Andrew Gough
Active member
Folks, a quick review of this super lens, with samples.
Leica APO-Summicron-SL 90 f/2 ASPH Lens Review - AphotoVID
Andrew
Leica APO-Summicron-SL 90 f/2 ASPH Lens Review - AphotoVID
Andrew
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Thanks for the review, Andrew.
Back in the day, I used a 90mm Summicron R on a R3 (briefly) and then on the R4; for a while it was my only lens. I don't really do portraits, but I 'see' things very selectively, in a 'narrow' view. I find it hard to imagine the wide and ultra-wide viewpoints that many other people have, even if I'm impressed by their vision. I know my 'selective' viewpoint isn't to everyone's taste, just bear with my foibles.
I have a 90mm Apo-M and a 75mm Apo-M. These work well with the SL, even though I have to focus manually; I don't really find that a problem, for I tend to work slowly and deliberately; the 'decisive moment' usually passes me by. (And I can magnify the view.) I am much more an 'outside observer' than an 'in your face' snapper.
What does this new 90mm Apo SL offer me instead? Auto focus. But it's heavier than the equivalent M. (And why is the 75mm heavier than the 90mm?) It doesn't have IS. (Why not?) I'd find that really useful these days; the eyes if agued still can focus, but the rest of me finds heavy lenses even more difficult to hold steady than decades ago.
So, why should I consider this new lens? Is autofocus really worth £4k?
Tough call Robert. The new SL is definitely better than the current M version, it has almost no CA in its bokeh. It is sharper, and has a flatter plane of focus and almost no vignetting. Lastly, AF will free you to concentrate on composition and perhaps the "decisive moment".
Don't forget to add the weight of the adapter to the M lens...
If you prefer manual focus, and lots do, then you may want to wait for the M 90mm F1.4 that is rumoured. I imagine that both will be at the same price.
The 75mm is only 20g more, which is probably due to the differently shaped optical elements - slightly wider.
Cheers.
Andrew
Jono,Nicely done Andrew...
I've tested both of these lenses, and I think that they are pretty much peerless.
Robert - they handle very nicely on the SL and feel neither big nor heavy.
Remarkable lenses which handle beautifully . . .