Pentax Takumar 35mm F2 REVIEW - My Favorite Vintage Wide Angle Lens
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- čas přidán 24. 07. 2024
- The SMC Pentax Takumar 35mm F2 is my favourite wide angle vintage lens in my camera bag (right now).
#vintagelenses#SMCTakumar#35mm
BUY LENS HERE: ebay.to/2ydwGRk
⚡︎⚡︎ MY VINTAGE LENS GEAR ⚡︎⚡︎ : bit.ly/2MxdD8d
🎼 **Free 30 day Trial with Epidemic Sound: share.epidemicsound.com/markho...
⚡︎⚡︎ VINTAGE LENS ADAPTERS ⚡︎⚡︎
□ FOTODIOX M42 - E (Sony): geni.us/SonyM42
□ FOTODIOX PRO M42-EOS (Canon): geni.us/M42Canon
□ FOTODIOX PRO M42 - F (Nikon): geni.us/M42Nikon
□ FOTODIOX PRO M42-Micro 4/3: geni.us/M42MFT
💥 MY PRODUCTION GEAR 💥
□ Sony A7SII: geni.us/M42MFT
□ Wandrd Prvke Backpack: geni.us/WANDRDPRVK21L
□ Sony 16-35 F4: geni.us/SonyZeiss1635F4
□ ROV PRO Everyday Slider: geni.us/ROVPRO
□ Aperture 120DII: geni.us/Aputure120DII
□ Aperture Lightdome II: geni.us/LiteDome2
□ Hoodman Lens Hood: geni.us/LensHood
□ LitraTorch: geni.us/LitraT
□ Litra Pro: geni.us/LitraP
□ BEST Tripod: geni.us/BestPod
□ Microphone: geni.us/MarkMic
□ TOO Expensive Battery Grip: geni.us/A7Grip
□ Hobby Matt: geni.us/hobbymatt
hey-filmmaker from winnipeg with no local stock here-if you happen to know a reputable or trustworthy vintage lens dealer in toronto can you send me some info?
while we’re at it, great channel... i am just sitting here with my popcorn waiting for you to hit 100k!!
+Punk Rachmaninoff wow missed this! I’m sorry! Hello Winnipeg. Winning peg is we call round our parts (we don’t really I just made that up). I know a few dealers I will get info from at the Oct 18th show. I need them for myself as well and happy pass them on to you!
PS: eBay vender: good old camwra is where I bought this lens from
as well as a canon 70-210FD and a SMC takumar 135 F2.5.
Shipping super fast and lenses came in prestige condition. Fair prices as well.
Mark Holtze watched a few more of your excruciatingly under-appreciated, yet exquisitely created videos today-i was all over downtowncamera.com ... please keep making these amazing vintage lens reviews and tutorials for very recyclable technology... nobody else on youtube is doing it quite like this.
if you get anywhere with the dealers at camerama in october let me know-as i am in the middle of an upgrade, i might even buzz out there for one of those-probably not until the next one at this rate. there is just not enough of a population in “negativapeg” (as WE call it) to support a real market-it is a sad state of affairs. anyway, i would very much appreciate any info you can forward my way!
nobody likes a gloater, but today i just found a BRAND NEW (in box) asahi super-multi-coated takumar 135 3.5, in a condition that would make kubrick at very least test it out... the serial number came back at approximately 1960! when people say mint, this was above mint... it still had the original filter on it! it’s probably only worth $40, but i will take what i can get in this boring town.
Dude that’s a huge find! Huuuuuge! I think a lot of the dealers have cards and an online presence so I will for sure. DM me on Instagram so I can get your contact info.
Mark Holtze done!! thanks again! create on!!
random idea: we should try a twitter campaign to get your channel some damn toronto-love free-promo from unbox therapy! he needs to redeem himself for his exponential environmental footprint... the time is now-there are big waves in full frame mirrorless and recycling has never been cooler. that, and nobody can afford the inferior modern glass...
you clearly have the chops.
I can’t help but wonder if the way you made this video is inspired by Top Gear (when it was good). I love the way you edit these and talk about the lenses like Jeremy Clarkson talks about supercars. So good! Keep them coming.
Hey Danial thanks for the kind words mate. I definitely love these lenses like Clarkson loves his cars ;). I've worked with some TOP Gear (good days) crew before so i would say it's a bit of a mixed bag in terms of inspiration. :) Looking forward to your next video.
Mark as usual an amazing tutorial well delivered. The opening edits are dope and the shot at 4:51 is crazy good. I would love to pick your brain one day on your suggestions for me doing some of things I plan to work on. That's another day but until then keep well and keep these coming.
Happy to chat Joe and thank you. Looking forward to a good old fashioned discussion. Talking shop is what I love doing :)
Another great review Mark. It’s encouraging to see vintage manual lenses getting a second life, rather than being locked away in a collector’s cupboard. My first Takumar was an Auto Takumar 55mm f1.4 which, 40years later is still a wonderful lens, very sharp and colourful. I reacquainted myself with the SMC Takumar 24mm f3.5 the other day. This is a real gem of a lens. It is a pretty big lens, having a 58mm filter size. My copy is sharper wide open than either my SMC 28mm f3.5 or SMC 35mm f2 and is easier to achieve focus, having a short one quarter turn focus pull. If you see one grab it with both hands.....you won’t be disappointed. There is also an attractive matching lens hood which I have and this makes the entire unit look as if just made for a modern digital camera. Keep up the great reviews.
Wonderful Tony! It's not on my list! Thank you very much!
Dude the way you make your videos is insanely good and easy to understand! Keep it up! :)
Thanks mate! I enjoy making them, these lenses inspire me pretty heavily so I almost can't help myself.
Appreciate the words of encouragement!
Another great review Mark... I have the Kamero Auto 35mm f/2.8, it's nothing like the Takumar 35mm, but I play within its limitations. Be well and stay encouraged!!!
Love that thunder transition, your videos are amazing as always.
Thanks mate. It’s super simple, just combining shotd withbthr overlay effect in premiere. Super easy
After several videos - this is my official go-to channel for vintage lenses goodness.
:)
Really appreciate this review my man, it means a lot when someone reviews are lens and actually takes it out in the field and show images from it, strange enough not all lens reviewers do any of that. While I've been looking at these lenses for a long time I still haven't had the guts to try one due to the small amounts of radiation. Then again I'm not sure if the 35 millimeter has that. One of my favorite lenses is the Helios and my voigtlander color Ultron especially. I find shooting lightning with vintage lenses tricky because of the soft outer edges of the frame, I usually try to stop them down for a little more sharpness
Thanks Ray! There is a pretty comprehensive list on what SMC taks are radioactive online. The radiation levels are super small as well, almost none existent. Understandable none the less.
Ya I was experimenting pretty heavy dying this storm. Definitely wasn’t shooting wide open because of that softness.
A first time though and was happy and lucky to have snapped some of the ones I did.
Thanks for the kind comment!
Another amazing video Mark! I agree 100% with you that the shallow bokeh can be too much and the location you used really helped to illustrate that. Stunning location by the way! I don't mid the vignetting for some situations, but that's certainly an aesthetic decision. Great music too!
Thanks Rod. Ya I like the wide open vignetting; it’s got this overall dreamy sort of glow to it that can work for certain situations for sure. Shooting a glide cam with a manual lens wide open is a bit tricky though ;).
Location ya reminds me of the forest they used in Band of Brothers battle of the bulge episodes hehe.
Just stunning man! You really presented this so well, really nice video and well explained ☺️
Thanks CJames. Turned out to be one of my favorite ones so far.
I just love how you compose your videos. A real pleasure to watch. That lens looks like a keeper. I have the slower version (3.5 I believe). You’re right, the Taks are next level stuff. Gorgeous objects.
Thanks Tim! I’ve got to review the 135 you sent me. Looking forward to that but will take advantage of fall foliage for that puppy!
Mark Holtze The 135 might be underwhelming compared to the rest of your stable of Takumars. You’ve got some beauties.
It’s not though. The telephoto look is beautiful. Naturally creates some nice blurred background
I suppose you're using a full-frame body. That would make a difference too.
Another amazing review. Very well put together and informative!
Thanks a bunch! Your a big inspiration so appreciate what you do for the photography/videography community as well mate!
amazing review like always. Keep going ⭐️
A quick update, Mark. I sold my Canon gear and went to Fuji mirrorless because I am getting old and the weight was becoming a factor with full frame gear. I love this lens on my X-S10! The built in image stabilization really helps with stills in low light, and for video it is priceless! Keep up the excellent work!
A great video, Mark! I bought this lens on ebay, and love it when I mount it on my 5D MK II and shoot raw video via magic lantern. The image quality is really good for a vintage lens, and the price is right! Keep the awesome vids coming! Hi from BC as well! One day I will get to Toronto.
Fantastic lens! Glad you found a good one!
Enjoyed the review. Thumbs up. Slowly making my way through all your reviews.
Crazy mate. It’s been a long haul lol. Sometimes I look back at these and am
Quite surprised at the amount of time i put into them. Hard to reconcile now, it’s a passion thing, def didn’t get me CZcams growth lol.
@@MarkHoltze I bet it must have taken a while to put together the video. You shot so many different scenes and you have so many audio tracks and edited them together brilliantly. You're very good at editing. Sometimes I watch my videos after yours and cringe. I still have a lot to learn but that's part of the fun for me. Each video is an opportunity to get better. You're very skilled. It's a pleasure to watch your videos.
Seriously great video, thumbs up. Takumar is also my brand to go for vintage lenses, currently using 50mm f1.4 ver2
They’re kind of addictive aren’t they ;)
Nice review - Thank you
I had this lens from 74...02 and liked it on film very much. (btw. production started 71 until Pentax switched to K-Mount in 75). When I switched to K-Mount in 02 I sold ist and bought a M35/2 as a replacement, but was never that happy with it. Meanwhile I got th K35/2 which seems to be mostly identical to the SMC-Takumar.
I love my Taks - the 28mm f3.5 basically stays connected to my Spotmatic. Everything looks epic with it.
The 28! I'll have to keep eye out! Thanks Tyrone! A lens that stays mounted is a lens purchase well made!
That "ugly" bokeh is what gives these lenses character. Your videos are awesome. New SUB!
Agreed! Thanks T May! Appreciate the vote of confidence mate.
Hi Mark. Yet another excellent video.....keep it going!
I have quite a few SMC Taks, including the 35mm F2 and agree with your findings.....a very good lens, sharp, contrasty, great colour and Bokeh.
I have recently added a 55mm f2.8, a 28mm f3.5 and a 24mm f2.8 (58mm filter) and have been blown away by their quality (even wide open).
The slower aperture lenses just work and give excellent results (I’m mostly a picture taker, rather than video).
Simply put, there are few (and expensive) other makes that give the same FEEL and quality of make & output.
However, I also have had a long standing affection for Olympus 35mm cameras and lenses and also own quite a few.
Being the curious type, I had to do some side by side tests of Taks Vs Olys and whilst the Taks are good, they don’t always measure up.
Corner softness of the Taks seems to be common in my testing of the 50mm f1.4, 55mm f1.8 (Oly f1.2), 24mm f2.8, 35mm f2.8etc.
Centre sharpness, colour, contrast and vignetting seem to be comparable and occasionally better on the Taks (colours pop on some lenses).
The Olympus lenses are generally lighter, more compact, have a ridged rubber ring, forward mounted aperture ring and, when using an adapter.....snap on and off easily (no screwing), in fact I just leave the adapter on the camera and it seems like just part of the body.
BUT......they DON’T feel as good and that is why I can’t let them go.....they are very near perfect....testament to to great Japanese work ethics.
Once again, great review.....the 24mm f3.5 needs to be given a go!
Cheers
Tony
Thanks for the thoughtful comment Tony! I love comparing the different focal llenths to one another directly. You really get a good sense of the performance when you do that. Worked well for my 3 nifty 50 video. Same frame, different lenses through the paces. I do want to do more modern vs vintage comparisons for reference. If I manage to splurge on a vintage CRl Zeiss 85mm1.4 that’s might be a great head to head with the tak 85.
Going to look into the Olympus lenses, appreciate the insight.
I was sold on my first two taks (50 and 100 maco) because of how the felt first and foremost. When I mounted to my camera it was like wow, I just put the equivalent of an $399 lens and this thing is $55?!?! Sold.
The macro I use all the time, I use it for almost all the macro shots in all my videos and this thumbnail. $95 it was, Lens hold and all.
Anyway thanks again Tony, always nice hearing your thoughts!
Good real world review, Mark. Well done.
Thank you Angus. Really wanted to showcase this lens in the best possible way. Always fun doing these little reviews as well. :)
I wish I wouldn’t have sold all my smc Asahi lenses a few years back. When I started sourcing them around 2013, they were cheap and abundant. Now I’m starting to see some not so perfect specimens for higher. Oh well, as long as I can pick up my favorites focal ranges and I have 2 already I’ll be fine. I want this 35mm for sure and a 85mm 1.4. Really enjoying the videos. Keep it up!
Thanks Josh! Ya you don’t need lots unless you like to collect them. A few will do for sure!
Awesome video Mark, and this was very well edited!! I came from eh Joe!
Be Blessed Stay Strong
Thanks mate! Eh Joe's bringing everyone together lol.
Mark Holtze You are welcome! Yes he is!! And that’s the way it should be.... bringing people together!!
Recently got this lens, found it very soft on focusing. Will need to go back to it to work out what we did wrong.
If there were Emmy's for lens reviews this would have to get one! Bravo :)
I’ll take any kind of Emmy I can get ;). Thanks mate. For me the fun really is getting out and shooting with these lenses. Takes me days to assemble them as I do it in my super spare time but that leaves some room for ideas to grow.
Need to showcase these in the best possible light(ning) anyway ;).
Thanks again for the kind words.
@@MarkHoltze I'm a fan of your work! Please hit me up if you're ever passing through LA! Also - I'm a Canon C300 mkii shooter and currently trying to figure out how to adapt Konica AR glass to my C300 EF mount. I've tried the adapters but the infinity correction back element causes ghosting and nastiness. I do have an Ed Mika permanent adapter on the way for a Canon FL 55mm f1.2 which I look forward to :)
@@FilmCrafter Nice! I will for sure mate. I haven't been out there in a number of years and due for sure. I don't have any real world experience with Konica, but I understand the frustration with that little adapter glass element. I hate them, so MUDDY!
Your Canon FL 55 will work wonders though!
I guess they don't make AR adapters for mirrorless EOS bodies? I understand for DSLR, but on a cinema camera they should work without the lens.
Let me know how you like your 55 when you get it and test it out!
@@MarkHoltze the 55 is great! I got the Ed Mika EF mount so no messing with adapters. Great image :) The Konica's are actually working really well on my other camera a JVC GY LS300 which has the sensor right up against the MFT mount. Works very similarly to a mirrorless but with all the benefits of a camcorder! :)
What a great vid mate. love these old lenses.
Thanks mate! Love these old lenses. Adapting them completely changed the game for me.
Without a doubt pentax is my favorite vintage lens
This felt like another language to me, but I'm glad to meet you from Eh Joe's collab and look forward to learning some camera goodies from you.
Hehe, thanks! Ya that was fun, nice to meet you as well! Gojng to check out your stuff! I’m not very crafty, but my daughter is.
I have the K-Mount version of this lens, Very similar size and appearance, probably vintage 1974 or so. The much different and smaller M lens came out later. It's a nice lens, I've been using it for my return to film recently. Thank you.
Yes I’ve heard good things about the K mount as well. I’ve been collecting these m42 mounts to double up on my dad’s 35mm as well. So nice to be able to use them on both mediums.
Thanks for watching mate.
Love this review video Great job!
Thanks mate! Working on the 5 vs 6 element 135mm 2.5 now. Been tricky trying to spot the actual optical differences, so lots of test shots and studying to get an idea. Been so much fun though. Love these old lenses!
SO DANG GOOD! The music was really good too!
Did your Ronin come in? I had my crane V1 out for this shoot.
It did. The Crane looks super similar. I was shooting today in Michigan and I forgot how good the overcast light makes things look outside!
Absolutely awesome video, both information and Imagery, I feel sick at how pants my footage looks in comparison. I have much to aspire to. Anyway I have a few Takumar lenses and tonight just bought the 35mm I love tese things they are a joy to use. Liked and easy sub Mark, off to binge watch your chan. Regards Paul
It’s a great lens. I still use it despite my collection of 35’s. It’s just so nice and small. ✊
@@MarkHoltze That's the thing, at work, press photog, I lug around an array of big heavy canon lenses, on my own time these wee light gorgeous Takumars are a breeze. Happy daze for the back knees, and shoulder.
Just bought mine from eBay, cannot wait to get it
You're going to LOVE it! PS: I got the lens hoods from www.simmodlens.com They're THE BEST!
Beautifully shot video. Nice lightening footage at the start too. I shoot exclusively with Takumars too, wonderful lenses. I have them all except the 35/2 so it's great to see the review, thanks. I have the 50/1.4 8 element, the 85/1.8, 135 V2, 200/3.5 preset, you name it. My favourite though, by a very long stretch, is the macro Takumar 50/4 preset. The thing is exquisite for video, not just macro. You obviously took alot of time with this great video, cheers
Thank you kindly. I love these lenses to try pretty hard to showcase their potential. I reviewed the Mac 50 F4 in my last lens review, amazing lens, it’s prob my most used at this point. Super versatile and sharp!
They’re fantastic lenses, I would love to test out the 50 8 element vs the 7...the 8 isn’t radiactive correct?
@@MarkHoltze I have both the 7 and the 8 element versions. The 8 certainly contains no radioactive elements. My 7 does not either. Certainly the first version of the 7 was radioactive. I believe my 7 to be the 3rd version. In comparisons I found there to be a difference but very little. The 8 perhaps gets nod in sharpness and contrast wide open and the rest of the differences I put down to the SMC coating of the 7.
A couple of sleepers I have are the auto-taks - particularly the 10 blade iris 50mm f2.2, wonderful little lens. Perhaps the biggest sleeper is the 35mm f2.3; an incredible artistic flare/bokeh monster. Massive front element that can be reversed. Also I love my 200mm f3.5, 16 blade iris preset. Hugely underated telephoto. My 50f4 macro is the 1:1 preset with star iris, i got lucky finding that one. I love it. I watched your 50/f4 macro review and completely agree, an absolute beauty. Also loved your 85/1.8 review, completely agree, a wonderful lens, so sharp. Keep the vintage vids coming, they are fantastic.
@@elams1894 You have SO much knowledge it's wonderful! Thank you! I've been messing around with the SMC Takumar Fisheye 17mm, I'll probably do that one as my next Tac review. Might do it it when we go on vacation ,but definitely waiting for the weather to warm up a bit.
I also got the Contax Carl Zeiss 85mm 1.4 MINT, so curious to compare that to the Tak 85.
I've heard good things about that 200mm.
I need to definitely check it out!
Thanks again mate!
Just found your channel and subscribed! That was a high quality review btw. Thanks for sharing 😉🙌🏽
Thanks mate. I try to do these old lenses justice because they’re fire. Cheap and produced results are pro through and through. Sure beats dropping $1700 on a fast native prime lens ;)
Thanks for stopping by and committing. Appreciate it mate.
Absolutely, after that video I already searched trough eBay to find that lens! I am also a big fan of vintage lenses, can’t get enough 😬
I think as a creator a comment is way better than every like or view.
If I find an interesting video like yours, that’s a must. Looking forward to the next ones. 👍🏽
I feel the same. It’s a nice luxury being small enough to be engaged with the community. It’s a big reason why I bother at all.
Love to adapt the old canon FD lenses. The 35mm F2 with Thorium is extremely sharp!
Is that the SSC? I’ve heard a lot of good things about the FD 35 F2.
Whoop Whoop! Subbed love your style my Ninja
today is my birthday thank you for this video I can’t wait for the vhs video I can’t wait for that
Happy Birthday TJ! Hope you have a great weekend as well! Friday birthday means you get to celebrate Saturday and Sunday as well :)
Mark Holtze thank you man
Going to a flee market tomorrow and I reeally hope I'll find a cool lens! So far only got the helios 44m4 and zenitar 16mm!
The SMC Takumar's are MY favourite vintage lens maker right now, but would love to hear some other vintage recommends from you guys. What are some of your favourites?
The old 58mm F2 Helios 44M-4 made in CCCP is the most underrated vintage lens. Buy this puppy!
The 44M I'm going to try to pickup at a camera show this fall in Toronto. It's on my LIST of MUST HAVE's for sure!
Thanks mate!
For M42, I can recommend Carl Zeiss Jena (or aus Jena) Flektogon 35mm 2.4 (just watch out for copies with stuck aperture blades). Mir-1A 37mm 2.8 is quite good too, and has fluid, preset aperture (good for video) but unfortunately is pretty rare (its common variation, Mir-1B is rather lousy). For teles, Carl Zeiss Jena Sonnar 135mm 3.5, Jupiter-11A 4.0 and Tair-11A 2.8 are good and cheap. Auto Rikenon and Mamiya/Sekor 55mm 1.4 can rival the 50mm Takumar. MC Jupiter-9 85mm preset is also pretty good pick for video, assuming you got a copy with reasonably fluid aperture and focus rings (there are plenty of ones where these are pretty stiff unfortunately).
Great list! Thank you so much! I have a friend who has a thousand Zeiss (like 50) with a few doubles I might see if he’s willing to sell a few.
The Olympus 50mm f1.8 is amazing but not nearly as awesome as the pentax lenses I own
Mark, lovely vid! I have a Takumar 50 1.4, love it for video and want to build the kit. What adapters do you recommend? I shoot on Lumix cameras and currently use an Urth adapter.
I actually don’t have a direct M42 to L. Sony I used my Fotodiox m42 to E and I have the sigma 21 EF to L. So i just an EF to M42 and put that on the S1H. I need to see if they’ve updated any L adapters. How do you like the Urth ones?
@@MarkHoltze thanks for the speedy reply! The Urth seems fine with both my S5 and S1H, though I’m no expert and haven’t tried others to compare. I’ve heard there’s some variabilty between ‘dumb’ adapter brands?
Awww daddy say hi! Just a cute intro 💜
True story here: I had a black hole in that exact part hoping that an organic intro would come to me. I remembered her taking some video of our walk and went looked at the images she captured and saw this....it fit the bill perfectly! I dropped that clip in and it just made the whole video for me lol. It was the missing piece.
Just bought my first Takumar, the SMC 24mm f3.5. You are one the few trusted sources for this afaic. Sort of rushed into the bid after finding it late on eBay. Have you ever used it for video?
24 is a great lens, it's expensive compared to the 35 so you scored big time I think. I've seen a few, but haven't owned one, they're between $250 and $350 when I do see them and I've got a few 24's so don't need another one.
Fun video, gonna take a look at it on my M 43 Olympus, using these lenses are fun. Also looking at the Olympus w/a film lens. Have you thought about that?
Thanks Steve! Second person who’s mentioned Olympus, so I definitely need to. I’m so unfamiliar with that brand.
Hey mark I love your videos! I’m from Toronto too 😁 I have a question for you. Do you use polarizing or ND filters with your takumars? I inherited a beautiful 55mm takumar and I was wondering if it was possible or ideal to use filters on it. I generally use polarizing filters on my modern lenses because I love the look it gives.
Hi! Toronto GO! I don't usually use filters unless i'm shooting video and in that case I use the Simmod VND as it works as both a variable ND and a polarizer. I also have a 55 to 77mm lens hood that acts like a step up ring to bring the 49mm filter thread up to something in a size where I can use my existing filter ;)
Polarizing works on a vintage lens similar, i agree it's very cool look, i should make more use of it than I do, especially for photography.
Thanks for these reviews. I would have liked to be shown how this lens captures in the 8-11-16 range.
Most of the video shot on the lens was at F/8, F/16 i rarely shoot at given it's the max aperture of the lens and outside it's optimal range. Generally it performs as you would expect it to, very well. I'll try to include smaller F/stop ranges in new videos, but I tend to do my practical stuff at F/11 maxed out, but mostly F/8 and just control shutter speed from there. But pretty much all the video gimbal stuff was shot at F/8.
do you know how, do you have link for how i would adapt a wollensak lens to my t2i or to a pnasonic 4/3 olumpus om munt?
Hi Mark. Nice video! Btw. Your vintage lens kit link leads to some lab testing site.
Thanks for the heads up. That’s strange will look into it. I didn’t properly setup kit since they changed it.
Hey Mark - started collecting my own vintage lenses.
What lens/ses would you recommend for the Sony a7 III for talking head/interview stuff (I know you mentioned the C200 in the last video in which we spoke).
Just thinking of swapping to that and then building up EF mount vintage glass for cinematography and a couple of native lenses for portraiture and talking-head stuff like this.
Well the C200 is a super 35 sensor so you factor in a 1.5x crop factor on the full frame focal lengths.
A 24mm on a C200 is about a 32mm. You probably want a wider lens and a tigher lens for b- cam. So the 24 or 35 (framed far enough back) would work nicey. A 50 or 85 (max) would be a nice profile lens.
I'm a big fan of the Takumars as you probably know based on my channel. A few of them have some yellowing on them due to thorium decay but you can reverse that with UV light. If you are looking at Takumar's look for lens clarity.
A true pro set that still stands up by today's standards on all front are Contax Carl Zeiss. They're more expensive, but the colour is consistent and they make FANTASTIC cinema lenses.
The Contax Carl Zeiss 35mm 2.8 MMJ and 50 1.4 MMJ are good options. You can go wider to the 28mm F2.8 MMJ as well if 35 and 50 are too close.
Love your work!
Appreciate that sincerely. Your adapters have made it possible. It's been the missing link for me wanting to use these old lenses on my cameras for awhile so thank YOU.
Attention-getting vid for showing what the lens can do. Woods and helmitted/gloved biker a plus. Well done. Would be interesting to see image comparison between your Practica and your Sony 7Sii with this lens (no adapter needed for the former.) Adapters can affect balance. Color renditions would differ, I expect. IBIS should take care of the cam shake issue you mentioned, no? Is the Takumar 85 1.8 still your favorite vinage lens overall? With the recent crop of new mirrorless FF cams perhaps there will be a renewed interest and value uptick in vintage 35mm lenses.
Hi Paul, thanks for your comment! I have a philosophy for these videos, get OUT of the house when you can. Go someplace cool to make the visual journey more interesting. Also a wide angle lens that's fast, I needed some space and thought the video vs the stills would be a better indicator for how this lens performs. For me I use them mostly for video as I'm at the core a video guy, but they've re-inspired me from a photography perspective.
I'm totally going to do a Pratika vs sony video with the lens usage. I just need to shoot a bit more film to prove that I can get the best results and do a side by side (no editing) experiment. How the colours are rendered, how the frame looks etc. I'm going to try hard to match the camera settings as well (shutter speed/fstop/iso) so keep that as close as possible! You mentioning it though has put it back at the top of the list. Sometimes I bury ideas for reasons and you mentioning it kind of brought me back so THANK YOU!
The camera shake is a general note, I have IBIS turned on and am always mindful of jerky movements, but it's more a general info, need to have light hands with these old lenses as there is no IS. Also the focus throw being so short, makes nailing that focus wide open a challenge lol. It's buttery smooth though so with some practice it's actually very organic.
I agree, mirrorless are going to bring these lenses back around to the forefront for sure. Canon's R camera is a perfect platform for that. I Never shoot vintage on my DSLR because of the inconsistently (flange distance) etc. IT can be done but i just have such great results with the Sony mirrorless (and Canon C100mii) that there really is no point.
Thanks again for your thoughtful comment mate, I appreciate it.
Great video!
You're lucky I didn't see that lens on Ebay, I would of out bidded you! ;)
That's one of the few Tak's that I don't have!
Happy shooting!
Thanks Jim! I always BUY NOW, I never bid I don't have the patience ;). GOLD CAMERA they have some great deals and the lens came in brilliant condition.
Hey there Mark I’ve recently discovered your channel in my search for starting out using vintage lenses, and I’ve completely fallen in love with your channel! Cinematic, entertaining, intriguing and informative! Awesome! Question, for shots like focusing on details, great background separation and maybe decent fast manual zoom (all video), would you recommend the 35mm or the 85mm SMC takumar? Thanks!
Thanks for the kind words! I have a follow up question though, are you on a Full frame Camera or an APS-C camera? If you are full frame the 35 is extremely versatile. It's got a fairly close MIN focusing distance which means you can get pretty close to your subject, the fast F2 aperture (there is an F2 and F3.5 version) will give you that nice image separation when in close and wide open. The 85mm on a full frame is wonderful as well, it's a "telephoto" so it's better for subject isolation than the 35. It's a bit tricker to get shots though because 85's require you to be a bit further away from your subject. The tak 85 is a wonderful lens, it's a bit expensive compared to some of the others.
I honestly felt like THE PERFECT lens is the Takumar 50mm 1.4 or the Helios 44m 58mm F2. The 50-58 focal length for me I've just found to be perfect for just about everything. Not TOO wide, not TOO telephoto. The Helios like the other Takumar's is M42, just make sure if you're looking for one that it has a very smooth focus ring. You want that for video.
Let me know if have any follow up questions. If you are using an APS-C than multiply the focal length of these old 35mm lenses by 1.53 and you'll get the APS-C focal length. In that case the 35mm would be roughly a 58mm and the 50 would be roughly an 85 equivalent.
Hope I didn't confuse you with the last part, i'm here if you need me.
No not at all! I’m currently shooting an m50 with vitrox speed booster. I do have the nifty fifty already, and next week I will be getting my hands on the Helios 44 you’re talking about. Don’t know the shape it’s in but it’s from a family member (no $$😎). Looking forward to shooting with that one as well! But considering those 2 lenses in my arsenal already and you info above, the 35mm 2.0 might me the best option?
Ya I would go 35, 85 might be too tight even speed boosted. Plus it’s a lot more money vs the 35. Jupiter 85 F2 are good options for a more affordable 85 down the road. The 85 tak is inflated because of scarcity.
Alright Tnx so much I’m looking forward using those vintage lenses!! And seeing your next video;-)
Have you ever compared the Takumar 35mm F2 versus the Konica 35mm F2? Can you do a comparison?
I have this lands along with a few others that I got with my pentax but matic but I bought from the thrift store. I just barely got an adapter for my Canon so I'm excited to try this out in the digital world. But them lenses are amazing on the spot matic.
They transfer over nicely too mate! Haven’t played with them much on a dslr but on my canon cine camera..magic. My Sony too...love to hear your thoughts!
@@MarkHoltze Last night I had a chance to shoot a little bit of video with the 7D and take a few pictures and so far I'm really happy with the way these lenses work on their.
lovely review man, very nicely put together and enjoyable to watch! :) Could I ask what lens was on your camera when filming yourself talking?
Thanks Sylvan. The talking head lens is the Canon 24mm 1.4 prime. It’s on a super 35mm sensor here so it’s about a 35mm focal FOV equivalent.
The forest background in this case really has a nice rendering to it. Hard to shoot without an operator with a manual lens for sure lol.
@@MarkHoltze ah ok nice! Yeah the forest 'bokeh' rendering looks looovely! Yeah manual is always tricky when filming yourself, you did a good job though ;) Thanks dude!
Thanks mate; have a great day and thanks for stopping by.
Any experience with the earlier version of the 35mm f2 “fat model”?
the background music is fantastic.
This is your second video
I watched and it is very cool.
Don't have the Taks (have Minoltas,Cannons and few Russian lenses) maybe it's time to test one.
Shame that I have a problem with radioactivity 😀.
Not all Takumars are radioactive. There is a list online. Just the 50 1.4 is from my collection. The macros, the 85,135, fisheye are all clean. I think this 35 is as well.
But I understand, I did a lot of reading on the 50 radioactivity. Not enough to pose any kind of health risks unless I break then kens and eat the glass. ;)
@@MarkHoltze You are both correct and not so much at the same time.
Not all of them , but some of them , Just like some Cannons, Voightlanders , Zeiss etc...
Some of them omit higher and some low.
I really wanted the 50mm f4 macro but it is slightly radioactive (in the low end) , although true most of it will effect only in duration of time while steadily exposed and we are exposed daily to higher radiation,
It is not as safe as some French photographers will have you believe.
Hi Mark, great video! Is that a Praktica camera at 0:27min.? Is that your Grandfather's camera....the one that came with the Pentacon lens? Where did he get it? And: keep up the good work!
Thanks Robertus! Yes that is a Praktica, it was my dad's actually. Both came with a Pentacon lens, one is just the later version of the other. :)
@@MarkHoltze How did they come across a camera from the GDR? My favourite Carl Zeiss Jena lens is the 1,8/50 Pancolar, I just disassembled one of the early "Zebra" versions and put it back to its original focussing smoothness....it's a superb lens, as well....well worth a review (I have two copies, so just in case....)
@@robertuskoppies444 Not sure, both my dad and grandfather had Pratika's, they were surprisingly available in Canada I guess. The Pancolar sounds interesting! !
Keep it up , just subscribed . Well done
Thanks mate, this is probably my fav lens review to do date simply because of the location lol. Glad we had it last year, spring didn't come until way late and if I remember correctly, it went from winter, skipped past spring and straight to summer. -12 degrees to 28 degrees (celsius) within a week.
Ooooh, yes that is the good stuff. Love this lens. One of my earliest ones. I think this might be the one that sparked the Takumar GAS for me.
It’s super versatile. Crop or full frame.
@@MarkHoltze Yep! Perfect all-rounder. Even works well for portraits!
@@thedondeluxe6941 Totally!
I have the 28 3.5 and 55 1.8, and I think I'm ordering this one next.
You’ll dig it, this I command ;)
@@MarkHoltze I've got my potential set picked out on ebay. It will take a few months, so as one sells I'll find another... But I've got my eye on the 20mm, (have the 28mm), 35mm, (have the 55), 85, and 6-element 135mm 2.5. I'm hoping that I'll like them as much as the ones I already have.
Hi Mark! You totally sold me on the Takumars! I started out my photography journey on my Dad's old Pentax so that may have given me some bias too! I picked up the 67mm version of the 35mm f2 but I'm wondering about how different it is from the 49mm version? I use mine as cinema lenses and did a custom cine mod on them using that company you covered in one of your other videos, Cool-Lux for the gears, removable EF mounts from eBay, along with some silicon bands to give some more girth to make the cool-lux fit since they don't go that small :) Thanks for these great videos and your comparisons!
Such great cinema lenses! Whatever way you can mod them to that state is a GO from me! The 67mm 35mm f2, is an older version and it's not "super multi coated". It's a collectors item and goes for WAY more than the 49mm F2 so hold onto that one!
@@MarkHoltze Thanks for getting back with me Mark! So would you recommend I also get the SMC version? Optical quality wise is there a big difference? Thanks again for being that push that made me pursue these lenses!
@@brettsmithphotography2463 If you have the 67 version I would hold onto that one, you would just be getting a second lens, one that's a little less cool with optical renderings only marginaly improved (this can be debated). Save your money for something unique I say. If i had yours, I would just keep that and not bother.
@@MarkHoltze Thanks Mark! Saved me a trip down the eBay rabbit hole! :D
Bangin'... as usual.
Thanks mate. :). This one turned into something I really enjoyed making. The whole thing just kind of evolved when I totally wasn’t planning on doing a review for it until mid October min. Glad I did though, it was truly an inspired bideo for me.
Sold! Ty man!
That was a wonderful video and tutorial! I use an Olympus Pen9 for a micro 4/3s camera body. Is that something I can find an adapter for and put a vintage lens on it? I also have a Nikon dslr full frame, but I use a Zeiss art lens to get a film feel. It's fully manual as well.
Thank you! Absolutely you can. Fotodiox makes the best adapters IMhO, somjudt look for your lens mount to a micro 4/3 mount.
Zeiss art lenses are so much fun. Shooting manual is my fav, hard shooting ourself without autofocus but they are amazing Broll or camera operated lenses you can get for super cheap.
Thank you for that tip! I will check them out! Yeah, I don't know how you got the footage you have in this video! It's extremely well done, and beautiful. The perfection in the focus on your glove when you grasped the branch was amazing! Heck, I have trouble getting the focus to work even on an auto focus camera doing self portrait work.
I to am a Canadian shooting vintage glass on modern cameras (canon 7d and sony a7riii) and ASAHI smc pentax and takumar have been my favorites
So it’s not just me ;). Which is your fav?
Mark Holtze my top 3 are my Pentax smc 50mm F1.7 / pentax smc 80-200mm f4.5 / super takumar 200mm f4
But I have been looking for a good wide (pentax smc 15mm f3.5) just don't have the cash for that yet
What lens did you use for the shots of you talking? Great look!
Hey Christian, that's the Canon 24mm F1.4, I think I shot it at about 2.0 in that setup. It's a great lens, expensive, but it's fantastic for talking heads and astro/landscapes. .
For my vintage lenses, I use a Flektagon which I really like, although I AM a Takumar fanboy. Given that I already have the Flek (and I plan on getting a crazy good Auto Takumar 35mm f2.3) should I pick up this lens, or would I likely not use it?
The auto is fantastic lens. Very cool. I reviewed it awhile ago.
Hi Mark. Love your videos man! Great inspiration! Love your breakdowns of these little babies.
I am just getting started in the world of photography, always been involved on a different level of creating. But as handling the camera, newbie!
I love the feel of these vintage little Babies! Love the warmth they give.
Mark quick question- what is your take on some of these lenses Testing Radio Active? I understand back in the day they will infuse the glass, to get a better performance at a lesser cost by working with Thorium oxide.
Wondering what is your take on this? Or anyone else reading this! I know there is lots of debating out there with, harmful, not harmful... would love to here, and appreciate any experience opinions on this. Thank you with any help on this. 🤝
Keep up the great work man! 🕊
Thanks J.H! Radioactivity, I did a lot of research at the beginning of this whole thing and came to the conclusion for myself that they are safe given my use of them. They've had zero impact on my image (dead pixels etc) I've flown with them many times and had them swabbed (no alarms or swat team dispatched).
I'm not a nuclear physicist or anything so my choice is a personal one based on the countless research I've done. Yes there are tons of mis-information out there on both sides of the fence so it makes it tricky.
I'm not worried, people are exposed to levels of radiation all the time, different types of radiation has different impacts on people so simply going by a Geiger counter isn't always the most accurate way to get results.
Just my thoughts, I don't recommend or not recommend because people have a different level of fear when it comes to this stuff. I mean some people are afraid of vaccines so...the choice is yours to make. :)
Sorry a little deflective, but just my take on it.
Thank you for your reply.
Swabs, No alarms, swat team, sounds good !
Great stuff!
Thanks again!
@@j.h.5718 My pleasure! Good luck out there! Let know if you ever have any other questions...I LIVE down here ;)
Hi Mark, I enjoyed the review, good job. My Takumar 35mm F2 just arrived today. Do you shoot totally in manual mode? I use AV mode on my Pentax, which I purchased solely for vintage lenses. I would love to use my vintage lenses on my Nikon D7000, but I have not found a good adapter. Most of the M42 to Nikon adapters are very difficult to get on and off.
Full M always. I like the control! Let me know how you like it
@@MarkHoltze thanks, will try Full M
Thanks for this review, I love vintage Pentax lenses. You didn’t mention, but does this lens have any radioactive elements?
Thanks Russell. This lens doesn’t have radioactive elements, it’s “clean” ;)
Ok, thanks for the reply! I’ll be adding this to my arsenal...
Mark Holtze you’ve just answered my question haha. I was looking for a non-radioactive retro lens. Great video and thank you!
Mark, have you ever used the Auto Takumar 35 mm F2.3? I have seen some images from this lens, and the bokeh looks outstanding! Seeing as how you are such a Takumar fan, maybe you should review this lens next!
I was looking at them last night actually. 😂 I was able to try it once, interesting lens for sure. One day.....
@@MarkHoltze the biggest drawback is probably the size and weight.
I have pentax 35 f2 and I think it's sharpest pentax or takumar that I have if I don't count macro ☺️
Hi!! Thanks for a great video review. If I want to use this lens with the Fuji x mount camera, what type of adapter I should pick? Is it M42 to FX?
M42 to FX yes! Fotodiox was the one I’m using but any M42 to FX will work!
Thanks mate!
Mark Holtze thank you, appreciated!!
Addiction can sometimes be a wonderful thing... Takumar addiction, lol.
I’ve been using some fad Canon lenses. I’ve also had some good results with inexpensive off brand lenses. Seems sometimes you get lucky and discover something unique.
Agreed fully!
Ooooooooooooo. 35/2! Lovely!!
Such a nice lens.
I got the 35mm f3.5.
It takes wonderful pictures, would you say the 35mm f2 is worth it?
Or is it nice to have but little in use?
The 2 is nice but the 3.5 is perfectly fine. I think this one is a tad sharper at 3.5 than the 3.5; these lenses don’t work at peak efficiency wise open, stop down half a stop or so is when they shine. 3.5 is good mate. The differences I doubt would even really register.
Mark, if you had to have just one... Pentax 35mm f2 or the Canon FD 35 f2... Help me pick
Tak for me. FD’s are cool but build on these are 🔥
Hey Mark,
I m new on chanel and in the vintage lenses world, thanks for sharing your experience and knowlege..
Whatʼs your point of view on radioactivity?
I m looking for vintage 35 mm around f/2 (apsc shooter 50 mm ff equiv) under 100$..any advice?
It doesn't bother me based on the extensive research and opinions of those who I know who work with radioactive materials (physicists, doctors etc). It's just my opinion though, I won't share it as I'm not formally qualified and I don't want to attempt to steer someone one way or another. Do what feels comfortable with you. Not all lenses are radioactive, Pentacon 29mm F/2.9 is a "clean lens" and can be found for relatively good price. Actually there are a few 28mm options that would be a nice option for a close to 50 equivalent that aren't radioactive.
Takumar 35mm F/3.5 is NOT radioactive and that will give you a good option for. under $100, just won't get the speed, but the speed is overrated anyway in most cases.
What follow focus gears do you use with lenses with "bumpy" focus rings like this one? Got a Canon FL lens with a similar "bumpy" focus ring.
Simmod Lens did a modification. It's an added bit that goes on nice and snug. I did a break down of what that all is here if you want to see it: czcams.com/video/ox7awB6zNKo/video.html
Check out www.simmodlens.com as well. A number of services provide options, it's becoming a "thing". Simmod is a award winning commercial DP though so I prioritize their stuff over many others.
"Everything That Falls" album is bloody amazing!! :-D
I agree! So good, I’m so thankful they let me use some tracks for this video.:)
Hey, I have the same m42 to nex fotodiox adapter as you. Sometimes my adapter comes loose so I have to tighten it with an Allen key. Have you run into this problem? Also I have a helios 44m and I can't seem to focus to infinity. I have the a7s ii too so that is not the problem here.
That is weird. My adapter is tight, I haven’t had that problem but sounds annoying. The infinity focus as well, I have a 44m I just got and infinity focus works fine.
I wish I could see to help. So where does it focus when you go to infinity? Do you have any other m42 lenses to compare?
Is this lebs radiactive?
First off it's great seeing you finally reviewing this lens after you told me you'd gotten one way back. Second I appear to have a near mint 85mm f1.9(not smc) available for $180 - do you think I should pounce on it? I have a few days to decide but I'm thinking i should not let this deal go and don't want to wait long and miss my opportunity. If I do I may never have one available at this price again - THEY'RE SO EXPENSIVE! If i do get it I was wondering if you might be interested in having me send you my 35mm f2(version 1) and the 85mm to compare to your versions. Seeing the actual size of yours actually makes me kinda envious because mine is HUGE. lol
Separate topic: would you be interested in mentoring me a bit? For instance tonight I have a job and its pretty much my first time and I'm photographing a live band. I kinda feel I'm going in blind and I'm not even sure what lenses to bring: I'm thinking pack light, go with my older camera (NEX5r) and maybe bring what people know instead of something people might find weird(Pentax vs Russian Zeiss clones).
180 for a near mint is good. Get it, keep it and in 5 years it will be worth double lol.
Yes to mentoring, just out and about now but wanted to reply quick!
Mark Holtze alright I'm going to try and pay for it today then. Seems like I'll be buying a lens that will nearly double in value on the spot - a quick peak on eBay shows them going for close to $300 or more.
Its says it'll be here by the 9th but I really hope its sooner! Here's the listing: www.ebay.com/itm/Pentax-Super-Takumar-85mm-f-1-9-Lens/192663556227?ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT&_trksid=p2057872.m2749.l2649#vi__app-cvip-panel
AHHH its here and I didn't have time to go pick it up from the post office!!!
Can you tell how old a Asahi Super-Takumar 35 F3.5- 3355452 by the serial number?
Yes, you need to find a document that has the serial numbers by date; might be hard to do, but that is how you can ball park it.
Is this better than Contax Zeiss 35mmf2.8??? Apart from A bit warm texture??
I'd have to do a side by side comparison. I have the CZ 35 1.4, but not the more comparable 2.8. 2.8 has more consistent colour for sure, some of these 35's have some yellowing due to decay. You can revere it with 24 hours exposure to UV light, but I haven't done that. I KIND of like it.
Great video, very useful, thanks! Do you know how it compares to the SMC Takumar 35mm f3.5 version? I'm currently buying a set of SMC Takumars for my BMPCC4K and I'm tempted to buy the 3 times cheaper f3.5... But I guess there is a reason why it is so much cheaper... :-(
It’s just faster. That the biggest advantage. Always pay more for lens speed. Similar optics outside of that.
@@MarkHoltze Thanks somuch for the fast reply! That was realy helpfull right now beause an great ebay deal (auction) of an f3.5 ends in 20min. I think I will buy it and will upgrade in the future if I come across a good deal of an f2.. Thanks again!!
i realy love this takumar.
Really is a great lens!
excellent video!!!
Thanks mate! Got a few others in the pipeline.
What's the brand the lens hood used? It's my first time seeing such a lens hood
Simmod lens hood. They’re the best. Check out my vintage lens for video for more info on those.
Just found a girl selling a mamiya sekor 35mm with three lenses. The THIRD one was a takumar 35mm f2. I owned one before in fairly poor but optically clean condition but sold it. This one is the FAT front element early version, and it came with the case. Also this one is so clear I don't know if it's radioactive. Early SN and looks super clean. With shipping: 35 bucks :)
Outstanding!!!
Hey Mark, great video. I have recently bought this lens and just found out it is somewhat radioactive. Do you happen to know the risks for both the user and the camera sensor? Thank you
Risks are pretty much nothing, there’s a lot of mis information out there on this as well, but assuming you don’t break the lens and ingest the contents it’s safe. I’ve travelled with these lenses many times no issue. Everyone feels different about radiation though so I leave it to those to go by their own comfort level.
I haven’t experienced any issues with the Sony and I’ve been using them 4 years now.
@@MarkHoltze I see, great info, thanks! Another question that I have is, how will this lens perform on an APS-C camera. I totally overlooked the fact that it is a full frame lens.
Is it really your favorite now that you have the 2.3 ? Personally, I prefer the 2.3. But I really love just about every Takumar I've ever used, with few exceptions. I also believe they were the best made lenses ever and always seem to be in great condition or I'm just very lucky !
The 2.3 is cool but a much higher maintenance lens. I’m more video focused as well and the 35 2 is nicely modded for video now. The 2.3 is still a lovely lens, but wouldn’t call it my fav. The 2 still holds a special place
Peace Mark! How much better is this one versus the (3.5 version?
Depends what you want to shoot. But this just gives you more speed, which I don’t often shoot much at F2 on the 35, 2.8 is as wide as I’ll go. So unless you need that extra speed stick with 3.5. Also not thoriated if that bothers you
@@MarkHoltze I have a super takumar one and super multi coated takumar f3.5 version, saw a f2 for over $200! That’s a lot more than I paid($90) for the 2 I already have. Just trying to understand the reasoning..these vintage lenses have gone up significantly, geez..thank you for the feedback. You are appreciated over here bro✌️
Can these lenses be used on APS-C sensors such as my A6300?
They can! The focal length FOv will be different. For sony aps-c is 1.5x so take the focal length of full frame lens (24mm) x 1.5 = 36mm. So the 24mm will act like a 36mm on your 6300. :)
Hey Mark, what do you think about thr Takumar 35mm 3.5? Should be better spent a little more to the 2.0?
I haven't used the 3.5 but people seem to really like it. I would just go for that one unless you feel you NEED to have the extra speed for low light stuff. The 3.5 has a fantastic reputation. F2 on this lens isn't that usable for most stuff anyway.
@@MarkHoltzesorry but i will unsubscribe your channel, since i started i bought the Takumar 50mm 1.4, Takumar 35mm 3.5 and thr simmond filters ahhjhhh and planning to get full set of takumar. I wilm create the takimar gang hahajauuaua
@@Alefeeeee Alright mate, thanks for stopping by regardless. Good luck with it.
@@MarkHoltze i just kidding hauaua not sure if you get the idea. You have a great content keep doing your amazing job
@@Alefeeeee I got it mate lol. I'm indirectly making you spend money and you have to cut out the (bad) addiction ;). ALL good! :)