Canon FD 70-210mm F4 Review - The BEST Telephoto Lens for $50

[@MustafaAlNuaimi]

One of the coolest styles of KZbin videos .. the cuts, the multi song soundtrack and general change of tones mid video makes for a great cinematic experience. 😌 As for the lens: All I can get in my country is Minolta zooms... I will be searching for those.

[@MarkHoltze]

Thank you kindly sir. Music changing is a huge key to giving the overall impression of movement to the narrative. You can use it for simple reviews or more complex content. I have a rule in everything I cut that it needs to be dynamic. Information needs to be moving forward along with the visuals. :) I’m going to get into that shortly; just need an interesting way to visually represent and articulate that to help understanding. Minolta lenses are good lenses. :)

[@MustafaAlNuaimi]

@@MarkHoltze can't wait 🤲

[@Gma7788]

He's been reported to the authorities for this.

[@macczar7694]

I have been playing around with this lens, adapted to my new m100, and am so impressed with its capability. I found it in my late grandfathers camera bag 3 or so years ago, and it makes something of sentimental value feel even more valuable then ever. I didn’t even realize it had a true macro feature until you showed me in this video! Thank you

[@MarkHoltze]

Sentimental connection, perfect! I love that. You look through the lens and you can for a moment, see the world as he did. Glad you found value with the video mate, all the best on your journey with the lens!

[@thedehwehfamily3943]

What’s a good adapter for canon m200

[@Gma7788]

Lunacy.

[@Gma7788]

​@thedehwehfamily3943 No. You don't try to reinvent camera equipment. You buy the matching camera body for it.

[@MarkHoltze]

With the whole mirrorless systems coming out full speed, I suspect these old vintage lenses are going to see new light. I got this for $50 and the modern F4 Canon equivalent is $600. $1700 for the Sony 70-200 F4. That kind of price delta can keep a lot of people from experiencing this range of photography which isn’t a good thing. My favorite thing about these vintage lenses is being able to experiment with focal lengths, see what ones you love and what ones you don’t. They can help with how you decide to purchase the more expensive gear down the line. PS: The thumbnail was shot with an adapted 60 year old C Mount Kern-Pillard SWITAR 25mm 1.4 **EDIT: Thanks "who's there" for pointing out this lens is in fact METAL! He's just increased the value for me even though I was hell bent convinced it definitely wasn't lol. Thank you mate! Much appreciate it!

[@cpgr19]

I totally agree, the whole FD lineup is awesome and easilly competes with all modern lenses at a fraction of the cost..Also i think that these lenses give a more vintage look to the images which looks great!

[@filmrollstroll2003]

Those Kern Paillard lenses are nice to work with !

[@bobceffo]

you were right again. bought this lens with a "just in case, whatever..." attitude. It's now always with me for gigs, just in case I need that reach. damn easy to focus, sharp... Yes, I will update it with a fast, modern thing, one day. but no hurry. this bad boy still delivers. And it came for peanuts

[@MarkHoltze]

Heck yes mate!

[@ajm92cr]

Unreal video quality Mark! Looks like a fragment from a tv network show. Great work, and thanks for the review, short, sweet and covering the important aspects! Keep it up!

[@MarkHoltze]

Late reply !! I’m so sorry. Never saw the notification for this post. Thank you kindly my friend, apologies for the late reply.

[@johnherzel718]

I’ve had this lens since late eighties/early nineties with my A1. It was always my favorite. I was always amazed at how nice the results were and how easy push pull zooms are to use. I still adapt it today.

[@MarkHoltze]

That’s awesome! Probably got some great shots with it in all that time as well!

[@marlonbrando5342]

How easy is it to focus as you zoom?

[@johnherzel718]

​@@marlonbrando5342 The lens is easy to focus and zoom. It is close to par focal (it stays somewhat in focus) as you zoom, so only sometimes is a minor post zoom focus adjustment required. The closer you are focusing the more the lens needs to be adjusted. But it's never more than 1/8 turn in my usage. Once your subject is about 20 feet away it's likely to be actually par focal. If it isn't, it's very close. It really is a nice lens, and very easy to love. Just remember to keep your shutter speeds above 1/250 if hand held. The bokeh is very nice as well ❤️‍🩹

[@21Swayzee]

Sweet review! That is a lot of lens for 50 bucks! Ton of fun to be part of the fist pump collab with you on Eh Joe! Way to go vintage too! Looking forward to being part of this community, always fun to connect with another canuck! Way to give er!

[@MarkHoltze]

Thanks man! That was petty cool collaboration heheh. Thanks for stopping by and welcome!

[@worldadventuretravel]

I recently picked up the earlier 70-210mm f/3.5-4.5 for my Canon 70D. Other than the barrel sliding straight out to 210mm as soon as I tilt the camera (no barrel lock, boooo) I'm really happy with the image quality. It's softer than modern lenses wide open, but tack sharp if you stop it down. Even the soft look is still in focus, but with that vintage lens character. The color rendering errs warm, which I personally prefer, and blues and greens are pretty vivid. Stick a CPL filter on it and you'll have game-changing color saturation and quality straight in-camera.

[@ghosttownsentinel5288]

Thanks for a comprehensive review of this lens. I snagged one for $19 USD on eBay within 5 minutes of watching this video. The lens was certified in excellent condition by a reputable camera dealer in the American South. Your test shots show this one to be formidably close in acuity, bokeh and excellence to the later versions of the 70-200mm USM f/4 L. I see why the pooch lunged to grab the lens out of your hand at the start of the video!

[@MarkHoltze]

Thanks mate, I was wrong about it being plastic, it’s totally metal. Just a lighter more flexible kind than the Tak. But I’m seriously impressed with this lens for the value. The macro ability is the icing. I just love doing these lens reviews I don’t know what it is. A Ig portion is wanting to showcase them for strong prices of photographic gear they still are after all these years. Talk a about bang for buck. You got a great deal on yours. Let me know how it works out for you. Glad the review helped mate. All the best.

[@lifelessl8925]

You have picked my Curiosity until the end of this video. Such a good review.

[@MarkHoltze]

That’s always a huge accomplishment! I wanted to keep this shorter and tried pretty hard (I cut a bunch of stuff). I always over shoot, but hoping to keep the pace manageable. Always have a blast shooting these. Thanks for the feedback!

[@SeanAndersonMedia]

You convinced me Mark. Just bought one to compliment my 28mm and 50mm Canon FD collection.

[@MarkHoltze]

It’s a good one, for that price. I hear the Zeiss 80-200 tops this but comes in a bit more $$$$ and doesn’t have macro. The FD looks so good on the Sony right? ;)

[@theyolobro6343]

I gotta say, this is the first video I've watched of you. But I must say, this is one of the best intros I've ever seen on any KZbin video, the shots are perfect, the light blue light is a beautiful touch, the music is perfect for some odd reason, and the volume of the music in comparison to your voice is beautiful, not too loud, not too quiet, your voice is still very clear through the music yet its still there, sorry for the long comment but, it's such a perfect into I had to say somthing

[@MarkHoltze]

No apologies mate; appreciate you leaving your thoughts! Had some fun with this one, glad you enjoyed it!

[@cymrocanuck]

Great video review! I picked up one of these lenses in 2002 for about $15 from a Tokyo junk store. It was in great condition and I used it a lot when I was still shooting film. I now use a Sony a3000 camera and it does well on that when I remember that I still have it.

[@MarkHoltze]

Thanks Peter. Ya I was actually pretty surprised how much I use this lens. Crazy you could sell it for 75% more than you bought it for all these years later. The crop sensor would give you that extra focal range! Pretty good stuff mate! Thankful for those mirrorless cameras bringing these lenses back to the forefront.

[@rodrrico]

Hands down, one of the best lens reviews I have seen on youtube! Your in depth analysis is second to none. I do have one question though, are you able to shoot slowmo (60 or 120fps) with steady shot on with the FD lens? I could be crossing my wires, but I was under the impression that you can't do that with steadyshot on?

[@MarkHoltze]

Damn man that’s a huge compliment! Thanks! To answer your question, you definitely can get steady slow mo with an FD lens. The seagull was hand held 120fps, I’ll admit it takes a steady hand, holding breath and a good stance. The pump action zoom is so smooth once you get it going it’s easy to keep smooth. Practice definitely helps, plus sensor stabilization ;)

[@andrewmercado60]

I inherited this lens from my gramps along with his AE-1! Love it

[@MarkHoltze]

Nice! AE-1 is a great camera! Any other FD lenses?

[@andrewmercado60]

@@MarkHoltze There was an NFD 50m 1.8 but it was damaged. Replaced that with a 1.4 just last week and now working on the first roll! Solid lens. The build quality is way better than my Rebel SL2 kit lens. Don't make em like they used to

[@cls606]

New subscriber mark! I have been very inspired by you and a select few other youtubers doing high quality reviews and tutorials for us budding videographers. Keep doing what you do, we are learning 🙏.

[@MarkHoltze]

Thanks mate! I appreciate you taking the time to watch and comment. New video dropping tomorrow so stay tuned. Go into the adapting a bit more. If you have any questions or anything about this or what you would like to see. I’m all ears. Thanks again Dominic.

[@shelliecarlson7015]

I picked mine up when I thrifted the gorgeous AV-1 it was attached to. Didn't think much about the lens except it was very clean and I could also use it on my AE-1 Program. You have opened my eyes to what a find I stumbled upon. Great video, thanks.

[@MarkHoltze]

That’s so cool to hear. 100% my intention. To showcase the potential of these llenses.

[@oshidipe]

haha! yes! yes! you peaked my curiosity with those slick b-roll. Awesome review Mark!

[@MarkHoltze]

Haha, I prefer it to my talking mug lol. Thanks Wilson! Had fun making this.

[@oshidipe]

@@MarkHoltze Had fun watching as well. lol. A quick question though, what has been your experience using this lens for Portraits (assuming you've used it for that purpose) ? On a scale of 1-10, what would be your rating in that regard. Thanks

[@MarkHoltze]

I haven’t done too many with it, but I took some great family shots from a distance with it that are cool. Nice compressed background. I prefer faster primes when taking portraits personally, but this lens gave me no issue.

[@oshidipe]

@@MarkHoltze oh, okay. Thanks for the feedback. Much appreciated

[@MarkHoltze]

My pleasure mate. These lenses are good all around, you have to work them a bit more (manual focus) but it’s all part of the craft and beauty. Your pictures will change forever I promise you that. All those macro shots were taken with a $100 100mm vintage Macro F4. My last video was shot almost entirely on vintage lenses that cost less than a single modern one. Modern is great, but saving up for one takes away a lot of learning you can be doing on these.

[@TechGearTalk]

Fantastic video Mark. Incredible info and beautifully shot/edited. Well done!

[@MarkHoltze]

Thanks. I’m just dropped a comment on your slider video at the exact time you posted this it was weird as I hit enter and got your notification of comment lol. Thought for a second I was commenting on my own wall.

[@TechGearTalk]

Mark Holtze had the same experience 🤣😂

[@machousemedia]

I just bought this lens for my BMPCC4k. For the price, you can’t go wrong. The first few shots look amazing. Can’t wait to shoot more. Thanks for the great review.

[@RATIBRAJAB]

Your reviews for lenses is like a treasure for my new project that I will talk to you later stay tuned.

[@MarkHoltze]

Looking forward mate!

[@infinite2246]

Finally! A quality video!!! Awsome editing, keep it up!)👊🔥

[@MarkHoltze]

Thanks! I need to do these old lenses justice :)

[@rinusworldzm]

I'm starting to love the canon FD lenses. I have Pentacon Praktica lenses and I'm thinking of mixing the 2. Yeah I think I'll have both PB and FD lenses. Great video Mark. Awesome footage.

[@MarkHoltze]

FD's are fantastic, there's a reason they're still loved by many and even picked up and used by many DP's working in the commercial space. FD's are one of the most popular lenses to be modded for cinema and they're quite at home in front of a RED or ARRI cinema camera. Thanks so much for stopping by mate, which FD's do you currently have?

[@rinusworldzm]

@@MarkHoltze I currently don't have any FD lenses. The stuff I'm seeing online done with them is really beautiful. I do have Pentacon Praktica lenses. Set of 4. 28mm f2.8, 50mm f1.8, 30-70mm f3.5-4.5 and 135mm f2.8

[@MarkHoltze]

@@rinusworldzm Love Pentacon lenses! My first adapted one was my grandfather's. My dad's Praktica still works too! :)

[@rinusworldzm]

@@MarkHoltze oh wooooowwww!!! That's awesome. These are literally my first lenses everrrrrr. I'm loving the feel of them I can't test them yet because I haven't bought my camera yet but I want to get the original Blackmagic Pocket or the 2.5k cinema camera. I'm leaning more to the 2.5k. The 4K is put of my budget range but I'm not mad at the options I have. How would you say the Pentacons compare to canon FDs? And how's the picture out of the Praktica?

[@timskinnercanada]

Once again Mr. Holtze does not disappoint. I really appreciate all the effort you go to, to make these videos such a pleasure to watch. It does not go unnoticed. That’s a beautiful lens. I don’t have one of those. Is it reasonably sharp?

[@MarkHoltze]

Thanks Tim! It is sharp, I'm really happy with it, especially because it gives me an 85-100-135 and 200mm PLUS MACRO on one lens. Of course it's not as fast as my primes but it makes up for it in not having to switch out lenses lol. I honestly only really bought it because it was so cheap (wanted to split the shipping cost for my 35mm F2 as well) so wasn't super stoked on the lens until i opened it and held it. When i put it on and started shooting with it, I was sold. Plus I wanted a zoom, but was considering the Carl Zeiss 80-200 ($250-$300 online) but wasn't feeling the price point. $50 was an easy sell and got me 10mm extra plus macro ;)

[@BrennanMartin]

Great video man. I have this lens too and I love it. I converted the lens to ef along with an old Canon 35-105 f3.5 FD. And they both have macro modes! Love em. Keep up the good work, and if you want a shooting partner in Toronto lemme know!

[@MarkHoltze]

Thanks Brennan. Appreciate that man! It's crazy how these old lenses had both macro and telephoto. I wonder what the overall compromise there was that they don't do that anymore.

[@BrennanMartin]

I think it's probably a mix of them adding more specific elements to keep things sharper at wider apertures and the idea that they could do a better job with dedicated macro lenses (or make more money).

[@SergeGolikov]

I love this lens on my GH5, had it sitting on my shelf for years, now it has a new life and the quality is quite amazing.

[@MarkHoltze]

It’s pretty good! Was using it today for some Snipe shots :)

[@SergeGolikov]

@@MarkHoltze Postscript: We all should actually distinguish between proper Zoom and Varifocal lenses when describing optics. This is in fact a vari-focal Pull/Twist or 2 touch lens, as opposed to a proper Zoom lens which is one touch and tracks (or should) focus. Just sayin 😎

[@MarkHoltze]

Ya but these are photo lenses built before video was ever intentionally used as such. If I’m looking at a proper video zoom lens is when you bring up these factors. You’re not wrong at all, but for me it’s a time and place and an attempt to keep these relatively contained info wise.

[@btrdangerdan2010]

Great video Mark. This lens was my workhorse when I used it at the Miramar airshow recently in September.

[@MarkHoltze]

Ohhhh! I was away during the Toronto air show so I missed it, but I REALLY wanted to get some shots so when I DID do a video I would have been able to use them. Do you shoot with a tripod when you're doing airshow stuff?

[@btrdangerdan2010]

Mark Holtze I should use a tripod, but to answer your question no I hand hold the camera and try to use fast shutter speeds I’m Tv mode on my Canon T90 to compensate for the hand holding. It was even worse when I mounted the lens in a Canon FD x2 B teleconverter lens the shake is even more.

[@btrdangerdan2010]

I guess I don’t have time to track the subject (airplane) on a tripod, the planes can be anywhere and I have to be ready for the action when I hold the camera.

[@MarkHoltze]

Ya, they're all over the place, I guess if you're snapping stills and it's a bright sunny day you should be fine, shooting video would be tough without a tripod that zoomed in for sure.

[@Analogbrain]

A really great video, Mark! I've been looking for this lens for some years, and I finally found one today, in excellent condition. It's a bit special for me, because I had one, but it got lost in a car accident, a long time ago.

[@MarkHoltze]

Awesome mate! Enjoy it!

[@paulm8157]

👍Captivating vid. Lens has super color rendition. Barrel shows little wear. Etched lens markings have added plus of enabling character restoration by applying white marking like Sharpie or dry erase marker, followed by a wipe. Good call out of lens mount differences - might affect expectations about automated adapters. Af and IS, plus auto EXIF recordations of today's lenses have spoiled us. Re in-camera FL setting for IS, too easy to forget to reset when zooming -- might help to assign to custom button. Re MF, do you use peaking? If so, what "thickness" - peaking can be tricky sometimes? Might make a good vid especially for the vintage lenses. LR also has us applying lens corrections manually. A how to vid that takes in all of this vintage lens adaptation stuff would also be useful and show the tradeoffs. Hope you enjoyed the turkey.

[@MarkHoltze]

Hi Paul, thanks for the wonderful comment. You always leave such great ones I enjoy reading them. First off, the Turkey's were great I was lucky enough to have three of them, my parents Saturday, ours on Sunday and my inlaw's on Monday (where I shot this video). Well technically I shot it Sunday (on camera talking head) and monday (everything else). Thanks for the tips on restoration, those will be helpful for sure as I'm sure I won't be as gentle on them as the last owner was (although I'm trying). The custom button thing is done, I didn't feature it here because it's a very sony specific feature I think. I guess all of them have it. I map the focal length to a wheel so I can change it on the fly, up rolls them up, down rolls them down. Pretty straight forward. I'm rarely shooting zoom/telephto without some sort of stabilization so I don't rely on it TOO heavily. I use very deliberate and delicate hand movements/practice repeat to get it, all while holding my breath. Kind of like I imagine a sniper would, minus the killing part ;). Some really great tips for future videos, I don't feel my level of LR is worthy of tutorial though, I'll have to step up that game. I'm not a huge photo editor, it's something I want to do more of. Thanks again Paul!

[@lwgl_xyz]

An alternative option: Pentacon built a similar, yet smaller one (cost me 40€ in mint condition), the build quality is slightly cheaper, its minimum focus distance is ~85cm and macro ratio is 1:4. Look for “Pentacon 70-210mm f4“, some where sold under the “Pentavision“ brand name. It has an m42 mount, so the Adapter is easier to use than the canon FD one. I use mine regularly with an m42 2x focal length converter, image quality is still good.

[@MarkHoltze]

Love a good Pentacon myself! Thanks mate!

[@TylerCinema]

DAYYYYYUM This video is crisp! The music is so dope too Love it!

[@MarkHoltze]

Thanks Tyler! Ya the music, I heard that song and it inspired the whole opening. How can I give this a TRON look...I kind of like how it turned out.

[@supranomicon]

Many thanks, picked one of these up for £25- brilliant!

[@MarkHoltze]

That’s a steal! £25!!! Nice!

[@jgarcia8776]

Im building up a collection of FD lenses, and ahh im excited, I cant wait to use these.

[@MarkHoltze]

Which ones do you have so far?

[@SneekeeMonkee]

Subscribed! Starting to get into video and re-re-building my vintage lens kit. Stumbled across how beautiful these FD lenses render. Great review

[@MarkHoltze]

Thanks Jim! Careful, it's addictive!!

[@BlackWarriorLures]

I like using the 70mm macro function to shoot by fly tying videos. I understand why some people might not like it but, man, it's versatile. There isn't a better deal out there.

[@MarkHoltze]

Agreed! Not a better deal, given the price and how you can use it, I find it hard for anyone to say with a straight face it’s not a good lens. I would love to compare it to the Sony 70-200 G series F4, maybe one day if I can get a loaner lens.

[@BlackWarriorLures]

@@MarkHoltze Not only that, you'd have top buy 5 primes to match this thing, lol!

[@MarkHoltze]

Exactly!

[@squirreldemon3506]

this video convinced me to buy the lens. I got one that looked almost brand new and im loving it so far. I wanted a telephoto for landscapes but didn't have the thousands to spend on sony lenses. This is sharp across all apertures and I love that its at f4 even at 210mm. compared to my old 55-210 sony, this lens is so much better.

[@MarkHoltze]

I would actually like to get my hands on the Sony 70-200 F4 just to do a side by side comparison. What a lens that costs 33x more gets you. In the summer gojng to see if I can rent one.

[@squirreldemon3506]

@@MarkHoltze that's awesome! I'd love to see a review of the switar 25mm f1.4. That seems like a really good budget astro lens

[@MarkHoltze]

@@squirreldemon3506 It's coming mate! I can't wait to do that one! I have a few more videos i'm doing before (I like to do a lens test and a few more in between) just to mix it up a bit. It will be the next lens I test! Thanks mate. You're right about Astro, i never even thought about it...thanks for that suggestion mate!

[@squirreldemon3506]

@@MarkHoltze can't wait!

[@khaledbinobaid4355]

Hey man! already watched this video like 5-6 times and I gotta say I fall in love with your stuff with every video I watch! I was wondering if you could make a video showing how you shoot your b-roll, like how you set your tripod, what tripod head you use and some common techniques would be cool. I find that this is a subject youtubers barely scratch the surface of, whereas shooting attractive b-roll is basically indispensable for a good looking video. also, do make more editing tutorials. and lastly, it was relieving that you find 'video-making fun' cause you make awesome videos! Keep 'em coming!

[@MarkHoltze]

Hey mate believe me I have all these ideas floating around and I WILL get to them. I'm trying to take advantage of outdoor stuff while the outdoors is still nice, soon will be under a blanket of snow and all the pretty leaves will be gone so trying to do all my outside stuff as much as possible. B-Roll is definitely a topic I want to cover, it's not even just about the setup...more importantly it's about what's motivating it. It's like putting two puzzle pieces together, the visuals are illustrating what the words are saying in an asethetically pleasing way is always a challenge. I will say that for this, a MACRO lens comes in handy. Like it's probably my second used lens and won't leave home without it hehehe. The one I use here is a $100 SMC 100mm Takumar F4. But i can get into all that. Editing same thing. Appreciate your comments mate, you've got some nice incite that can help me navigate what stuff to do. Appreciate it.

[@khaledbinobaid4355]

@@MarkHoltze ayee thanks mate! much appreciated.

[@crownborne]

Dude you are a master in editing and story telling, great job!

[@MarkHoltze]

Wow, thanks for that vote of confidence my friend! I blame these old lenses, they bring it out in me. 🙏

[@crownborne]

@@MarkHoltze being worthy of using the greats is experience and practice, your fisheye 14mm review is also super dope, loved all your videos so far!

[@corgis6801]

I got a Kiron f4.5 70-210mm in mint condition for $20 recently and I have been amazed at how useful it is! The image quality at f4.5 is not good but it lets in more light then modern zooms and the thin DOF is amazing. When used in macro at 210mm the DOF shrinks to almost nothing which is a lot of fun for creative photos. At f8 the lens was able to create some super sharp portraits even on a crop sensor. On a full frame camera it would probably be much sharper and for $20 nothing can top that value for money!

[@BuffFam]

I was getting bumped about the price of the canon 70-200mm, but this has me stoked! No image stabilization will be a challenge, but nothing some creative thinking can't fix!

[@MarkHoltze]

Creating thinking for sure! Also IBIS if you have it? ;) Creative thinking always leads to cooler results. It's a motivator vs a crutch to lean on! Good luck dude!

[@MUENTERMEDIA]

Well done Mark! Your videos are always inspiring, good job!

[@MarkHoltze]

Thanks mate!

[@paulyd8291]

Got this, a FD 35mm f2 (!!!), and 28mm f2.8 at a yard sale for $15. These vintage lenses are amazing.

[@georgestancl2283]

Love the cinematics of this video. Such a good job

[@MarkHoltze]

Thanks George, the goal is to shoot these things in interesting ways. It’s more time consuming, but I think the effort is worth it.

[@nikkipedro]

Oh thanks Mark, great video yet again. I love your style. You are inspirational, so much so, I just bought a Canon FD 70-210 f4 in Melbourne, Australia. I have been trying to get a telephoto for my A7iii since I bought the camera but everything I stumble across is too much. I think I paid $10 more than you but I think I can manage that :) Thanks again.

[@MarkHoltze]

Roro! Good find mate, I can't believe you got an A7III, they're nowhere to be found here, pretty much every camera shop has them on backorder. That camera is killing it right now. Great little camera that's for sure , I kind of want one. Let me know how you like the lens, it quickly grew on me. So nice having that telephoto range with constant aperture for pennies compared to the modern equivalent. I do want to get my hands on the Sony 70-200 F4 just for a side by side comparison.

[@PissTakeProduction]

Mark Keep making these videos my Canon FD kit is going up in value. lol.. The FD colours that's what I love about them.

[@MarkHoltze]

I plan on it ;). What FD’s do you have and what is your fav?

[@PissTakeProduction]

Its a rare one 17mm F2.8 a prototype that I believe the design was carried over to the EF mount lens design. I did have a YT video on it but deleted them all after demonetisation but you can see it on my website.

[@MarkHoltze]

I'll check it out! 17mm 2.8! GO!!!

[@MarkHoltze]

Just there now, wow the lineup! The metal locking rings, the metal lens caps! THOSE are the ones I want lol. Such a nice collection! Your website is great by the way!

[@PissTakeProduction]

@@MarkHoltze Thanks really appreciate the compliement. Yer long time Canon FD collector and sharing how great they are. Even better seeing videos like yours to help people see you dont need the latest and greatest to produce excellent results. Save $ too as you demonstrate well in this video.

[@mikelyndin5897]

Your videos are amazing, and I learn more and more from you. Btw i recently bought that lens for my 6d mark ii.

[@MarkHoltze]

How does it work on the mark ii?

[@xxl0o]

Man you got style! Subscribed after 59 seconds watching! Well done)

[@MarkHoltze]

Hey Eugene thanks mate. The 80's synth vibe on this one felt so appropriate since it's an 80's lens ;). Plus I had just got my neon light, a must for sure. Thanks for watching and the vote of confidence mate. Appreciate it!

[@benjaminkaric2874]

I just got mine,ordered it the same day when I saw this video, got it for 50€ in mint original packaging, now I'm waiting for my adapter.

[@unicornone196]

Your content is unbelievable, thank you!

[@MarkHoltze]

/humbled. Thanks unicorn one! I enjoy producing it as well as helping spread the love for these old lenses. Thanks for your comment!

[@xanfus]

I just ordered the vivitar version. It's an f3.5 and I'm really looking forward to slapping it on my gh5.

[@MarkHoltze]

That's awesome! Let me know how you like it! Going to get some serious range on your GH5 with the full frame tele!

[@xanfus]

@@MarkHoltze I've actually got a focal reducer to use with it. That would be way too long for my tastes with the 2x crop factor lol.

[@photog1529]

I have quite a bit of Canon FD lenses from my early shooting days, and they get quite a bit of use on my Sony full frame mirrorless. I haven't tried this particular lens yet...I've been using my Canon FD80-200L/4 (yes, Canon had 'L' lenses back in the day), and a Vivitar 70-210/3.5 Series 1. May have to look for a copy of the FD70-210 for, well, just because...

[@MarkHoltze]

If you have the L, this might disappoint a bit. I was looking at the L, it's not a bad price online vs the other FD L lenses! That FD 24mm F1.4 L YIKES!

[@ABeginnersGuideTo]

Dude. This is amazing

[@MarkHoltze]

Thanks CJ, appreciate it mate. Was fun to do, so glad that translated.

[@jenniwelsh4545]

The Lock and open markings on the adaptor are to allow you to either kick the aperture in place or adjust it. ....

[@mugshot749]

Canon changed to polymer lens barrels because the material is much lighter than metal if you are carrying a bag full of lenses , and they coated the bearing surfaces in the focusing helicoids with Teflon to make the focusing and zoom smooth.

[@MarkHoltze]

Brilliant info mate thanks! Ya I realized after publishing it wasn’t plastic but screwed my self for life on this one lol. Don’t un verify anything before stating, that’s the motto.

[@mugshot749]

@@MarkHoltze At the time they changed to polymer barrels I complained to the national sales manager of Canon ( who was a friend of mine ) about the change and he said " the Canon Corporation are convinced that polymer is a better material ". I'm a retired news agency photographer and I have fifteen new type FD lenses I made my living with for more than twenty years that I'm still using, and they have always worked flawlessly.

[@marcosalbernas]

I have nothing but good things to say about your videos! Professionalism. Very particular the way to tell the story adding more value to the information. Keep up the good work. I already have this lens, but Can you suggest where to buy the 35mm Super Takumar?

[@MarkHoltze]

Marcos, super cool of you to say mate! So sorry for the delay, I totally didn't get notification on this comment otherwise I would have been all over it. 35mm Takumar, best place is ebay I think. Depends where you are in the world. There is a takumar facebook group and they often host buy/sell options there which is nice, because they're not out to gouge you. You looking for F2 or F3.5 version?

[@marcosalbernas]

@@MarkHoltze I have a few on my eBay watch list, I'm looking for the f2 (28mm or 35mm), but it is hard to find them in mint condition. I own some vintage lenses including Takumar all in pristine condition, trying to complete my collection LOL. Thanks for the advice.

[@MarkHoltze]

@@marcosalbernas Those Takumars, what's with their condition. I'm not sure if it's a built quality thing or just people never used them, but it's really hard to find one of those in rough shape. Good luck with your search mate!

[@lancemcwilson7347]

I bought one for my Panasonic GH5 because of your sweet video. Thanks!

[@MarkHoltze]

Hopefully it works out! On that crop frame your going to have some range! Unless you have a focal reducer?

[@lancemcwilson7347]

@@MarkHoltze I am curious what the crop will be. Its shipping from Japan so I will have to wait. At least 140 - 420? I suppose. I just picked up a simple adapter. I didn`t pick up a focal reducer yet. Do you have any recommendations on a focal reducer?

[@MarkHoltze]

I think it’s a 2.2 crop on micro. I haven’t played with reducers as I’m all full frame but I’ve seen lots of happy micro 4/3 users who love them to get that native crop down.

[@ftlbaby]

I've watched 10,638 vintage lens videos and yours is the one that convinced me to actually buy! I just ordered one of these 70-210mm lenses from ebay for $50USD ; ) The only reservation I have is the 4 foot MFD. So I watched another 3,591 adapter videos before ordering the Fotodiox DLX Stretch for my A7R II. (Incidentally, the adapter cost almost twice the lens cost.) It lowers the minimum focus distance! Have you used one of those? And can you believe how many different kinds of adapters there is!?!?!

[@MarkHoltze]

I haven’t used that one! Just the FD to NEX lol. I do have the fotodiox PL to L and it was $150, but that’s cheap for an PL to L

[@AHumanInNature]

Great review as always Mark! Keep it up!

[@MarkHoltze]

Thanks Tim.

[@mikelyndin5897]

Your content is really great. Love your videos🔥🔥🔥

[@MarkHoltze]

Thanks Mike!

[@CharlesR-x6d]

I have the 75-200mm...lens basicly..the same lense..Tamron absolutely an amazing lens that works

[@joycesteen7869]

I found this lens at a second hand shop. I didn't realize it was an older lens. So it doesn't attach to my newer cannon. Could u tell me what camera it will fit?

[@MarkHoltze]

It will fit any camera with the right adapter, it it works better on mirrorless. Sony, canon R, fujifilm etc. You need an adapter. FD to R if you have an RF mount (canon mirrorles) or FD to EOS for eF kens

I use this beauty on an Olympus EM10 Mark II (M43) with a speedbooster, which adds one stop of aperture. With the x0,7 factor from the speedboster, I have an equivalent of a 100-300mm telephoto lens. I paid mine $100 (shipping included) on ebay and the thing is in mint condition. Yes, some chromatic aberrations appear sometimes, but I easily fix it with RawTherapee (free and open software).

[@ibelieveincolor]

I enjoyed watching this! Got this lens yesterday and now waiting for the converter to my sony :p After seeing this video almost can't wait (but will have to :p)

[@MarkHoltze]

It’s a fun lens! I know all too well about wait. Hope it comes soon!

[@Epsilon2045]

Instant sub the quality is way to good for KZbin

[@MarkHoltze]

That’s kind of you to say mate. Trying to showcase these old lenses in the best light ;)

[@JonathanBradysouth-africa]

Best feature of this lens has to be the push/pull zoom ability of the ring. Literally blew my mind!

[@trueaddict8733]

I got this lens because of this video. Its one of my favorite lenses in my kit. I've always found the color rendition a bit lacking, at least on my camera, however the black and white is incredible. Thanks for this awesome recommendation!!

[@MarkHoltze]

Glad it’s working for you mate! It’s pretty hard to go wrong with this one based on the price. Enjoy!

[@trueaddict8733]

@@MarkHoltze couldn't agree more - I paid $18 for my copy and it looks brand new, like no one has ever used it. I basically stole the damn thing lol. I have about 40 lenses and I've used this lens probably more than any of the others. For the type of street photography I do, its perfect.

[@LayilaFaon]

Wow this looks really awesome with this lense!

[@MarkHoltze]

It’s pretty fantastic...legitimately impressed. Thanks Layila.

[@souldigital8148]

Im a big fan of this lens too and one thing it does that a number of other zoom lenses of a similar age and price range do not seem to be able to do is resist fringing...

[@MarkHoltze]

They’re def not built for high resolution digital photography in that regard. Film is a little more forgiving in this area.

[@fredriksvard2603]

It does? It showed fringing in another video compared to an ef l lens, to the extent that it put me off buying it even at 50eur.

[@chrlmlln9018]

Dear, Mark! A very big THANK to you for this well-done and also interesting review of this vintage lens from the past! It was nice to be reminded by you about this lens I have forgotten to use and that is collecting dust on my shelf. I am glad to see and listen to your examination of this lens that I happen to own and I had used it for many years ago, when being a manual camera photographer (w/ Canon F-1 new SLR). May I ask you, if you maybe have also stumbled upon a made in year 1985 "brother" lens with the famous red-ring , so called "L" lens: Canon New FD 80-200 mm f/4 L, and maybe you could add this lens to your kit, a lens with superior IQ almost a miracle lens. The Canon FD 80-200mm f4L was one of the last L series lenses to be developed for Canon FD cameras as shortly after launch Canon moved towards the new EF / EOS mount cameras. This lens offers true L series performance in a reasonably compact format, as you already have commented about this compactness and easy handle. Wishing you all the very best and stay blessed, safe and healthy during these perilous times we living in now! Best Regards from Sweden!

[@MarkHoltze]

Thanks mate! That L sounds like a dream lens! Hold onto that! I don't use vintage zoom's all too often, but might keep an eye open for one. I'll definitely put up a review of it if it happens though :)

[@itsxandr]

I have this lens and it really is pretty versatile, but would love it even more if it was a bit sharper but for that cheap it's a good deal even if it's a little soft like most fd lenses.

[@MarkHoltze]

Ya, the Contax Carl Zeiss Which is about $200 more is tack sharp. 80-200 F4, no macro.

[@romansheshegov6146]

Yes! In Russia i pay this lens for 30 dollars. With Canon RP and 5x focus-picking(?) it works very nice. For wild animals and for birds it is nice desicion:fine macro, bokeh and color. Now, in covid time,without travel, i can only walk in forrest and 70-210 Fd in this time is my favorite Lens:)Yes, maybe i can pay lens better, but hier i have cheap lens for all ideas with nice result.

[@djmarzek]

Another great video! Thanks Mark! SALUDOS!

[@MarkHoltze]

Thank you! Almost a year ago now wow! This video always makes me want some apple pie ;)

[@melvinch]

You should try the Kiron 70-210mm F4 (w/focus lock and zoom-lock). Its central sharpness surpassed those from camera manufacturers in those days.

[@MarkHoltze]

Focus LOCK would be amazing! It's the only problem with these old zooms you have to pull or push and at the same time gently focus if using for video. Focus lock would remove the need for that, focus and just worry about the smoothness of the zoom.

[@melvinch]

@@MarkHoltze Kiron has a high reputation back in the 80s. They made no bad lens and what they made are still highly sought after. At some period, Vivitar S1 lenses were made by Kiron.

[@MarkHoltze]

@@melvinch Melvin! Thanks so much for that info! I'm going to look into them!

[@melvinch]

@@MarkHoltze Don't forget about Tamron SP series as well. Tamron was the king of 3rd-party lens back then with gems like the 90mm F2.5 and 70-210mm F3.5 constant aperture.

[@AD98.]

@@melvinch How's the tamron adaptall-2 80-210mm f/3.8-4?

[@Bigdude0444]

4:43 The rain touching the camera and lens hurts my soul.

[@MarkHoltze]

Don't worry, it can handle a little rain ;)

[@ranadheervarmavegiraju8945]

I always want to own a vintage lens, but I am afraid about the quality, is there any chance you can share the dealer details on eBay, cause they seem to be in very good condition. Thanks in advance.

[@MarkHoltze]

This seller doesn’t have anything anymore, the best way is just examine photos, make sure they offer free returns and look at the selling reputation of the dealer. It’s not that big of a risk, it’s in their best interest to sell good condition lenses.

[@gregjoblove672]

Mmmmmm tasty review! Keep it up!! I’m probably going to buy it.

[@MarkHoltze]

Thanks Greg, ya if you can find one for a good price GO!

[@yemarican]

super nice and neat tutorial! thank you for sharing this.

[@MoonSafariFilms]

I just pulled the trigger on one of these bad boys on ebay. You got me!

[@MarkHoltze]

Let me know how you like it. What camera are you using it with?

[@SteveRockstein2]

First, wonderfully entertaining video. Second, as a long time Canon shooter, I owned the best, fastest FD glass but sold all if it when I went digital in 2002. When I moved to Sony mirrorless, I bought back many of the lenses that I had let go. From the L series I have the 24 f1.4, 80-200 f4 and 300 f4. Also have a 20, 35 and 85. I love the look and process of my work with this glass. One question: how did you adapt the FD to the C100? Thanks. Looking forward to more great content from you.

[@MarkHoltze]

FD to EOS adapter, I don’t use the FD stuff on my c100 often because the adapter has a little glass element so the FD works with EOS dslr’s. They do have dedicated eF mounts you can mount to your FD lenses though that would work better with a cinema camera.

[@SteveRockstein2]

Thanks Mark.

[@cyclopemedias3718]

I have the same lens , I use it on my Sony and I'm impressed every time I use it.

[@MarkHoltze]

it’s fantastic value for sure!

[@maximedesjardins5014]

@@MarkHoltze if you like vintage lenses , you should try to find a vivitar 28mm f2 close focus komine (the 2 first digit of the serial number are 28) This lens is awesome! Its expensive but it woth it!

[@MarkHoltze]

Putting it on the list! Thanks mate!

[@ultraviolet7129]

Love the content! Keep em coming

[@MarkHoltze]

Thanks! :)

[@joshbryant1133]

Just bought mine off of eBay. Will try out!

[@DanielPeacocke]

I really want to pick one of these up now! Only thing is I hear FD to EF adapters make the quality just tank. :( I mean. It's cheap, so I might as well anyways!

[@MarkHoltze]

It's that "pro" adapter I think you're talking about. It puts a lens between your lens and your sensor an I agree it's not the greatest. The Canon R should actually remedy this problem making Canon cameras have zero issues with mirrorless. I've asked Fotodiox and they said they are making an adapter for it. I think that's the only thing that really excites me about Canon's new camera is that I'll be able to mount all my vintage lenses on it without a problem. (I'm not getting it, but if I were). What camera do you have?

[@DanielPeacocke]

I use a GH5 with a Metabones XL. So I want to try adapt it to EF for the metabones. but it seems they all have the glass element. If it comes down to it, I will just adapt it straight to the native m43 mount! The search continues for a good FD to EF for the metabones tho!

[@CartridgeMaster]

4:07 those look like shots that would be in a horror film, it reminds me of that one jump scare KZbin video the one with the car diving from far away

[@jenohogan9254]

I happened to acquire this lens by accident, when I bought my Canon AE-1. I think I've used it once. You may have convinced me to give it another try, once my adapter for my Fuji camera arrives. :-D

[@MarkHoltze]

What Fuji camera did you get? If it's an APS-C than you'll have much longer range with that crop factor! Hope you enjoy it as much as I do Jen!

[@FLORAMORAITINI]

@@MarkHoltze Compared to the Fuji XF 50-140 2.8 which is truly much much much more expensive is there also a huge difference in picture quality???

[@ravensatodds]

Great video as always Mark. Wondering if you’ve encountered a bright haze in the centre of the image. Seen a few reviews of this lens with this problem

[@MarkHoltze]

Thanks mate! I haven’t noticed any personally. What camera systems are they on do you know? I wonder if it’s a wide open thing where you get the vignetting at the edges making the centre a bit more highlighted. I haven’t noticed any with my lens on my Sony

[@ravensatodds]

Mark Holtze thanks for your reply mate. I think I’ve seen it on GH4 and GH5 but it could also be additional glass elements in speedboosters or maybe just lenses that are in poor condition. I’ve found some pretty decent prices on EBay so it’s probably worth the gamble 👍🏼

[@adithyadivakar2425]

Awesome Video! You should try out the Nikon version of this lens and possibly do a review. It's a 70-210 f4 lens and that lens is pretty amazing too!!

[@MarkHoltze]

I should actually keep an eye out for one. It would be interesting to see the two vs each other. I'd actually like to get my hands on a modern Sony 70-200 f/4 to see what that huge price difference gets you ;)

[@Dedncide]

A friend of a friend sold me one for $20USD. I have it on my Canon FTql from 1966 and it works great! Not as sharp as my Zeiss 85 on my Sony though, but it's nice to have in a bag.

[@gameon2000]

Top content Marc, instant sub! I have the same glass for Nikon mount (Vivitar / Tokina)

[@MarkHoltze]

Awesome! Thank you!

[@blake.crosby]

So many lenses! Curious to know how you keep them in tip-top shape. Any tips on keeping them clean/dust free? How do you transport them? Do you use individual cases for them? Do you have to use different cleaning solutions for plastic vs. metal?

[@MarkHoltze]

Your curiosity is matched by mine lol. Tip Top shape? Handle them with care. Keeping them clean or dust free would imply they're stagnant for long and they're never stagnant for long ;) I'm always rotating them so I don't feel dust can settle. I do keep them on display nicely though as I love their aesthetic on a shelf. I don't actually use any solutions to clean, just a lens rag for the optics once and awhile, but they're pretty resilient, being 30-50 years old ;) (They don't make them like they used to) ;)

[@hitheadline]

Great stuff, love your sound and video work. Question, do you find the lens is a bit heavy on your camera body? I'm having trouble finding a suitable tripod collar, not sure if they ever made one. Using it on a xt2.

[@MarkHoltze]

I actually don't find this lens heavy. I don't really have much to compare it to, but my CZ 85mm 1.4 is a brick compared to this lens. I think it would be good on the XT2, but that's just my personal opinion. It sure isn't that expensive so the risk might be worth it. Sell it for what you got it if you hate it. I never found it to be an issue on the tripod, it's nothing compared to the CZ 80-200 F4 or most modern fast telephoto's. PS: Thanks for the nice compliment Ian, glad you're enjoying this stuff. I figured I'd get to the business of your comment before addressing the complementary side hehehe. Thanks again mate, let me know if you have any further questions.

[@orangebetsy]

5:16 you caught that bldg being put up next to Grand Central!

[@MarkHoltze]

How does it look now? I figured it was prob going to piss a lot of ppl off 😆

[@TylerKidd]

Great video man! Subscribed 🤘

[@JimDurfee]

Another great video! That lens looks similar to my SMC Pentax 80-200mm. Happy shootin' ;)

[@MarkHoltze]

Thanks JIM! You KNOW I'll be looking for that lens the camera sale tomorrow ;) (thanks for the inception)

[@claudiopianetto2815]

Excellent video mark! This canon is on the way to my home now. I have a difficult question for you, wich is the best vintage wide angle ? What do you think about? Thanks Mark

[@MarkHoltze]

Thanks Claudio. Hopefully you enjoy it as much as I do! :) Best vintage lens? Hard to say, there are so many I haven't tried I think it would be unfair to make a statement overall not having used many of them. How wide do you want to go? 24mm?? I have the Canon FD 24mm 2.8 which i s pretty good, I wish it was a bit faster, but it's great. It goes for about $100 or so...good value.

[@claudiopianetto2815]

yes mark! 24 mm or less could be fine for me. looks very sharp the canon 24mm there is a nikon ( Nikon Nikkor AIS 24mm F2.8 ) as well have you been tried this?

[@MarkHoltze]

I haven’t tried any Nikon/Nikkor lenses but I hear good things. Carl Zeiss and canon have a 16mm but they’re $$$ based on the rare factor.

[@claudiopianetto2815]

thanks bro, i will try both of 24mm lenses i will let you know wich one of them is better.

[@DethronerX]

Looks good to me. What's a good fast zoom lens, above 200mm. Or at least 200mm. With fixed aperture on zoom, of course I dont mind distortions and fringing and softness. Vintage is preferred.

[@dutchvideoshooter]

I had 2 of them sold them :) I had the 35-105 f3.5 sold it too. Didnt like them both. Now only FD primes for my I have a full kit of 17 to 300mm. you should check out the 100-300 f5.6 too. I sold it but When i shot with it I liked it :)

[@MarkHoltze]

You have a 17mm as well! Dang! Big camera vintage sale tomorrow here in Toronto, I'm going to keep my eye open for some FD primes! I have the 24 2.8, but I would love a 17. I doubt I'll find one as they're pretty rare, but the thrill of the hunt and and all! Thanks!

[@MUENTERMEDIA]

good luck Mark! ;-) I guess if you find something, we will get a new video, right =)

[@GiorgiNadiradze]

I bought this lens for 10$ and it is amazing

[@MarkHoltze]

Some coffees are more than that lens

[@orgasmicfrequency]

Amazing video Mark ! 2022 and your video is still impacting .... I have a canon m50, would I need an adapter for this lens?

[@MarkHoltze]

Can’t believe it’s been 4 years or just about 😆. M50 I think is EOS M which doesn’t have a glass adapter inside the adapter. It’s a mirrorless camera so M series doesn’t have the Infinity focus issue dank. dSLR’s do.

[@orgasmicfrequency]

@@MarkHoltze the magic never dies haha. So happy you responded to my comment.. after watching your video I stayed up until 1 am looking for the lens in the best shape. My question now is, can this lens work for the camera i have ? What specifically do I need for it to be compatible ? im a bit of a newbeee to the camera terminology, so dont really understand what infinity focus issue dank is... thank you for the help btw :)

[@samuellawrence3239]

I want to know how Canon FD lenses will optically perform on crop sensor Canon EOS camera. I'm happy with manual focus and control.

[@MarkHoltze]

1.53x zoom on the crop, still works just gives you less WIDE and more TELE ;)