[Leica] Noctilux DOF (was Delta 3200)

[BOB KRAMER <BobKramer@COOPERCARRY.com>]

Hi Ted,

Thanks for your thoughts on the Noctilux.  Perhaps I spoke too strongly
about the image quality possible with this lens, but a mis-conception borne
from my admittedly limited exposure to photographs taken with this lens.  I
blame society!  Actually, I blame Leica as my comments are largely based on
the representative Noctilux photo from their latest M brochure (the chick on
the motor scooter).  As well as the few other photos I have seen taken with
this lens.  In Leica's case, one would think that when showcasing their most
expensive M lens they would choose a photo that shows us the very best that
this lens can offer.  Maybe its just me... I dunno.

Clearly you regard the Noctilux highly based on your own experience using
it.  And this is the way it should be.  But I do think we all gravitate
towards the lenses as well as the other equipment that allow us to best
realize our own individual photographic vision.  I think my original post on
this issue was in response to someone saying something to the effect that if
I wanted a 50mm Summilux, what I *really* needed was a Noctilux.  And all I
am trying to say is that this ain't necessarily so, for a variety of reasons
including cost, weight, size, optics and DOF issues.  Particularly when we
are talking about your "standard" lens, the lens that is going to hang on
your camera 80% of the time, the one you are going to lug around wherever
you go.

Ted, I would love to see some of your shots using this lens.  Perhaps you
could add a photo or two to you website, or email me one or two so I can get
a better feel for what is possible with the Noct. beyond what I have seen to
date.  I am more than happy to add another lens to my wish list.  You never
know when I might win the lottery!  :-)

Bob Kramer

> -----Original Message-----
> 
> From: Ted Grant <tedgrant@islandnet.com>
> Subject: RE: [Leica] Delta 3200
> 
> Hi Bob,
> 
> Well it isn't that, we who use them regularly in our work in colour as
> well
> as  Black & white don't get sharp pictures, we do. And regularly.
> 
> Actually I'd have been dead in the water for magical low light moody
> colour
> material without it. One thing it does very very well that allows you to
> blow away art directors while using available existing light shooting
> Kodachrome 64! They think your crazy and question your common sense, not
> to
> mention your mental state.  UNTIL! They look at what they thought you
> weren't shooting in a serious  manner.
> 
> The Noctilux for cost and I agree isn't for the Sunday shooter, it's alot
> of bread to shell out for a  lens you may not use wide open or you don't
> like the look of the subject separation from the background.
> 
> However it isn't a lens for everyone until they use it for sometime to
> become accustomed to it's handling and for shooting mainly wide opn or
> near
> that for a high percentage of their picture taking.
> 
> If one isn't prepared to work in twilight zone lighting for magical moment
> photographs then they'd be foolish to buy one.
> 
> But I can assure you that we who work with them on a regular basis
> wouldn't
> part with it for hell or high water.
> 
> <<<<<Using this lens wide open, the question isn't "Do I want the
> eyelashes
> to be in focus?", it is "*Which* eyelash do I want to be in
> focus?".>>>>>>>
> 
> Naw that's what sorts out the same old pictures to where people who pay
> you
> say, "Jeeeeesh how did you do that and it looks incredible!:)
> 
> <<<<Combine this problem with the high lens cost, the inevitable even if
> minor optical compromises that result with this fast a lens, and the lens
> size and weight, and I just don't feel a burning desire to own it.>>>>>
> 
> Naw the depth of focus/field isn't a problem, it's an asset if you make it
> work for you. :)
> 
> To each his own, but the different picture possiblities with it and cost
> are not a problem, as it's only a tool allowing the photographer to shoot
> where others fear to tread without using a twinkie flash!  (sorry guys I
> had to get my anti-flash fix) :)
> 
> The Noctilux opens a whole new world of picture taking and shouldn't be
> cast aside because one doesn't know how to use it nor the funds to
> purchase
> as it's only limited by your imagination to see.
> 
> ted
>