The Leica R 35mm f2 Summicron v2 filter size is a topic that often sparks curiosity among photographers, especially those who appreciate the renowned quality of Leica lenses. This lens, known for its exceptional sharpness, contrast, and pleasing bokeh, has become a favorite among professionals and enthusiasts alike.
Its filter size plays a crucial role in expanding its creative potential, allowing photographers to utilize a wide range of filters for various photographic applications.
The Leica R 35mm f2 Summicron v2 boasts a filter size of 46mm, which opens up a world of possibilities for enhancing image quality and creativity. This filter size ensures compatibility with a vast array of filters, ranging from essential UV and ND filters to specialized polarizers and graduated neutral density filters.
The lens’s optical design, coupled with the filter size, allows photographers to achieve stunning results in a variety of lighting conditions and shooting scenarios.
Leica R 35mm f2 Summicron v2 Overview
The Leica R 35mm f/2 Summicron v2, affectionately known as the “Dual Range” Summicron, stands as a testament to the legacy of excellence that defines Leica lenses. This lens, introduced in 1979, represents a significant evolution in the Summicron line, incorporating innovative design features and optical advancements that solidified its reputation as a classic among photographers.
The Leica R 35mm f2 Summicron v2, with its 39mm filter thread, is a classic lens known for its exceptional sharpness and subtle character. Its compact size and fast aperture make it ideal for capturing a wide range of subjects, from street photography to portraits.
The lens’s ability to render detail and create a sense of depth is particularly well-suited for creating a series of photos that tell a story , where each image contributes to a larger narrative. Whether capturing fleeting moments or documenting a journey, the Leica R 35mm f2 Summicron v2 offers a perfect balance of precision and artistic expression.
History and Design
The Leica R 35mm f/2 Summicron v2 is a direct successor to the original Summicron, a lens that had become a staple in the world of photography. The v2 iteration, however, brought with it a series of improvements. One of the most notable changes was the introduction of a “dual range” focusing system.
This allowed photographers to switch between a standard focusing range and a close-up focusing range, expanding the lens’s versatility. This innovative feature made the Summicron v2 a truly versatile lens, capable of handling a wide range of photographic subjects, from landscapes to portraits.
Key Features
The Leica R 35mm f/2 Summicron v2 boasts a number of key features that contribute to its exceptional performance. These include:
- Dual range focusing:This system allows photographers to switch between standard and close-up focusing ranges, offering greater versatility in capturing different subjects.
- 9-element, 6-group optical design:This design utilizes a complex arrangement of lens elements to deliver high image quality and minimize distortion.
- Floating element design:This design helps to maintain sharpness throughout the focusing range, ensuring optimal performance at all distances.
- Fast f/2 maximum aperture:This allows for shallow depth of field effects and excellent low-light performance.
- Solid metal construction:The lens is built to withstand the rigors of professional use and boasts a robust design that ensures durability and longevity.
Reputation and Significance
The Leica R 35mm f/2 Summicron v2 has earned a reputation as a legendary lens, highly sought after by photographers for its exceptional image quality and performance. Its compact size and lightweight design, coupled with its exceptional optical performance, have made it a favorite among street photographers, photojournalists, and landscape photographers alike.
The lens’s ability to render sharp, detailed images with rich contrast and pleasing bokeh has cemented its place as a classic in the world of Leica lenses.
Optical Performance
The Leica R 35mm f/2 Summicron v2 is renowned for its exceptional optical performance. It consistently delivers sharp, detailed images with excellent contrast and minimal distortion. The lens’s bokeh, or out-of-focus rendering, is smooth and pleasing, adding a touch of artistic flair to images.
- Sharpness:The lens exhibits excellent sharpness throughout the entire focusing range, with exceptional detail rendition even at wide apertures.
- Contrast:The Summicron v2 delivers images with high contrast, resulting in vibrant colors and deep blacks.
- Bokeh:The lens produces a smooth, pleasing bokeh, with a gentle swirl effect that adds a touch of artistry to out-of-focus areas.
Filter Size and Compatibility
The Leica R 35mm f2 Summicron v2 lens, like most lenses, accepts filters to modify the light entering the lens and achieve specific effects. This section delves into the filter size and compatibility of this lens, providing insights into the types of filters that can be used and their impact on image quality.
The Leica R 35mm f2 Summicron v2, renowned for its exceptional sharpness and compact size, boasts a 39mm filter thread. This allows for a wide range of filters to be used, enhancing creative possibilities. For photographers seeking versatility, the choice often comes down to the sony e18135 vs sony e55-210 debate, as both lenses offer distinct focal lengths and zoom capabilities.
Ultimately, the filter size of the Leica R 35mm f2 Summicron v2 provides photographers with a vast array of options for enhancing their images.
Filter Size
The Leica R 35mm f2 Summicron v2 lens utilizes a standard 46mm filter thread. This means that any filter with a 46mm diameter will physically fit onto the front of the lens.
Compatible Filters
The 46mm filter size offers a wide range of filter options, catering to various photographic needs. Here are some popular filter categories and examples of brands:
- UV Filters: These filters help to protect the lens from scratches and dust, while also absorbing ultraviolet light, which can cause a bluish cast in photographs. Popular brands include B+W, Hoya, and Tiffen.
- Polarizing Filters: These filters help to reduce glare and reflections, increase color saturation, and enhance the contrast of clouds and skies. They are available in circular polarizer (CPL) and linear polarizer (LP) versions. Popular brands include B+W, Hoya, and Singh-Ray.
- Neutral Density (ND) Filters: These filters reduce the amount of light entering the lens, allowing for longer exposures in bright conditions. They are available in various strengths, measured in f-stops. Popular brands include B+W, Hoya, and Lee Filters.
- Graduated Neutral Density (GND) Filters: These filters have a gradual transition from a darker to a lighter area, allowing for balanced exposure in scenes with high contrast, such as landscapes with bright skies. Popular brands include B+W, Singh-Ray, and Lee Filters.
- Color Filters: These filters add color to the image, such as warming filters or cooling filters. Popular brands include Tiffen, Cokin, and Rosco.
Impact of Filters on Image Quality
While filters can enhance images, they can also introduce unwanted effects, such as:
- Reduced Sharpness: Some filters, especially older or less expensive ones, can cause a slight reduction in image sharpness due to their construction or coatings.
- Color Casts: Some filters, particularly older or less well-made ones, can introduce unwanted color casts to the image.
- Vignetting: Using filters, especially wide-angle filters, can cause vignetting (darkening of the corners of the image).
- Lens Flare: Filters, particularly those with multiple coatings or surfaces, can create lens flare (unwanted light streaks or halos) in certain lighting conditions.
It is important to choose high-quality filters from reputable brands to minimize these potential issues. When selecting filters, consider the specific needs of your photography and the potential impact on image quality.
Using Filters with the Lens: Leica R 35mm F2 Summicron V2 Filter Size
The Leica R 35mm f2 Summicron v2, with its 39mm filter thread, opens up a world of creative possibilities through the use of filters. These accessories can enhance your photographs, adding effects that range from subtle adjustments to dramatic transformations.
Filter Types and Applications
Filters are optical devices that alter the light passing through the lens, influencing the final image. Here’s a breakdown of common filter types and their applications in photography with the Leica R 35mm f2 Summicron v2:
| Filter Type | Application |
|---|---|
| UV (Ultraviolet) | Reduces the amount of ultraviolet light, which can cause a bluish haze in photographs, particularly in landscapes and outdoor scenes. UV filters are often used as a protective measure for the lens. |
| ND (Neutral Density) | Reduces the amount of light entering the lens, allowing for longer exposures in bright conditions. ND filters are useful for creating motion blur in water or clouds, reducing depth of field, or shooting with a wider aperture in bright sunlight. |
| Polarizing | Reduces glare and reflections from non-metallic surfaces, such as water, glass, and foliage. Polarizing filters can enhance colors, increase contrast, and create a more dramatic look in landscapes and outdoor scenes. |
| Color | Adds color to the image, often used for creative effects. |
| Graduated ND | Darkens a portion of the image, allowing for balanced exposure in scenes with high dynamic range, such as landscapes with bright skies. |
Advantages and Disadvantages of Using Filters
Filters offer numerous advantages, but they also come with certain limitations.
Advantages
- Enhanced Image Quality:Filters can help reduce unwanted light and reflections, leading to sharper, clearer images. For example, UV filters can eliminate the bluish haze caused by ultraviolet light, while polarizing filters can reduce glare and enhance color saturation.
- Creative Effects:Filters can add unique artistic effects to your photographs, such as motion blur, soft focus, or dramatic color shifts. For instance, ND filters allow for longer exposures, creating silky water or blurred clouds, while color filters can add a vintage or surreal feel to images.
- Lens Protection:UV filters, in particular, can act as a protective barrier for the front element of your lens, safeguarding it from scratches, dust, and fingerprints.
Disadvantages
- Image Degradation:While filters can enhance image quality, they can also introduce unwanted artifacts, such as vignetting, chromatic aberration, or reduced sharpness. The quality of the filter itself plays a significant role in image quality. Opting for high-quality filters from reputable brands can minimize these issues.
The Leica R 35mm f/2 Summicron v2, with its 46mm filter size, is a legendary lens known for its sharp rendering and balanced character. While it’s often compared to other 35mm lenses, the debate between Zeiss’s Flektogon and Distagon designs offers an interesting perspective.
Zeiss Flektogon vs Distagon explores the differences in these two lens types, which ultimately influence the overall look and feel of the images captured. Understanding these differences can help photographers make informed decisions about which lens best suits their individual needs, whether it’s the classic Leica R 35mm f/2 Summicron v2 or a Zeiss lens with its unique optical signature.
- Light Loss:Filters absorb some light, which can necessitate slower shutter speeds or higher ISO settings. This can lead to increased noise or blur, especially in low-light conditions.
- Cost:High-quality filters can be expensive, especially for specialized types like ND filters or polarizers.
Tips and Techniques for Using Filters
- Understand the Filter’s Purpose:Before using a filter, it’s essential to understand its intended purpose and how it will affect your image. For example, a polarizing filter should be rotated to achieve the desired effect, while an ND filter requires adjustments to exposure settings.
- Choose the Right Filter:Selecting the appropriate filter for the situation is crucial. For landscapes, a polarizing filter can enhance colors and reduce glare, while an ND filter is helpful for long exposures of moving water.
- Use High-Quality Filters:Investing in high-quality filters from reputable brands is essential for minimizing image degradation and ensuring optimal performance.
- Practice and Experiment:Filters offer a range of creative possibilities. Experiment with different filters and techniques to discover their unique effects and find your own style.
Alternatives and Comparisons
The Leica R 35mm f2 Summicron v2 is a legendary lens, but it’s not the only option for photographers seeking a high-quality 35mm lens for their Leica R system. Several other lenses offer comparable focal lengths and apertures, each with its own unique characteristics and strengths.
This section delves into some of the most notable alternatives, comparing their features, performance, and pricing with the Summicron v2.
Alternative Lenses with Similar Focal Lengths and Apertures
The Leica R 35mm f2 Summicron v2 faces competition from other excellent lenses, including:
- Leica R 35mm f2 Summicron (v1): This earlier version of the Summicron shares the same focal length and maximum aperture as the v2, but it features a different optical design. It’s known for its exceptional sharpness and character, particularly at wide apertures.
While it lacks the v2’s improved contrast and flare control, it’s a classic lens that still delivers excellent image quality.
- Leica R 35mm f1.4 Summilux (pre-ASPH): Offering a wider maximum aperture, the Summilux delivers a shallower depth of field and improved low-light performance. However, it comes at the cost of slightly lower sharpness and more pronounced lens flare, particularly at wider apertures.
- Leica R 35mm f1.4 Summilux-ASPH: This later version of the Summilux incorporates an aspherical element, improving image quality and reducing distortion. It offers a balance between speed and sharpness, but it’s considerably more expensive than the other lenses on this list.
- Minolta MD Rokkor 35mm f2: This lens, designed for Minolta’s MD and MC camera systems, is a popular and affordable alternative to the Leica R 35mm f2 Summicron v2. While it may not match the Leica’s optical performance, it’s known for its excellent sharpness and value for money.
- Canon FD 35mm f2: Another popular alternative, the Canon FD 35mm f2, is a well-regarded lens that offers a good balance of sharpness, contrast, and affordability. It’s a versatile lens suitable for a wide range of photographic applications.
Comparison of Features, Performance, and Price
The table below provides a comparative overview of the key features, performance characteristics, and pricing of the Leica R 35mm f2 Summicron v2 and its alternatives.
| Lens | Focal Length | Maximum Aperture | Optical Design | Image Quality | Price (Approx.) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Leica R 35mm f2 Summicron v2 | 35mm | f/2 | 6 elements in 5 groups | Excellent sharpness, contrast, and flare control | $1,500
|
| Leica R 35mm f2 Summicron (v1) | 35mm | f/2 | 6 elements in 5 groups | Exceptional sharpness, character, and vintage look | $1,000
|
| Leica R 35mm f1.4 Summilux (pre-ASPH) | 35mm | f/1.4 | 7 elements in 6 groups | Good sharpness, shallow depth of field, and low-light performance | $1,200
|
| Leica R 35mm f1.4 Summilux-ASPH | 35mm | f/1.4 | 8 elements in 7 groups | Excellent sharpness, contrast, and flare control | $2,500
|
| Minolta MD Rokkor 35mm f2 | 35mm | f/2 | 6 elements in 5 groups | Good sharpness and contrast, affordable | $100 The Leica R 35mm f2 Summicron v2, a celebrated lens for its sharp rendering and compact size, utilizes a 46mm filter thread. This allows for a wide variety of filters to be used, enhancing creative possibilities. But if you’re looking to pair this lens with a Sony E-mount camera, you’ll need an adapter like the Sigma MC-11. It’s important to know does the Sigma MC11 lock securely to your camera, as this ensures the lens is safely mounted and prevents any potential issues during use. Once you’ve confirmed the lock, you can explore the world of photography with the Leica R 35mm f2 Summicron v2 and its impressive capabilities.
|
| Canon FD 35mm f2 | 35mm | f/2 | 6 elements in 5 groups | Good sharpness, contrast, and affordability | $100
|
Strengths and Weaknesses of Each Lens in Different Photographic Scenarios
The choice of lens depends on the specific photographic scenario and the desired outcome. Here’s a breakdown of the strengths and weaknesses of each lens in different situations:
Leica R 35mm f2 Summicron v2
- Strengths: Exceptional sharpness and contrast, excellent flare control, compact and lightweight design, suitable for a wide range of subjects and situations.
- Weaknesses: Relatively expensive compared to some alternatives, not as fast as the Summilux lenses.
Leica R 35mm f2 Summicron (v1)
- Strengths: Exceptional sharpness and character, excellent for portraits and street photography, more affordable than the v2.
- Weaknesses: Less contrast and more prone to flare than the v2, may not be suitable for situations requiring maximum sharpness and contrast.
Leica R 35mm f1.4 Summilux (pre-ASPH)
- Strengths: Fast aperture for shallow depth of field and low-light photography, excellent for portraits and candid shots.
- Weaknesses: Lower sharpness and more prone to flare than the Summicron lenses, may not be suitable for situations requiring maximum sharpness.
Leica R 35mm f1.4 Summilux-ASPH
- Strengths: Excellent sharpness and contrast, fast aperture for shallow depth of field and low-light photography, suitable for a wide range of subjects and situations.
- Weaknesses: Expensive, may not be as compact or lightweight as the Summicron lenses.
Minolta MD Rokkor 35mm f2
- Strengths: Good sharpness and contrast, affordable, suitable for general photography and street photography.
- Weaknesses: May not match the Leica’s optical performance, may require adaptation for use with Leica R cameras.
Canon FD 35mm f2
- Strengths: Good sharpness and contrast, affordable, suitable for general photography and street photography.
- Weaknesses: May not match the Leica’s optical performance, may require adaptation for use with Leica R cameras.
Practical Applications and Examples
The Leica R 35mm f2 Summicron v2, with its exceptional sharpness, balanced contrast, and compact size, has proven itself as a versatile lens for a wide range of photographic applications. Its ability to capture stunning images in various lighting conditions and subjects makes it a favorite among photographers of all levels.
Street Photography, Leica r 35mm f2 summicron v2 filter size
Street photography, the art of capturing candid moments in public spaces, thrives on spontaneity and capturing the essence of everyday life. The Leica R 35mm f2 Summicron v2’s fast aperture allows photographers to capture decisive moments with a shallow depth of field, blurring backgrounds and drawing attention to the subject.
Its compact size and quiet operation make it discreet, allowing photographers to blend in and capture genuine interactions without disturbing the scene. The lens’s sharpness ensures that details are captured with clarity, even in challenging lighting conditions.
Portraiture
The Leica R 35mm f2 Summicron v2 excels in portrait photography, producing images with a flattering and natural rendering. The lens’s smooth bokeh, created by its circular aperture, softens backgrounds and draws attention to the subject’s eyes and features. Its ability to render skin tones accurately and subtly capture the texture of hair makes it a popular choice for portrait photographers.
The lens’s versatility allows photographers to capture both close-up portraits and more distant shots, making it suitable for various portrait styles.
Landscape Photography
While the Leica R 35mm f2 Summicron v2 is not typically considered a landscape lens due to its relatively wide field of view, it can still be used effectively for capturing expansive landscapes. The lens’s sharpness and contrast deliver detailed images with vibrant colors, showcasing the beauty of natural scenes.
Using filters, such as polarizing filters, can enhance the colors and contrast of the sky and water, creating dramatic landscapes. The lens’s ability to capture detail in both highlights and shadows allows photographers to create balanced and visually appealing images.
Ending Remarks
Understanding the Leica R 35mm f2 Summicron v2 filter size unlocks a world of creative possibilities for photographers. Whether you’re aiming for sharper images, controlling light, or adding artistic flair, the right filter can make a significant difference. The lens’s filter size, combined with its exceptional optical performance, makes it a versatile tool for capturing captivating images in various genres, from street photography and portraits to landscapes and more.