In the relentless pursuit of pixel-peeping perfection, it's easy for photographers to get caught up chasing the latest ultra-sharp lenses engineered to neutral precision. While these impressive modern optics have their place, an increasing number of photographers are finding magic in the flaws and imperfections of vintage glass.
Coming to you from Mark Holtze, this awesome video discusses the joys of working with vintage lenses. Vintage lenses with their quirks, character, and gentle organic rendering can offer a creatively liberating counterbalance to the clinical austerity favored by so many photographers today. Aspects that may be considered "flaws" in modern lens design take on an appeal of their own in vintage lenses. Swirly bokeh, vignetting, chromatic aberration, and flare effects lend images made with these old lenses a unique signature style.
Whereas many photographers obsess over corner-to-corner sharpness, vintage shooters celebrate the dream-like glow and slightly hazy rendering often found in legacy glass. The lower contrast and muted colors create an ethereal, romantic atmosphere perfect for portraiture and creative scenes. Videographers in particular prize these lenses for the way they smoothly roll off into pleasing out-of-focus areas.
Part of the joy of shooting with vintage lenses comes from the act of slowing down and rediscovering the craft. Twisting an aperture ring by hand, focusing manually without assistance, and intentionally working within the quirks of the glass all provide a refreshing analog shooting experience. After staring at test charts and lab reports, the spontaneity and imperfection of vintage lenses reminds us that technical perfection and creative magic don't always go hand-in-hand. And the best part is how affordable the lenses are compared to modern options.
Check out the video above for the full rundown from Holtze.
I like the look my vintage lenses give me so much so that my modern Zeiss autofocus lenses tend to get ignored most of the time. My latest acquisition is the Konica 57mm 1.2 from the 1970s that is a fine piece of glass! When you use manual focus lenses as often as I do, it becomes second nature. If you know how to shop wisely, you can still get a good deal on even the most popular vintages lenses which are generally overpriced these days due to high demand. Shop around and you'll be surprised. Even though this is an older video, it is still relevant today. Mark produces some very nice videos on his YouTube channel.
Very enjoyable video. Those rehoused lenses look awesome. With follow focus too !