mel_snyder4

<p>I've been running some tests between the 85mm f2 Nikkor AiS and the FD 85mm f1.2L on my Sony A7. I've concluded that the 1.2L is a slightly sharper and contrasty-er lens - a bit disappointing because now I will feel obligated to carry it and use it more often. At 24 ounces it is a big mamma. I need to re-test my Leica 90mm f2.8 Tele-Elmarit. A preliminary test against the Nikkor was not good, and that surprised me mightily, because it was killer-sharp on my NEX-6.<br> If you have concluded I'm a sucker for 85mm lenses, you are right. I have owned the Tele-Elmarit since 1983, and the 1.2L since 1990 (or so). I bought the 85mm Nikkor in mint-mint condition with a like-new shade for $50 on Craig's List, and the 105mm f2.5 AiS - a lens I have lusted after since college graduation in 1960 - for $100 in similarly mint condition. Been using the 85mm f2 Nikkor for video on the A7 and a rented A7II. Stripping my travel kit down to accommodate the 1.2L.</p>

<p>Here's an in-line sized image</p><div></div>

<p>I totally agree. Back in the early 1990s, a client assignment let me write this lens off - and I looked at longingly all through the digital era, almost selling it for peanuts when I was cash-strapped - but like my 3 M-mount Leica lenses, could not get enough to justify selling them.<br> And then came Sony mirrorless cameras - and this lens, and others, were reborn.<br> It is ridiculously heavy - 24 ounces - a pound and a half. But it is incredibly sharp, even wide open, although wide open it does display some chroma around bright lights against the night.<br> It is so sharp and contrasty that it focuses almost as fast and precisely on Sony cameras as if it was AF. It mad makes it easier to hand hold at low shutter speeds than lighter lenses.</p> <div></div>

<p>I inherited a lot of gear from my late (gone 10 years) photographer father - and today, while clearing for a visit by my 2-year-old grandson, dropped his Multi-Pro on a hardwood floor.<br> Nothing seems broken - but the screen popped off, and among the components was a spring that keeps the function switch centered - and I'll be darned if I can figure out where it goes.<br> Anyone have any ideas, or a service manual illustration?<br> Mel Snyder</p>

I cannot too strongly endorse the recommendation that you carry a second body that accepts your main-body lenses and more batteries and SD cards than you think you will need. Also, if traveling outside the US, taking a spare battery charger. I shoot with a Sony A7, buy always carry my NEX-6 (APS-C) with an identical E mount and batteries. In the US, a failed camera can cost you a day's shooting while you overnight a replacement from Amazon to save the vacation. That's next to impossible elsewhere.

<p>Actually, the best and cheapest solution for that lens is to buy one of these: http://www.ebay.com/itm/40-5mm-Tulip-Flower-Lens-Hood-For-Nikon-1-V1-10mm-10-30mm-30-110mm-/200755239000?pt=US_Camera_Camcorder_Accessory_Bundles&hash=item2ebdf1d858<br> Mine came with a 40.5 to 52mm adapter. That lets me use 52mm filters - more choices and cheaper than the few for 40.5mm. Try the Moose 81A/CPL filter and be amazed.</p>