Zeiss 50 1.4 focus ring question

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Archive 2009 · Zeiss 50 1.4 focus ring question

Mike Mahoney
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p.1 #1 · Zeiss 50 1.4 focus ring question

I'm thinking about getting a Zeiss 50 1.4 and dedicate it as a video lens on my 5D2. My question is how much turn in the focus ring from MFD to infinity?

I know more is better for fine focus but for hand held video I really like quicker focus so I can get the full range without having to reset my fingers.

Nov 06, 2009 at 12:47 PM

StevenPA
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p.1 #2 · Zeiss 50 1.4 focus ring question

About 7 hours worth. Or 8. Let's call it 7.5 hours. How many degrees is that? 225? This is the C/Y 50/1.4.

Nov 06, 2009 at 02:42 PM

philber
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p.1 #3 · Zeiss 50 1.4 focus ring question

Just checked my ZE 50, it seems pretty much the same as the Contax described above.

Nov 06, 2009 at 09:15 PM

Mike Mahoney
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p.1 #4 · Zeiss 50 1.4 focus ring question

Thanks .. that's quite a bit more than I'm used to.

Nov 06, 2009 at 09:21 PM

cogitech
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p.1 #5 · Zeiss 50 1.4 focus ring question

I think you'll find most manual focus 50s to have quite a bit of travel. I can't recall off-hand, but something tells me the Zuikos might be a bit shorter.

With manual focusing video in mind, I have to say I'd be looking at M42 Takumars (Super or SMC). They have the smoothest focusing of any lenses I have ever used and they are typically damped lighter, for that "one-finger" touch. Although the throw will still be longer than you are used to.

Nov 06, 2009 at 09:25 PM

JimBuchanan
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p.1 #6 · Zeiss 50 1.4 focus ring question

Mike Mahoney wrote:
I know more is better for fine focus but for hand held video I really like quicker focus so I can get the full range without having to reset my fingers.

Maybe a different method of focusing could be considered. There are several devices that could help. I know there are focus ring products that make the focus ring larger.

The old Leica M tabbed lenses come to mind. One finger focusing and the shooter knew what range he was in based on position of the tab.

Here is a simple solution that costs a buck:

This image is copyrighted by the owner

Nov 07, 2009 at 04:58 AM

philber
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p.1 #7 · Zeiss 50 1.4 focus ring question

You have answered your own question when you said "more is better" for MF. Actually, other Zeiss lenses have even longer travel...

Nov 07, 2009 at 06:05 AM

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