoday1436
    @bigrobotnewstoday1436 Місяць тому +2

    I've had good luck with Minolta lens.

  • @major-Mihailo-Madzarevic
    @major-Mihailo-Madzarevic Місяць тому +3

    *Great video, thanks ! Could you tell me which lens adapter exactly are you using please ?*

    • @zenography7923
      @zenography7923  Місяць тому

      It's a cheap one from ebay, I can't remember the name but when it comes to adaptors, if the dimensions are correct you won't go wrong. I only ever buy the cheapest adaptors I can find, and have had no problems so far.

    • @major-Mihailo-Madzarevic
      @major-Mihailo-Madzarevic Місяць тому

      @@zenography7923 Thank you for your reply ! I am asking because I am always afraid that I coulc damage my Sony Alpha A7RV camera by using such adaptors ... This is the reason I was asking sir. Again, thank you very much for your reply !

  • @mrstandfast2212
    @mrstandfast2212 Місяць тому

    Trying to decide which 50mm lens is best is like pushing water uphill with a rake. It's so subjective, and there are nearly all excellent. I have the Pancolar and the Nikkor you show, and they are both excellent. Although I'm a Nikon, Canon and Zeiss enthusiast, and love their offerings, I have to say that I like my Yashica ML 50mm f1.7 above them, and above them all, the Minolta MD 45mm f2. This is just about the perfect lens, being slightly wider, very sharp, lovely bokeh and small in size.
    While I'm here, I'd also like to put in a word for the cheap Carl Zeiss 50mm f2.8. It may not be fast, but my word it is ever so good.

    • @zenography7923
      @zenography7923  Місяць тому

      The CZJ 50 f2.8 Tessar is a seriously overlooked lens, a real gem and very cheap too!

  • @superuser13
    @superuser13 Місяць тому

    Yes, I was hoping you would mention Pentax lenses. I'm a Nikon shooter, but I usually grab my K1000 with my pmc 50mm and 135mm for film.
    It's not a vintage lens, but I believe the best 50mm ever made is the Nikon Z 50mm 1.8s.

  • @mikemcgrath5188
    @mikemcgrath5188 Місяць тому

    the best nikkor 50mm i have is the Ai-S 1.8, super sharp wide open. a bit pricey in excellent condition. on a budget get a pentax smc m k mount. dirt cheap in excellent condition and readily available. for best results use a lens hood.

  • @barthonhoff5547
    @barthonhoff5547 Місяць тому

    😊It was my first Nikon lens, brought together with a Nikkormat FTN. Compared to my Summicron Rigid it delivers much more contrast, but both are extremely sharp. I prefer it over my 1.4 and 1.8 Nikkors. The classic look of the Jupiter is something I love as well. Thanks for the video.

  • @caw25sha
    @caw25sha Місяць тому +1

    Some dates:
    A type - 2/59 to 6/67 (silver filter thread, single coated)
    C type - 5/67 to 8/74 (black filter thread, multi coated)
    K type - 6/74 to 1/79 (yours, rubber focusing ring)
    Thereafter replaced by 1.8.

    • @marksieving7925
      @marksieving7925 Місяць тому

      The K type non-AI lens was replaced by the AI version in March 1977, with serial numbers starting at 3350001. The K type serial numbers run from 3100001 to 3339337. The lens in this video is serial # 3330225, so pretty late in the K type production, so probably made in February 1977.

  • @Martin_Siegel
    @Martin_Siegel Місяць тому

    I paid a little less for mine and I still need to test it, so thanks for the review! I needed to get it as my Nikon F came without lens.

  • @gyorgyfrank
    @gyorgyfrank Місяць тому

    Wow! The bokeh of the Miranda and the blur of the Chinon are so wonderful! But still, I can't understand how could CZJ produce such a superior lens in the eastern block.

    • @fintonmainz7845
      @fintonmainz7845 Місяць тому

      The communist countries were good at technology and science but poor on innovation. The professional training of technicians, engineers and scientists was very high and attracted top people who in the West might have been drawn to other professions by the $.

  • @caw25sha
    @caw25sha Місяць тому

    I've got the original A type version of this lens which I use on my old Nikkormat FT. I've only used it with Ilford HP5 and Harman Phoenix which doesn't give the opportunity for serious appraisal but it's definitely inferior to the later versions, not surprisingly.
    I've got an adapter to use it on my Fujifilm lenses but haven't got round to doing so yet. (Yes I know it'll chop the edges off!)

  • @dutenn
    @dutenn Місяць тому +1

    My pancolar arrived last week! I haven't figured precisely why the (red MC) means but that's what I got.

    • @caw25sha
      @caw25sha Місяць тому +1

      Multi coated maybe?

    • @dutenn
      @dutenn Місяць тому +1

      @@caw25sha the red MC is much more rare for this lens. Doesn't exactly make it better. I do know that MC in general means, multi coated but thanks lol. Looking for more detailed specifics

    • @zenography7923
      @zenography7923  Місяць тому

      It means multi coated. You have a fantastic lens there, enjoy!

  • @kruno7150
    @kruno7150 Місяць тому

    I have quite a collection of 50ish (50-58mm) f2 lenses - note, not f1.8 or f2.2, just good ol' f2.
    My few cents:
    Best budget - Ricoh Rikenon XR 50mm f2 (only this version)
    Best colors - Yashica Auto Yashinon 5cm f2
    Best prewar - Schneider Kreuznach 5cm f2
    Best overall - ??? still looking :)

  • @barrysavage3105
    @barrysavage3105 Місяць тому

    Love all your reviews and frequently use them for relaxation as well. I own mostly Nikon vintage lenses, so you are preaching to the choir on this one. One lens I think you should definitely check out is the Micro-Nikkor 55mm f 2.8. It is the sharpest lens I own and I use it more than any other one I have. Please check it out, if you can get a hold of one and do a review if you can. I think you will be pleased. Great for both macro and general photography, which makes it extremely versatile.

  • @sclogse1
    @sclogse1 Місяць тому

    Sorry for being late. It looks like you got some bounce light on your right (our left) side. It's working well.

    • @zenography7923
      @zenography7923  Місяць тому

      Thanks, I was very pleased with the result. Glad it's working.

  • @Narsuitus
    @Narsuitus Місяць тому

    I have a 50mm f/2 for my Nikon SLRs but I only use it as a backup for my 50mm f/1.4 Nikkor.

  • @Skipsul
    @Skipsul Місяць тому +1

    Have you tried the Minolta Rokkor 50mm f/2?

  • @peterkwakman7440
    @peterkwakman7440 Місяць тому

    Still have me 50mm f2 Asahi 41 year old lens, works wonders on the K200 D !

  • @TerryD_100
    @TerryD_100 Місяць тому

    Shout out for the Leica 50mm summicron R however it is in a different price band

  • @alex-chicago-80
    @alex-chicago-80 Місяць тому

    Have you reviewed the 55m 1.2 Nikkor?

    • @zenography7923
      @zenography7923  Місяць тому

      I haven't, I'd very much like to though!

  • @jvladcliff4083
    @jvladcliff4083 Місяць тому

    When you see the coating on the lens you know it's nice, a real sleeper glass

  • @UndertakingCinema
    @UndertakingCinema Місяць тому

    I suggest you try the Nikkor 55mm Micro f/2.8 AIS. It's an AMAZING lens and very cheap used.

  • @mattbigwood
    @mattbigwood Місяць тому

    That Nikkor is much, much better at infinity/far distances than the Pancolar if you're not bothered about shooting at close distances and looking at the bokeh, having used both

    • @zenography7923
      @zenography7923  Місяць тому

      These two lenses are not too far from each other in my experience, but the Nikon doesn't quite beat the CZJ. I guess samples can very, but that's been my experience. Thanks for checking in.

  • @tonyklein6499
    @tonyklein6499 Місяць тому

    Does anyone have any thoughts on the Nikon 50mm f1.8 ais… compared to the f2?

  • @Gipsy-Danger73
    @Gipsy-Danger73 12 днів тому

    I think if I took photos all day with these three lenses, you would never be able to match the lens with the corresponding photographs. I own all three of these, and they all take great photos but are very subtle in their difference. They also take slightly different shots compared to themselves... The slightest difference in position, light, or any of the settings can completely change an image even with the same lens and camera. I personally prefer the Yashica 50mm and the Asahi super Takumar 50mm 1.4 ( de-yellowed) over all three of these lenses. The Yashicas are underrated, and the Takumar lens has amazing imagery with all the beautiful characteristics of a thorium lens.

    • @zenography7923
      @zenography7923  12 днів тому

      The 1.4 Takumar is a lovely optic, I often wish I'd kept mine

  • @Scooter-dm3qo
    @Scooter-dm3qo Місяць тому

    Your 50mm f2 Nikkor is a late production version. When the AI version of this lens was introduced it was labeled as the 50mm f2 Nikkor-HC. The C designating a multi coated lens. The design dates back to 1964-1965 time frame when it was announced nearly simultaneously with the first edition 50mm f2.0 Summicron. BTW both lenses share a near identical design and it's been debated if it was a Nikon or Leitz design. Both are Gause based symmetrical designs with a triplet on each side of the aperture.

  • @rockartistet
    @rockartistet Місяць тому +2

    Yashica 50mm f2

    • @zenography7923
      @zenography7923  Місяць тому

      I looked at the Yashica a week or two ago, a very nice lens, enjoy!

  • @1oceanic1
    @1oceanic1 Місяць тому +1

    Did you test Ricoh 50mm f2

    • @kruno7150
      @kruno7150 Місяць тому

      XR 50mm f2 is absolutely stunning

    • @zenography7923
      @zenography7923  Місяць тому

      I tested it 3 or 4 years ago - a very nice little lens!

  • @musiqueetmontagne
    @musiqueetmontagne Місяць тому

    All those lenses are amazing value, go nothing really. If I need to pay a tad more for a great lens that goes on my system, especially without an adapter, that's fine. The Nikon 50 f2 is a gem actually. Yes the Nikon f2 has a slightly nervous blur fall off but was a mid budget lens. However, it's the glass's chemical makeup and the fewer number of elements in some of these old lenses that contribute to their character.

  • @erhantomekce5252
    @erhantomekce5252 Місяць тому

    I also admire p/k revuenon 50/1,4 and 50/1,9 lenses. Please check. Than you for your videos.

  • @clementpoon120
    @clementpoon120 Місяць тому +1

    as someone who has a serious case of gear acquisition syndrome and has spent over 143 pounds on lenses because of these videos i love and hate you so much

    • @zenography7923
      @zenography7923  Місяць тому

      GAS is not curable. I understand it can be managed, but only by buying cameras and lenses. I sympathise.

  • @Magnetron692
    @Magnetron692 Місяць тому +1

    Hi Nigel, many, many thanks! Is the 1.8 version just as good? I have one. Is the e-mail address you gave me once still valid? I sent you many, many images made with Minolta. Best wishes, Ralf

    • @caw25sha
      @caw25sha Місяць тому

      I had a 1.8 AI-S and it was an excellent lens, very compact as well.

  • @sputumtube
    @sputumtube Місяць тому

    Not sure I agree with your opinion regarding Pentax lenses. I bought a 50mm f1.4 about a year ago and, even with little use, the front element (housing?) has become so loose it rattles!

    • @erhantomekce5252
      @erhantomekce5252 Місяць тому

      Possibly it needs maintenance

    • @erhantomekce5252
      @erhantomekce5252 Місяць тому

      I have one. Mechanically perfect bu some issues inside on the Şenses inside. Yet it has Super image quality.

  • @erhantomekce5252
    @erhantomekce5252 Місяць тому

    I have the pre AI version, with rubber ring, bought with nikkortmat 2. 😊

  • @nicusorapostol
    @nicusorapostol Місяць тому

    ❤❤❤

  • @paulwadsworth7298
    @paulwadsworth7298 Місяць тому

    I dont think you will find a better 50mm F2. I had a version that was well prior AI and it turned in some fantastic images. Have a look at the Nikkor 135mm F2.8 AI. I think you will agree its money well spent.

  • @sergeantcrow
    @sergeantcrow Місяць тому

    😀

    • @zenography7923
      @zenography7923  Місяць тому

      👍

    • @sergeantcrow
      @sergeantcrow Місяць тому

      @@zenography7923 I'd love to get a Nikon 50 f2.. But I'm lucky and already have the E series 50...among others of course 🙂

  • @jameswburke
    @jameswburke Місяць тому

    Can't agree with this. Pentax are very sharp and Olympus have lovely colours. Helios have better bokeh. Never liked Nikon - too contrasty. End of rant.

  • @jayakarthik8958
    @jayakarthik8958 Місяць тому

    Hi sir, you took a picture of mine at barkingside, u told me that u will send it to email, i didnt receive it, can u please send it, thank u