So, with the help of Camera Traders I have been using various “classic” lens on my Canon EOS Rebel T3. I have been using lens originally designed for a Contax / Yashica system with an adapter for the Canon EOS system. The results have been very favourable. From the ability to pick up a 24mm lens for $100 (Tamron 24mm F2.8 see here for samples) it allows you to experiment with different fixed focal lens, rather than using clinical auto focus, and stabilized lenses. Don’t get me wrong, I still have some Canon auto focus lens sitting in the camera bag, but over the last few week they have been doing a lot more sitting than shooting. When I am doing product shots at work (online store) my cameras on a tripod, its tethered shooting to my laptop. I no question reach for my 28-80mm Canon AF. But when it comes to product shots for Facebook, or Fashion du Jour photos I will always reach out for some classic glass, the imperfections become perfection. And I must say, I have been blown away by the newest addition to my arsenal. A Carl Zeiss 45mm F2.8 – F22 Tessar T* Pancake. Its superior optics contained inside a 2cm casing. With the extra length the adapter adds it is just 25mm long. It adds so little weight, wile taking such sharp photos within a large aperture range. If there is a downside, it would be the minimal focal length is 60cm. That said, you have marked focus lengths from 60cm – 10m – ∞ – with prime being at 3.5M F8. Well, thats enough writing for now, im out to do some shooting. Some samples of the Zeiss 45mm below – for other samples of various lens check out some of the links above. Also many thanks to Matt Savage – Adventures on Film for the help and advice along the way.
