Archived posting to the Leica Users Group, 2000/05/27
[Author Prev] [Author Next] [Thread Prev] [Thread Next] [Author Index] [Topic Index] [Home] [Search][ snip ] > I wonder what I could do: > - trade it for a summicron asph. (but that's expensive!) > - look for an old 3,5/35mm summaron when there is enough light? - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Going into analytical / critical / synthesis mode: 1/ Try your Summicron 35 pre-asph. at f/4 - f/5.6 - f/8 . . . as if in "aperture priority" mode. This could also yield quite interesting shots as it would force you to "visualize" your image composition in a more conscious way. 2/ It seems you are trying to get too deep an in-focus zone, using too slow shutter speeds. Sometimes, this little factor could be the hidden cause of your disappointment. Note how some famous photos use out-of-focus areas to an end. Few people are really unhappy with a pre-asph Summicron 35. 3/ You may have to analyse the way you hold your camera when photographing, so as to get a steadier grip. Also, pay attention, anew, to how you react when actually depressing the shutter button: c-l-i-c-k ! 4/ Look at photos you wish were yours and pay very close attention to the lighting components of these images: a general impression of sharpness often owes quite a lot to secondary "un-important" details, which seasoned pros just do out of instinct, with the very same "classic" lens. Perhaps are your comments related rather to too flat lighting conditions, for your type of film, quite possible you know. Try working at higher EV values and see if these images please you better. Adding "snap" this way can deliver a lot. 5/ Try newer film emulsions also known for their overall performance, rather than your usual. This could help you understand better where the problem is coming from, as you de-structure your old habits and force yourself into a self-analytical mode to gain appropriate insight and re-educate yourself in a pleasant way. In hope this helps, AJQ