Let's Talk About ZEISS Baby - CONTAX CARL ZEISS LENSES

#CONTAXCARLZEISS#VINTAGECINEMALENS#ZEISS
Let's talk about Zeiss baby! Contax Carl Zeiss lenses are in high demand even in 2020, in this video I put the optics aside and talk about what I LOVE about these lenses and why you might want to consider them in 2020.
**BUY CONTAX CARL ZEISS LENSES HERE:
Contax Zeiss 21mm F/2.8: ebay.us/zt7c2y
Contax Zeiss 35mm F/1.4: ebay.us/4HlTQR
Contax Zeiss 50mm F/1.4: ebay.us/7Gyu8z
Contax Zeiss 85mm F/1.4: ebay.us/FKyyT2
Contax Zeiss 60mm Macro F/2.8: ebay.us/maLotM
Budget Contax 50mm: geni.us/Contax50
GEARFOCUS STORE: www.gearfocus.com/mark-s-gear...
MUSIC FOR YOUR VIDEOS [FREE TRIAL]: share.epidemicsound.com/markho...
VINTAGE LENS KIT: bit.ly/2MxdD8d
⚡︎⚡︎ VINTAGE LENS ADAPTERS ⚡︎⚡︎
□ FOTODIOX C/Y - E (Sony): geni.us/gnMB
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□ FOTODIOX PRO C/Y - FX(Fujifilm): geni.us/ogO2
□ FOTODIOX PRO C/Y-Micro 4/3: geni.us/sCLQcA
VINTAGE LENS ADAPTERS
FOTODIOX M42 - E (Sony): geni.us/SonyM42
FOTODIOX PRO M42-EOS (Canon): geni.us/M42Canon
FOTODIOX PRO M42 - F (Nikon): geni.us/M42Nikon
FOTODIOX PRO M42-Micro 4/3: geni.us/M42MFT
MY PRODUCTION GEAR
Lumix S1H: geni.us/LumixS1HCamera
Sony A7SII: geni.us/M42MFT
Wandrd Prvke Backpack: geni.us/WANDRDPRVK21L
Sony 16-35 F4: geni.us/SonyZeiss1635F4
ROV PRO Everyday Slider: geni.us/ROVPRO
Aperture 120DII: geni.us/Aputure120DII
Aperture Lightdome II: geni.us/LiteDome2
Hoodman Lens Hood: geni.us/LensHood
LitraTorch: geni.us/LitraT
Litra Pro: geni.us/LitraP
BEST Tripod: geni.us/BestPod
Microphone: geni.us/MarkMic
TOO Expensive Battery Grip: geni.us/A7Grip
Hobby Matt: geni.us/hobbymatt
DISCLAIMERS:
Some of these links have an affiliate code, if you purchase gear with these links I will receive a small commission at no additional cost to you. Thank you!

[@MarkHoltze]

The Contax Carl Zeiss video that nobody asked for, but I made anyway: CHEAT SHEET Two Versions of Contax Carl Zeiss lenses made: 1) AE “Ninja Star” (1975-1984). AEG (AE lenses made in West German) AEJ (AE lenses made in Japan) 2) MM (1984-2005). MMG (MM lenses made in West Germany) MMJ (MM lenses made in Japan) No difference between lenses made in Japan or West Germany, it was strictly a manufacturing cost savings decision. Zeiss quality control was entirely equal between both production lines.

[@xForeverXerox]

Fantastic visuals, camera presence, motion graphics, and final edit as always. Keep it up!

[@MarkHoltze]

Thanks mate! Finding that balance and covering my face as much as possible is the motivator here :)

[@brakmaster]

No one asked for it because it was implied!!! I have so many lenses but these Contax Zeiss are something I have been lusting over for a very long time. Stop tempting me I'm going broke because of this addiction!

[@MarkHoltze]

@@brakmaster You've got all the time mate! If i wasn't getting paid to use these ones (jobs) I might have held off. Over the last 3 years I've been convinced what I can achieve with these lenses and how I can use them. My friend Damon (who had the 16mm near the end of the video) has been using CZ for awhile before I got into them, I just couldn't (at the time) stomach the price for "old lenses" . Now it's ALL I want to shoot with :) Are you an AE or MM individual yourself?

[@brakmaster]

@@MarkHoltze Yeah you're right. Obviously I'm not a professional just an amateur with a passionate hobby. I have just ordered a Canon Eos M to play around with raw video and I will pair it up with some vintage Canon FD glass. I would characterize myself as an AE individual!

[@SelfBio]

Hi Mark - the style of your videos is really amazing. The turntable scene .. fantastic. A pure source of inspiration. If one day you showed all vintage lenses start making tutorials on how to make videos like that :D

[@MarkHoltze]

Thanks! Yes how I shoot these series in the works for sure. It’s the next step I think! Thanks mate!

[@n8miles455]

Ooooo, ive really been wanting to see you talk about these lenses. Can’t wait!

[@MarkHoltze]

The first of many I suspect. I've got a number to review, but this is the introduction of the very dense topic :)

[@man-ngokduskyso6654]

Hey Mark, Good to know...from Takumar ambassador to Germany fan. Because of you, I brought my first SMC Takumar 55 1.8 and Super Tak 50 1.4 "hot" lens for my girl. Recently, I brought Jupiter-9 85 f2 and start reading the history of its. I found the soviet lens closely link to Zeiss company after WWII. The history from Zeiss and Leitz even longer than Pentax and those japan companies. I have never been so interest in history. Haha...

[@MarkHoltze]

Oh ya the Zeiss stuff is crazy. I haven’t really either, I got more into it the older I got. You could do a feature length on Zeiss for sure. This one starts when the Contax Lineup started in 1975, but it’s just a new evolution in a very long and “interesting” history. :)

[@deniselisboa1]

The production in your videos is so epic

[@MarkHoltze]

Thanks Denise! Just nice to have a platform to share the love for these things. Thanks for watching!

[@alanbesedin]

Absolutely incredible mini documentary. The visuals and edit are also as good as they get!

[@MarkHoltze]

Thanks Alan! Gearing up for the Helios review...

[@albanrobert3139]

Amazing editing and story telling as always. I really like the way you talk about the history of the lens !

[@MarkHoltze]

You almost have to with these lenses. Really adds an element of intrigue to them!

[@jadarsan]

Fantastic video thank you for putting so much effort it’s a visual treat! This is so enticing

[@MarkHoltze]

My pleasure, thanks so much for noticing and taking the time to watch.

[@ivan0bebe]

Thanks mark. I really enjoy watching your videos. Thanks for all the effort you put into them. You inspire me to try new thinks. Thanks, thanks, 🙏

[@MarkHoltze]

My pleasure mate! Thanks so much for watching and being apart of this effort.

[@120fps]

loved the video dude... as always... I always love the videos to be fair. can't wait to see what else is to come with that beautiful S1H, and the whole premiere things is awesome.

[@MarkHoltze]

Totally! Thanks a bunch for stopping by you guys. I really enjoyed my first actual production with the S1H. The stills really helps out where the A7sii lacked as well. The video options are insane though, I need to find the right balance and mess around with the settings a bit more. It's so foreign to me now where the Sony and C100 are clockwork (can field assemble blindfolded under fire) ;)

[@120fps]

Mark Holtze “this is my rifle, this is my gun...” I hear ya, really slowed me down in the short time we had it. But the shortcuts/favourites in the menu will help. For me I enjoyed the 4K rec709 for ease and quality balance.

[@MarkHoltze]

@@120fps Rec! I'll check it out, I've been doing all recording externally on my Atomos anyway, waiting on SD cards that are fast enough to come in ;)

[@vicenteGuitarPlayer]

Your videos are incredibly beautiful ... the lights and perfect editing ... thank you and congratulations ...

[@MarkHoltze]

Thank you for the kind words, love these lenses so I think some of that spills out in my efforts lol.

[@mrsnack3118]

like the new intro. And the found footage from the old commercials are just gold! Well done Mark!

[@MarkHoltze]

Thanks mate, ya it's a natural evolution of the intro I think. I can cut it super short or longer if need be well. Nice and dynamic. The old posters etc are my fav. I saw those by accident awhile and they totally inspired me to do a video on them.

[@mrsnack3118]

@@MarkHoltze Creativity hits you random sometimes. Awesome that you took the time and energy to film the posters. Would have been easier to go on with life. How do you manage to find such clips on your hard drive after a while? I do project. based folders and I find it difficult to have a file system for such random clips.

[@DanielEarl]

This man loves puns almost as much as he loves vintage glass. 😉

[@MarkHoltze]

😂 it’s true...I’m so corny ;) ;) ;)

[@joergmueller2248]

What a cool video - congratulations to the wonderfully smooth transitions and the insights you provided on historical and technical facts: you nailed it - please continue to create more of these video's - Kudo's!

[@MarkHoltze]

Thanks Joey! Very kind words of support my friend. Appreciate it

[@Hitchelfitkyle]

Another banger!!!! Great job Mark!!!

[@MarkHoltze]

Thanks Kyle!

[@lukeperine8246]

This video is awesome. Thanks for giving us some history on this!

[@MarkHoltze]

My pleasure Luke! Thanks for watching mate!

[@YOUAREMYKIN]

Thanks for such an insightful and thorough video! Contax lenses were on my shopping list and this just saved me from getting the wrong ones 😎 Recently discovered your channel and really enjoying it.

[@MarkHoltze]

Happy you found the content helpful mate! I wasn't fully convinced back in 2017 to invest fully in them, I messed around and was convinced by the Takumar's that I'm IN LOVE with these SLR lenses and after handling my first cine set of CZ's, I just had to start collecting my own. You'll love them!

[@wahyuprasojo5148]

always great vid.. and great information

[@MarkHoltze]

Many thanks mate! Glad you enjoyed it!

[@Travelconquest]

Wow dude your videos are always so top notch

[@MarkHoltze]

Thanks Cam, it’s the lenses fault entirely. They just tell me what to do ;)

[@domtomazo]

Also coming from a love of Takumar lenses, this Zeiss line always intrigued me. Not that common on second market in Sweden, even though they show up from time to time. Looking forward to that "Planar killer" video! Great work as always.

[@MarkHoltze]

Takumars feel like Contax Zeiss lenses in terms of the build quality and handling. The colour between the Zeiss lenses is more consistent and the markings on the lens make it a bit easier for focus tracking with a focus puller. Also non radioactive which bothers some. I’m curious to study the results between those two lenses as well. Early impressions of the 8 50 are quite favourable though.

[@anchorsanvils]

Mark the puns are awesome, but you speak with such wisdom it shows in the story telling and video production great work man, we need to get you up to at least 250k subscribers haha

[@MarkHoltze]

Might be awhile my friend, but appreciate the effort! 😂 very nice of you to say, it’s the love of these lenses that are my true motivator, sub counts or not :). Of course sharing this stuff with people who also love it is fantastic as well!

[@bodarville6527]

Always a great watch! Thanks!

[@MarkHoltze]

Thanks Bo, happy you enjoyed it!

[@nissenys72]

Not only informative but so well made.

[@MarkHoltze]

So as not to waste your time mate. It’s a privilege to have your attention for a little while so my goal really is to make sure I don’t waste that. Walking away with a bit more info to take to the street is also always a good thing!

[@joaonuno6936]

awesome content, thanks man

[@MarkHoltze]

Thank you mate!

[@34Media]

nice one Mark great job yet again

[@MarkHoltze]

Thanks for watching Tigers! 🐯

[@34Media]

@@MarkHoltze a pleasure mate always entertaining and always learning something cool about our camera history !

[@AuthorEmilyKinney]

It blows my mind how good your videos are.

[@MarkHoltze]

Thanks mate, I blame the lenses. I feel they deserve the effort :)

[@shang-hsienyang1284]

Amazing video. Thanks!

[@MarkHoltze]

Thanks mate!

[@crypticwintermoon6284]

You deserve way more subs and views for this incredible content. ✌️❤

[@MarkHoltze]

Kind of you to say! Glad you liked it mate, made making it worthwhile.

[@Raychristofer]

Great job on this Mark. I had a Zeiss pancolar and the ninja star pattern really turned me off especially if the sun was in the background of a portrait. As always this was very well produced

[@MarkHoltze]

You're in the "hate it" category lol. Totally fair, it's a big reason why people build cine sets of the MM's.

[@AALavdas]

I have an RTS since the 90s. Its light meter has now died and apparently cannot be repaired, but the camera still works fine in manual mode. The 50/1.4 Zeiss is the sharpest lens I have ever tried, and now I am using it with my Nikon DSLR - but only for close-ups, as it does not focus to infinity on this camera.

[@MarkHoltze]

RTS!!! Ya I use a separate meter when shooting film. I’ve never been able to trust the cam meter. Never really tried I guess lol.

[@CasaAllacampanile]

Man I love this one. Such a good video.

[@MarkHoltze]

Thanks mate! Zeiss are pretty fantastic! Love shooting with them!

[@AustronesianMullet]

Many people (like me) have been adapting legacy manual lenses to Canon cameras for years. I bought my first C/Y Zeiss lens in 2007 and others had been doing so for years prior to that. Also bought a SMC Takumar 55/1.8 in 2007 for $18 shipped! The Sony e-mount system allows these lenses to thrive again.

[@MarkHoltze]

Love it!!

[@trueaddict8733]

I fucking love your channel. Thanks for the education - I always leave your channel feeling more knowledgeable than when I got here

[@MarkHoltze]

This is the goal, of your time is being used I’m hoping you can walk away with a better understanding. It’s how you can use that moving forward to build your own creative empire.

[@bbrunorocha]

as always, AMAZING content ! Just got the 28mm f2 hollywood, last week ! Amazing lens, paired really amazing with my 50mm 1.4

[@MarkHoltze]

OHHHHH the F2!!! That's a keeper! Because I have the 35 I'm not sure I need the 28, but ask me again in a few months and what I "need" may change ;)

[@bbrunorocha]

​@@MarkHoltze I was looking for one last year but the prices where waaay too high, around 4000 dolars here in Brazil, so i was looking for the 35mm 1.4 which was around 2k and a better buy at the time, but time passed and while I was saving some money , a friend of mine got this 28mm on a trade and sold to me for a really good deal because he knew I loved some old zeiss glass and the lens truly is amazing ! I shot my last music video mostly with it , as well as a couple shots with the 50mm and the 11-20 tokina for wide shots while I search for the 21mm zeiss here is the music video : kzbin.info/www/bejne/gHi8k4GvbNWngNE

[@nixietubes]

Love the real neon sign, keeping the craft alive 😉

[@MarkHoltze]

✊

[@ryanbennett2650]

Great timing, I just bought my Contax Zeiss 50mm 1.4 and 28mm 2.8 and really happy and fell in love with them. Already used them on a shoot before some testing. Seriously debating whether I should still get a 35mm and someone local to me still has an AEG 85mm 1.4 because I am really, really happy with just the two I already have!

[@MarkHoltze]

My first one was the 85mm 1.4 mint condition, then I got the Macro 60 2.8 AEJ, 50 1.4 and the last one was the 35. The 35 is pretty special I'll say that.

[@mtollin2002]

I'm fairly new to your channel. Great job. Watches like a doc film. Good effects. And glad to see you've upgraded lenses. ;)

[@GlennUpgraded]

Information-packed video! 👏🏼

[@MarkHoltze]

Thanks Glenn!

[@ericsamuels6250]

is there a. l mount adapter yet for these lens ?

[@rodrrico]

Advertisements were on point back in the 70s-80s. Love the Porsche integration and the Ninja Star bokeh is beautiful, albeit subjective and super stylistic. Love your new effects and channel style of late!

[@MarkHoltze]

Big money ads back then for sure. It’s changed a lot in the last 10 years I think. Still money, but not the same kind.

[@rodrrico]

Absolutely. It would be nice to have a revamp of these type of ads on massive billboards. It's art to me :D

[@mariolobo6639]

Great Content! Nice work!!

[@MarkHoltze]

Thanks mate! Appreciate it!

[@fabiosozza]

great video! thanks for sharing this

[@MarkHoltze]

Thanks for stopping by, might have been a bit dusty in here. It’s been awhile 😆 ✊

[@jalanpipes]

These Contax Zeiss lenses have completely overtaken my vintage lens collection. Great video. Looking forward to the next one.

[@MarkHoltze]

Thanks mate! They are my new obsession as well. Just waiting for all this to clear up before I review them, I need to be outside! The macro I could do sooner.

[@jalanpipes]

Mark Holtze oh, the 60/2.8 Makro Planar is a stellar lens! I was just using it today. From product shots to detail work, it’s easily my favorite from that collection.

[@MarkHoltze]

It’s responsible for all my close up shots now lol. I bought one with the box, warranty cards and everything just cause.

[@recrystal]

Great video! If you have an idea, how would you compare this lens to a Nikkor 50mm 1.4 AIS mainly for photo?

[@MarkHoltze]

Not sure first hand, apart from the focus being reversed. Haven’t played with too many nikkors

[@JPBaller97]

Beautiful, glad to see someone talk about these "hidden" gems. Are you planning to do future videos on which C/Y lenses you like, as well as possibly the subsequent ZE/ZF lenses, and their relationship to the C/Y line?

[@muffemod]

VINTAGE LENS KIT: @t page not found :(

[@MarkHoltze]

Ya not sure why. I need to fix those. I should just make a webpage. :(

[@raksh9]

Okay, that was worth waiting for. Great work. Will you make separate videos for the lenses you have?

[@MarkHoltze]

Yes for sure. Just wanted to get some general info about the lenses first. Saves me repeating it in the reviews. Get to use new info for those :)

[@jlcolton127]

This is great Mark. As a fellow lens nerd, I rely on these videos and they impact my decisions on which lenses to buy and try. So thank you! Currently testing the CY Zeiss 100mm f/3.5. I keep vacillating between keeping it and returning it. I can't tell yet if it could replace the Nikkor 105mm 2.5 pre-ai lens that I love and is about half the price.

[@MarkHoltze]

If you're going to build a set of the CZ's then maybe consider keeping it. If not, sell it and use the money to start building a pre ai kit. I feel consistency in the brand is the most helpful.

[@herbal7ea]

Hi Mark, love these videos and the way you deliver them. Quick question. I just go my Contax 35 1.4 lens, and it seems like everything is out of focus. I have the Contax 50 1.4 too, which focuses fine with the simple Fotodiox adapter I am using. (C/Y to EF, then EF to my S1H and A7iii). Did you have to do anything different with the 35? Or did I just get a bum lens?

[@MarkHoltze]

That’s so weird mate. It’s the same setup I have and zero issues. Any other way you can test it? 35 MMJ?

[@herbal7ea]

@@MarkHoltze 35 AEG. It's really weird. When I take off the adapter and lens wack real close to the sensor, it looks like it starts to get in focus more. All the Takumars and other Contax lenses work as expected. I wonder if a previous owner had it adapted to shoot mirrorless or something... (because of the closer focus).

[@crownborne]

Mark another solid video! Considering the situation right now would be a great time to seriously consider doing that 20 hour video segment haha cause it looks like Florida is going to be under curfew and then after quarantined ;)

[@bryguy9159]

Killer editing in this, now I want those lenses

[@MarkHoltze]

They’re good, they’re great...they’re made of pixie dust bexause the moment I held one, they had to be mine ;)

[@michelangelotorres_filmmaker]

Thanks again for this content that helped me to distract from coronavirus epidemic. With the entire country lockdown, parents away from where I live and uncertainty about what will happen in the next weeks, it's crucial to find some contents to free my mind even for a few minutes. Looking forward to watching the epic Takumar vs Zeiss battle!

[@MarkHoltze]

You’re young mate, just be mindful of your surrounds and stay safe. I was at ground zero for the whole SARS thing back in 2003 in Toronto and kept the same level of caution. Don’t let the headlines make you feel crazy. It should hopefully be over soon. Stay safe mate!

[@michelangelotorres_filmmaker]

​@@MarkHoltze yeah. I hope that the rulers of other nations, looking at what is going on here in Italy, will act promptly without underestimating the problem and make as many citizens as possible safe. It would be important because in this world we are all connected.

[@raksh9]

@@michelangelotorres_filmmaker Good luck out there, man. Stay safe and healthy, and you'll get through this.

[@cymbaline87]

Now I'm wondering...will you be using an 8 or 7 element takumar for that comparison video? Great video like always Mark!

[@MarkHoltze]

8 for sure...it’s the “planar killer” the lens thay took the crown; at the cost of losing money on every sale...;)

[@Exploredinary]

is the 85 1.4 better in an AE or MM?

[@MarkHoltze]

I’ve only used the MMJ, but as far as I can tell the optical design is the same, but coatings are different. Not sure if the AEJ has ninja bokeh based on its aperture blade design pattern.

[@J-S.P]

Right now I've just got a Canon EOS M, but this video has started me into that rabbit hole of obtaining Contax Zeiss lenses lol. I'm thinking of getting a Soony a7 III; should I put E-mounts on these lenses, or should I just use adapters? Thanks :)

[@GeraldBertramPhotography]

Media Division did an fantastic video on these lenses as well. Might have to look into getting at least one to try out for my video projects. Thanks, Mark!

[@MarkHoltze]

They totally did! If I didn't get my hands on a test sim-modded version last year they wouldn't even have been on my radar. But once I played with those for a while it was proof enough I needed to build out my own set for my commercial work. The consistent colour is what really sets them apart from the Takumar's when working in video.

[@joncandyfliprecords]

@mark holtze - I'm about to add my first lens to a Panasonic G7 for pure 4K video work (KZbin). This is for the love of it only - I can't monetize these videos, as they feature fully copyrighted music everytime. One great lens, for close-up and even macro video work for KZbin, needed. Is it a Contax, a Zeiss Flektogon MC 35, a Pentax Takumar, a Helios 44, or perhaps a Canon FD 50?

[@MarkHoltze]

That's awesome about the new lens for the G7. Can you find some non copyrighted music? That lens lineup is a good mix mate!

[@joncandyfliprecords]

@@MarkHoltze you misunderstand me Mark. I'm asking from that list, what would YOU choose to use? Also, the videos I'm doing feature the original artists and songs, so the answer is no on the music. See here : kzbin.info/www/bejne/nWOafp6efLSrr6M

[@JLCUT]

Great video, man! Question: Can these be modded to have a PL mount?

[@MarkHoltze]

Not sure if these can to be honest.

[@vedranculjak8262]

Great KZbin algorithm we got here, so glad it reads my interest so darn well. Thanks for video, imma subsrcibe right away!

[@MarkHoltze]

I was wondering where the spike came from. Welcome and thanks for stopping by!

[@vedranr.glavina7667]

Hrvat sam bio i Hrvat cu biti! Zivjela Hrvatska!

[@apache313]

I would love to see the head to heads with the takumars! Thanks for always educating.

[@MarkHoltze]

It’s coming :) thanks mate

[@alanalvarado6989]

Got a couple MMJ versions for my Contax S2. Really amazing lens

[@MarkHoltze]

Beauty! Hold onto them!!

[@CaptainMyCaptain33]

Glad you finally got to these lenses. They are probably one of my all time favorites for shooting. And they really are very close to the super speeds! It’s funny you mention Kubrick. He was notorious for shooting on single frame lenses that he had cined out. But saying Kubrick shot with this lenses and that lenses wasn’t his brilliance. He understood that every lenses was unique and had its own quality - as the glass was still hand ground in those days....He would buy a dozen or so of the same lens and pick the best one. And as far as the super speeds go, again it’s not hard to cine the contact lenses out to make a nearly identical lenses as they used the exact same glass. Pretty sure they have the same coatings as well but I could be wrong. If using a zoom, make that puppy par focal and cine it out and you are good to go. And for cheap too! Love these lenses. Love the Takumars also. But there are a few of these Contax lenses I would take over theSMC taki any day. Provided of course it’s a near perfect lens! Like all other old lenses. A near perfect mold free lens is hard to find. Refurbs can be great depending who done it. So I say buy a set. Have the very best of the best clean and mod them out. I can’t recommend a name now as my guy has since passed :/ but there are others.

[@MarkHoltze]

It's funny, I picked up the 85mm 1.4 MMJ (MINT) condition by the way from a guy selling it in Toronto. It was about right after I had to send back the modded Nikkor and Contax Zeiss set and it was that experience I realized I need to start collecting. From there it was the 60mm macro 2.8 AEJ, the 50mm 1.4 AEJ (might get an MM version, I just wanted the entire box set that came with the lens). The 35mm 1.4 because it's probably one of the best lenses for what I shoot and ya...looking at the 35-70 3.4 now. Not sure when it will stop...if ever.

[@EpicDubstepManiac]

Hi, did you consider getting lens from 645 and adapting it on the Sony with Kipon speedbooster? or in this case, any other Medium Format lens adapted to ff with speedbooster?

[@MarkHoltze]

I haven’t yet, but that would be cool!

[@christopherhoward6367]

Which lens do you think is sharper wide open? The Contax Zeiss 85mm f1.4? Or the Super Multi Coated Takumar 85mm f1.8? They’re similar in price and I don’t know which one I want to get.

[@MarkHoltze]

1.4 is much different than 1.8, the Zeiss at 1.8 is sharp, the Tak is a bit soft (lenses wide open rarely perform optimally). The Tak at 2.8 is perfect; so just depends I think. I should compare them

[@steveember8972]

I defy anyone who is not already a Contax SLR user not to suffer an immediate case of full-on LUST ;-) Great production, as usual, Mark. As a vinyl lover also, I enjoyed your lovely shots of tone arm-cartridge-disc chemistry as an, er, analog to the era of these lovely lenses - and bodies! As my German friends would say, Hut ab!

[@MarkHoltze]

It's a physical obsession first, I knew it once I held onto my first contax zeiss lens. I'm just obsessed with the brand now, the box art, down to the leather bags these lenses came in. Thanks for the kind words steve, happy new year mate.

[@steveember8972]

@@MarkHoltze Thank, Mark. Wishing you the same! When you have a moment, could you please shoot me a link to your comparison of the Carl Zeiss and Takumar 50/1.4 lenses. I own one of each (7-Element Tak and AEJ CZ) and will be interested to view your takes on these. Also, good to know the Ninja bokeh only affects a short range of apertures - I've not yet used the Zeiss 50 in bokeh producing situations, so it's a relief to know this bit of information!

[@jamomorrissey]

Great video! I’m an AE zeiss owner. I currently have 25mm f2.8/35mm f2.8/50mm f1.7/85mm f1.4 and I love them. Paired with pocket 4K, I’m getting good results. Keep up the good work.

[@MarkHoltze]

Thanks James, ya the Zeiss lenses are pretty fantastic. You've got a nice collection there mate! The pocket 4k produces unbelievable images, do you use a reducer on that Micro 4/3 sensor to reduce that crop?

[@jamomorrissey]

@@MarkHoltzeThanks mate! I currently have the viltrox speedbooster, but I've been debating whether to accept the crop and use a dumb mount or purchase a metbones cine speedbooster. Decisions! lol You using the metabones adapter? Do you recommend it with old glass?

[@MarkHoltze]

@@jamomorrissey I'm working on full frame myself, so I don't need a booster. Never used one actually, but know people who swear by them. I don't think they're required, but nice to be able to get that extra light and closer to original FOV the lenses are designed for. Totally up to you and your work.

[@jamomorrissey]

@@MarkHoltze Yeah, those are the reasons I'm leaning toward a speed-booster. It may all depend on the bank balance! lol Thanks for the interaction. All the best!

[@danielketchelos]

I was lucky enough to pick up a 50 1.4 AE at an antique store for $12.50, I love it so much!

[@MarkHoltze]

Wow!!! What a deal!! How’s the condition? I mean who cares for 12.50 but still lol

[@danielketchelos]

@@MarkHoltze pretty great actually! There aren’t any scratches, but there’s a decent amount of dust in the lens elements, I haven’t noticed too much of a drop in image quality though

[@BillionairesBoysClub]

Since Zeiss ZF/EF lenses are prone to fucs shift - Did you experience any focus shift in these lenses? Any advice would be aprreciated! And thank you very much for the in-depth review!

[@MarkHoltze]

There is some focus breathing on C/Y lenses. Most SLR stills focus breath a bit, they were designed with video in mind. I don't find them too intrusive though, it's rare i'm doing a massive focus pull where it would be a problem. I'd have to see how the ZF lenses compare, but need a set.

[@DoFurther]

Sooo much pleasing to watch!

[@MarkHoltze]

Thanks mate! It was a passion project for sure, found myself saying half way though "not even sure anybody will even care" but I just felt it was an important one to get out the way before I dive more closely into these lenses for review.

[@DoFurther]

@@MarkHoltze Oh, I'll re-watch it at least several times. Because there is so much details that I want to notice. It's like to listen a new track. First you just listen, then you emphasize only the beat, then violin or other instruments. It's layered experience for me )

[@ericcoen8894]

Which one is better? Use C/Y lens on CY to MFT adapter? Or just covert it to EF mount and then use is on Metabone speedbooster?🤪

[@MarkHoltze]

ohhhh not sure, anytime you put glass in front of a lens i feel there's a compromise there, but those boosters do great things for MFT sensor sizes and full frame lenses. I say go for the metabones to get the FOV bump

[@davidrecordon1160]

Great vid! Best piece of advice I can say to anyone building a set is simply choose AEG or MMJ. stick to it and build a set.

[@MarkHoltze]

This!

[@ajb73]

Great video as usual....

[@MarkHoltze]

Appreciate that Andy. I’m worried one day a video will be like “needs work” ;) keeps me motivated

[@ajb73]

Mark Holtze no chance. Your videos are so well executed, that will never happen 📷📸📷

[@lucacedrini]

Too quality, like every video. Great Mark!😍 I hope in the future a set of rivolutionary videos about anamorphic lens for videomakers without 20k money. 😅

[@MarkHoltze]

Thanks mate! Yes keep it accessible for sure!

[@clayz8098]

If I only had to get 3 lenses and wanted to shoot a "Tim Kellner - Valley of the Shadow" type of video and not on a huge budget let's say I wanna spend like 1000-1500$ on lenses, which 3 would you pick out of this list (18mm f4, 21mm f2.8, 25mm f2.8, 28mm f2.8, 50mm f1.4, 85mm f1.4)? Also what adapter would I need if I wanted to use these lenses on bmpcc6k or s1h? Thank you so much!

[@MarkHoltze]

Just depends on what focal lengths you want and what sensor those are pared with. They’re all good lenses, but angle of view for your composition is more important than the lenses. One wide, one medium and one mini telephoto. 28, 50 and 85 would be good.

[@user-ib1it2dv7r]

Great Video keep it up

[@MarkHoltze]

Thanks Anup!

[@vladimirs5029]

Wow... Great video

[@MarkHoltze]

I have no idea what came over me making this. I blacked out and like a dream woke up and it was published ;)

[@daniel635biturbo]

Damn, you are good, always interesting and entertaining! For a complete beginner on a budget, is there a better and free video editor, compared to Win movie maker ? (1080p)

[@MarkHoltze]

DaVinci Resolve is pretty powerful....also free version is very capable. Check it!

[@stevestrasser6833]

Hi Mark! I love to watch your vintage lenses reviews. You really got me hooked on the Takumars and I decided to buy the 85 and the 135 versions of them. But: do I see a S1H in your hand? If yes, have you decided on what gimbal you are going to put this awesome camera? I am in the process of comparing the best options here. My favorite so far is the Weebill S. Greetings from Europe!

[@MarkHoltze]

Weebill S I think is the best option. It’s great for heavier cameras and it’s priced right I think. I rarely use a gimbal and my Sony and Crane version 1 will be my go to when I do. The S1H is blowing me away though, fantastic camera! Just need more mounts to come out for it ;) You won’t be disappointed by either the 85 or the 135!

[@stevestrasser6833]

@@MarkHoltze Indeed, it is an amazing camera. In combination with vintage lenses a neverending delight. I bought the sigma mc 21 ef adapter. It costs nearly as much as my Carl Zeiss Flektogon 35 2.4. So you would go for the weebill s. Thanks for the tip and I am looking forward for your next review.

Great one Mark !!! I actually like ninja stars bokeh a lot. The only exception would be the pancake 45mm f2.8 that I would take in MM because I can use it on my Contax Aria with a close to point & shoot experience.

[@MarkHoltze]

Im' a fan myself, been seeing a lot of those patterns in latest season of Better Call Saul as well ;)

[@DanielAx]

Nooo, these are already expensive enough, stop fueling the hype! 😁 Great video!

[@MarkHoltze]

Takumars, Helios...canon FD’s, Pentacon (which are basically Zeiss lenses just lost a legal battle). You can do so much on a budget. I wouldn’t even consider these if i wasn’t already convinced based on my previous experience with the other brands.

[@DanielAx]

@@MarkHoltze I know, there are so many... It's not like I need the Contax, I just want them. 😁

[@ziggozwolle]

Very well done

[@MarkHoltze]

Thanks Bart 😊

[@isaacbedford3644]

Do you use After Effects? How do you achieve those awesome graphic effects in your videos?

[@MarkHoltze]

After Effects yes. Been awhile but happy to be back into it again.

[@zacharykepler3567]

Top notch video 👏🏼 What’s your thoughts on Contax Zeiss vs Leica R for video? Deciding between the 2 / build a set

[@MarkHoltze]

They're both fantastic to be honest, the differences are subtle I think. Contax have less natural contrast and more muted colours, this is a look many DP's like because it allows them a little more flex when pushing colour. The R's are beautiful, for me it just came down to how the Contax Zeiss lenses had me feel vs the Leica R's...I kind of committed to one over the other, but i'm not particular enough to really say why. R's I think have a stronger reputation and you'd have an easier time renting those out, but in my opinion you can't go wrong with either. I like the size of the Contax lenses a bit more too, a bit bigger and heavier with longer focus throws as far as I can tell (don't hold me to this). :)

[@crispin8888]

Like waiting for Christmas morning ....

[@DoFurther]

true

[@MarkHoltze]

TOTALLY !lol Even Christmas morning doesn't give me that Christmas morning feeling anymore, these do though ;)

[@reegorise941]

How can you keep your vintage lens safe I mean Everytime I have one after few months I start to see fungus in them ? Please help out what do you do to keep them safe

[@MarkHoltze]

mild dry places to store them is the best option, also keeping them away from other lenses that have fungus. I actually don't get any on my lens, they're just stored in my office.

[@elams1894]

Im looking forward to that rival video, oh yes indeed. I have a CZ Jena Pancola 50 1.8. It's a pretty sweet lens. Beautiful lenses you have there, I am jealous very much ha ha.

[@kainbre]

Great video !

[@MarkHoltze]

Thanks for stopping by and saying so mate!

[@kainbre]

@@MarkHoltze My pleasure.. looking forward to the next video as always! It's a realy nice to see someone enjoying so much making a video as you are! Btw i have 2 carl zeiss lenses. One is from 1958. (Altix nb)

[@csimpson8900]

Making the switch from Sony A7S II to the Panasonic Lumix?

[@MarkHoltze]

Sorta, will keep the two, but need the record specs of the Lumix for my professional work. Used all three in this video, works well with vintage which is what I was hoping for!

[@CraigMarshall_HDvideo4K]

Zeiss Contax are very under-rated lenses, especially for digital video where they offer a lower contrast than most modern glass so ideal for log grading. The constant aperture 35-70mm zoom is a real stunner but my firm favourite is the Contax 21mm Distagon F/2.8 which remains virtually a fixture on my Sony FS5 via a focal reducer. (aka: Speed Booster) The latter of course restores the Full Frame AoV on S35 sensors and gives me approximately F/2.0 at the sensor. Mated to the FS5's floating electronic ND, I set the 21mm at say F/8.0 where the focus is virtually from the glass to infinity with zero barrel or pin-cushion distortion. It's the wide angle lens you want when you don't want your pictures to look like a wide angle lens!

[@MarkHoltze]

agree 100% Thanks for the fantastic comment mate! Appreciate it!

[@garvinkelly]

you should check out the legendary zeiss ultron with the concave front element

[@user-om2fg7yh6s]

I've got a Contax G2 with a Carl Zeiss 45mm Planar F2 lens. Let me tell you the quality of this lens is nothing short of spectacular. It makes my 35mm images look like they could be medium format.

[@MarkHoltze]

That's amazing! I should check out the G2 stuff! Thanks, you have THE ANSWER.

[@jannevellamo]

I actually have some of these left over from the 80's, so I can tell you they really are that good, with the exception of the 50mm f 1,4, maybe.

[@MarkHoltze]

Brilliant! Hold onto them! I dig the 50, it’s a great video lens to be honest.

[@jannevellamo]

@@MarkHoltze I'm not saying it's a bad lens, it just doesn't seem to reach optimal sharpness before f4 and I really like sharpness. If I want to shoot at f4, I'm better off using my old Pentax 50mm f4 macro, which is outlandishly sharp, much lighter, smaller, equal in color definition and of course, it focuses a lot closer.

[@zirvecibekir3844]

I am a sportjournalist. I have a Carl Zeiss Planar 50mm f 1.1.4 T* lens that I use with my Contax RTS film camera. I want to use it on my Sony Nex mirrorless camera with a suitable adapter. What will the result be in terms of performance?

[@MarkHoltze]

Results will hold up. Contax translate to digital very nicely. They’re easily my fav lenses adapted to digital out of the many I’ve tried and own. Don’t think you will be disappointed.

[@nathanlewis5871]

tasty video as always

[@MarkHoltze]

Thanks Nathan!

[@Burritosarebetterthantacos]

You guys ever have any luck cleaning the inside of these old lenses? I discovered a decent sized piece of cotton inside one of mine. Thanks.

[@MarkHoltze]

It can be done, but I’ve never done it: like open heart surgery lol. I’m sure there are lots of forms that can walk you through the process. Sorry, wish I had better info for you mate.

[@NEOM80]

Have you ever try Carl Zeiss Jena DDR lenses?

[@MarkHoltze]

I had a Biotar 58 F2 on loan for review. I pronounced it Jena and not Yena and kicking myself over that still. That’s it though any recommends?

[@NEOM80]

​@@MarkHoltze I almost never used a CZJ lens directly but I have some of their soviet counterparts and they're really nice. I would recommend Flektogons 20mm, is really nice, they're other lenses like Sonnars, Biometars, etc...

[@MarkHoltze]

@@NEOM80 Thanks so much for the recommends mate! I'll check those out once this crazy global situation calms down a bunch.

[@MarkHoltze]

@@NEOM80 Copy mate! Thank you so much! I'll check those out!

[@oetproductions8101]

I smoked a number just now and kept thinking: „What the hell is a Zeiss baby?“

[@MarkHoltze]

😂 it’s whatever you want it to be

[@richardweddle3408]

Can this lens be used with a matte box? or does the top ring turn around / pull up with the focus ring?

[@MarkHoltze]

The macro lens turns on focus, the 60 macro but it’s got a lot of flare suppression based on the front glass element. All the other primes have a fixed front so yes they can be used with matte boxes with a front rings attached.

[@richardweddle3408]

@@MarkHoltze Many thanks.

[@richardweddle3408]

@@MarkHoltze -- many thanks.

[@themanfromoregon6047]

I've had a lot of luck finding deals on vintage glass recently. After snagging the canon FD 55mm 1.2 aspherical on christmas eve, In mid january I managed to snag a CZ Ultron 50mm 1.8 at about 1/5 it's ebay price (on an Icarex body). I didn't think i'd snag more zeiss glass anytime soon, but then stumble accross a used gear add that led me to snag a 159MM with the MM Carl Zeiss Planar 50mm 1.4 T* also for sub 100 bucks. The mantle in my living room is growing sexier daily.

[@TheGuigotz]

Hi Mark, I want to buy a kit of vintage primes, really undecided between all the great options you review, what would be your choice for best value ? a trinity of lenses

[@MarkHoltze]

Hmmmm, depends. What camera are you on? Photography or video?

[@TheGuigotz]

@@MarkHoltzefor video, Sony a7iii

[@MarkHoltze]

Contax Carl Zeiss are my fav right now. Consistent quality, easy to adapt and work well for both photo and video. They’re expensive. Had I know when I started what I know now I would have focused on a full set of those. 35, 50 and 85, 135. If that’s too rich, canon FD’s are good and of course Takumars are great as well. Def the best bang for your buck imho.

[@TheGuigotz]

@@MarkHoltze nice thank you! I've been thinking about making "anamorfake" adaptations on them so maybe get cheaper first like helios to get practice and them trying on these more expansive right?