AndreasE
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 p.1 #14 · Initial experiences: V1 and FT1 adapter | |
A quick update:
I think some will be pleasantly surprised (and others potentially not).
I checked today a couple of lenses. The older lenses had a harder time coping with the resolution requirements of the small sensor. More modern ones could go better along.
One example: My most modern 400mm/2.8 is the AFS 400mm/2.8 type 1. Even this stellar performer on DX and FX cameras had a hard time to provide sharp photos at f2.8 (at pixel level). Stop it down by one stop and - voila. For technical perfect photos there will be some things to consider - physics haven't changed. But this not my key point. What is a game changer is the simplicity to get to decent images. The combination of the AF system of the V1 and the motor of the lens is fast. It is really fast. At least at the level of the D3s if not even faster. Basically it snaps into focus the moment you press the shutter. Impressive.
The second game changer is the need for a sturdy tripod for long range images. Don't get me wrong on this one. Sturdy tripods are a good thing (except to lug them around). But how often have someone dared to extend the center pole of the Gitzo 1228 with a 400x2.7 (1080mm)setup? It is not recommended, but if you do it on a day without wind, it won't screw up your photo the way it happens with DSLRs. Sometimes there are up to 20 sec of settle down times for vibrations to go away, so take the remote instead of the timer (which is limited to 10 sec). Again, this is not a call to forget good techniques, it is rather a heads up, that the the detrimental impact on a CX based system is smaller if not considered.
The 400mm provides at f4 reasonable shallow DOF at closer distances (5-20 Meter) with the V1. Haven't had a chance to check the visual impression at longer distances vs. i.e. a FX or DX Camera. Has to be seen. At f2.8 DOF would be even better, but my copy of the AFS shows clear signs of resolution limitations. I'll stick with f4 at least with this lens.
All DOF considerations put aside, the open aperture of those fast lenses really turbocharges the AF of the V1. Unfortunately, we still don't have AF-C, but the AF capture time is so short, that those split second opportunites should be addressable. I hope that Nikon provides either a software update for the size of the existing AF fields, as they are sometimes too big to precisely pick and choose the area you'd like to get in focus. If this requires new HW? Don't know, can be a sensor issue as well. And Nikon, please allow smaller AF fields, these are too big.
I had so often Front/Backfocus issues with some high speed lenses. The absence of this is a very welcomed development.
Sorry, for the long post, but this "missing link" between the established Nikon F system and the new System 1 is so much fun, that I wanted to share these early impressions. Some, might change over time, but the start is a good one.
Cheers,
Andy
One example: AFS 400mm/2.8, f4, 1/60 sec, V1, Distance approx. 10 Meter, only resized
100% crop
Second example:
Same lens, Distance ca. 20 Meter. Gitzo 1228, center pole fully extended (I know, a sakrileg..)
We are talking 1070mm (equiv) at 1/60 sec exposure time. V1 set to electronic shutter.
full image, resized
100% crop, all sharpening in camera and CNX2 turned off
.. to be continued ...
(Disclaimer: There is no intention, but I reserve the right to err, and modify my POV as new insights emerge)
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