Like most of you I read lens reviews before I buy them. I have been doing this since the 50’s when Popular Photography used to regularly test camera and lenses. Now I get my reviews on line. A conclusion. All lenses are sharp at f8. Usually at f5.6 and f11 too. Even the cheapest third party lenses. Only the high priced glass is really sharp wide open or down one or two stops. So, buy the cheapest lenses and shoot aperture priority at f8 whenever possible. OK, I recognize that this is not always the possible but, I think it does say a lot about lenses. My favorite lens is my Minolta MC 50mm f1.4. I have read reviews that this may be the sharpest 50mm lens ever made. True or not, (probably not) I really don’t recall ever shooting it at less than f5.6. So, for me, most of the time, the f8 rule is quite reliable. And how fast glass is so unnecessary for me. And how it pains me to think of all the really expensive glass I have bought over the years. And how relieved I am that even my cheap 135mm Minolta MD f3.5 lens at f5.6-f11 will give me the results I want. Now, go ahead and beat me up.
You really struck home with me. At home and in the car we listen to a lot of Sinatra. And it’s always a duet. Me and Old Blue Eyes. When I get to heaven I plan to sing live with Frank and Lady Ella.
For me as a hobbiest photographer, I love the feel of a fine camera in my hands. To me the OM4, the OM1n, the Minolta XE-7 are among the fine machines. My original, the Lordomat C35 is also among them. Especially when looking through the finders. I have never held a digital camera that gave me the same feeling, and I have had many digital cameras. That’s part of the reason I shoot more film than digital.
Twenty five years I lived in Chicago. Loved it. But you have a way of making it more beautiful than I ever saw!
Thank you. I read a lot of American history. Most recently WWII. Omaha Beach stands out to me as the ultimate challenge of our young men. I greatly admire your father for what he did and being able to move on. I can’t imagine it. And don’t underestimate the ability to lead a very active life at 87. I’m going for 99.
Not you Mark. From your posts I see nothing but a man who is enjoying life all the way. As am I. And we are contemporaries. I am 87. I think you are close to that although your picture makes you look younger than me. I should have been more specific. Many people denigrate today’s youth because to them they seem to be wasting time on their phones or other devices and not enjoying themselves playing ball under a street light. Like you, I love my music, my photography, my family and friends. I also enjoy the love of my wife of 67 years and life in the sunshine state. I remember my youth fondly, but I also remember the great walk just a days ago in a beautiful wooded area. Life NOW is good. It should be. And I don’t feel it’s necessary to complain weekly about Amazon or the USPS. But I really do envy your life in music. My active participation ended with two lip surgeries any years ago. No more trumpet playing. Keep up your always positive vibes and the great music you post.
Again, whining about Amazon.
Every generation is sure that their youth was spent in “the good old days.” I remember my great grandfather telling about his and I am sure my great grandchildren will do the same in turn. Why not just enjoy today and look forward to tomorrow and not lament what has passed as if they were the only days worth living? Lighten up!
When are you all going to leave Amazon alone? When we are perfect then let us seek nothing but other perfect things.
Why is it that so many of the best photos we see are b&w?
If it’s still available, the 50mm lens. In a medium size Priority Mail box it is about $15. I’ll be glad to to that. Now. PayPal if that helps.
Once again, why is anyone walking on the railroad tracks?
I must have been teaching one of you. I was teaching high school. It seemed to have little impact on the kids. A lot on the teachers.