Canon EF 50mm f/1.2L USM

[Ob Com]

you will love it. its stella. very, very special lens.

[Helena]

joeyjoeyjoey, that tomato photo is awesome! I like everything about it.

[wimg]

Does anyone know if this screen is available for a 5D-II..?? I've heard a lot of good things about it.

Yes:
Eg-S for the 5D2. (http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/590458-REG/Canon_3357B001_Eg_S_Super_Precision_Matte.html)

I've looked into it a bit. According to the product page for the Ee-S focus screen (http://estore.usa.canon.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/ProductDisplay?catalogId=10051&storeId=10051&productId=161619&langId=-1), the screen is compatible with the 5D and other models, but there is no mention of whether it is compatible with the 5D II. I'd say contact Canon directly or create a new thread dedicated to the topic. At this point, I personally would not upgrade to the 5D II if a comparable focusing screen were not available; that's how much I like this thing. I would go so far as to say that, in order to use these wide aperture lenses like the 35mm f/1.4L, 50mm f/1.2L, and 85mm f/1.2L II to their full potential, one should have this focusing screen. It really does make manual focus a gazillion times easier. With the stock screen, I could never be sure whether my image was in focus when focusing manually. With this thing, I am 100% sure. Even if you don't like manually focusing, it will make autofocus more useful if only in that it makes the in-focus area substantially clearer in the viewfinder.

I'm not sure why 5Ds don't ship with the Ee-S by default. :-)

The EE-S is compatible with the 5D II, but Canon says it will affect the accuracy of the light meter in the 5D II. Hence the Eg-S for the 5D II.

And the VF of th e5D II with Eg-S looks even better than that of the 5D with EE-S, amazingly enough.

Kind regards, Wim

[xoldboy]

http://i692.photobucket.com/albums/vv283/xoldboy/IMG_3660.jpg

[The Ghost of FM]

http://i692.photobucket.com/albums/vv283/xoldboy/IMG_3660.jpg
You need to update your signature!

Congrats on the new lens!

Cheers!

[Double Negative]

^ What he's not telling us is that he focused on "85" in that shot... :D

(Just kidding, of course)

:p

[jdos2]

Takes a lot of discipline to remain quiet on the focus shift thing...but so far...I'm doing it. ;-)

Huuuu-yup. I see what ya did thar.
(In the same boat, but'll stay fairly quiet, right next to you. Now row.)

[nicksan]

Only a 2" shift?
I want that specific lens.:lol:;)
^ What he's not telling us is that he focused on "85" in that shot... :D

[Gabe63]

Only a 2" shift?
I want that specific lens.:lol:;)

No s*!t, I mean shift. The more I use my lens the less problems I seem to have though.

[Gabe63]

http://i263.photobucket.com/albums/ii122/55SAMBA/5012pic.jpg?t=1243917480

At 1.2 on 5D

[Helena]

I have now taken around 800 shots (most of them on a vacation) with my new 50L, and the more I use it the more I love it. Besides a few quick test shots I took the first day I haven't noticed any focus problems whatsoever and I have used it in all sorts of situations - near and far away, wide open and stopped down. Gorgeous colors, contrast and bokeh. My best spent money since getting 5D and 35L.

[S.Horton]

^^ +1 -- I think the 50L is a fine keeper. The only problem with it is that it seems to want siblings. It keeps leaving little notes in the bag like "85" and "200"

;}

[Helena]

^^ +1 -- I think the 50L is a fine keeper. The only problem with it is that it seems to want siblings. It keeps leaving little notes in the bag like "85" and "200"

;}

:lol:

One from today:

http://www.graphicgarden.com/keep/POTN/2009/20090602_001_5dbb.jpg

It was raining heavily on and off, but I have signed up for a challenge at a Norwegian forum and want to take a photo every day with 5D + 50L. The sun showed up for a moment and I snapped this.

[Ob Com]

^ Helena, that is a magnificent photograph.

The bokeh is stunning.

Great light.

amazing contrast.

Gotta love the 50L:mrgreen:

[Double Negative]

Helena, that's really pretty.

[inthedeck]

Helena, that's really pretty.

+2.

[tdphatak]

:lol:

One from today:



It was raining heavily on and off, but I have signed up for a challenge at a Norwegian forum and want to take a photo every day with 5D + 50L. The sun showed up for a moment and I snapped this.


+3 - What amazing color and composition.

[xoldboy]

love this lens!

[Helena]

Wow, thank you guys!

I love this lens! My only regret is that I didn't get it sooner...

[tdphatak]

I just got a 50L to add to my 35L/85L. The color/contrast/bokeh of the 50L is amazing. I'm having a lower hit rate with the 50L than my 35L/85L which I didn't expect. I figured it should be better than the 85L given that it focuses closer and tolerates slower shutter speeds. Can anyone give me any tips on using it or perhaps reason why it might be more difficult to "get" the shot? The DOF at f/1.2 seems to be equal between 50mm/1.5 ft distance and 85mm/3 ft distance so I would think that it should have as good a hit rate as the 85L. I've tested the focus on a focus chart and it is spot on at f/1.2 even hand held.
Thanks!

[Subimatt]

It should be spot on at 1.2, most people are finding shifts between f2-2.8, YMMV, Ive had no issues at all with mine even in the "danger zone".

[tdphatak]

It should be spot on at 1.2, most people are finding shifts between f2-2.8, YMMV, Ive had no issues at all with mine even in the "danger zone".

I'm not having any shifts actually and the focus is spot on at f/1.2 using a chart and I do get plenty of in focus shots. For some reason the keeper rate is just less than the 85L and definitely less than my 35L. It must be my fault but I'm not sure what I'm doing wrong given that I have less issues with the other two L's :confused:

[wimg]

I'm not having any shifts actually and the focus is spot on at f/1.2 using a chart and I do get plenty of in focus shots. For some reason the keeper rate is just less than the 85L and definitely less than my 35L. It must be my fault but I'm not sure what I'm doing wrong given that I have less issues with the other two L's :confused:
Is this on the 5D or the 5D II?

On the 5D it does seem to miss occasionally, but I do find that I don't have any on the 5D II, except any attributable to the user :D.

Try shooting with the same framing, and see how that goes, I'd suggest.

Also, focus shift does not occur at F/1.2, it will occur at F/1.4 to F/2.8, or occasionally beyond, and at close focusing distances. Just check if that isn't the case with your copy.

Kind regards, Wim

[wimg]

Just a quickie, only resized for the web. 50L plus 25 mm extension tube at F/8 and 1/160 s on 5D II, iso 1600, handheld :D.

I really like the little guy, who seems to be contemplating whether to jump or not :D. It wasn't a very bright evening, so I feel with him ... ;)

Kind regards, Wim

[The Ghost of FM]

Wonderful capture, wimg!

Cheers!

[wimg]

Another one, at F/2, for some serious 50L bokeh. Contrast, curves, resized, no additional sharpening, 1600 iso, handheld, just a little closer than the other one, approximately at 1:1.

Kind regards, Wim

[Soulcies]

http://images45.fotki.com/v1237/photos/9/692089/7616665/IMG_7354-vi.jpg

[wimg]

Wonderful capture, wimg!

Cheers!
Thank you!

Kind regards, Wim

[Helena]

Wow Wim, that first one is beautiful!

I can't believe that I had some doubts about this lens the first day. Now I have taken approx. 1000 photos with it (on vacation and on a local group photo walk etc.) and am blown away by it. I have taken close-ups of flowers/details, some street, landscapes and portraits, and focus has been perfect for all shots. I don't want to admit it, but it may be even better than my beloved 35L... It hasn't come off the camera since I got it. :)

[Double Negative]

^ If you ask me, the 50L *is* better than the 35L in some ways. Wide open it's sharper and In general it has a little better contrast and saturation. It's also weathersealed if you care about such things, and of course goes to f/1.2 vs. f/1.4. Unfortunately, I prefer the 35mm focal length more, if not 24mm on crop bodies.

[wimg]

Hi Helena,
Wow Wim, that first one is beautiful!
Well, thank you!
I can't believe that I had some doubts about this lens the first day. Now I have taken approx. 1000 photos with it (on vacation and on a local group photo walk etc.) and am blown away by it. I have taken close-ups of flowers/details, some street, landscapes and portraits, and focus has been perfect for all shots. I don't want to admit it, but it may be even better than my beloved 35L... It hasn't come off the camera since I got it. :)
:D

I know the feeling all too well. One shouldn't forget that this is my fifth, and twice recalibrated, copy :D.

However, the first one I had, which had very,very bad focus shift, did show what was possible, based on the in-focus areas and pictures of further away subjects. Since I had gone through testing quite a slew of 50 mm lenses, I knew i had to find one that focused well, as there were lenses out there that did focus well after all. I kept on going until I succeeded, until I finally had this one, primed (:D) and ready for use on the 40D and 5D. However, on the 5D II it really shines.

I don't even have this wrenching feeling anymore that I used to have every so often, insecurity if you like, that it might have gone off again somehow, and that I needed to test it again, which I generally did :D. I find I am not doing that anymore, don't have that feeling anymore. It is a great lens, in the same league as the 85L, if you ask me.

Kind regards, Wim

[GMCPhotographics]

^ If you ask me, the 50L *is* better than the 35L in some ways. Wide open it's sharper and In general it has a little better contrast and saturation. It's also weathersealed if you care about such things, and of course goes to f/1.2 vs. f/1.4. Unfortunately, I prefer the 35mm focal length more, if not 24mm on crop bodies.

With my 5DII, my 50L seems to sharpen up more as I get towards infinity focussing point and softens (wide open) as I get closer to MFD. If I drop mine to f1.6 then it sharpens up nicely at MFD. My 5D has less of these issues because it's resolving less detail and it's not so noticable.
I find it a frustrating lens because it's AF is a little slower than I'd hoped and it's quite soft wide open near it's MFD...which is where I want to use this lens.
Wide open and close to MFD....

It's easily the most complicated lens in my gear list...which is a pity becuase it can yield some great results. I just hope that Canon makes an all new MKII version of this lens at some point.

[Ob Com]

@Wim- great flower shots- really show the strengths of the 50L

@Helena- I know how you feel. I literally havent used my 35L once since I got the 50L. I do believe the 50 is the optically superior lens of the two. And thats saying something isnt it? I just cant get enough of the 50L :mrgreen:

Very, very special lens.

[Helena]

Glad that I'm not the only one who feels this way. :) I just wish that all copies were this good, so that everyone could be as happy with theirs.

Some more photos:

http://www.graphicgarden.com/keep/POTN/2009/20090603_001_5dbb.jpg

http://www.graphicgarden.com/keep/POTN/2009/20090605_001_5dbb.jpg

http://www.graphicgarden.com/keep/POTN/2009/20090608_001_5dbb.jpg

http://www.graphicgarden.com/keep/POTN/2009/20090608_007_5dbb.jpg

[Harleypugs]

Man...you people suck....

I miss my 50L so bad....

I have the Siggy now...and I am trying to get it to where I felt about the 50L...it is close....but something magical about the 50L.

[Double Negative]

^ That's what you get for sellin' it, Jon. I remember how much you liked the 50L, too. ;)

[ekie]

:D
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2428/3602567606_63853f957c_o.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2453/3618767082_4f3668bb32_o.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3334/3618767202_12a596b12e_o.jpg

[The Ghost of FM]

Wonderful series, ekie! ;)

Love all three!

Cheers!

[poppie guy]

Wonderful series, ekie! ;)

Love all three!

Cheers!

I agree^^, wonderful photos!

[inthedeck]

Ekin, nice set. Just curious, why'd ya put the man on the right, and the woman on the left, in the first one? I guess 'society' always dictates that men are on the left, women on the right (especially in movies with kings and queens). So, just thought I'd ask...

[dkspook]

FINALLY!

IT'S MINE! I have a 50L :D

No archive-worthy shots yet, but so far my copy (UW1006) shows ZERO signs of shifting. Have only done a quick test, but focus was reliable close to MFD from 1.4 to 5.6...

[axcel23]

Hi dkspook,

Just got mine as well. How did you test the shifting issue? please let me know what you did so I can test my lens.

Thanks in advance!


FINALLY!

IT'S MINE! I have a 50L :D

No archive-worthy shots yet, but so far my copy (UW1006) shows ZERO signs of shifting. Have only done a quick test, but focus was reliable close to MFD from 1.4 to 5.6...

[wimg]

Hi dkspook,

Just got mine as well. How did you test the shifting issue? please let me know what you did so I can test my lens.

Thanks in advance!
Try this:
http://photography-on-the.net/forum/showpost.php?p=8099299&postcount=4

Kind regards, Wim

[axcel23]

Thanks Wim!... :)

Try this:
http://photography-on-the.net/forum/showpost.php?p=8099299&postcount=4

Kind regards, Wim

[Helena]

ekie, those are stunning photos!

[ekie]

The Ghost of FM, poppie guy, inthedeck, Helena ... thanks!!! :D

Manish, there was no reason behind it really. I just got them to sit in that manner to look like a scene from back in the Emperor's days :)


heres a couple more thats one of my favs from this lens

like a scene from old kung-fu movies. saying goodbye before battle! lol
http://ekinphotography.com/gallery/people/engagement-phuongneil/images/_MG_2874-Edit.jpg

dreamy/surreal type look
http://ekinphotography.com/gallery/people/engagement-phuongneil/images/_MG_2929-Edit.jpg

[royv]

Brilliant stuff

[RX350]

http://www.sr-foto.com/photos/504904199_wL3qQ-XL.jpg
.
http://www.sr-foto.com/photos/522985485_6z3qz-XL.jpg

[S.Horton]

@Wim - I need to bust out my extension tubes!

[Helena]

I tried my (both at the same time) 12 and 25mm macro tubes on the 50L today and love the result!! I have never shot macro or focused manually before and expected it to be really hard, but it was surprisingly easy. I used an indoors flower though. Outdoors is much harder, I'm sure.

[jklewer]

For a few years now I have been traveling with my 30D and Sigma 30 1.4 which focuses properly and has created some really wonderful images for me. It was a total dream of mine to get a 5D and 50L (same focal length as the other combo) for my travel setup and alas, my wildest dreams have come true! ;) I pulled the trigger late last night on the 50L from B&H and can't wait for brown to arrive in 3 days time. The sample images I have seen from in this thread have just absolutely blown my mind and I can't wait to contribute myself. John

[jklewer]

Wow Wim, that first one is beautiful!

I can't believe that I had some doubts about this lens the first day. Now I have taken approx. 1000 photos with it (on vacation and on a local group photo walk etc.) and am blown away by it. I have taken close-ups of flowers/details, some street, landscapes and portraits, and focus has been perfect for all shots. I don't want to admit it, but it may be even better than my beloved 35L... It hasn't come off the camera since I got it. :)


I have a REALLY strong feeling mine will be almost exclusively mounted to my 5D. I will use the 1D for anything else... I can't wait for it to come, I feel like a kid near Christmas.

[The Ghost of FM]

http://i66.photobucket.com/albums/h250/thefontmeister/VV4G4157copysmall.jpg



Cheers!

[Double Negative]

^ Nice folder! :)

Braun Norca Super, yes?

[The Ghost of FM]

^ Nice folder! :)

Braun Norca Super, yes?
Correct!

It belonged to my late father who is also represented in the picture from his service days during WWII.

Cheers!

[The Ghost of FM]

Nice clouds tonight just before sundown...



http://i66.photobucket.com/albums/h250/thefontmeister/VV4G4164small.jpg



Cheers!

[dkspook]

This thing is insane. Unsharpened F/1.8:

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3371/3632552828_0d8217300d_b.jpg

[reignmkr]

^^^Love the B&W conversion.

[S.Horton]

@Ghost - Excellent setup to capture that scene with the camera and photos of your father.

[The Ghost of FM]

@Ghost - Excellent setup to capture that scene with the camera and photos of your father.
Thanks! ;)

Cheers!

[xoldboy]

http://i692.photobucket.com/albums/vv283/xoldboy/IMG_5155.jpg

[xoldboy]

One more :) love playing with this beauty!

http://i692.photobucket.com/albums/vv283/xoldboy/IMG_5187.jpg

[Subimatt]

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3578/3652875024_518bda89b2_o.jpg

[colin842]

First night with the 50L

[xoldboy]

http://i692.photobucket.com/albums/vv283/xoldboy/IMG_5405.jpg

[blackmatch456]

What are the minor/major flaws/problems with this lens?

[xoldboy]

What are the minor/major flaws/problems with this lens?

I dont think there is any! lol ive heard focusing issues, not 100% on that, but ive used 3 50L 's and they were all tack sharp and worked like a charm.

[Double Negative]

What are the minor/major flaws/problems with this lens?

Check here (http://photography-on-the.net/forum/search.php) for all your answers. ;)

Or y'know, read this thread.

[Helena]

dkspook, I'm so happy that you got a keeper too! It doesn't get much better than this, does it? :) You have posted some great photos taken with it already, both here and in the 5D thread.


Here is an assortment from the June 50mm challenge I'm participating in. I'm challenging myself to try new things this month, so the artistic and technical quality in these photos vary...


http://www.graphicgarden.com/keep/POTN/2009/20090612_004_5dbb.jpg


Trying B/W. ISO 3200 + added some noise:
http://www.graphicgarden.com/keep/POTN/2009/20090618_001_5dbb.jpg

Trying 25mm macro tube (freehand):
http://www.graphicgarden.com/keep/POTN/2009/20090620_001_5dbb.jpg

Trying lens flare (but forgot to take off the hood... :D ):
http://www.graphicgarden.com/keep/POTN/2009/20090622_018_5dbb.jpg

http://www.graphicgarden.com/keep/POTN/2009/20090617_001_5dbb.jpg

Not part of the challenge. I love how this lens makes even snapshots look good:
http://www.graphicgarden.com/keep/POTN/2009/20090620_004_5dbb.jpg

[xoldboy]

helena, love the jason shot!

[Helena]

Thank you Matt! :) I took it in a café in Sweden.The rooms at the upper floor have movie themes like mafia, horror, SF etc..

[rdavisdesign]

Helena, I love the shot of the kid driving.

[xoldboy]

Thank you Matt! :) I took it in a café in Sweden.The rooms at the upper floor have movie themes like mafia, horror, SF etc..

sounds like you got some great shots in there. would love to visit sweden, europe in general, all i hear is good things and all my friends bring back amazing photos. anyway, love the series and would like too see some more of those horror/ mafia shots!

Matt

[Helena]

Helena, I love the shot of the kid driving.

Thank you! It's just a snapshot, but I love how it turned out.


sounds like you got some great shots in there. would love to visit sweden, europe in general, all i hear is good things and all my friends bring back amazing photos. anyway, love the series and would like too see some more of those horror/ mafia shots!

Matt

My fiancé and I are originally from Sweden, but we moved to Norway in 2004. Our parents still live in Sweden, so we go there 4-6 times a year.

Hope you'll get to visit Europe some day. There's so much to see. Your country is fantastic too though. We visited for a month in 2002 (Washington, Oregon and California) and will go back for another month in late August/September this year (Rocky Mountains, Yellowstone etc.).

Unfortunately, we arrived at the café 10 minutes before closing time, so I didn't have time to take any more photos.

[scot079]

Not necessarily the best pic but just looking at it made me miss that bottle and the 50L. :-)

http://i170.photobucket.com/albums/u264/scot079/IMG_7538copy.jpg

[Dorman]

ah that is my favorite bottle. :)

[Twotan]

http://i126.photobucket.com/albums/p87/twotan/BK%20Wedding/KY7F8726-j-1.jpg

[DarthVader]

I have traumatic experience with this lens...but I'm still thinking of getting a new one ..

[scot079]

ah that is my favorite bottle. :)

Mine too but I've only been able to justify the price for a special occasion. Next time I'd like to try the 15 for stronger flavor

BOT: Alot of CA wide open in the 50L yeah?

[Helena]

Two from this weekend:

http://www.graphicgarden.com/keep/POTN/2009/20090627_017_5dbb.jpg

http://www.graphicgarden.com/keep/POTN/2009/20090628_002_5dbb.jpg

[S.Horton]

EDIT: @Helena - #2 is very cool - what is the subject?



...when only f/1.2 will do
http://midnightblue.smugmug.com/photos/538943217_gBEUj-L.jpg

[Helena]

Thank you Sam! It's some kind of moss - not sure which kind.

[jamesbong]

just traded my 35L w/ this lens:)
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3317/3669442244_1e258562aa_b.jpg

[wimg]

Mine too but I've only been able to justify the price for a special occasion. Next time I'd like to try the 15 for stronger flavor

BOT: Alot of CA wide open in the 50L yeah?
There is a little bit of PF in the bottle shot. It suffers actually less from longitudinal CAs than the 85L does, and in the bottle shot I don't see any of those.

Kind regards, Wim

[wimg]

Two from this weekend:

Very nice indeed. This lens really goes well with you, doesn't it?
I just love the rendering of both fore- and background in the moss shot. And that car: sharp like ....

EDIT: @Helena - #2 is very cool - what is the subject?

...when only f/1.2 will do

Wow, very nice. 6400 iso?

I reckon this lens renders like nothing else available.

Kind regards, Wim

[wimg]

just traded my 35L w/ this lens:)

Spot on focus, at F/1.2 I assume. I guess you have fallen in love already with this lens :D.

Kind regards, Wim ;)

[S.Horton]

Yes - ISO6400, AF running almost all the time, and it worked. Most impressive. BTW, very, very cooked in CS3; after a specific look there.

[nicksan]

Yes...in spades...


BOT: Alot of CA wide open in the 50L yeah?

[nicksan]

If it didn't "work" for you the first time, chances are it won't work for you the second time. How could it when everything I assume you are talking about are design "features"!;)
I have traumatic experience with this lens...but I'm still thinking of getting a new one ..

[nicksan]

I've used 6 50L's (I own a UW date coded copy currently) and none of them were what I would call "tack sharp"...but again, all depends on shooting parameters with regards to the focus shift issue.

So take anything anybody says with a grain of salt, exercise proper judgement, which is to say buy the lens, judge for yourself, and make sure you can return it if you don't like it.

I dont think there is any! lol ive heard focusing issues, not 100% on that, but ive used 3 50L 's and they were all tack sharp and worked like a charm.

[jamesbong]

I'm lovin it
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3627/3671056432_ddfba46e83.jpg
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2580/3670247591_20bea32217.jpg

[echo]

^^^^ Very nice:)

[Helena]

Very nice indeed. This lens really goes well with you, doesn't it?
I just love the rendering of both fore- and background in the moss shot. And that car: sharp like ....
...


Thanks! Yes, I can't speak highly enough of this lens. It's absolutely amazing.

[sabesh]

Some orchids from the Singapore botanical garden. Click on images for access to larger versions and EXIF info. Both taken @ f/1.2. Cheers.

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2232/2182790779_ea8e658fce.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/sabesh/2182790779/)

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2125/2183574366_552c9641e0.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/sabesh/2183574366/)

[DarthVader]

God, I believe you...you are my salvation :lol:

If it didn't "work" for you the first time, chances are it won't work for you the second time. How could it when everything I assume you are talking about are design "features"!;)

[nicksan]

God, I believe you...you are my salvation :lol:

Not trying to be evil or anything...but here are a few shots from this weekend!

f1.2
http://nicksan.zenfolio.com/img/v6/p494787870-5.jpg

f1.2
http://nicksan.zenfolio.com/img/v6/p1057829181-4.jpg

f1.2
http://nicksan.zenfolio.com/img/v2/p200900787-4.jpg

f1.2
http://nicksan.zenfolio.com/img/v3/p45241841-4.jpg

f1.4
http://nicksan.zenfolio.com/img/v5/p897002454-4.jpg

These were obviously all taken in the danger zone, however I was at f1.2 or f1.4 so the shift is not an issue. However what you see is the "ghostly" quality to at least a few of these images, which is typical of this lens the closer you get to MFD. Sometimes it works, sometimes it doesn't. I feel that it worked on these. Not the sharpest lens at 100%, but resized they are OK, especially with a little bit of USM applied.

Also, I purposely underexpose these shots and pulled the exposure back up since it's been my experience that doing so yield better results for some reason. It works for me...not sure it there is any truth to all that...

The 50L is definitely a nice low light lens...pretty clear that I have a love/hate relationship with this lens!

[p360]

So many great photos here..!! Awesome job, everyone.

A man can only take so much...!! I am getting this one as soon as I see my bonus check..! I'll have to wait until September, however. :(

[Soulcies]

http://images50.fotki.com/v1524/photos/9/692089/7616665/IMG_7737-vi.jpg

[wimg]

Felt like posting this, after printing it and feeling good about it :D. Sorry for the little banding around the sun, but this is entirely due to downsizing it for the web - it doesn't appear in print or in the original. If anybody can tell me how to avoid this when downsizing, I'd like to hear it, please.

Anyway, this is an HDR, to overcome the extreme DR of this shot, consisting of 3 pictures, handheld :D, 1 2/3 stop apart, 5D, 50L of course, F/11, 400 iso, merged in Photoshop and adjusted for the look the landscape had, staring almost directly into a clouded sky with a bright almost blinding sun shining through a thinner veil of clouds, close to sunset. Oh, some desharpening applied too, for the dreamy look.

It does show how well behaved the 50L is shooting it into the sun :D. And I love the mood.

Kind regards, Wim

[gambit]

Thought i should contribute:

http://www.anthonyket.com/photos/589565693_xHX4S-L.jpg

http://www.anthonyket.com/photos/589560559_Uejx9-L.jpg

http://www.anthonyket.com/photos/589560049_zHiaV-L.jpg

http://www.anthonyket.com/photos/589563023_NNmqN-L.jpg

[muz64]

5D2 wide open. It's hard to show the IQ with such small images. I'm very impressed with this lens. Very sharp wide open, tack sharp stopped down. Beautiful bokeh, contrast, and colours. I've tried to get it to focus shift, but I can't.

http://i218.photobucket.com/albums/cc7/muz64/IMG_1756ps.jpg

[SBPhoto]

Love this lens for its color, sharpness and colorhttp://farm3.static.flickr.com/2573/3725374454_71385d984b_o.jpg

[The Ghost of FM]

This evening's dusk...



http://i66.photobucket.com/albums/h250/thefontmeister/VV4G4786smallcopy.jpg



Cheers!

[nicksan]

http://nicksan.zenfolio.com/img/v2/p547743731-4.jpg

http://nicksan.zenfolio.com/img/v4/p1012270522-5.jpg

http://nicksan.zenfolio.com/img/v2/p977501477-5.jpg

[poppie guy]

This evening's dusk...







Cheers!

Very nice!

[AlanU]

I must stop looking at this thread...must resist.

[The Ghost of FM]

Very nice!
Thanks sid!

You planing on picking up a 50L?

Cheers!

[p360]

http://nicksan.zenfolio.com/img/v2/p977501477-5.jpg


I probably shouldn't say anything.

[poppie guy]

Thanks sid!

You planing on picking up a 50L?

Cheers!

Either the 50L or the 35L, sometime next year. It's a tough decision which one to get, and I can't afford to own both of them.

[nphsbuckeye]

http://nicksan.zenfolio.com/img/v2/p977501477-5.jpg
Metaphor?

[EiTheL]

http://nicksan.zenfolio.com/img/v2/p977501477-5.jpg
I saw the SAME exact guy while I was with my SUMMER CAMP (6th and 7th graders...) going to Ellis Island...

[nicksan]

I saw the SAME exact guy while I was with my SUMMER CAMP (6th and 7th graders...) going to Ellis Island...

He must have been selling either Clinton or Bush condoms then...:lol:

[joeyjoeyjoey]

f/1.2

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2523/3731537928_7756d8f127.jpg?v=0 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/joey_joey_joey/3731537928/in/set-72157621175969671/)

[joeyjoeyjoey]

f/2.8

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3484/3732569650_8da46ac5bf.jpg?v=0 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/joey_joey_joey/3732569650/in/set-72157621175969671/)

[poppie guy]

f/1.2

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2523/3731537928_7756d8f127.jpg?v=0 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/joey_joey_joey/3731537928/in/set-72157621175969671/)

f/2.8

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3484/3732569650_8da46ac5bf.jpg?v=0 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/joey_joey_joey/3732569650/in/set-72157621175969671/)

Dood, I can't figure out if you're trying to get me to buy the 50L, or to go off my diet! You're making a strong case for both.:lol::lol:

[joeyjoeyjoey]

LOL @poppie guy

[joeyjoeyjoey]

f/8

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2546/3736070666_6a003c4391.jpg?v=0 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/joey_joey_joey/3736070666/in/set-72157621175969671/)

[dkspook]

Guess it's time I throw in a few :)

First off, a test shot at F/4.5 while setting up the lights:
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3352/3641005258_3feb0b782b.jpg

Nothing too exiting, but take a look at the 100% crop:
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3545/3641005426_eaeb65738f_o.jpg

That lens is crazy sharp.

[dkspook]

My father-in-law at ISO 1000 and F/1.4:
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2023/3622424837_7050527244_b.jpg

50L/5D is a killer low light combo.

[dkspook]

F/2.8 Bokeh:

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3272/3648168072_15045e2ae8_b.jpg

[dkspook]

F/2.0 bokeh - I love how OOF highlights look from this lens:

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2663/3735309893_975aa54bba_b.jpg

[joeyjoeyjoey]

f/2

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2616/3745039218_e7304b73ab.jpg?v=0 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/joey_joey_joey/3745039218/in/set-72157621175969671/)

[blackviolet]

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3623/3379027098_a919cd60e9_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/0bli0/3379027098/)

50mm f/1.2L || 5dmk2 @ f/1.2

[xoldboy]

^ very nice!

[single_track]

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3623/3379027098_a919cd60e9_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/0bli0/3379027098/)



This is a great shot. Well done.

[joeyjoeyjoey]

f/1.2

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2452/3752853969_2c234af1a6.jpg?v=0 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/joey_joey_joey/3752853969/in/set-72157621175969671/)

[macroshot]

I finally gave in and ordered mine this morning from Canoga...too many great examples to hold off any longer.

[AcuraFan]

i've also given in and ordered my copy from allen's camera this afternoon...i hope it's as good as the 35 and 85 primes!

[dkspook]

i've also given in and ordered my copy from allen's camera this afternoon...i hope it's as good as the 35 and 85 primes!

It's not as sharp wide open, but bokeh, colors and contrast are above and beyond anything else I've shot.

[Ob Com]

^ Yup

[nicksan]

You don't buy the 50L for it's sharpness, but rather for it's color, contrast, and bokeh.

[nicksan]

f1.2
http://www.nicknphoto.com/img/v3/p678366951-4.jpg

f1.2
http://www.nicknphoto.com/img/v0/p632116174-5.jpg

f2
http://www.nicknphoto.com/img/v1/p939890174-4.jpg

[dkspook]

You don't buy the 50L for it's sharpness, but rather for it's color, contrast, and bokeh.

True.

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3486/3758323329_442cc8a55d_b.jpg

F/1.8 on a rainy day.

[dkspook]

f2
http://www.nicknphoto.com/img/v1/p939890174-4.jpg

Well done... ;)

[single_track]

http://www.nicknphoto.com/img/v1/p939890174-4.jpg


a bit over-cooked for my tastes ;)

[joeyjoeyjoey]

f/1.2

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2575/3759926539_00e58e0654.jpg?v=0 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/joey_joey_joey/3759926539/in/set-72157621175969671/)

[nicksan]

Well done... ;)

a bit over-cooked for my tastes ;)

Yeah, there were about 50 franks and 20 burgers an hour before the pic was taken. So these were leftovers!

[AcuraFan]

It's not as sharp wide open, but bokeh, colors and contrast are above and beyond anything else I've shot.
will agree now that i've received it and ran it through against my 35l and 85l

You don't buy the 50L for it's sharpness, but rather for it's color, contrast, and bokeh.
guess i can't have my cake and eat it too...

[wimg]

will agree now that i've received it and ran it through against my 35l and 85l


guess i can't have my cake and eat it too...
Maybe we need to get back to earth a little here, do a reality check, as we are really gear heads in this forum :D., as this lens for all intents and purposes still is very sharp. The differences are nigglingly small in real life, to be very honest. We are talking exceptionally good lenses here, all of them. You just need to choose on your own needs and desires regarding rendition and other qualities.

I've actually shot a landscape, at F/3.2 accidentally, a while ago, with the 50L mounted to the 5D Classic. I sharpened it a little, line sharpening to be more specific, had it printed at 20" X 30", and it looks like it has been shot at F/8 or F/11. The nice thing about the 50L bokeh is that you can actually do that without any negative effects.

Furthermore, I know a studio photographer who uses it. He said it is the only lens in his arsenal for which he has to desharpen the output, that's how sharp it is.

Kind regards, Wim

[poppie guy]

Maybe we need to get back to earth a little here, do a reality check, as we are really gear heads in this forum :D., as this lens for all intents and purposes still is very sharp. The differences are nigglingly small in real life, to be very honest. We are talking exceptionally good lenses here, all of them. You just need to choose on your own needs and desires regarding rendition and other qualities.

I've actually shot a landscape, at F/3.2 accidentally, a while ago, with the 50L mounted to the 5D Classic. I sharpened it a little, line sharpening to be more specific, had it printed at 20" X 30", and it looks like it has been shot at F/8 or F/11. The nice thing about the 50L bokeh is that you can actually do that without any negative effects.

Furthermore, I know a studio photographer who uses it. He said it is the only lens in his arsenal for which he has to desharpen the output, that's how sharp it is.

Kind regards, Wim

Thanks for the 'reality check' here, Wim. I have often considered getting this lens, but have been discouraged by all of the criticisms.

[rvdw98]

Thanks for the 'reality check' here, Wim. I have often considered getting this lens, but have been discouraged by all of the criticisms.

Same here, but it isn't the sharpness (or lack thereof) that worries me. I'm more concerned about the focus shifting because I know I would often (perhaps predominantly) use this lens in the danger zone and experience has made me exceptionally wary of focussing issues.

I'm a bokeh junkie and would choose this lens over its f/1.4 sibling because of the superior OOF rendering, as well as its better color, contrast and build quality. I've been contemplating the SigmaLux for this reason, but had some unpleasant dealings with their QA (and subsequently their customer service) so I'm reluctant to go that route as well. I'm also not too keen on Sigma's EX finish.

I'm not inclined to venture into alternative land, so my only option is to "compromise" with the 35/1.4.

[wimg]

Same here, but it isn't the sharpness (or lack thereof) that worries me. I'm more concerned about the focus shifting because I know I would often (perhaps predominantly) use this lens in the danger zone and experience has made me exceptionally wary of focussing issues.

I'm a bokeh junkie and would choose this lens over its f/1.4 sibling because of the superior OOF rendering, as well as its better color, contrast and build quality. I've been contemplating the SigmaLux for this reason, but had some unpleasant dealings with their QA (and subsequently their customer service) so I'm reluctant to go that route as well. I'm also not too keen on Sigma's EX finish.

I'm not inclined to venture into alternative land, so my only option is to "compromise" with the 35/1.4.
Since you are in the NL, I'd suggest you visit a shop where they have several copies in stock. Test one for focus shift, and if it is ok, just get it.

I reckon that with current, fresh stock, you have a 95 % chance of getting a good one anyway.

Kind regards, Wim

[rvdw98]

Since you are in the NL, I'd suggest you visit a shop where they have several copies in stock. Test one for focus shift, and if it is ok, just get it.

I reckon that with current, fresh stock, you have a 95 % chance of getting a good one anyway.


Thanks Wim, but focus shifting being an inherent design flaw/characteristic (as opposed to the more mundane front/back focusing) would make it impossible by definition to find a copy that doesn't shift.

[wimg]

Thanks Wim, but focus shifting being an inherent design flaw/characteristic (as opposed to the more mundane front/back focusing) would make it impossible by definition to find a copy that doesn't shift.
I'd suggest you read and read again in that case. When focus shift is well contained within the limits of AF, 1/3 of an f-stop for fast Canon lenses using an F/2.8+ AF-point, what does it really matter? My 85L II focus shifts more than my 50L currently, and the former is not known as a lens that has this problem. When will we stop calling something that falls within the (im)possibilities of AF accuracy focus shift?

IOW, it is not an inherent design flaw/characteristic, as you put it, but it is a QC problem, in the case of the 50L. No more, no less. As I said, just get a good one. I bet it will be the first one you try, if it has a UX date code.

Oh, the reason I persist here, is that once you have seen what it delivers in rendering quality, you will never look back.

Kind regards, Wim

[poppie guy]

I'd suggest you read and read again in that case. When focus shift is well contained within the limits of AF, 1/3 of an f-stop for fast Canon lenses using an F/2.8+ AF-point, what does it really matter? My 85L II focus shifts more than my 50L currently, and the former is not known as a lens that has this problem. When will we stop calling something that falls within the (im)possibilities of AF accuracy focus shift?

IOW, it is not an inherent design flaw/characteristic, as you put it, but it is a QC problem, in the case of the 50L. No more, no less. As I said, just get a good one. I bet it will be the first one you try, if it has a UX date code.

Oh, the reason I persist here, is that once you have seen what it delivers in rendering quality, you will never look back.

Kind regards, Wim

Thanks again for further clarification. I plan on a new lens around Christmas time, and have been considering either the 35L or 50L. I'd prefer the 50 focal length, and your comments are making me feel better about it.

[rvdw98]

I'd suggest you read and read again in that case. When focus shift is well contained within the limits of AF, 1/3 of an f-stop for fast Canon lenses using an F/2.8+ AF-point, what does it really matter? My 85L II focus shifts more than my 50L currently, and the former is not known as a lens that has this problem. When will we stop calling something that falls within the (im)possibilities of AF accuracy focus shift?


The fact that the results of focus shifting may be absorbed by AF tolerances does not imply that the lens isn't still shifting. Whether or not it will be noticable in everyday use is open for debate.

I'm not sure if my local dealer would allow me to test drive several copies and even if they would, I doubt if I could draw any reliable conclusion from chimping on the camera's LCD. So I tend to do quite a bit of online research before committing to a purchase, and when any particular issue pops up with a certain frequency, I follow up on it. I'm fully aware that many such reports are a result of mass hysteria, which is why I give this lens the benefit of the doubt to begin with.

Perhaps, the effect in the reports and accompanying test shots I saw were exacerbated by an AF misalignment and a properly calibrated lens will in fact mask the shift altogether. If so, I'll be the first to concede that the issue becomes moot at that point.

I'm just cautious about sinking 1300 Euros into a lens and then find myself in a situation where I need to debate the relevance of this (or any other) issue with my retailer.

IOW, it is not an inherent design flaw/characteristic, as you put it, but it is a QC problem, in the case of the 50L. No more, no less.

So you are saying that the 50/1.2 does not shift as a result of uncorrected spherical aberration at all? If so, then that would be the first time I've seen that claim. If not, then it is a design consequence after all. Again, whether or not it is of any consequence is an entirely different debate.

Oh, the reason I persist here, is that once you have seen what it delivers in rendering quality, you will never look back.

Of that I am quite certain. :)

[wimg]

Quote:
Originally Posted by wimg http://photography-on-the.net/forum/images/buttons/viewpost.gif (http://photography-on-the.net/forum/showthread.php?p=8357001#post8357001)
I'd suggest you read and read again in that case. When focus shift is well contained within the limits of AF, 1/3 of an f-stop for fast Canon lenses using an F/2.8+ AF-point, what does it really matter? My 85L II focus shifts more than my 50L currently, and the former is not known as a lens that has this problem. When will we stop calling something that falls within the (im)possibilities of AF accuracy focus shift?.
The fact that the results of focus shifting may be absorbed by AF tolerances does not imply that the lens isn't still shifting. Whether or not it will be noticable in everyday use is open for debate.
As I mentioned to someone else, the 50L is designed to the edge of spherical aberrations vs bokeh by the Canon optical engineers. IMO, they forget that there is a difference in building a few specimens in the lab, vs manufacturing these in an big plant under normal conditions, and before they got the QC sufficiently under control, I reckon they needed quite a few production runs and fine tuning. I do think, however, that they seem to have mastered this, because I haven't heard about any bad specimens produced this year, and that includes copies which several friends of mine bought this year. I did explain to them, painstakingly, how to test for focus shift. They were worried too. They're happy with their 50Ls.

Whether a lens focus shifts or not when it is well within tolerances of the system as a whole, is IMO a moot point. Nobody debates the focus shift of an 85L II, but it does, regardless.
I'm not sure if my local dealer would allow me to test drive several copies and even if they would, I doubt if I could draw any reliable conclusion from chimping on the camera's LCD.
It actually is easy to check, even on the camera's LCD. But you could always bring a laptop along, or check on a card reader connected to a computer at your local retailer (all of my retailers have at least one in their shop to be used by their customers). And if your local retailer doesn't allow you to do so, explain the situation, maybe he will allow you to do so after all. Actually, if the lens doesn't work properly, IMO he should sent it back to Canon in the first place. Not just after you have paid already: you may expect to receive a properly functioning product; it is your right as a consumer.

And if your retailer doesn't allow you to check the product, maybe you should visit another retailer, who will. :D
So I tend to do quite a bit of online research before committing to a purchase, and when any particular issue pops up with a certain frequency, I follow up on it. I'm fully aware that many such reports are a result of mass hysteria, which is why I give this lens the benefit of the doubt to begin with.
Good to hear that :D.
Perhaps, the effect in the reports and accompanying test shots I saw were exacerbated by an AF misalignment and a properly calibrated lens will in fact mask the shift altogether. If so, I'll be the first to concede that the issue becomes moot at that point..
My current specimen was the 5th over a period of a year (I do own it well over a year now), and it had a little back focus at all apertures and distances (2 cm to be exact). It took 2 recalibrations by Canon in the NL to get it right (first time around it went down to 1 cm back focus), and the second time it was right.
Does it have focus shift? Technically, yes. The maximum focus shift is reached at F/2 at distances from MFD to approximately 1.5 m, and is of the order of 1/6 of DoF (with AF accuracy being 1/3 of DoF). It also is very consistent in this. For comparison, my 85L II has a maximum focus shift, also at F/2, of about 1/4 of DoF.
I'm just cautious about sinking 1300 Euros into a lens and then find myself in a situation where I need to debate the relevance of this (or any other) issue with my retailer..
I understand, which is why I was suggesting the route of testing it right there in the shop.


IOW, it is not an inherent design flaw/characteristic, as you put it, but it is a QC problem, in the case of the 50L. No more, no less...

So you are saying that the 50/1.2 does not shift as a result of uncorrected spherical aberration at all? If so, then that would be the first time I've seen that claim. If not, then it is a design consequence after all. Again, whether or not it is of any consequence is an entirely different debate.
It is a moot point, see also my points above. As mentioned, nobody debates the focus shift of the 85L, and it does shift too. Everybody ascribes it to the floating element(s) design that it doesn't, and funnily enough many don't even know which part of the lens actually incorporates the floating design.

Also, I don't think this is about uncorrected spherical aberration, but very specifically designed-in spherical aberrations. If you look this up in literature, you'll find that there generally is a big difference between fore- and background bokeh. Not in the case of the 50L, they are equally smooth, and that is a major feat in my book.

Oh, the reason I persist here, is that once you have seen what it delivers in rendering quality, you will never look back..
Of that I am quite certain. :smile:

:D

Kind regards, Wim

[nicksan]

I think the bottom line here is you need to buy the lens from a place with a good return policy. If user accounts are any indication, you are either going to love it or hate it.

I can say with confidence that the 5 that I have owned/tested all behaved rather similarly, however there were variations on how much they shifted. Also further confusing things was the fact that all 5 copies had regular back focus problems to a varying degree. Try figuring that one out!

I did end up keeping the last copy I got, which was directly from Canon, a UW date coded copy that has a different finish (texture/feel wise) than the older copies I owned/tested.

As far as regular back focusing is concerned, this was the best out of the bunch, requiring an adjustment of 4 on my 1DMKIII. If I micro adjust so that it is bang on at f1.2, then between the danger zone apertures I can still detect the shift. It is absolutely there under very specific circumstances. (rather unfortunate b/c I shoot in the danger zone a lot distance wise that is)

However, you learn to live with it. I've certainly gotten used to its quirks. I used to hate how it looked wide open at close distances, but I've managed to figure out a way to make it look better. Namely underexposing the shot by a little bit.

YMMV...

[Ob Com]

the 50L is designed to the edge of spherical aberrations vs bokeh by the Canon optical engineers.

:mrgreen: Gotta love those guys for taking it to the max.

Hi Wim:D


David

[rvdw98]

As I mentioned to someone else, the 50L is designed to the edge of spherical aberrations vs bokeh by the Canon optical engineers. IMO, they forget that there is a difference in building a few specimens in the lab, vs manufacturing these in an big plant under normal conditions, and before they got the QC sufficiently under control, I reckon they needed quite a few production runs and fine tuning.

How can a company of this magnitude and maturity "forget" that mass production at (close to) zero tolerance is not feasible at the intended price point?

I do think, however, that they seem to have mastered this, because I haven't heard about any bad specimens produced this year, and that includes copies which several friends of mine bought this year.

But nicksan (and others) have reported noticeable effects of focus shifting from lenses manufactured as recent as last year (date code UW). That would mean that buying this lens until then has basically been a crap shoot and Canon customers have been used as guinea pigs for tightening up the manufacturing process for 2 years straight (IIRC, the 50/1.2 was introduced towards the end of 2006). That's a rather disheartening realization indeed.

I did explain to them, painstakingly, how to test for focus shift. They were worried too. They're happy with their 50Ls.

That's the first hint towards some sort of closure for this issue I have seen so far, and that's quite a consolation if it is in fact indicative of the 50L's current production status (and not just a lucky batch).

Whether a lens focus shifts or not when it is well within tolerances of the system as a whole, is IMO a moot point.

And one I already conceded to. ;)

Actually, if the lens doesn't work properly, IMO he should sent it back to Canon in the first place. Not just after you have paid already: you may expect to receive a properly functioning product; it is your right as a consumer.

Oh, that's been a pet peeve of mine for quite a while, believe you me. :)

My current specimen was the 5th over a period of a year (I do own it well over a year now), and it had a little back focus at all apertures and distances (2 cm to be exact).

I'm not too worried about a garden variety front or back focus as I'm only going to use this lens on a 5D mark II and micro adjust can compensate for this.

It is a moot point, see also my points above. As mentioned, nobody debates the focus shift of the 85L, and it does shift too.

And yet, you returned four 50L's in one year. :) If, as you presumed, the 50L has been designed on the bleeding edge of acceptable spherical aberration, then the focus shift issue is likely more noticeable compared to the 85L's. If Canon has managed to get their act together on the 50L and can now keep focus shifting within 1/3 of DoF, then the issue is moot. But only then. Apart from your assurances that the newer 50L's are up to spec, the jury's still out on that though.

Everybody ascribes it to the floating element(s) design that it doesn't, and funnily enough many don't even know which part of the lens actually incorporates the floating design.

Amazing. Any dimwit with half a brain knows that it's the part that keeps it at the surface when submerged in water. :lol:

Also, I don't think this is about uncorrected spherical aberration, but very specifically designed-in spherical aberrations. If you look this up in literature, you'll find that there generally is a big difference between fore- and background bokeh. Not in the case of the 50L, they are equally smooth, and that is a major feat in my book.

Agreed. When it nails focus, it's bad ass. :D