24-70/4 S lens. more then meets the eye in usability

[paladin]

i have had the 24-70/4 S lens on my Z6 since Day 1. as i have said i would have preferred a 24-105 or 120. most of my D shooting is done at that focal range through the years. this lens has proven itself to be very versatile in use it being the standard on the Z for me. i guess i haven't really found a need for those last f stops.

 

[jlancasterd]

A Z6/Z7 with the 24-70 f/4 plus the 14-30 f/4 makes an excellent lightweight, high-quality travel kit.

 

[paladin]

i usually carry the 3
14-30/4
24-70/4 hopefully going to the 24-105 if and when it shows up
70-200/2.8 EFL riding on the FTZ

 

[paladin]

i notice you like trains being the Editor, Ffestiniog Railway Magazine. have you ever been to Japan?

 

[Jack]

It is an outstanding little lens for sure. I recently bought a 24-70/2.8 as my main lens for my Z7 and while it's arguably a level better performer, I am keeping the f4 version due to its size and weight plus performance; it's a better travel lens.

 

[jlancasterd]

i notice you like trains being the Editor, Ffestiniog Railway Magazine. have you ever been to Japan?

No - not yet. However, Ffestiniog Travel, the travel agency arm of the Ffestiniog Railway, does offer a very attractive rail-based, courier-led tour which I may do when international tourism opens up again.

 

[paladin]

No - not yet. However, Ffestiniog Travel, the travel agency arm of the Ffestiniog Railway, does offer a very attractive rail-based, courier-led tour which I may do when international tourism opens up again.

i have been traveling by rail in japan since 1991. it is one incredible "model trainset". it is what drew me into "trains" as a subject to observe as an active and diverse subject matter. you really don't need a guided tour (well back then it might have helped) a good guide book though helps. make your own. a JR pass (various time lengths and less restrictive to travel on) and a wandering spirit and you will be hooked. be prepared for a longish stay
- JR is the 1st tier. gets you from point A to point B fast and efficiently.
- a plethora of 2nd and 3 tier private railways for the more local routing though slowly going into history and buses due to financial factors
- a fair bit of live steam too
- quite a few museums dedicated to their railway culture
i suggest a good primer is going to youtube and look up "japan railway journal"

 

[jlancasterd]

Thanks Paladin!

I can see the advantage of arranging one's own itinerary when visiting a country like Japan. However, Ffestiniog Travel was founded by a close friend and schoolmate of mine, and we have similar railway interests (he was General Manager of the Ffestiniog Railway for a period as well as running FT) so I'm happy to go along with a couriered tour organised by FT. Also, at the age of 79, I like the peace of mind which being a part of an organised tour provides.

 

[paladin]

ok you are my senior and you have a hook up. i have the hook up just a little different. i do hope you go. it is outstanding.

 

[jlancasterd]

Yes – roll on the end of Covid…!

 

[paladin]