kevistopheles
TalkEmount Hall of Famer
Over the past several months I have found myself with two 24/2.8 lenses and a 28/2 close focus. I realize that in the NEX world the 50 is the more used because fast 50's turn into fast portrait lenses and they come cheap (or fairly cheap). 24's tend to come in at around $200 and the 28/2 was about $100. I have for the longest time thought the 24'as held a distinct advantage in IQ over the 28 but looking back at many of my favorite images (taken with these lenses) I find the 28 reigns supreme. My 24's are the Konica Hexanon 24 and the much loved MC Rokkor 24 (aka the Leica R 24/2.8). First off the Hexanon is the sharper lens...without a doubt. It renders better and focuses closer than the Rokkor. The Rokkor is a lot heavier, feels better built, has better bokeh and is color matched to my other Rokkors. If I had to choose between them I'd pick the Rokkor by a whisker. I would say they are both excellent lenses but the fact that the Rokkor is color matched to my Rokkor 50's, 35-70 and 100 is a big plus. That said, a 24/2.8 translates to a 36/2.8 EFL and my Vivitar 28/2 Close Focus is just a bit more desirable a lens to shoot with than either of the 24's. It's not better than either of the 24's in any category other than it's ability to close focus (it'll go to 1:5) but it's 42.2 EFL is very nice to shoot with and I find myself reaching for it instead of either of the 24's. I think because the Vivitar peaks better, gets closer and is a more comfortable EFL it is a much more satisfying lens to use FOR ME.
The Hexanon and the Rokkor are better lenses in every measurable way except for one, pure awesomeness. Here are a few of my favorite shots from the Vivtar.
The Hangover by dixeyk, on Flickr
That Damp Snake by dixeyk, on Flickr
Intent by dixeyk, on Flickr
The Hexanon and the Rokkor are better lenses in every measurable way except for one, pure awesomeness. Here are a few of my favorite shots from the Vivtar.
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The Hangover by dixeyk, on Flickr
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That Damp Snake by dixeyk, on Flickr
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Intent by dixeyk, on Flickr