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Archive 2009 · Panasonic G1 - Canon FD/Leica/Nikon

jamesf99
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p.2 #1 · Panasonic G1 - Canon FD/Leica/Nikon

burningheart wrote:
Jim which ones, I can give you more detail. Yes I agree there is a softness in the WA.

Actually, most look somewhat soft. I know better than to judge something based on a low-res jpeg, but the dog shots (love the second one) and the 50L stuff just doesn't look crisp anywhere.

Are there 100% crops that show good detail? I'm not sure all my FD lenses are as sharp as some of my EF lenses. As long as what Picnic said above is true (= 5d shots) I think it's going to be great.

Thanks for posting all this stuff though. This is the most exciting thing I've seen in years. All the ho-hum camera releases with a few more MP and nothing else. Now if only I had the equivalent of a 40-50mm f/1.2 lens that would work on the G1....

All my other Canon gear can languish if I can use my FD stuff.

Mar 14, 2009 at 01:21 PM

picnic
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p.2 #2 · Panasonic G1 - Canon FD/Leica/Nikon

Jim, since focusing is totally dependent upon one's own ability to do that visually (there is no focus confirmation with the MF lens), then depending upon the speed one tries to focus, or if you focus without using the MF assist--focus could be less than 'right on' I would guess. You can move that focus area around on the subject in MF assist also and so its very flexible for focusing--but still dependent on the photographer for sharp focusing.

I think the idea of m4/3rds is very exciting. I've loved shooting with DSLRs for years--and the 5D for well over 3 years now--but they are big, heavy--lens are big, heavy (even my small primes are a fair amount larger than the 'native' Panny lenses) and I think one of the reasons I keep picking up my G1 instead of my 5D or other bodies is that it not only brings back a 'fun factor'--esp. with MF lenses

---but also just allows one to not think about 'gear' but the shot.

Diane

Mar 14, 2009 at 01:34 PM

burningheart
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p.2 #3 · Panasonic G1 - Canon FD/Leica/Nikon

Hi Jim

Feedback is great I appreciate it. It is important to share information of the shots and processing so we can all benefit.

4 of the first 5 shots were all touched up with Noise Ninja and the default settings, I wasn't aware of a profile for the G1. The noise levels in the orginal shots were extreme. All 5 were handheld at high ISO's it was the first night I had the camera and I resorted too being a point n shooter but doing the dreaded hold up the camera look at the LCD and shoot. All all 5 were at maximum aperture so depth of feild was very small. I do agree with you on the softness.

The 2nd set of shots some were hanheld and tripod mounted. By then I learned how to use the EVF for focussing. Some softness can be attributed to movement as I do not yet have a cable release it is on order. Also many shots were close to MFD. The 100% veiws of someshots are much crisper and as Diane states just as good as the 5D. The ones with the 150-600 and 80-200,100 macro, 400 prime in particular.

Now this brings me to the Wide Angles, I do find them soft 20-35L, 35-105 at 100%. I even tried a Nikon 14-24 any attached at F22 and was not satisfied. Though I will be trying the Nikon more once I receive the adapter that I'll modify to control the aperture lever.

Yes you will find that is a general comparison of FD and EF lens the EFs are sharper. Once I got into the EF world I found that as Canon released new EF lens they were much better than the FDs. Even when I compare the MTF of the FD L's (from Christians site FD documentation) and the EF's I saw that to be true.

The 50L FD is my 2nd copy the first was much sharper than this one, sadly an accident happened and it quit working, I still have it and keep thinking one day I put the glass in a working one. I also have not really used it much yet, but I do know it is more capable than the samples above.

Diane is right on the focus confirmation (lack of). Many of my shots thus far are wide open so softness is expected and my focus points may not always be in a spot others would pick. Though with wildlife the attempt is on the eye, but if it moves,...

Anyways Jim, Diane thanks for the comments hopefully we can all benfit in the longrun with the G1, I'm with you Diane on the 'fun factor'.

Now go finish washing up and it is fun factor day today, off to the mountains for some G1 and Full Spectrum Modified 5D MKII photography.

Mar 14, 2009 at 03:30 PM

jamesf99
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p.2 #4 · Panasonic G1 - Canon FD/Leica/Nikon

picnic wrote:
Jim, since focusing is totally dependent upon one's own ability to do that visually (there is no focus confirmation with the MF lens), then depending upon the speed one tries to focus, or if you focus without using the MF assist--focus could be less than 'right on' I would guess. You can move that focus area around on the subject in MF assist also and so its very flexible for focusing--but still dependent on the photographer for sharp focusing.

Thanks Diane,

As long as it's possible to focus accurately I'm OK. Though no where near as fast as I used to be I'm hoping it will be like second nature again. I've grown quite lazy as I only use FD MF lenses every couple of months, and all my TSE lenses have focus confirmation.

I think the idea of m4/3rds is very exciting. I've loved shooting with DSLRs for years--and the 5D for well over 3 years now--but they are big, heavy--lens are big, heavy (even my small primes are a fair amount larger than the 'native' Panny lenses) and I think one of the reasons I keep picking up my G1 instead of my 5D or other bodies is that it not only brings back a 'fun factor'--esp. with MF lenses

---but also just allows one to not think about 'gear' but the shot.

Diane

I know how you feel and many of us are looking for more than the next huge MP monster to come along. I love shooting film on my 1VHS - though large - and still use my F-1 and 3 or 4 other FD bodies. I like the size and the ability to carry several bodies if necessary in the space a single 1 series or 5d w/grip consumes. A bag full of fast FD lenses, a small digital body, and it just seems exciting. It's kind of like the best of both worlds. I feel almost like a kid in a candy store and I don't even own the camera yet!

regards. Jim

Mar 14, 2009 at 03:32 PM

jamesf99
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p.2 #5 · Panasonic G1 - Canon FD/Leica/Nikon

burningheart wrote:
Hi Jim

Feedback is great I appreciate it. It is important to share information of the shots and processing so we can all benefit.

4 of the first 5 shots were all touched up with Noise Ninja and the default settings, I wasn't aware of a profile for the G1. The noise levels in the orginal shots were extreme. All 5 were handheld at high ISO's it was the first night I had the camera and I resorted too being a point n shooter but doing the dreaded hold up the camera look at the LCD and shoot. All all 5 were at maximum aperture so depth of feild was very small. I do agree with you on the softness.

The 2nd set of shots some were hanheld and tripod mounted. By then I learned how to use the EVF for focussing. Some softness can be attributed to movement as I do not yet have a cable release it is on order. Also many shots were close to MFD. The 100% veiws of someshots are much crisper and as Diane states just as good as the 5D. The ones with the 150-600 and 80-200,100 macro, 400 prime in particular.

I missed some of that the first time (low light, hand held, etc.) and that explains it. Reading that you also think the shots are similar to the 5d is fantastic.

Now this brings me to the Wide Angles, I do find them soft 20-35L, 35-105 at 100%. I even tried a Nikon 14-24 any attached at F22 and was not satisfied. Though I will be trying the Nikon more once I receive the adapter that I'll modify to control the aperture lever.

Yes you will find that is a general comparison of FD and EF lens the EFs are sharper. Once I got into the EF world I found that as Canon released new EF lens they were much better than the FDs. Even when I compare the MTF of the FD L's (from Christians site FD documentation) and the EF's I saw that to be true.

The 50L FD is my 2nd copy the first was much sharper than this one, sadly an accident happened and it quit working, I still have it and keep thinking one day I put the glass in a working one. I also have not really used it much yet, but I do know it is more capable than the samples above.

I have a regular 50 f/1.2 (not the L) and it's "OK", even after a trip to the shop last year for an overhaul. Then again, my EF 50 f/1.2L was nothing special from 1.8 t0 4.0, so nothing has changed there except the price was $1200.

Diane is right on the focus confirmation (lack of). Many of my shots thus far are wide open so softness is expected and my focus points may not always be in a spot others would pick. Though with wildlife the attempt is on the eye, but if it moves,...

Is it easier to focus in low light now that you've played with it a little? I think the beauty of this is going to be the size (relatively inconspicuous) and I'd really like to use it on the street. I can't wait to try it...

Anyways Jim, Diane thanks for the comments hopefully we can all benfit in the longrun with the G1, I'm with you Diane on the 'fun factor'.

Now go finish washing up and it is fun factor day today, off to the mountains for some G1 and Full Spectrum Modified 5D MKII photography.

Sounds fun.

Full spectrum 5d2? Meaning an IR modified camera (assuming visible/IR capable).

Mar 14, 2009 at 03:47 PM

picnic
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p.2 #6 · Panasonic G1 - Canon FD/Leica/Nikon

jamesf99 wrote:

As long as it's possible to focus accurately I'm OK. Though no where near as fast as I used to be I'm hoping it will be like second nature again. I've grown quite lazy as I only use FD MF lenses every couple of months, and all my TSE lenses have focus confirmation.

regards. Jim

Yes, I know how nice that focus confirmation is on the TS (I have the 45 TSE), but in actuality I find MF with the G1 and FD lenses easier (and I do have the clutzy anglefinder C).

When/if you get the G1 and try them, you'll see. I wear glasses most of the time (must have for reading LOL), but I just set the diopter on the EVF and its good. Then--of course, the MF assist, which sounds 'kludgy' really isn't. I agree with some on other forums that a one button would be even nicer than the 2 button now, its still so easy--hmmm--can't really say HOW easy LOL. Someone here or on another forum (Kirk Gittings I think) described how he hits the left 4 way button and OK on the way to his eye so he's ready to focus immediately. I have to say I haven't really done it quite that way, but may try it. I tend to compose, hit left button, move it to focus area I want, then the OK to make the zoom area fill the very large, bright EVF--and focus with ring. And--often times, esp, with wider lens, its quite possible to focus without the MF assist. I have checked myself a number of times with the MF assist after just focusing with the ring--on the 24 f/2.8--and I was so close it wouldn't likely matter.

Wish I was going to the mts to shoot--its raining cats and dogs here in western NC--but we need it *smile*

Diane

Mar 14, 2009 at 03:50 PM

R. Bowman
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p.2 #7 · Panasonic G1 - Canon FD/Leica/Nikon

I have several Canon FD lenses and SLRs, and just recently learned about the Lumix G1. I also have a Canon EOS D Mark II, but I'm looking for an additional smaller, less obtrusive digital camera. I was thinking of the Canon G10 until I learned about the Lumix G1. Can anyone comment on the comparable IQ of the Lumix G1 w/ the kit lens, the Lumix G1 w/ an adapter and a Canon FD 24 f/2 lens, and the Canon G10? Also, how sturdy is the FD adapter and Lumix lens mount combination? Could it support, say, Canon FD 85 f/1.2 or FD 135 f/2 lenses?

Many thanks.

Rob

Mar 21, 2009 at 09:34 PM

picnic
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p.2 #8 · Panasonic G1 - Canon FD/Leica/Nikon

Rob, I shoot with a 5D, a number of lenses but bought a G1 as my 'small' cam. I have the G9 but have been frustrated more than once with it and have an awful time composiing/focusing in just normal daylight---added a Voigtlander VF--but still rarely shoot with it.

I was following the Sig DP1 but decided it wasn't ready--for me--yet. When the G1 was announced I was skeptical, I admit. I read the Panny forum at dpreview primarily--and then after it was out and people were shooting with it--both the Panny lenses and alternatives with adaptors--I frequented the getdpi.com forum. I asked lots of questions--even found one to handle--took my G9 with me to compare for size since I bought a used 400D last summer for my 'small' cam LOL.

I decded that it was probably a good bet for me and finally---I won an auction from a Canadian store end of Dec. at a very good price ($530 USD) and got my own. I soon added the 45-200 and then wondered about FD lenses--as I still had my one last old FD 50 f/1.8 just to mount on the AE-1 sitting around.

Bought the Cameraquest FD adaptor which is the same as the Rayqual. Its very well made, mounts extremely easily and is rock solid.

I'm using all smaller FD lenses--in fact the 3 I bought were chosen for small/light as I plan to add the panny 20 f/1.7 and probably the 7-14 f/4. I do think it wouldn't have any trouble with any of the FD lenses with hand support under the lenses--which is how I tend to shoot anyhow.

I have to say I'm enthusiastic about the camera--manual focus is a dream, really like EVF after I got used to it, ISO to 800 is fine for me generally with well exposed photos. I would recommend exposing to the right if you plan to pull up shadows==and I do always shoot RAW as I have for years (others do like the jpegs though).

You can see the FD 24 f/2.8, 35 f/2.8, 50 f/1.8 (with and without extension tubes), and 135 f/2.8 here http://www.pbase.com/picnic/fd_gallery I sorted out the FD shots since a number of people asked. You can see the FD, 14-45 and 45-200 shots--all G! here http://www.pbase.com/picnic/temp_g1

I've had more fun with this camera than I've had in a long time. I love my 5D and wide assortment of lenses, but--well you know (and I don't have a 1 series LOL). I will continue to use the 5D (I suspect) for landscapes, VERY low light--but so far since I've gotten it, those haven't arisen. They will as the year goes along and I'll see. Right now--I'm shooting almost all the time with the G1. I really REALLY want a quite fast lens--should have bought the 24 f/2 and/or the 50 f/1.4--maybe still will---or maybe a different alternative. It offers so many possibilities once one has adaptors (and some are quite cheap).

Hope this helps.
Diane

Mar 21, 2009 at 11:24 PM

JimBuchanan
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p.2 #9 · Panasonic G1 - Canon FD/Leica/Nikon

As the G1 with legacy MF lenses, story unfolds concerning the described soft corners of MF lenses, it seems that the ones that produce this are M mount lenses where the lens element is closer to the sensor and/or SLR wide angle lenses with same. It has also been revealed that the mFT lenses are retro focus in design, meaning the lens groups are farther away from the sensor in order to keep the angle if incidence as high as possible, but there is some file manipulation of RAW files going on in software to augment IQ of mFT lenses..

Mar 22, 2009 at 12:21 AM

picnic
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p.2 #10 · Panasonic G1 - Canon FD/Leica/Nikon

The FD lenses don't seem to have this problem. I've followed it on another forum, but I shoot with a 24 f/2.8 and 35 f/2.8 (both FDs) both wide open and stopped down without issue.

Diane

Mar 22, 2009 at 12:39 AM

Jonas B
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p.2 #11 · Panasonic G1 - Canon FD/Leica/Nikon

R. Bowman wrote

...) Can anyone comment on the comparable IQ of the Lumix G1 w/ the kit lens, the Lumix G1 w/ an adapter and a Canon FD 24 f/2 lens, and the Canon G10? Also, how sturdy is the FD adapter and Lumix lens mount combination? Could it support, say, Canon FD 85 f/1.2 or FD 135 f/2 lenses?

Hi Rob,

I can't do the exact comparison you are asking for but I have experience from the 5D, some Olympus 4/3 cameras and now the G1.

I have used the G1 mainly with alternative lenses as I don't care a lot for the slow kit lens which I use at the wide end only. The µ4/3 system is in need of a lot more lenses but I get by a bit so-so with the kit lens, a semi fast normal (FD24/2 and Hexanon UC 28/1.8 AR) and a mix of alternatives for longer focal lengths.

The 85 and 135mm lenses you mention are probably on the limit. Panasonic recommends not to use lenses weighting over 1000g. I prefer lenses weighting less than so...

The FD24/2 works well enough. It is not super "sharp" wide open where it lacks a little in contrast and resolution (we are dealing with a high pixel density here) but it works fine with some PP. With my adapter (RayQual) and my lens it doesn't focus to infinity but DOF covers infinity when stopping down a couple of stops.

The image quality... compared to the G10 the G1 wins hands down. ISO from 100 to 800 are OK. Handling and ergonomics cause no troubles and the camera really shines when used with legacy lenses. Not everything is perfect, some details can be improved but the general impression from following discussions about the camera is that very few are disappointed.

On lens discussion: I bought the G1 for the size, the EVF and the lens mount. It has worked out as expected with one exception; several Leica M-mount lenses don't go to well together with the camera. Some wide angle and normal (where is a normal is up to 30 or 35mm) cause mild or severe smearing at borders and corners.

In situations where the corners doesn't matter you can use a lot of interesting, small and cheap lenses:

Above: G1, Pentax CCTV 25/1.4 C-mount lens

For the short tele area I wouldn't use the big and heavy FD lenses. It's no point to me really mounting those as I just as wel can use my 5D when I care to carry weights. A short tele (around 50mm) is no problem; there are a lot of available nice 50mm lenses and right now I have the Zuiko OM 50/2 Macro in the bag. The FD 50/1.4 works just fine. When I want a somewhat longer reach I use the Voigtländer 75/2.5 Color Heliar. There are a lot of options.

Just a sample that happen to be on-line already.

fwiw, /Jonas

Mar 22, 2009 at 12:46 AM

Jonas B
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p.2 #12 · Panasonic G1 - Canon FD/Leica/Nikon

JimBuchanan wrote:
As the G1 with legacy MF lenses, story unfolds concerning the described soft corners of MF lenses, it seems that the ones that produce this are M mount lenses where the lens element is closer to the sensor and/or SLR wide angle lenses with same. It has also been revealed that the mFT lenses are retro focus in design, meaning the lens groups are farther away from the sensor in order to keep the angle if incidence as high as possible, but there is some file manipulation of RAW files going on in software to augment IQ of mFT lenses..

I think this is partly true and partly FUD. Whatever, it is interesting.

I was very disappointed finding that i got smeary borders and corners with the CV28/2 Ultron which I had planned to use as a good non-aspherical and nice normal lens. Since sending that lens back I have tried the Canon FD24/2 and it works just fine. Now I'm using a hexanon UC 28/1.8 and it is just fine. Right now I don't have anything wider to try as 24mm is the widest I use with my 5D.

For the M-mount lenses it seems as more or less all of them with focal lengths lower than 50mm cause some smearing when looking closer to the images.

I don't know what this may mean for the µ4/3 system and the future. Right now many of us are waiting for the Panasonic G20/1.7. Will it perform? I'm in doubt I personally will l like it as I'm not too fund of most aspherical lenses and really wonder how Panasonic can make a pancake shorter and faster than the mediocre Olympus ZD25/2.8 to perform. Time will tell.

There is nothing going on with raw files - they are OK. There is however some corrections made automatically, and not possible to turn off, when developing G1 raw files using ACR/Lightroom or Silkypix (which comes with the camera). This happens only if the images are taken with a Panasonic lens.

Is that good or bad? Well, the fact there is no possibility to turn the lens correction off makes me feel bad about it. OTOH it is easy to see that the lenses can be smaller and easier to design if some aberrations are allowed for later correction. Pros and cons.

regards, /Jonas

Mar 22, 2009 at 01:00 AM

R. Bowman
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p.2 #13 · Panasonic G1 - Canon FD/Leica/Nikon

Thanks, Diane, Jim and Jonas for your helpful replies--and to others who have posted information on the topic. I am now seriously considering the G1, to be used with my Canon FD 24 f/2, 35 f/2, 50 f/1.2L, and 100 f/2 lenses. If you will indulge me, I have a few more questions.

From what I have read, at least some lenses do not infinity focus with the G1. Is this a function of the lens, or of the lens adapter that one chooses?

Can someone comment on the brightness and accuracy of manual focus with the G1's EVF and FD lenses? Just as a point of reference, in the 35mm FD film world I am used to the Canon New F-1 and T-90 finders.

I assume with the FD lenses and adapter, exposure with the G1 is somehow accomplished with stop-down metering, is that correct?

Is it correct that RAW files shot with manual focus lenses and an adapter have no in-camera corrections applied? Is it also correct that Adobe Lightroom 2.x can read the RAW files?

From postings here and there, it seems at least 3 or 4 FD-MFT adapters are available--CameraQuest (RayQual?), one called or sourced through jinfinance, and one referred to as the "Polish" adapter. There is also reference to an adapter from Novoflex. Is there discussion anywhere of the pros and cons of the adapters?

Again, thanks. And by the way, the photos posted here are wonderful.

Rob

Mar 22, 2009 at 06:47 PM

mawz
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p.2 #14 · Panasonic G1 - Canon FD/Leica/Nikon

R. Bowman wrote:
Thanks, Diane, Jim and Jonas for your helpful replies--and to others who have posted information on the topic. I am now seriously considering the G1, to be used with my Canon FD 24 f/2, 35 f/2, 50 f/1.2L, and 100 f/2 lenses. If you will indulge me, I have a few more questions.

From what I have read, at least some lenses do not infinity focus with the G1. Is this a function of the lens, or of the lens adapter that one chooses?

Adapter issues. Mostly slightly thick M mount adapters have been the issue. Any SLR lens will achieve infinity focus with a proper adapter on a m43 body.

Can someone comment on the brightness and accuracy of manual focus with the G1's EVF and FD lenses? Just as a point of reference, in the 35mm FD film world I am used to the Canon New F-1 and T-90 finders.

The VF will be similar in size or slightly smaller than the T90 depending on settings (I've you use the overlayed data setup the VF is effectively larger than the SLR-sty;e display). Accuracy of manual focus is better than any SLR, especially if you make use of the MF Assist which magnifies the display. Brightness will be a bit lower in good light, but much brighter in poor light as the EVF can amplify the output. Colours will be muted (NTSC gamut, very poor compared to the actual files) and dynamic range of the EVF is mediocre (again, the files are much better).

I assume with the FD lenses and adapter, exposure with the G1 is somehow accomplished with stop-down metering, is that correct?

Yes, Stop-down metering in Aperture Priority or Manual modes.

Is it correct that RAW files shot with manual focus lenses and an adapter have no in-camera corrections applied? Is it also correct that Adobe Lightroom 2.x can read the RAW files?

Yes, the lens corrections are only applied to known lenses, which effectively means the m43 native lenses only. The latest version of Lightroom can read the RAW files.

From postings here and there, it seems at least 3 or 4 FD-MFT adapters are available--CameraQuest (RayQual?), one called or sourced through jinfinance, and one referred to as the "Polish" adapter. There is also reference to an adapter from Novoflex. Is there discussion anywhere of the pros and cons of the adapters?

Again, thanks. And by the way, the photos posted here are wonderful.

Rob

The CQ/Rayqual adapters are the best, the jinfinance ones are the cheapest but still usable. I've not heard any solid info on how good the Novoflex or "Polish" adapters are.

Mar 22, 2009 at 07:08 PM

R. Bowman
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p.2 #15 · Panasonic G1 - Canon FD/Leica/Nikon

Thank you, mawz!

Mar 22, 2009 at 07:12 PM

picnic
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p.2 #16 · Panasonic G1 - Canon FD/Leica/Nikon

I think the infinity focus is a result of the adaptors. Some have had to take them back and replace them because of this.

I can't comment on the Canon finders--I've used digital SLRs since 2000 LOL. BUT--I've used Voigtlander 35mm finder--and I will put the EVF up against it for the most part. Manual focus is just so easy--but it is visual, no confirmation. You will use your focus ring for critical focusing with a 5 or 10x zoom filling the EVF or LCD. The EVF will 'amp up' to keep the finder bright--and you will only find it darker in very low light. When I move from my 5D to the G1 I really miss the EVF--took just a bit to get used to it.

Exposure is done with stop-down metering--I set aperture with ap ring in A priority--most of us shoot in Aperture priority, set our ISO and it meters normally--with EV and a live histo. I also shoot occasionally in M, but generally in A. ISO can also be set to auto with a 'max' limit (I have mine set to max at ISO800 which works fine for me).

My understanding is that there are no in-camera corrections applied. I don't know how that could be accomplished with the 3rd party lenses--but others may correct me. Yes, I use LR 2.3 for all my files including the G1 with Panasonic lenses and FDs.

I can only comment on my adaptor--the Cameraquest/Rayqual. You may find more info at getdpi.com 4/3rds forum since it seems almost everyone there is using an adaptor of some sort--though many are M mounts, but there are lots more. They asll seem to be very similar--the CQ/Rayqual and Novoflex are the most expensive and probably maybe finished a bit better but I don't know that they work any better-esp. the ones corrected for infinity focus (though seems to me, thinking back, that was more with the M mount).

Think I covered everything. Feel free to ask if you have other questions. I pulled all the FD shots with the G1 into a little gallery for those that have asked about shooting with them.
http://www.pbase.com/picnic/fd_gallery

Diane

Mar 22, 2009 at 07:18 PM

R. Bowman
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p.2 #17 · Panasonic G1 - Canon FD/Leica/Nikon

picnic wrote:

Exposure is done with stop-down metering--I set aperture with ap ring in A priority--most of us shoot in Aperture priority, set our ISO and it meters normally--with EV and a live histo.

Sorry, but my little monkey-mind doesn't follow.

My stop-down metering experience is limited to using my Pentax 67 or Canon F1 cameras with extension tubes or bellows. With the P67, I focus wide open, then move the stop-down control on the lens to the desired aperture, then meter and shoot. With the F1, it's the same operation, except the stop-down control is on the camera body.

When you "set aperture with ap ring in A priority" are you referring to the control ring on the top deck of the G1? And if so, what if any setting are you making on the FD aperture ring?

Thanks again. (And your gallery is lovely.)

Rob

Mar 22, 2009 at 07:53 PM

Jonas B
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p.2 #18 · Panasonic G1 - Canon FD/Leica/Nikon

Rob, there *never* is any manipulation of the raw files. The Panasonic lenses submits data about corrections the raw converter should do (Silkypix and ACR/Lightroom performs these, other converters do not) to the EXIF values. You can for example take an image using the kit lens, process it in Lightroom and then process it using RawTherapee to see the difference. The raw file itself is just as we are used to.

The irritating problem is that the corrections done by Silkypix and ACR/Lightroom just happens with no user choice available.

I use the kit lens very seldom as it is a bit slow for my taste. So, with adapters and a mix of good old lenses I am never affected by the automatic corrections. When using the kit lens the corrections are made but I haven't seen any ill effects from that.

Stop down metering is done as you described it: I set the camera to aperture priority, set the aperture ring on the lens to whatever I want it to be, focus and take the image. The camera will set the shutter time and I can use the front wheel for exposure compensation if I want to.

Focusing is usually best done wide open, then you can stop down. Or, as the EVF amps up the image, you can stop down and focus then. That is great when using a lens with focus shift and a world of difference to optical view finders.

kindest, /Jonas

Mar 22, 2009 at 09:41 PM

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p.2 #19 · Panasonic G1 - Canon FD/Leica/Nikon

Actually, miscommunication. Exposure is done totally without any stopping down, etc. (I was trying to convey that exposure is done stopped down--or not--by camera). You simply set the aperture on the lens aperture ring and the camera sets the shutter speed. Simple as that. I generally use auto ISO unless I have a particular reason to set my own.

Jonas seems to like to focus wide open--which works fine too, but I have had no problems focusing with the aperture set to whatever I want. I tend to shoot a lot wide open but if I stop down I still do that first, then I manual focus with the MF assist and shoot. It all sounds way more complicated than it is but it couldn't be easier (well, maybe a tad if they had it set up for one button MF assist instead of a 2 button--you need to use the right button of the 4 way to bring up the MF assist and you can move the focus square to where you want to place the focus--then you click on the OK/middle button and it brings up the zoom--you can adjust it to 5x or 10x by using the front dial--someone on another forum says he does this as he is bringing it up to his eye and is ready to focus immediately).

I'll say--I didn't quite 'get it' until I got my adaptor and tried it for myself. I was so excited about using MF lenses I bought some more. LOL--and actually, if I can find the right lens, will probably buy some others--not necessarly FD.

Diane

R. Bowman wrote:
picnic wrote:

Exposure is done with stop-down metering--I set aperture with ap ring in A priority--most of us shoot in Aperture priority, set our ISO and it meters normally--with EV and a live histo.

Sorry, but my little monkey-mind doesn't follow.

My stop-down metering experience is limited to using my Pentax 67 or Canon F1 cameras with extension tubes or bellows. With the P67, I focus wide open, then move the stop-down control on the lens to the desired aperture, then meter and shoot. With the F1, it's the same operation, except the stop-down control is on the camera body.

When you "set aperture with ap ring in A priority" are you referring to the control ring on the top deck of the G1? And if so, what if any setting are you making on the FD aperture ring?

Thanks again. (And your gallery is lovely.)

Rob

Mar 22, 2009 at 10:34 PM

Jonas B
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p.2 #20 · Panasonic G1 - Canon FD/Leica/Nikon

picnic wrote:
(...)
Jonas seems to like to focus wide open--which works fine too, but I have had no problems focusing with the aperture set to whatever I want. I tend to shoot a lot wide open but if I stop down I still do that first, then I manual focus with the MF assist and shoot.

Hi Diane,

Yes, I usually focus wide open, or nearly wide open. That's probably as I stop the lens down only when I see I need more DOF. Old habits, combined with the experience from my earlier Olympus 4/3 cameras; I always got more DOF than expected as I was used to larger sensors...

But you are right, it is as easy to focus with the lens stopped down and then you are immediately ready to shoot. In the end one can do it all in any order.

One of the great things with the EVF is that we see the image including the final DOF in the viewfinder all the time. I have now sold my 5D thinking I would save for a 5DMkII - but I'm not sure about that any more. For the moment I have that idea on hold and stick to the G1. There are workarounds when I need the best possible image quality,

Here is my current lens setup:

Wide: ZD9-18/4-5.6 (arrives in a couple of days, will be in the bag all the time)
Normal: Hexanon UC 28/1.8 (on the camera most of the time)
Short tele: Olympus OM50/2Macro (in the bag all the time)
Medium tele: Cosina Voigtländer 75/2.5 Color Heliar (seldom used)
"Long" tele/Macro: Olympus OM90/2Macro (seldom used)

The Canon FD 24/2 and the kit lens don't see any use. Both are totally OK but I like the lenses mentioned above better for a mix of reasons. I use tele lenses very seldom but when in need the CV75/2.5 is an excellent option and so is the OM90/2.

Rumors are rumors but knowing the Panasonic prices in general made me decide for the ZD9-18. I'm looking forward to the G20/1.7 but I'm not at all convinced it will perform good enough. I really hope it will as that would be good for the µ4/3 system and a smaller, wider and light weight option to the Hexanon 28/1.8. But as you see, I don't really count on it ftm.

Well, that was the status report of the day, lol. Regards, /Jonas

Mar 22, 2009 at 11:52 PM

R. Bowman
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p.2 #21 · Panasonic G1 - Canon FD/Leica/Nikon

Thanks, Jonas and Diane, I've purchased the CameraQuest adapter, and will try to get the G1 tomorrow at a reasonable price. If my images are to my liking, I will post them.

Cheers,

Rob

Mar 23, 2009 at 12:57 AM

r.gil
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p.2 #22 · Panasonic G1 - Canon FD/Leica/Nikon

Diane
I am thinking of getting a G-1
I now use a 50mm nikkor on my D300 for portraits
what lens would you recommend for the G-1 I like to shoot wide open and I also shoot inside bars and coffee shops in spain, this with low light and no flash, so I need a fast and sharp lens.
thanks
raul

Mar 23, 2009 at 09:24 PM

HansenTsang
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p.2 #23 · Panasonic G1 - Canon FD/Leica/Nikon

One of the better low light lens for the G1 is the Panasonic/Leica 25 mm f1.4 Summilux ASPH D. Very sharp at wide open. That's what I carry when I shoot in a bar. Unfortunately the lens is fairly expensive and is big and heavy compare to the G1 body.

I also use the Canon FD 50 mm f1.2 manual focus. It is not as good wide open but sharpen up real nicely by f2.0. Unfortunately the Canon 50 is even more heavy than the Panasonic 25.

A third option I found is the Nikkor 35 mm f1.4 AIS. It is a pretty nice compromise in size, weight and image quality.

Of course if money is no object then there is the Leica 50 mm f1.0 M mount and the Canon 50 mm f0.95.

The G1 is a wonderful camera and the exciting part is that it can take a lot of different lenses. However the G1 is not a very good low light camera. It is respectable up to ISO 400. By the time you hit ISO 800 you will see a lot of noise.

I think your D300 with a Nikkor 50 mm f1.2 AIS or the Nikkor 58 mm f1.2 Noct is a better choice for no flash low light bar scene.

Mar 23, 2009 at 11:40 PM

r.gil
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p.2 #24 · Panasonic G1 - Canon FD/Leica/Nikon

Thank you Hansen
Can you tell me if the Camera Quest adapter works with Takumar M40 lenses and Canon FD lenses?
and how is the Super Takumar 50mm f1.4 vs the Canon 50mm f1.4 or f1.8
I am looking for small lenses and F1.4 is ok for what I do.
Thanks again

Mar 24, 2009 at 12:07 AM

HansenTsang
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p.2 #25 · Panasonic G1 - Canon FD/Leica/Nikon

The Camera Quest FD to Micro 4/3 adapter will fit the Canon FD lens to the G1. I don't think Camera Quest makes a Pentax M42 to the G1 adapter yet. I know they make a Leica M to G1 adapter. I have the M42 to G1 adapter from Rong Jin or RJ camera on eBay.

Personally I don't like my Super Tak 50 mm f1.4 all that much at wide open. I only played with the Canon 50 f1.4 and f1.8 with EOS mount and they are very good. I can't speak for the older manual focus Canon FD 50 mm f1.4 or f1.8. Although I would assume they are very good.

If f1.4 is good enough for what you do there are a lot of great choices including the Canon, Nikon, Carl Zeiss, Voigtlander, Leica, Pentax SMC-A, Minolta Rokkor, etc. It seems like every manufacturer managed to put out a great 50 mm f1.4 lens some where along their manufacturing history.

You do have to realize that a 50 mm lens on the G1 will give you an image that look like it was taken with a 100 mm lens on a 35 mm film camera . In the space of a bar you will only fit a person's head and shoulder and not much more in the frame.

Mar 24, 2009 at 01:16 AM


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