noah_addis Posted September 23, 2009 Share #1 Posted September 23, 2009 Advertisement (gone after registration) I've read several times that people think the 75mm lenses will be great on the M9. I'm reserving judgement until I actually get one, but with film I found the 75 to be not all that useful for my work. I prefer the 90mm on film or full-frame since it offers something different enough from the 50 to be useful. I have a 90AA which will be my main long lens on the M9. I also have a 75 'Cron, which bought specifically for the M8 with its crop factor. I may sell it to free up cash for other things, but as I said I'll reserve judgement. I'm also looking for something different--a portrait lens that is sharp in the center but has more of an old-lens look. Maybe some softness wide open in the corners and nice soft out of focus areas. A bit of veiling flare to soften the contrast when shooting into the light would be nice. But it would be good if it were sharp when stopped down a bit, so that it could serve as a backup for my 90 AA in a pinch. With the M8 I ended up using my 50 Summilux Pre-Asph for this purpose, but it was a tad short even with the crop factor. So I'm looking for ideas on what lens to check out. I'd like a lens (preferably 90mm but maybe 75) that has a bit of the old Leica glow wide open then sharpens up when stopped down by, say F/4 or 5.6. I was thinking a 75 'Lux would be good but it's expensive and this is sort of a specialty lens for me (mostly for portraits and weddings), not something I'll use all the time. The 90 Cron Pre-Asph seems like a good option. Any thoughts or other suggestions? Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Advertisement Posted September 23, 2009 Posted September 23, 2009 Hi noah_addis, Take a look here 75/90mm lenses on M9. I'm sure you'll find what you were looking for!
Frank Sprow Posted September 23, 2009 Share #2 Posted September 23, 2009 I have had several 90's and find that, for me, the 75mm Summicron is much handier, easier to focus and the images are remarkable in quality and impact. If in full frame I want the perspective of a 90, I just crop it in a bit during post-processing. Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
luigi bertolotti Posted September 23, 2009 Share #3 Posted September 23, 2009 Me too are prone to think that WHEN I'll have a M9 maybe the 75 can lose part of its role for me (I took the "cheap" Summarit also thinking of this); regarding your idea to have a "old stylish" 90... lot of choices of course: personally there are two lenses that I have and find very appreciable : - The Tele Elmarit first version ("dwarf") : very compact , pleasantly soft wide open - The Elmar 90 f4 : lot of items available, so is one of the less costly Leitz classic. Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
noah_addis Posted September 23, 2009 Author Share #4 Posted September 23, 2009 Frank--I don't ordinarily crop my images. I will it if saves a picture or makes a major improvement, but as a general practice I like to shoot full-frame. As I said I may keep my 75, I at least want to try it. But what I'm asking about here is a lens with a less modern look. Luigi--I'll check out the lenses you mentioned. I should have specified that I'd prefer F/2 or at least 2.8. Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
innerimager Posted September 23, 2009 Share #5 Posted September 23, 2009 I'm also looking for something different--a portrait lens that is sharp in the center but has more of an old-lens look. Maybe some softness wide open in the corners and nice soft out of focus areas. A bit of veiling flare to soften the contrast when shooting into the light would be nice. But it would be good if it were sharp when stopped down a bit, so that it could serve as a backup for my 90 AA in a pinch. With the M8 I ended up using my 50 Summilux Pre-Asph for this purpose, but it was a tad short even with the crop factor. So I'm looking for ideas on what lens to check out. I'd like a lens (preferably 90mm but maybe 75) that has a bit of the old Leica glow wide open then sharpens up when stopped down by, say F/4 or 5.6. I was thinking a 75 'Lux would be good but it's expensive and this is sort of a specialty lens for me (mostly for portraits and weddings), not something I'll use all the time. The 90 Cron Pre-Asph seems like a good option. Any thoughts or other suggestions? I think the 75 lux would give you just what you want. It really is an exceptional lens. Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Ecar Posted September 23, 2009 Share #6 Posted September 23, 2009 Noah, Xmas hasn't come for me yet, so I'm still waiting for my M9. However, I own both the Cron 90 Pre-Asph (which I ended up liking more than the latest version as it provides indeed a more classic, less sharp look for portraits) and the Lux 75. All I can say is that, on the M8 at least - and on film - the character of the latter is just breathtaking and would be my definite keeper if I had to choose between the two. Only two downsides: it's a massive beast (but the Cron 90 is not exactly a tiny lens...) and focus may be tricky wide open as the DOF is razor-thin. And, of course, it's expensive (probably 2,500+ USD for a mint V2/3) - but only you can decide whether the investment is worth it... Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
peter_n Posted September 23, 2009 Share #7 Posted September 23, 2009 Advertisement (gone after registration) Noah I would give the last pre-ASPH 90mm Summicron some thought. I used the 90mm AA for some time and it's a great lens but after a while I realized it wasn't so hot with close-up images. Then I read somewhere that other users were having similar issues. Maybe sample variation but I did a bit of research and bought the pre-ASPH to try, really liked it and eventually sold the AA. As you can see from the attached pic they're identical in size. The pre-ASPH is excellent throughout the focus range, sharp in the center but with very nice rendering of the OOF areas. Users have compared its look to the 75mm Summilux but I wouldn't know as I've never used one (too big). The black sample I have is made in Canada and the product nr. is 11136, they're also made in chrome with nr. 11137. The filter size is E55, an earlier version is E49. If you try one make sure it's an E55, it is shorter than the E49 version. Welcome, dear visitor! As registered member you'd see an image here… Simply register for free here – We are always happy to welcome new members! Link to post Share on other sites Simply register for free here – We are always happy to welcome new members! ' data-webShareUrl='https://www.l-camera-forum.com/topic/97828-7590mm-lenses-on-m9/?do=findComment&comment=1047429'>More sharing options...
noah_addis Posted September 23, 2009 Author Share #8 Posted September 23, 2009 Noah, Xmas hasn't come for me yet, so I'm still waiting for my M9. However, I own both the Cron 90 Pre-Asph (which I ended up liking more than the latest version as it provides indeed a more classic, less sharp look for portraits) and the Lux 75. I'm still waiting for my M9s too. I hope to get at least one in the next few weeks! This might be contrary to some people's philosophy, and I'm not saying it's right or the best way to work. But I prefer to limit myself to a few main focal lengths (and possibly have multiples of those FL's as backup or for different circumstances). So I'd much prefer another 90 and the Summicron pre-asph interests me since it's affordable. BUT, if the 75 'Lux is that much better, maybe I'll change my mind. Since you have both, what would you say the main differences are? Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
jonoslack Posted September 23, 2009 Share #9 Posted September 23, 2009 Hi Noah My 75 'cron was my most used lens on the M8 (with the possible exception of the 25mm Zess). I had a 90 elmarit which was simply getting dusty in the cupboard. Now, with the M9, the tables have turned, the little elmarit is a lovely lens, but of course it may not be fast enough. I'm also interested in the pre-asph 90 'cron, as it seems affordable and desirable. From what I understand the new, small, summarit is also a good lens, and it's pretty cheap, but, again, it may be a little too slow. Certainly, I'd be more tempted by a 90 Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
yanidel Posted September 23, 2009 Share #10 Posted September 23, 2009 Just went through the exact same process and in the end ordered the 75 Lux, because : - I want no more than two lenses. 35 Lux + 75 Lux will cover about anything and apparently have similar rendering characteristics. - 90mm is too long for me in many cases. Easier to slightly crop a 75mm image than expand it - all these long fast F2 or lower lenses are big and heavy. I believe a 90mm pre-asph is 500gr vs 560 for the 75 lux. Does 10% extra weight really make a difference ? there will be a brick in your bag anyway. - the 75mm framelines of the M9 have been much improved as far as I could read. - I read that F4 and above, it is as sharp as a modern lens. - and then, above all, I tried a friend's 75mm at F1.4, and the OOF is just wonderful. Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Ecar Posted September 23, 2009 Share #11 Posted September 23, 2009 So I'd much prefer another 90 and the Summicron pre-asph interests me since it's affordable. BUT, if the 75 'Lux is that much better, maybe I'll change my mind. Since you have both, what would you say the main differences are? In a nutshell: Lux 75: painterly Nocti-like rendering wide-open, great OOF with soft and dreamy bokeh, becomes very sharp @ f/5.6, but it's bulky and heavy, has a long focus throw and may be hard to focus wide open if you are close to your subject. But it becomes notably easier to focus if you stop down to f/2, so it shouldn't be an issue compared to the Cron. Some have reported focus shift on this lens, but it's never been an issue for me (either I have a good copy or it doesn't bother me). Cron 90 Pre-Asph: has a bit of a dual character, with a wonderfully classic Leica signature up to f/4ish, which becomes increasingly sharp as you stop down, so much so that its rendering after f/5.6 becomes virtually indistinguishable (to my eyes at least) from that of the latest ASPH version - ie "clinical". Somewhat smaller, lighter and possibly easier to handle than the Lux 75. Again, don't get me wrong: both are fantastic lenses, but the Lux 75 and its "aberrations" never cease to amaze me. The Cron 90 may be easier to use / more forgiving in a fast-paced street or wedding environment. I'd have been very happy to post pictures for you to compare side-by-side, but I'm moving house and have taken advantage of this period to send both lenses (along with a couple of other) to Solms for coding. Hope this helps. Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
luigi bertolotti Posted September 23, 2009 Share #12 Posted September 23, 2009 Luigi--I'll check out the lenses you mentioned. I should have specified that I'd prefer F/2 or at least 2.8. Yes Elmar is a f 4 and this can look not so fine for many users: anyway, I have a pair of Summicrons 90 preasph (one is a very old screwmount - very heavy too) and prefer much more the little Tele Elmarit. Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
ace5426 Posted September 23, 2009 Share #13 Posted September 23, 2009 Noah, For what you describe as the look you want with a sharp, but soft look for portraiture; think about the 125/2.5 Hektor--it gives that exact look and of course has to be used with a Visoflex. I think the best and most useful setup for it is with the Visoflex I with the 45 degree finder. Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
kidigital Posted September 23, 2009 Share #14 Posted September 23, 2009 I just picked up a 75lux .... I had one several years ago and loved it but mistakenly sold it. When my M9 arrives in the next week or two (hopefully) my only two lenses will be the 35lux and 75lux. The focal length and draw of both lenses will suit what I want to shoot perfectly. Kurt Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Knorp Posted September 23, 2009 Share #15 Posted September 23, 2009 Noah, For what you describe as the look you want with a sharp, but soft look for portraiture; think about the 125/2.5 Hektor--it gives that exact look and of course has to be used with a Visoflex. I think the best and most useful setup for it is with the Visoflex I with the 45 degree finder. The Hektor will be a fine lens no doubt but that Visoflex attachment is a dog to handle and to my taste makes hand held shots a clumsy affair: it requires some practice to get steady shots, but it's doable. I've got a '52 Summarex 1.5/85mm (sm + m-adaptor 90) that's basically not much better in terms of handling, weighing an unhealthy 845gr including adaptor, filter and hood. It can be sharp but has a rather wild bokeh. The original hood is a monstrous contraption that I replaced for an alu tele-hood [ø58mm] from B+W, it screws neatly into the filter. On the M8 (1.3 crop) the hood works fine, but not sure on the M9 (ff), though. Still queuing ... All the best. Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
tom0511 Posted September 23, 2009 Share #16 Posted September 23, 2009 Have the 75lux NS 75 Summarit-I can not see much difference (if any) in rendering, besides the lux is softer at f1.4 - at f2.8 they look very simular IMO. The 75lux suffers from focus shift so expect some learning curve if you use it wide open (Personally I cant manage it wide open) The Summarit is lighter , faster to focus and I like the hood. I read about the magic of the 75lux again and again-thats why I havent sold it yet. In the end the Summarit works very very good for me. Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
rosuna Posted September 23, 2009 Share #17 Posted September 23, 2009 I think the 75 lux would give you just what you want. It really is an exceptional lens. The Summarit 75mm is a great alternative. High quality but classic look. Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
innerimager Posted September 23, 2009 Share #18 Posted September 23, 2009 I don't know why, but I have no trouble focusing the 75 lux wide open either on my M8 or film Ms. My favorite is on the M7 with a 0.85 finder. The range finder patch is good sized and so are the framelines. On the M8 I use a 1.33 magnifier. But I have as good or better focus success with the 75 at 1.4 as I do the 50 lux, and definitely better than the noctilux 1.0 at 1.0. And as Ecar has said so eloquently, the 75 lux draws beautifully and uniquely. It's my favorite lens. On the other hand, I'm glad to see Jono loving his 90 elmarit. I think it's a great lens, and definitely easy and fast to focus, something about it's throw makes it the fastest focusing Leica lens I've used, and it just gives keeper after keeper. real honey of a lens. best....Peter here's an example at 1.4 on an M7 Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Printmaker Posted September 24, 2009 Share #19 Posted September 24, 2009 How about a soft and dreamy 90 TeleElemarit for say $100. Pm me if you're interested. Tom Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
noah_addis Posted September 24, 2009 Author Share #20 Posted September 24, 2009 I... Cron 90 Pre-Asph: has a bit of a dual character, with a wonderfully classic Leica signature up to f/4ish, which becomes increasingly sharp as you stop down, so much so that its rendering after f/5.6 becomes virtually indistinguishable (to my eyes at least) from that of the latest ASPH version - ie "clinical". Somewhat smaller, lighter and possibly easier to handle than the Lux 75. ... This sounds promising, it's exactly what I'm looking for. I'd love a lens that I can use wide open for a portrait or wedding and have a bit of a softer look (not like cheesy soft-focus, just not clinical) and get background blur that's similar to, say, a 50 Lux Pre-Asph or 35 Cron IV. If the lens is sharp stopped down a bit, I can also use it for my documentary work where I want a sharper look for distant scenes, aerials and detail photographs. Even for my documentary projects I don't mind a little veiling flare and a tad lower contrast. I can easily add contrast later but mellowing out a harsh image is tougher. I thought I'd need two lenses, my 90SAA for the sharp stuff and the new lens for a lower-contrast look. But maybe the one lens can do both, that would be perfect. In general I don't go for super-clinical lenses. My favorites on film (and again on M9 I'm sure) are the 28 'Cron, 35 'Lux Asph, 35 'Cron IV and 50 'Lux Pre-Asph. I had a 75 'Lux back when I shot film and rarely used it, I found it somewhat of an awkward focal length and I hated the framelines. Once the M8 came along I did regret selling it. I didn't check out the 75 framelines when I tested out an M9, but judging from the M9 microsite they don't look much better than the M8 (though they would be bigger since the camera is full-frame). I'll consider the 75 'Lux but I use the longer focal lengths so rarely that I'm not sure if I can justify the cost. Thanks for all of the advice everyone. It was very helpful and I'll look into this a bit more once I get my M9s. Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
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