Archive for the ‘sharpness’ tag
Review: Sony 50mm f1.8 (NEX)
As part of the package that Sony sent to us, the Sony 50mm f1.8 for their NEX system was included. As the current speed demon of their lineup, you’ll be able to get some wonderfully smooth bokeh with this lens. We stacked it up against the Canon 85mm f1.8 and 5D Mk II and asked for your opinions as well. Many of you were impressed by this little Sony.
But is it really all perfect?
Review: Tamron 17-50mm f2.8 VC (Nikon Mount)
The Tamron 17-50mm f2.8 VC is an extremely popular lens amongst budget conscious users. With a constant f2.8 aperture throughout its zoom range and the added value of having vibration compensation it’s not hard to see why consumers spring for this lens. Designed for those with APS-C sized sensor cameras, the equivalent focal range on a Nikon DSLR such as the D5100 is around 25.5-75mm; making it an essential event and workhorse lens for many pros and semi-professionals.
But is all perfect with the lens?
Review: Olympus 45mm f1.8 MSC
As the other MSC prime lens in the Olympus line up of Micro Four Thirds glass, the 45mm f1.8 is one that will help many prime users complete their entire lineup of fast prime lenses…or at least it promises to. Though many reviews have tested the lens in shooting many various and random things, we’ve felt that many of the reviewers have neglected to test it for what it was designed for. As a fast aperture focal length that equates to 90mm, this lens was designed to shoot portraits.
And that’s exactly what we did on both the EPM1 and EP2. Yesterday, we shot fashion with the lens. And soon we will feature a full portrait session with the lens and a ring light.
Battle of the High End Portrait Lenses: Canon 85mm f1.2 L vs Sigma 85mm f1.4 EX
Sigma 85mm f1.4 at f1.4 1/640th iso 125
Previously we did a quick test with the Sigma 85mm f1.4 EX and the Canon 85mm f1.2 L. Before that, we compared the Sigma lens against the more affordable option in Canon’s lineup, the 85mm f1.8. Eventually, I was able to bring the two lenses out into Central Park for a quick portrait session with Kathy. The results? You may be surprised.
Battle of the Street Photography Focal Lengths: 24mm 35mm 50mm or 85mm
The Secret Identity
It’s a debate that has been going on for ages: which is the best lens focal length for street photography? While one can easily say, “To each their own,” there are significant pros and cons to each focal length that should be considered. Also, one must keep in mind that the most important thing is still the photographer who takes the photos. But with that said, without the right tools, you may not be able to get the job done. You wouldn’t use a screwdriver to flip a pancake, now would you?
So let’s explore the 24mm, 35mm, 50mm and 85mm focal lengths for street photography.
Disclaimer: this posting is based on my experience with the various focal lengths and with different gear brands.
Which One? Sigma 85mm f1.4 or Canon 85mm f1.8 for Portrait Photography
Portrait photographers often find themselves in a bit of a predicament trying to figure out what lens is the right one for them. For Canon photographers, you have two choices under $1,000 in the form of the Sigma 85mm f1.4 and Canon 85mm f1.8. We’ve reviewed both the Sigma and Canon lenses, and thought very highly of both. There are differences to both of them—but in real life practice only one is right for you.
The question is: which one?
