I had one of these over a year ago when I was hot on Zuiko's. At that time I also had the Zuiko 100/2 and found it to be sharper across the frame, and with less CA. I also wasn't too impressed with it's macro performance. Since that time I've tried many other macro lenses (which performed better), and even sold the 100/2 because I could justify carrying that lens around with a 90-100mm macro. Well I've gone full circle and made my way back to the Zuiko 90/2, kind of by accident.
This time I am happily surprised by the lens. Wide open, stopped down, macro range, or infinity this lens has impressed me. Even with the large oily blob in the optics (it needs a good cleaning), the lens has great sharpness, color, contrast and bokeh. Since I have talked down this lens in the past due to my previous experience, I wanted to make a post to set the record straight.
These are some quick shots around the house after having the lens for a day. Nothing special from a subject point of view.
Here's a macro shot wide open (handheld 1/200sec):
I have tried almost everything and the one lens that still stands out in my mind is the Olympus 90mm f:2 macro. It easily matched the Leica 100mm 2.8 APO macro I compared it to on my 1DsII, and was smaller, lighter, and cheaper to boot. If there is any criticism I conld make against this lens it is that it is very contrasty, frequently more than the Canon was capable of. It was very sharp, even wide open, had no CA and wonderful color. In brighter light the contrast could cause problems, otherwise it is one of the most perfect lenses I can think of.
I have been trying various attachments to get to 1:1 with this lens. Close up filters work great on the lens, but cut down on the working distance. A 12mm extension tube + a Tamron 1.4x TC do a great job and give me the equivelant of a 135/2.8 Macro lens that does 1:1. Here's a sample using a flash. I've been to busy with things to get out
