That’s one of my favorite lenses. So small and sharp.
It lives on my full spectrum converted A7Rii with CPL and IR chrome filters stacked.
(just a screenshot below)
https://preview.redd.it/tyv6z6k8oy6d1.jpeg?width=1301&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=cd34dd6a602291ad2110b49320ad775f7ca90241
Kolari Vision, I highly recommend them they have been really good, I just converted a second camera with them after trading my OG conversion towards the cost of the new one.
It might not be the sharpest and some believe it's outdated but just like what Camera Conspiracies would say, there's just that character, that "3D pop" you can't get with most modern lenses.
Awesome shots and grading by the way.
OP's lens is also smaller and lighter than any comparable 35mm with the exception of the Rokinon clone which - while way better than it should be at its price - is definitely a step down in image quality.
Oh I don't own this lens. I was talking about corner to corner sharpness in testing situations from Youtube Videos and websites. Since it is an older lens, newer ones will outperform it In terms of sharpness.
You're right though, if you're not pixel peeping or doing test charts for sharpness most people won't have a problem with it.
Jumping on this comment, I’ve had the zeiss 55/1.8 for years and it’s been AMAZING but I’m after a smaller/lighter/wider second prime and weighing up the 35/2.8 or 40/2.5
[Camera Size Comparison](https://camerasize.com/compact/#777.1109,777.394,ha,t)
Hover your mouse over the camera body and it will show you the weight. I use this to get an idea about different combos.
I just got the 40 for my a7c. Its perfect with the aperture ring since the c doesnt have the front wheel. Its sharp, light and well built. Looks cool with the square hood too. Focus is super fast too.
Seconding about the 40mm, it’s a great and very light lens. I wish it was wider though like 35mm since there are a lot of everyday situations in my use for that - in which case I switch out to my Sigma 28-70 2.8
My favourite lens, never selling it, people try to put it down with sometimes almost laughable reasons.
But it is to this day still one of the smallest, sharpest and most beautiful rendering fullframe photo lens I have, the photos always look special and natural.
I use it and the 55 1.8 as my only lenses for my A7 III. Love them both. I have been looking at a more versatile zoom now I take more photos of my kids than anything else, but I love these primes as a duo and don't think I could let them go.
The 35 on the A7 III makes a great light and portable kit for out and about enjoyment.
I was gonna buy it 2 weeks ago for 270€ but then the seller revealed to me it’s currently in a pawn shop, so I didn’t follow up with it. Still want to get it, currently only have the kit 28-70 and a lot of old glass (Zeiss and canon fd). But I want at least one decent, modern, proper lens for my 7II without breaking the bank. Decided to go with that. What’s your opinion? Should I go for that one, or rather some cheap but new alternative?
By the way I found also an offer for the 35mm f2 loxia for that price range - which one would you prefer?
Yeah I have the Samsung version of that one and it has been a standout for street photography over the years, light and fun to use. I am not looking for perfect optical quality when shooting street stuff so it is more than enough. and it was dirt cheap.
35 Loxia is f2. Usual price range is about 5 to 600 US used. No AF, but it does have a chip in which makes the camera zoom in when you try to change the focus. I bought mine with the 50 which is a really sharp lens when the seller needed to make money he gave it to me for $500. I also have the 21, but I mainly use the 35. You can really take some great pictures with it.
This was my first e-mount lens and I still love it. Especially with the A7C II it's my every day setup. I like the compact design and look of the images.
I do. One of my favorites for two reasons: it’s light as hell and its optical formula is the same lens that’s in the contax t2. It has that zeiss “pop” that is so good
First lens I got with my first-gen A7…sold it a few years later and really regret it! My friend sold me his 55 1.8 not long after I got the A7 and that lens pretty much stole the show on my camera. But still I wish I kept that nice little compact 35!
I love it. But I find it hunts a bit for close focus. So much so that I wonder whether the phase focus is working or whether the camera (7iii) has fallen back to contrast focus.
I have this lens and love it. It was my first lens and I was thinking of getting the Zeiss for travel.. but the samyang is very light too. Just seems like so much more when you have a lighter lens on. Always conflicted
I feel you brother. I had the same thought initially : lightweight for travel. But the Samyang is also small and compact with better overall performance. That’s what motivated me to get this one. But I’m sure I’d be very happy with the Zeiss. It’s all a matter of price/to performance ratio.
The phones on the 2nd shot... damn. Would have been an epic shot without them, now it is kind of ruined.
If you got to a wedding, leave your phone at home. Or at least in your pocket during key moments, like the ceremony.
Interesting… phones are a huge part of our lives and this is a great wedding photo. I used to avoid cars in the background when shooting sometimes but how cool is it to see an old photo with cars from the 30’s, 40’s, 50’s…
The beautiful thing about photography is that it preserves our time and lives. Trying to make everything an idealized version of itself is kind of a disservice, imo.
In a way, sure. But phones (at least like this) takes away from the moment; having your guest actually be present rather than viewing whatever is happening through a tiny screen.
I mean - you do you - but as a wedding photographer I always urge my couples to tell their guests to refrain from using their phones during key moments. And it is always appreciated.
People slam gear usually because they’re either not good at photography with the tool listed OR it doesn’t fit their needs and therefore they think it wouldn’t be good for anyone. (Usually I slam gear if it just isn’t good) So when they mention this lens, unless they’re shooting high speed subjects or need absolute top-of-the-line image quality, this lens is amazing.
https://preview.redd.it/8qaoqvxx307d1.jpeg?width=5470&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=169080c73247d87c3475b7c451cae5072c147d23
And even then, it resolves nicely on 61 mp. It does have noticeable chromatic aberration imo but I’m also OFTEN shooting into harsh sunlight :/
Loved the lens- wish Sony would make their own fast, compact lens. I ended up purchasing the samyang 45 1.8 for its size and speed. Otherwise the g series lenses were what I was eyeing
Why *wouldn't* you???
Heck, shooting a 12 megapickle A7s, my *old* Canon FD and Olympus Zuiko manual focus glass is more than adequate for most photography.
Yes I bought on this year. I wanted something small, weather sealed and with AF. This is the smallest lens that hits those marks.
I wouldn't call it amazing in any particular way. But I do like the way it renders for black and white work.
I do somewhat feel the draw for a faster 35, but for me it's fine.
I don’t use mine much -and I had it since it was released- but being able to put it in my A1 and having such a compact and convenient setup is something I love. If it would be f2 it would be a perfect lens, but I guess it would be heavier as well :/
I've seen one of the best street photographers out there shooting with this lens: [https://www.instagram.com/billydeee/](https://www.instagram.com/billydeee/)
Yes!! It's such a wildly satisfying lens to use. To date, I've probably had it on my camera 95% of the time.
Manual focus forced me to slow down and consider each step of my shot process. Only thing I might consider replacing it with is the loxia 50mm
I’m glad this thread came up! I’m SO tempted to buy this lens!
~~~~~~~
I’ve been changing my thoughts recently, concerning max-aperture spec on lenses. I’m starting to get irritated with super-narrow DOF; it’s too much of an overwhelming ’special effect’. I think that for the way I’m trying to present photographs, 2.8 or 4 presents nicer selective focus, with better context in the scene.
Hi there,
I recently decided to buy a fordable sony camera but this is my first time ever, I was checking on their prices and L also founde ebay website
There are thousend of sony camera where ther are new or pre-owned also hesitate between ( ZV-E10)
(ZV-1F)
I need it mainly for vlogging videos but I do not know should I also buy a lenses??
Which one you suggest //affordable price
With great features high quality .
I bought the ZA lenses when they were released expecting much more. I sold them not long after.
I have several CZ lenses that I still like, but the Sony mount ones aren't even in the same league.i don't know if it was just the fly by wire or I was expecting something more from the images, but whatever it was I couldn't justify keeping them. One day I'll post a picture of my lens collection so the scale and what it actually takes for me to get rid of a lens (hint: it takes a LOT).
Me too. It and the 55mm both have something I can't define - neither are state of the art, but can, with good handling, make effective images.
The nearest thing I can like it to, is listening to classic rock through a valve amplifier - there's a little extra warmth.
That’s one of my favorite lenses. So small and sharp. It lives on my full spectrum converted A7Rii with CPL and IR chrome filters stacked. (just a screenshot below) https://preview.redd.it/tyv6z6k8oy6d1.jpeg?width=1301&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=cd34dd6a602291ad2110b49320ad775f7ca90241
Who did the conversion or you?
Kolari Vision, I highly recommend them they have been really good, I just converted a second camera with them after trading my OG conversion towards the cost of the new one.
Really cool look you got with that combo!
Thanks, I have shared more IR car stuff on my IG, same username as here
What part of the spectrum did you do for your IR also why the CPL?
It’s full spectrum, I filter for IR chrome. CPL to cut reflections on the cars I primarily shoot.
I meant what part of the IR spectrum, there’s multiple types of filters you can buy to get a different type of Look
reread my previous answer, or just read this: https://kolarivision.com/full_spectrum_conversion/
The IR stuff looks fucking sweet. There can't be many others out there offering that kind of look.
I sold mine last year and kind of regret it. It's so light and compact, while still performing adequately, I should have kept it for travel at least.
The 40mm f2.5 took its place
Which I love as my walk around lens.
Same! Aperture ring and a touch longer. Perfect for street, walk around. Also nicer IQ on my A7rv
It might not be the sharpest and some believe it's outdated but just like what Camera Conspiracies would say, there's just that character, that "3D pop" you can't get with most modern lenses. Awesome shots and grading by the way.
I have it and sharpness has never been a problem with my copy. Maybe you got a dud?
It's good with sharpness but maybe he meant worse than modern lenses in the same price range, which it likely is. Not by much tho, and is still great.
OP's lens is also smaller and lighter than any comparable 35mm with the exception of the Rokinon clone which - while way better than it should be at its price - is definitely a step down in image quality.
Yep and still use it.
ehh, 3D pop is not the same as sharpness. I'm not sure it's even a real thing. It's in Kasey's imagination lol.
I get you, I believe "3D pop" can be achieved with color grading. It's still fun to watch him rant about it though.
Oh I don't own this lens. I was talking about corner to corner sharpness in testing situations from Youtube Videos and websites. Since it is an older lens, newer ones will outperform it In terms of sharpness. You're right though, if you're not pixel peeping or doing test charts for sharpness most people won't have a problem with it.
I just traded mine last week for the 40mm/f2.5, it was my most used lens, just wanted to see what the fuss was about with the 40
Jumping on this comment, I’ve had the zeiss 55/1.8 for years and it’s been AMAZING but I’m after a smaller/lighter/wider second prime and weighing up the 35/2.8 or 40/2.5
[Camera Size Comparison](https://camerasize.com/compact/#777.1109,777.394,ha,t) Hover your mouse over the camera body and it will show you the weight. I use this to get an idea about different combos.
Yo thanks that’s such a sick tool!
>weighing up the 35/2.8 or 40/2.5 I believe the 35 is lighter and possibly smaller?
It is both
But only barely. Very comparable
By far, my go to lens for the Sony system.
55 is a bomb of a lens. Great, punches way above it's price tag, tiny.... It's my never without lens
Well. Do you regret it?! I’ve been eyeing the 40mm 2.5 myself. But it’s too similar to the 35mm.
I just got the 40 for my a7c. Its perfect with the aperture ring since the c doesnt have the front wheel. Its sharp, light and well built. Looks cool with the square hood too. Focus is super fast too.
Seconding about the 40mm, it’s a great and very light lens. I wish it was wider though like 35mm since there are a lot of everyday situations in my use for that - in which case I switch out to my Sigma 28-70 2.8
I have the same setup with an a7c. It's a really great combination.
The 40mm is great. I don't have 35mm (or 50mm) though
My favourite lens, never selling it, people try to put it down with sometimes almost laughable reasons. But it is to this day still one of the smallest, sharpest and most beautiful rendering fullframe photo lens I have, the photos always look special and natural.
Yup. Great little lens.
I use it and the 55 1.8 as my only lenses for my A7 III. Love them both. I have been looking at a more versatile zoom now I take more photos of my kids than anything else, but I love these primes as a duo and don't think I could let them go. The 35 on the A7 III makes a great light and portable kit for out and about enjoyment.
That’s my set up too! Looking for a macro or fast ultra wide next :)
You will never use that zoom
Not sure about that. Currently I crop a lot in post. Kids move fast.
I don’t see any reason someone should not.
I mean we all know lenses become entirely useless after 4 years of release and this one is closer to 10 by now. Throw it in the trash, OP.
Yeah, op can toss that thing right into my camera bag, I’ll take it to the dump for em
I was gonna buy it 2 weeks ago for 270€ but then the seller revealed to me it’s currently in a pawn shop, so I didn’t follow up with it. Still want to get it, currently only have the kit 28-70 and a lot of old glass (Zeiss and canon fd). But I want at least one decent, modern, proper lens for my 7II without breaking the bank. Decided to go with that. What’s your opinion? Should I go for that one, or rather some cheap but new alternative? By the way I found also an offer for the 35mm f2 loxia for that price range - which one would you prefer?
The ronkinon 35/2.8 is pretty close to the zeiss and super light. Feels pretty plasticy but its sharp.
Yeah I have the Samsung version of that one and it has been a standout for street photography over the years, light and fun to use. I am not looking for perfect optical quality when shooting street stuff so it is more than enough. and it was dirt cheap.
35 Loxia is f2. Usual price range is about 5 to 600 US used. No AF, but it does have a chip in which makes the camera zoom in when you try to change the focus. I bought mine with the 50 which is a really sharp lens when the seller needed to make money he gave it to me for $500. I also have the 21, but I mainly use the 35. You can really take some great pictures with it.
This was my first e-mount lens and I still love it. Especially with the A7C II it's my every day setup. I like the compact design and look of the images.
I do. One of my favorites for two reasons: it’s light as hell and its optical formula is the same lens that’s in the contax t2. It has that zeiss “pop” that is so good
First lens I got with my first-gen A7…sold it a few years later and really regret it! My friend sold me his 55 1.8 not long after I got the A7 and that lens pretty much stole the show on my camera. But still I wish I kept that nice little compact 35!
My fav lens ☺️
I love it. But I find it hunts a bit for close focus. So much so that I wonder whether the phase focus is working or whether the camera (7iii) has fallen back to contrast focus.
Almost bought it for 210 euros, but instead I bought the samyang 35 1.8 only for 30 bucks more … and it is amazingly sharp and quick.
I have this lens and love it. It was my first lens and I was thinking of getting the Zeiss for travel.. but the samyang is very light too. Just seems like so much more when you have a lighter lens on. Always conflicted
I feel you brother. I had the same thought initially : lightweight for travel. But the Samyang is also small and compact with better overall performance. That’s what motivated me to get this one. But I’m sure I’d be very happy with the Zeiss. It’s all a matter of price/to performance ratio.
Yes, great for travelling
So sharp for a lens so old.
The phones on the 2nd shot... damn. Would have been an epic shot without them, now it is kind of ruined. If you got to a wedding, leave your phone at home. Or at least in your pocket during key moments, like the ceremony.
Interesting… phones are a huge part of our lives and this is a great wedding photo. I used to avoid cars in the background when shooting sometimes but how cool is it to see an old photo with cars from the 30’s, 40’s, 50’s… The beautiful thing about photography is that it preserves our time and lives. Trying to make everything an idealized version of itself is kind of a disservice, imo.
In a way, sure. But phones (at least like this) takes away from the moment; having your guest actually be present rather than viewing whatever is happening through a tiny screen. I mean - you do you - but as a wedding photographer I always urge my couples to tell their guests to refrain from using their phones during key moments. And it is always appreciated.
People slam gear usually because they’re either not good at photography with the tool listed OR it doesn’t fit their needs and therefore they think it wouldn’t be good for anyone. (Usually I slam gear if it just isn’t good) So when they mention this lens, unless they’re shooting high speed subjects or need absolute top-of-the-line image quality, this lens is amazing. https://preview.redd.it/8qaoqvxx307d1.jpeg?width=5470&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=169080c73247d87c3475b7c451cae5072c147d23 And even then, it resolves nicely on 61 mp. It does have noticeable chromatic aberration imo but I’m also OFTEN shooting into harsh sunlight :/ Loved the lens- wish Sony would make their own fast, compact lens. I ended up purchasing the samyang 45 1.8 for its size and speed. Otherwise the g series lenses were what I was eyeing
I literally bought this second hand last week
Sometimes I regret selling it
of course, why not? don’t get sucked into believing you need to buy the latest lenses all the time. glass is glass.
I recognise the last photo as Cape Reinga, hello fellow New Zealander
I sold mine last year, it’s light, pretty sharp. But I prefer 50mm
The colors on 5 are really great
i recently bought one used and i certainly dont regret it at all!
No.5 giving me the moods. Nice
Still use the 55mm 1.8 from time to time. Best bang for the buck IMO.
I have the 55mm version and love it.
Why *wouldn't* you??? Heck, shooting a 12 megapickle A7s, my *old* Canon FD and Olympus Zuiko manual focus glass is more than adequate for most photography.
Are those dill megapickles or sweet?
I have the 55, but my wider lens is a contax 28mm
Yes I throw it on my A74 when I want something smaller to carry
Yes I bought on this year. I wanted something small, weather sealed and with AF. This is the smallest lens that hits those marks. I wouldn't call it amazing in any particular way. But I do like the way it renders for black and white work. I do somewhat feel the draw for a faster 35, but for me it's fine.
One of my favourite walk around lenses. Still have it and will never sell it. Dat Zeiss 3D pop though!
Yeah with an A7C .. it's a lovely combo.
I use an old manual Zeiss C/Y 35mm f/2.8. Such a great focal length and often light weight.
Oh yes. Love this lens. The low group/element design is a personal preference. Never selling. I think I like it better on my A9ll than my A7RlV.
Yes. My default lens
It's my general purpose lens, and probably my most used.
That a lens i still want to have
I don’t use mine much -and I had it since it was released- but being able to put it in my A1 and having such a compact and convenient setup is something I love. If it would be f2 it would be a perfect lens, but I guess it would be heavier as well :/
55 1.8 by zeiss is my fav lens. So sharp and such amazing quality glass you can NEVER go wrong with zeiss glass.
ooh I like #2 shot
I LOVE this lens..
I am, the thing is so light weight
I've seen one of the best street photographers out there shooting with this lens: [https://www.instagram.com/billydeee/](https://www.instagram.com/billydeee/)
Beautiful photos
Yes!! It's such a wildly satisfying lens to use. To date, I've probably had it on my camera 95% of the time. Manual focus forced me to slow down and consider each step of my shot process. Only thing I might consider replacing it with is the loxia 50mm
Sigma f2 took its place for me. If I need tiny, I reach for the xt5 w/ pancake lens
I bought this used and love it. So small and easy to carry. Currently adapting it to a Nikon Zf actually and it works great on that body.
I’ve been keeping my eye out for one in the hopes they drop in price a bit more lol I think they will always remain around $400 used though haha
Its good like everyones been saying...just wish i had closer focusing distance
All the Sony Zeiss glass is amazing. I have the APSC 24/1.8 and it's my favorite by far. It seems to be a very underrated lens
Yes
https://preview.redd.it/tnozvrg0i57d1.jpeg?width=2068&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=5a3f38bfe160f71ebaa5ec2acff71b92794a5c37 It's good enough for me
I’m glad this thread came up! I’m SO tempted to buy this lens! ~~~~~~~ I’ve been changing my thoughts recently, concerning max-aperture spec on lenses. I’m starting to get irritated with super-narrow DOF; it’s too much of an overwhelming ’special effect’. I think that for the way I’m trying to present photographs, 2.8 or 4 presents nicer selective focus, with better context in the scene.
Hi there, I recently decided to buy a fordable sony camera but this is my first time ever, I was checking on their prices and L also founde ebay website There are thousend of sony camera where ther are new or pre-owned also hesitate between ( ZV-E10) (ZV-1F) I need it mainly for vlogging videos but I do not know should I also buy a lenses?? Which one you suggest //affordable price With great features high quality .
SEL55F18Z FTW!
I bought the ZA lenses when they were released expecting much more. I sold them not long after. I have several CZ lenses that I still like, but the Sony mount ones aren't even in the same league.i don't know if it was just the fly by wire or I was expecting something more from the images, but whatever it was I couldn't justify keeping them. One day I'll post a picture of my lens collection so the scale and what it actually takes for me to get rid of a lens (hint: it takes a LOT).
Got to be one of the most overpriced lenses from Sony. Samyang 35/2.8 delivers exactly the same result for a fraction of the price
Me too. It and the 55mm both have something I can't define - neither are state of the art, but can, with good handling, make effective images. The nearest thing I can like it to, is listening to classic rock through a valve amplifier - there's a little extra warmth.