Thread: Panasonic Leica 25mm f/1.4 micro four thirds review

Originally Posted by Armanius

Great review and photo samples David. So many quality lenses coming out now ... exciting times for credit card companies!

lol so Armando, have you had you GAS attack and given in to the PL25mm then?

I don't think it's in stock anywhere in the US. I preordered the 45/1.8 a while ago and still waiting. And waiting ...

Originally Posted by Armanius

exciting times for credit card companies!

Our "flexible" friends!!

If we want a small, light and high performance system, m4/3 may well continue to be a real alternative to APS-C. Having said that, I have a NEX-7 on order, but then I am planning to use my M-Mount lenses on it!!

Thanks for your thoughtful summary. I agree with your points. I also find the Nex & intriguing because of it's features - and if I had a bunch of M lenses I might consider it.

Currently I am just waiting the see what the rumoured new GF is like before considering an upgrade to my GF1. When shooting RAW, with reasonable or better technique, my GF1 produces files that have superb detail, so I am in no rush.

Rumored new GF? Didnt the GF3 just come out 3-4 months ago?

Originally Posted by Armanius

Rumored new GF? Didnt the GF3 just come out 3-4 months ago?

Ha! Yes, but Panasonic have hinted at a a camera more aimed at 'enthusiasts'. It is sometimes referred to as the GF7, and fans reckon it to be the true replacement for the GF1.

here is a rumor linky:
http://www.43rumors.com/ft5-hot-new-...xt-3-4-months/

This lens is enticing - if I had my PEN or any other Mu43 camera, it would have to be mine!

But Armando, you are too much "So many quality lenses coming out now ... exciting times for credit card companies!"!

Originally Posted by soundimageplus

Plus when I was shooting weddings, I would have "fast" Nikon and Canon lenses. f/1.8 and even f/1.2. However I would often be reluctant to use those lenses wide open because the quality took a drop. So often I ended up using them at f/2 or f/2.8. The 25mm PanLeica lens is so good at its maximum aperture (as indeed is the 20mm f/1.7) that I would have no qualms about using it permanently set to f/1.4. And at the same time probably getting the same DOF as I'm getting with the APS-C lenses at f/2.8. Once you move up to full-frame, you have the disadvantage (and I do see it as a disadvantage) of having very limited depth of field. Its difficult enough to get something in focus with a fast lens wide open when you have time, its close to impossible when things (and people) are moving quickly.

Actually I think you'll find it's about 1 stop more DOF to APSC (0.7x for Canon) and 2 stops for FF. So your 25mm 1.4 is giving the same DOF as an f2 lens on APSC and f2.8 on full frame. With the advantages of the higher shutter speeds/lower ISO thrown in.

Gordon

David-

I know you typically don't put any "people" or "portrait" photos in your blog, but do you have any that you can share using the m4/3 PL 25/1.4? Thanks!

Originally Posted by flash

Actually I think you'll find it's about 1 stop more DOF to APSC (0.7x for Canon) and 2 stops for FF. So your 25mm 1.4 is giving the same DOF as an f2 lens on APSC and f2.8 on full frame. With the advantages of the higher shutter speeds/lower ISO thrown in.
Gordon

You may well be right.

I've never actually done the measurements and since DOF is to a certain extent a "perception" its always "felt" like between 1 & 2 stops to me on APS-C and 2-3 stops on FF, depending on where you focus and the aperture selected of course.

Originally Posted by Armanius

David-
I know you typically don't put any "people" or "portrait" photos in your blog, but do you have any that you can share using the m4/3 PL 25/1.4? Thanks!

Unfortunately not, but there are some available in other artices on the lens. Though the top links portraits are of a statue!!
Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF3 and Leica DG SUMMILUX 25 mm f/1.4 - sample images - Lenstip.com

Panasonic 25mm Lens Photos | PhotographyBLOG