A Nikon adapter, paired with the Techart TZM-02 adapter, opens new possibilities for using Leica M lenses with full autofocus capabilities. This setup might seem pricey at $400, but let's explore whether it's worth the investment.
Coming to you from Benj Haisch, this practical video showcases the functionality of the Techart TZM-02 adapter, which allows you to use Leica M lenses with autofocus on Nikon Z cameras, including features like full tracking and continuous autofocus. The Techart adapter enables the use of third-party lenses, such as those from Voigtlander, Zeiss, and TTArtisan, making it a versatile addition to your kit.
Haisch explains that the adapter works by moving the entire lens back and forth to achieve focus. Smaller and lighter lenses perform better due to their ease of movement. During his tests, the 28mm Summicron proved to be the most comfortable, while heavier lenses like the 50mm Summilux still worked well despite their weight. The practical implication is that you can achieve closer focusing distances with this adapter than with traditional Leica M lenses, which typically have a minimum focus distance of about one meter.
In practice, the autofocus performance is quite effective. Haisch notes that while it may not match the smoothness of top-tier systems like Sony's E-mount, it is reliable enough for most uses, including shooting kids or even weddings. The system does hunt occasionally, especially with heavier lenses, but it generally performs admirably. The ability to have autofocus on traditionally manual lenses is a significant advantage, providing flexibility without sacrificing the quality of Leica glass.
While the adapter does have limitations, such as the occasional focus hunting and the need for lighter lenses for optimal performance, it offers a unique way to bridge the gap between modern autofocus systems and classic manual lenses. This setup provides a delightful experience, combining the quality of Leica lenses with the convenience of autofocus on a Nikon Z camera. Check out the video above for the full rundown from Haisch.
24-28, even 35mm are all easy to get focus by manual focusing...50mm-135mm is where you separate the hit rate giving most including the seasoned shooter a near impossible task of taking 5 images and having 3 out of five tack sharp.
The depth of field on wider lenses is so deep that I never worried about the image being in focus unless I compared those images or like images to actual results pixel peaking with images made from a Sony eye auto focus with a good lens then you instantly see the difference of critical focus.
focus is overrated at best, for people pictures, still and landscape are a different issue
Hey!! Show us the lens moving.