My new favorite lenses.

[@RemmyMusic1]

your shots bother me. why aren't they in professional films? It literally looks like a movie in those quick b roll shots in the intro

[@BlaineWestropp1]

😂😂 when I first started reading this I was preparing to get in a passive argument with you. Thank you 😊.

[@PeterDiBussolo]

@@BlaineWestropp1lol same

[@WE_ARE_2113]

Just shot a commercial on these lenses. Sat on the 35 1.4 for the majority of the shoot. The close focus is great and wide open they are gorgeous. Great lenses.

[@BlaineWestropp1]

That’s awesome. Would love to see it when it is available. I definitely want to get the 35.

[@YuvalAloni]

they look lovely looking forward to seeing a project shot on them

[@BlaineWestropp1]

Me too!

[@aldo]

I love my Contax Zeiss lenses, I'll be using then soon with a S16mm film camera, let's see how it goes! And great video and shots btw!

[@BlaineWestropp1]

Hey thanks Aldo! That’s cool you will be using on s16. What mount do you have on them?

[@aldo]

Right now I have them with the original mount + EF adapter, it's working great and seems sturdy, but I'm thinking to potentially change the mount soon.@@BlaineWestropp1

[@BlaineWestropp1]

Cool!

[@cokebottles6919]

A properly cinemodded set of vintage lenses are fully capable of working on many jobs. Contax Zeiss are awesome. I have a set of Mamiya Sekor C's with a PL focal reducer that I absolutely love, but they're a very different look. I'm happy to see clean and more affordable cine lenses being made now like the Athena's, but some brands just got it right back in the 70s and 80s and are a fantastic option.

[@BlaineWestropp1]

yep. 100%. thats cool that you have the mamiyas with the booster. I used these on a job a few months back, but they were not speed boosted. I still liked them. once I saw that it was fairly easy to put an LPL mount on the contax I figured id give it a go and am glad I did. Athenas look good too.

[@cokebottles6919]

@@BlaineWestropp1 I'm considering getting an LPL focal reducer for my set, mostly because it has a locking 645 mount. The only issue I've run into on my set is the 645 mount can shift a tiny bit on a couple of the lenses if the focus is racked back and forth quickly. I ended up fully servicing them and added the lightest helicoid grease I could find which worked well.

[@BlaineWestropp1]

Good to know. I would def get the focal reducer! Will really allow you to get that edge character into your image.

[@scottmorgason]

Why did you bring me down this rabbit hole with you? Just bought the 28 mm! Love your stuff...keep going!

[@BlaineWestropp1]

Haha I went deep into that one. Love it. You should join the discord… a whole bunch of people introducing everyone to so many rabbit holes.

[@simonspierings5413]

I have built a really nice set of the 18mm 4.0, 28mm 2.0, 35mm 1.4, 50mm 1.4, 85mm 1.4 and 135mm 2.8 and they're LOVELY.

[@BlaineWestropp1]

that is a great set right there. think I may need to do the same, + the 21mm. They make such a nice image.

[@TheJ_G]

@@BlaineWestropp1 Just a heads up. The Contax Zeiss 21mm seems to have common hazing problems on elements in the middle that can’t easily be cleaned. Sellers on eBay have been known to try and hide these issues. Which can be a painful discovery at the prices they go for. I’ve owned two copies and one was very hazy and sold as “like new” haha. It wasn’t immediately apparent without pushing back light through it. When I called around to see if it could be cleaned/serviced, it was basically a dead end even at reputable shops. The only vintage 21mm that I believe can outperform the Contax 21mm is the old Minolta 21mm f2.8. They’re also hard to find, and come with their own mounting challenges, but it performed better and cleaner than both of my Contax Zeiss 21mm lenses.

[@simonspierings5413]

Yep, the 18mm can be a tad soft so might replace it with the 21mm in the future! @@BlaineWestropp1

[@0800filmez]

Which brand are these?

[@ryanmoorman7799]

Got a set of Olympus OM Zuikos (28, 50, 85, 135, 35-70, 75-150) and while they are pretty soft wide open, once you stop them down to 4/5.6 (where I like to live anyway), they are magic. Used the Leitax EF conversions and it's like having a native EF mount lens, such a great value if you don't want the latest and greatest.

[@BlaineWestropp1]

I definitely want to try the Olympus OMs. Good set you got there.

[@flyingfox2005]

I own far too many lenses, Supe Baltars, Movicams, Cineovisions, Hyperprimes, Tokinas... and time and again I'm drawn back to the Zeiss Contax, which were the first vintage lens set I really invested in maybe 10 years ago. We use them with some of our biggest clients and they are reliable, solid, sharp, but also not overly funky. The 28mm f2.8 has been out with us on almost every shoot for the last few months - a stupidly cheap lens that despite the "slower" stop, out performs many lenses that cost double.

[@BlaineWestropp1]

I love this. And I’m glad I got into these and can’t wait to get the rest. How do you the moviecams?

[@flyingfox2005]

@@BlaineWestropp1 whenever I go into a situation where I'm unsure what will work, I always know Contax will give me a solid result. (This is assuming I don't want to use MUCH more expensive lenses). I'll never get rid of the Contax, as they are just a great compact back up set, that cuts well with more expensive lenses. You need the 35-70mm - a very unexpected lens. The Moviecams are nice, rehoused Olympus OMs - so a touch creamier than the Contax in terms of skin tones, but all a constant f2 (although better at 2.8)

[@flyingfox2005]

@@BlaineWestropp1 oh and if you wanted PL versions of the Contax, (I know you have them on LPL so probably not required) the Zeiss Rollei on QBM mount are basically the same optics on a different mount... which unlike Contax mount "can" be modded to PL.

[@BlaineWestropp1]

The 35-70… almost started with that one. If you’re saying I need it.. I’ll do it 😂

[@BlaineWestropp1]

The LPLs are treating me well right now but good to know about this option for PL. as always.. thank you!

[@danielp_adams]

Before i built my Nikkor Ai set i was debating getting into the Contax, they have a great look for sure. Great video Blaine!

[@BlaineWestropp1]

Hey thank you! The Nikkors are great too from what I’ve seen but I don’t have experience with them. What made you go with them?

[@danielp_adams]

@@BlaineWestropp1 I wanted a little more neutral/sharp look that would work for a wider variety of work (i mostly do commercials and some docs). It's hard to explain a "vintage" low contrast , not so sharp look to a commercial client looking at the monitor haha. Also, when i put my set together, prices for the faster Nikkors were a lot more affordable.

[@BlaineWestropp1]

Cool. I feel you. Maybe I need to take a look at the nikkors. One set at a time I suppose. Had fun with the Jenas, having fun with contax.

[@danielp_adams]

@@BlaineWestropp1 Contax are a more neutral look it’s just that they were a lot more expensive at the time compared to faster Nikkor lenses. It’s cool to be able to test a bunch of different lenses for sure.

[@Milan-cf1xe]

@@danielp_adams Are you still happy with hr Nikkors and which focal lengths can you recommend?

[@migbrgd]

Actually building a set of these! Glad to hear that you like them!

[@BlaineWestropp1]

nice! yes I love them a lot haha

[@migbrgd]

@@BlaineWestropp1 Don’t know if you’ve played around with the 85 1.4, but I feel like it’s almost unusable (for most cases) due to just how soft it is and the chromatic aberration is pretty rough. Everything is good at F2-2.8 (the 50mm isn’t as bad at 1.4) 1.4 just feels “too much” with CZ lenses in my opinion. But they seem to shine at 2.8 If I could go back I think I’d go for the 2.8 and save a bit of money. Trying to decide if I pick up the 35 1.4 or 2.8 for my set. Thoughts?

[@BlaineWestropp1]

For the 35 I would go 1.4. I like wide fast lenses. 50 and beyond I’m fine with 2.8!

[@sballiet]

I've got a full set and the 35mm f/1.4 and 28mm f/2 are really standouts for me.

[@BlaineWestropp1]

34 1.4 may be next for me. Do you have the 28 in MMJ or AEG?

[@sballiet]

@@BlaineWestropp1 I've got the 28 AEG in all it's ninja star glory.

[@BlaineWestropp1]

@sballiet maybe I need it :) going 35 next. Also need that 21 😭

[@sballiet]

@@BlaineWestropp1 DO IT. 21 was always on my list but hard to get behind that price for a focal length I don't use that often. I have the 18mm f/4 and it's an interesting lens, but just doesn't make the same magic for me so I don't use it often, plus vignetting is pretty extreme at lower apertures.

[@sballiet]

​@@BlaineWestropp1 Also, years ago I pulled as much information as I could into a Google Sheet about the entire Contax Zeiss lenses if it helps on your journey: docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1Snw3QsvVPgq75Io9f4I3xXsg8sl4jTowm87lBnUQsN0/edit?usp=sharing

[@7thHill112]

Nailed it, I've been collecting Leica R and Olympus OM for some time now - they fall into that category of reasonably / pleasingly sharp vintage. Contax Zeiss and the Nikkor ais were always on my list too - I might have to pick up the 28mm, possibly my favorite focal length. I hear really really good things about some of the vintage Leica M glass, but how small the housing is concerns me

[@BlaineWestropp1]

I don’t know much about Leica M. I’ve heard good things about Olympus OM and have used and like the Leica rs. Also, the contax 28 is really really nice!

[@cleverghostchili]

So handsome with them big brown eyes and the scruff is really coming along nicely. Glad I clicked this video. Oh, Blaine looks okay too.

[@BlaineWestropp1]

😂😂 👋

[@bbrunorocha]

I've been collecting Contax Zeiss lenses for about 4 years or so, sold everything i had and only have this set, I love it ! The 28mm f2 is my favorite, you should definitely get one if you find !

[@BlaineWestropp1]

I love the current 28 I have so much I can only imagine the f2! I want them all actually. The 35 1.4 is next.

[@bbrunorocha]

@@BlaineWestropp1 I went with the 35mm 2.8 because it was the only one i could find it here in Brasil, but the 1.4 is legendary for sure !

[@lazsmith]

Great timing. Just picked up a duclos version of the 28 F2 and 100 2.8 and they're both incredible lenses. I'll be getting more for sure.

[@BlaineWestropp1]

Awesome. They are true gems!

[@champagnesocialist9301]

I definitely agree with you that in a flooded marketplace the Vintage Lens rehoused route is a great way to go, particularly with Alexa LF and other large format cameras. However, on Super35 I prefer sharpness and clarity from Zeiss Master Primes or Panavision Primos… or anamorphic. Nice videos man.

[@BlaineWestropp1]

hey thank you! and I agree with you. my lens preferences are ever changing, but I do like clean stuff. I still like the contax, I like master primes. I just tested lomos and they are crazy and I love them as well.

[@aaronw8525]

Shots look great. There is definitely something special about the Contax lenses. I feel fortunate to have picked up a 25, 28, 50, and the 35-135. The 25 is an AEG and seems to have some extra special sauce.

[@BlaineWestropp1]

Ooo I’m jealous of your set. I need to scoop up some more.

[@anhdvids]

These lens mods hack are super interesting to hear. Maybe a whole video on DIY vintage lens hacks would be super helpful 🤞🤞

[@BlaineWestropp1]

Let me see what I can do :)

[@ItsBerg]

I use the Zeiss ZE Classics and Leica R’s in EF mount, which I use with a locking RF/EF adapter or speed booster. I love some vintage lenses!!!

[@BlaineWestropp1]

Love a locking mount. Wait don’t the ZEs only have electronic iris? I love the ZE/ZF and Leica R as well!

[@ItsBerg]

@@BlaineWestropp1 yep only electronic iris, the ZF’s for Nikon have the aperture ring but the focus goes backwards, which is a tiny gripe I have with them. I’ve been able to use them on every modern body (shooting with Komodo X, and C70 right now) so I’m ok with it being electronic. The Leica R’s are my true love though.

[@BlaineWestropp1]

@@ItsBerg cool. I used to use the ZF, but modded to EF just to get that manual iris. But as long as the ZEs talk to the camera you’re good. Obviously. I also love the Leica R. My friend who lives close has a set which is probably why I haven’t gone down that path.

[@ItsBerg]

@@BlaineWestropp1 for sure!! A part of me is so good with vintage glass that I sometimes don’t feel as though I need cine primes etc, especially when I can be more mobile with a great set of vintage glass. The new Athena set has been calling my name though, looks to be a great deal. Right now though, I want to practice lighting a bit more. I have all of the toys but now I need to dig deeper into the core of the craft, lighting!!

[@kilikdudley]

28 and 135 - my favorite focal lengths as well!

[@BlaineWestropp1]

I love them a lot! I did one commercial project with only those 2 lenses and it looked great!

[@upcrazylate7671]

Amazing content dude. You got my sub. Would you recommend the 1.4 or the 2.8 for the 35mm?

[@BlaineWestropp1]

thank you! man I want the 1.4! i think I have to recommend the 1.4. I know it's pricier than the others, but if you compare it to modern lenses, it is nicely priced.

[@upcrazylate7671]

@@BlaineWestropp1 Thanks for the response! Keep making the fire content

[@BlaineWestropp1]

Thank you thank you :)

[@upcrazylate7671]

@@BlaineWestropp1 I copped the 28mm 2.0 and the 50mm 1.4 I have a red dragon I think those will pair nicely with the S35. Might get more down the road CHEERS!

[@mutumbilungu]

Absolutely phenomenal footage. Now I have to pick these up before the price inflates DRASTICALLY haha

[@myvideoguy]

Prices jumped a few years back, then settled, then jumped for the MMJs in more recent times. Still... a nice price point.

[@mutumbilungu]

@@myvideoguy ​​⁠ thanks for the info! Crazy to know they were even cheaper than they already are.

[@BlaineWestropp1]

Thank you. They really do look great. Price is nuts!

[@rezaVfx]

Totally agree! I believe even Zeiss Classic can't beat CY buz the classic offers you a more modern look where CY brings you a very nicely controlled vintage texture

[@BlaineWestropp1]

yep, love them both!

[@mauriceschoenen]

But I think a lot of the Zeiss Classics use the same formulas

[@BlaineWestropp1]

Yep agreed

[@mauriceschoenen]

Maybe the difference is the type of glass used. What I like about the Classics is that they are often in a better shape, no problems with fungus, etc., but still pleasing aesthetics

[@Milan-cf1xe]

@@mauriceschoenen Which focal lengths do you have?

[@DavidAcampora]

How do you like them compared to the Jenas? I have both and I'm thinking about selling my EF Contax's to help fund the Jena rehousing but it might be nice to have a full set PL and EF.

[@BlaineWestropp1]

I like both. I like how I can buy Jenas with a PL mount on them and I love the look of them. I would need to do side by side to really know which I prefer but I dont have the Jenas on me 😭. would you rehouse through ironglass? TK?

[@DavidAcampora]

Decided to go with ironglass. The preorder discount was too good to pass up. Now I just need to convince them to make me a wide angle adapted 20mm…🤔

[@BlaineWestropp1]

@@DavidAcampora oh wow I am jealous. pissed I missed that. where ya based?

[@DavidAcampora]

@@BlaineWestropp1 Vegas.

[@adamdrakestudio]

Used to have the 50mm. Sold it because of low cash flow a couple years ago. Miss it.

[@BlaineWestropp1]

Maybe it’s time to get it back?

[@girafingo9280]

Ever shoot on the Zeiss Otus? I did a shoot with them and ended up getting a set. Bit sharp but incredible separation.

[@BlaineWestropp1]

Yes I have. They are really nice.

[@RileyEndicott]

I just picked up a 25 2.8 and 50 1.4. Can’t wait to start using them!

[@BlaineWestropp1]

awesome. the 25 is also on my list. I pretty much just want them all.. lol

[@ghospod]

Nice one! Loving my CZ set, I use them quite often.

[@BlaineWestropp1]

Thank you. I am loving them so far. Can’t wait to get a few more!

[@DarraghCox]

I've a set of 4 and love them. 25 2.8, 35 1.4, 50 1.4, 85 1.4. My focus rings are stiff on the 35 80 and a small bit in the 50. But that's just age. They need a service. Very nice image from them

[@BlaineWestropp1]

Nice set right there. Need to get on your level.

[@marius_thsch]

Sold my Contax set to get the Otus. I am definitely going back one day. The 1.7/50 is magical, just saying 👌🏻

[@BlaineWestropp1]

Otus is definitely great. I really wanted something in PL/LPL. Can you put PL mounts on Otus do you know!

[@marius_thsch]

@@BlaineWestropp1 The Otus lenses are my best investment ever. Yes, you can put LPL on the ZF.2 versions! Simmod sell the ZF.2 - LPL kits, so you can definitely check that out. I’m still in EF, so I’m running the standard Leitax conversion.

[@BlaineWestropp1]

@marius_thsch ooo cool. I always thought that simmod LPL mount was just for the older ZFs. My only issue going this route is that the price of the Otus is enetering the world of.. I could just get lenses I don’t need to mod. I’ll go all in on contax bc they are affordable, but Otus is way more expensive and at that point id just consider picking up some native cine lenses, unless of course you tell me the Otus is better than other options in that price range :)

[@marius_thsch]

@@BlaineWestropp1 But yes, I loved my Contax series, and I definitely want to pick up the 2.8/28 and the 1.7/50 again in a heartbeat. STAY AWAY FROM THE 4/18! It is not with it.

[@DJBFilmz]

Couldn't agree more. I got myself Milvus and Otus and love em. But I also got some Mercuries on the way. Also, I'll fly out for a rooftop party.

[@BlaineWestropp1]

haha rooftop 2024. LFG. I like milvus and otus. it's cool you have that. super nice. I also have mercury set on the way.

[@SuperAlfie14]

I had a set of Contax, cine-rehoused by GL Optics. Sadly had to sell for the gaff this year. Lovely lenses!

[@BlaineWestropp1]

oo super cool that you had those. I have considered potentially rehousing once I get full set. did they alter the iris at all? I like the original iris.

[@SuperAlfie14]

Hey Blaine, sorry for my some reason my reply didn't send! Changed to T-stops. Seems the same as before. @@BlaineWestropp1

[@TheJairoObando]

Good god, you're gonna make my precious Contax set skyrocket in price before I can finish my set haha.

[@BlaineWestropp1]

IM SORRY!

[@davemorphling7432]

Can you do a DaVinci guide how to achieve anamorphic look in-post?

[@BlaineWestropp1]

Yes but I do believe I go over it here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/n3PXYnSsitSkiKssi=_xvjOwlEtetxSwtd There are other things you can do too like a depth map, or magic mask + vertical lens blur.

[@davemorphling7432]

Thanks, I'd already watched that, and watched it again now too. Still, I think another tutorial would be helpful to discuss characteristics of major Anamorphics lenses, like stigmatism and/or circular blur, etc @@BlaineWestropp1

[@BlaineWestropp1]

Noted 😊

[@OrangeBrick8]

Looking to get into vintage lenses. I need to be able to easily adapt to ef. Ideally a 24 or 35mm. What do you recommend under $100?

[@BlaineWestropp1]

This is a tough one. Let me think about it.

[@jeanpierreisyou2]

Once you go down this rabbit hole, you'll get hype on the rare ones lol, like the 85 f1.2, 135 f2 and the 55 f1.2! My favs from my set are the 35 f1.4 and surprisingly the 25 f2.8. Had the 28 f2.8, but the f2 is magical. You should also check out Simmod's Aperture off set mod for these, rigging it to the Alexa with motors looks to work great with them.

[@BlaineWestropp1]

I’m already hype on the rare ones. I think 35 1.4 is up next. I like the wider end of things, and then I like to jump to 135. I saw those aperture offsets. Definitely cool. Right now on the LPL the aperture ring is slightly hard to get to by hand, but that’s fine for now.

[@jeanpierreisyou2]

@@BlaineWestropp1 😂😂😂 you know it! Then you’ll def enjoy the 25 too. But the 35 is my fav. Yeah I haven’t got them yet, but of a investment when it’s not a need right now. I use them with the ef mount on my Alexa, so I’m cool with it too for now. Next I’m experimenting with using them as taking lens for anamorphic set ups, we’ll see where that leads lol

[@BlaineWestropp1]

I’ve heard they are great taking lenses. I could see slapping an aivascope on at some point. Though I am entering a spherical phase. The 30 1.4 and the 21 I am most excited about. Almost got the 25 instead of the 28 but was convinced to go 28. You should join the discord!

[@jeanpierreisyou2]

@@BlaineWestropp1 yeah looking at different things! Would LVOE to ge thy hands on some Shiga Glass fronts and make some poor mans panavision lens. We'll see! The 21 is niiiice, but rare and $$$. Word, I'll look for the link!

[@WillJauregui]

have you had any experience with the NiSi Athena Primes? Those seem to be pretty clean and neutral new affordable cine lenses.....although not as affordable as these contax of course lol

[@BlaineWestropp1]

I have not tried them but they do look nice from what I have seen. I also like the size. Also, I am a fan of the DZO vespids, which have the most complete focal range for that price point.

[@phillipkeefe]

Cute dog dude. Are those Contax old stills lenses?

[@BlaineWestropp1]

Haha thanks. Yes from the 70s/80s

[@phillipkeefe]

@@BlaineWestropp1 I've thrown a few old Nikkor Ai-S lenses on my camera and have gotten really nice results.

[@Chinois]

Great video! Just had a tip for editing. I've been noticing little pops inbetween audio cuts, I have the same issue with Premiere, a quick crossfade will fix that. Personally I've set the fade to about 3 frames so it's basically unnoticable, but it will get rid of the pops. Again, nice video, been really enjoying your content!!

[@BlaineWestropp1]

Ah yes thank you. It’s funny I can’t hear the pops unless I put headphones in and I don’t always put headphones in when editing. And I have 100s of jump cuts. It won’t happen again 🫡

[@Maddtuna]

what's the difference between the 28 you have and the 28 f/2 "Hollywood"?

[@BlaineWestropp1]

besides the stop.. im not totally sure. I don't think they made a 28 MMJ, and if thats the case, the iris design is different.

[@RobinParmar]

The 28/2 has a distinctive rendering wide open that cannot be achieved otherwise. It has floating elements to optimise shooting at the close focus distance of 24cm. There is distinct field curvature which can be used creatively to get incredible subject isolation despite the wide angle of view. It is a unique lens.

[@alexferrec9439]

Woweeeee nice views from your place. I’d bring the bourbon to your party. Love your videos!!

[@BlaineWestropp1]

thank you! see you this summer :)

[@Maddtuna]

I thought it would be annoying to use a soddering iron but I modded my leica r's with one and it's really quick and easy. nothing stripped.

[@BlaineWestropp1]

Good to know. I’ll mod the rest with an iron. Thank you!

[@myvideoguy]

Are you intending to build a set of just MMJs or AEGs, or a mix of both? From what you're motivation with these is in the video I gathered you'd be building an MMJ sets (which seem to be more popular now) because of their slightly cleaner look ie no ninja star bokeh at wider open stops, and more retention of contrast in the MMJs than the AEGs esp when pointed toward the sun / bright sources etc etc? I like the AEGs personally. Even the zooms are decent, and a ridiculously cheap price.

[@BlaineWestropp1]

I am intending to build a set. I think the look is perfect and can be used on so many different types of projects. AEG vs MMJ.. I chose MMJ based on research and recommendations from people that know the lenses. I don't think you can go wrong either way. Also, I do want the zooms!

[@S.P.I.L.L.]

Are these the Planars or Sonnars? They look great! I’ve only tried cinemodding a Helios 44-2 in the past and the result was really fun!

[@BlaineWestropp1]

28 is a distagon, 135 is a sonnar. But.. those names only refer to focal length ranges. They do not dictate a different in lens I am pretty certain. It’s just like names for “wide” or “telephoto” Edit: I could be wrong here. I just remember I used to believe that the names meant it was like a different line of lens, when in fact a matching set could have all different names for different focal lengths and close focus distances, while still all being the same set of lenses if that makes sense.

[@S.P.I.L.L.]

gotcha, I'll do some research to see if I can find a definitive answers on the names!@@BlaineWestropp1

[@S.P.I.L.L.]

They're different sets: "...the Planar lens delivered superior image definition with an unusually wide aperture for that time. In particular, the field curvature was very low. In other words, the image was very "plane" or flat - which is precisely what the name "Planar" was supposed to suggest." - 'From the Series of Articles on Lens Names: Planar' by H. H. Nasse "Compared to Planar designs the Sonnar had more aberrations, but with fewer glass-to-air surfaces it had better contrast and less flare. Though compared to the earlier Tessar design, its faster aperture and lower chromatic aberration was a significant improvement." en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Zeiss_Sonnar#:~:text=The%20Zeiss%20Sonnar%20is%20a,simple%20design%20and%20fast%20aperture. Distagons were part of a development series that fixed the issue of lenses having to be far away from prisms when technicolor cameras took over, which previously limited cinematographers to shooting on 50mm and longer lenses. "Thus a Distagon is a wide-angle lens with a large distance to the image" -'From the series of articles on lens names: Distagon, Biogon and Hologon' by H. H. Nasse @@BlaineWestropp1

[@RobinParmar]

@@BlaineWestropp1 The name refers to the lens design family not necessarily focal length. Planar were originally symmetrical designs improving on the classic "double Gauss" with lower field curvature and low distortion... hence the name was derived from "plane". Tessar derives from the Greek word for "four", the number of lens elements. Advantages of this simplistic design include compact size and low cost. Sonnar derives from the German "Sonne" ("sun") indicating a bright aperture. In the Contax line these are telephoto lenses balancing compact size and high image quality, but actually slower and less expensive than their Planar counterparts. (The first Sonnar back in 1929 was a 50mm f/2.) The Distagon is a retrofocus design allowing a wide field of view without those protruding rear elements that would interfere with a mirror assembly. The suffix “gon” derives from the Greek word for angle and signifies a wide angle lens. Hence: Flektogon, Hologon, Biogon.

[@travislu3748]

What's your personal opinion on how they look vs Leica R's?

[@BlaineWestropp1]

I’d need to do a side by side to really know as the R’s are not fresh in my mind.. wish I could give you a better answer.

[@allen_bernardo_jr]

These b-roll shots look so clean 👏 👏 apologies if you mentioned this in the video but did you use anything particular to color grade them? they *do* look like movie shots man crazy 👏

[@BlaineWestropp1]

Thank you. I have a few looks I’ve made over the years and this is one of them. I apply the look and then adjust the exposure, and temp/tint, underneath. Stay tuned 😉

[@richardlonsdale]

Your shots look fantastic. How much of the look is coming from the LUT would you say vs the lens? Would love to see a basic ungraded color space to compare. @@BlaineWestropp1

[@BlaineWestropp1]

Here is the whole video in rec700, without my look. Just for you :) kzbin.info/www/bejne/d3zYfqyYa7-MnLcsi=BlKVpjBbp2VitMxX

[@allen_bernardo_jr]

Mannn I appreciate it haha!! The footage without the look is already nice but with the look you developed for the video you can really appreciate the work you did in post even more, takes it to another level like actual movie/film-like shots well done man👏 @@BlaineWestropp1

[@BlaineWestropp1]

@bernardo32121 thank you thank you :)

[@Movie_Therapy]

Hey Blaine does the Contax Zeiss 135mm 2.8 have a Sonnar mark, or it's a Distagon? Thanks!

[@Movie_Therapy]

Got an answer. Thanks.

[@LucaBono.Studio]

Your next video = vintage lenses + vintage anamorphic projection scopes 😂

[@BlaineWestropp1]

😂 there will be something vintage in my next (hopefully next) video, but it is not necessarily the lens :)

[@morucek]

Great video. I’m glad I came across your channel

[@BlaineWestropp1]

Hey thanks! Glad you are here.

[@MustanGameR]

I bought the 28mm 2.8 a week ago and I love the processing! I use the lens on my A7 III and do not understand exactly what you change in this video by screwing? I am currently using a lens apdapter from K&F, but I would like to be able to use the lens without an adapter to my e-mount ... is that somehow possible through modification? Thank you!😅

[@BlaineWestropp1]

hey! love the 28. I changed the mount to an LPL mount so I could put it on an Alexa. the mount is from simmod. for the LPL mount you basically just take the screws out and screw on the LPL mount. I believe they also have EF mounts. for the EF mounts you may need to take off the original mount and install the EF mount, I am not totally sure. does this answer your question?

[@sergsteam]

great lenses, great look. Sometimes I want to add to the character, so could you tell me how and with what instrument you made this distortion effect? Thank you.

[@BlaineWestropp1]

great look. do you mean for the clip that transitioned from clean to "vintage?" if so, that used multiple effects inside of resolve. The distortion was the "lens distortion" OFX plugin, but I prefer the lens distortion in the edit panel. I only used OFX so I could keyframe it.

[@gemckay1]

Looks so good man! Have you tried any of the old Nikon Nikkor AI/AIS lenses? Thoughts?

[@BlaineWestropp1]

thank ya, im happy with them. love it. I havent had any experience on the nikkors but I am currently hearing great things. makes me want to look at them.

[@gemckay1]

@@BlaineWestropp1 nice! I just snagged a 50mm recently but haven’t done any real tests with it yet! Was curious to know your thoughts in case you had used them. You peaked my interest on the contax tho big time!

[@BlaineWestropp1]

There are some Nikkor people in my discord. You should join.

[@gemckay1]

@@BlaineWestropp1 will do, joining now! Thank you

[@exchromaproductions]

What’s the aspect ratio of your talking head shot? Great review of the contax Zeiss!

[@BlaineWestropp1]

hey thanks. that shot is 2:1 :)

[@chakk0]

Love Zeiss ❤️

[@BlaineWestropp1]

Love. Love the Jenas too.

[@chakk0]

@@BlaineWestropp1 all Zeiss tbh, also the zf ❤️

[@BlaineWestropp1]

All of them!

[@AustenLeathers]

n00b question. Let’s say I’m shooting on the C70. Would using a Contax/Yashica to RF converter be just as effective?

[@BlaineWestropp1]

yes! if you can get the lens on your camera.. it'll work!

[@christophermoore1068]

Yo! How'd you grade / build that warped look @ 8:02min? Amazing

[@BlaineWestropp1]

Im not seeing it at 8:02, is that the right time?

[@raythenoodle1722]

What do u think about the new bmcc 6k?

[@BlaineWestropp1]

I like it. I’ve always liked blackmagic cameras bc the menu is simple and the image is good. I especially like the tall sensor on the new one and think it’s a smart buy.

[@CartyCantDance]

I would love any of these contax Zeiss lenses. Also I’ll bring mezcal to that nyc party 😂

[@BlaineWestropp1]

haha sounds good. summer 2024, you can try the lenses.

[@JesusMartinezCreates]

I been loving my Jena 20mm as well

[@BlaineWestropp1]

I really love the Jena 20. It’s amazing!

[@JesusMartinezCreates]

@@BlaineWestropp1 yes!!!! Just finished my set of jena, also got the contax set. They are still fairly cheap and give a simlar look to expensive glass. I think I got the jena from your video talking about it haha

[@BlaineWestropp1]

@JesusMartinezCreates I really love them both! Glad you finished the set. Hope it treats ya well

[@AaronCabreroJr]

Any recommendations for getting them cine modded and converted to PL? I want to use them with 35mm analog arri pl cameras , great video btw :)

[@BlaineWestropp1]

At the moment I don’t know of any PL conversions. You can easily go to LPL like what I did and then get an LPL mount for your camera, but you can’t put an LPL mount on every camera. So it’s either find a place that makes them LPL or wait until one of the few rehousing companies makes a rehouse more available (there are a couple rehousing companies offering or about to offer Contax zeiss in their lineup)

[@nebukadnezzar3578]

Omfg, don’t you hammer that lens, I almost screamed at my computer - and I am sitting in the library 😂😉 Just take a soldering iron and briefly touch the screws to liquefy the loctite/screw glue. This way you won’t strip any more screws!

[@BlaineWestropp1]

LOL. I need to get the iron especially for the pricier lenses.

[@nebukadnezzar3578]

@@BlaineWestropp1 Yeah, please do 😉 I can also recommend to only use the best/most precise screw drivers. It really makes a huge difference! Those Contax Zeiss lenses made in Germany (MMG/AEG) use Phillips screws, so a PH0/PH00 screw driver would be ideal. JIS is a Japanese standard, for lenses made in Japan. Hope this info helps saving some lenses, from which there is only finite amount left… All the best from Germany 😉

[@BlaineWestropp1]

Thank you! I have both screwdrivers :) which do you like better MMJ or AEG?

[@nebukadnezzar3578]

@@BlaineWestropp1 I must admit I prefer the MMs due to their consistent round aperture (without ninja star bokeh) ;-)

[@loganlambert]

Dude you should have put the dog in the thumbnail. Immediate watch!

[@BlaineWestropp1]

Next time hahah

Dang, why I didnt know earlyer about you! Nice Videos! Greetings from germany!

[@BlaineWestropp1]

Hello hello! Thank you :)

[@zarias2009]

Hey, I wrote you about the luts on dm with no success 😢 how can I get them?

[@BlaineWestropp1]

hey did you message me on instagram?

[@miguelangelcalderon3315]

nice video man! I love my Contax set too. Do you think there's much difference between the LPL and EF conversions? The Alexa cameras have a locking EF mount too, so wondering if that's a cheaper and good alternative too. The LPL costs about 2 times more. Cheers from Spain

[@BlaineWestropp1]

Hey thanks! I am not too sure about the differences in the mounts, but I’m sure the EF is high quality. If you have a locking EF I’d say go with that, then you can put them on any ef camera.

[@kristicifci5389]

Straight rec 709 or graded bro i like your look blueish tone

[@BlaineWestropp1]

Thank you:) I’m assuming you watched the 709 version? Or are you asking if this footage is 709 or graded?

[@kristicifci5389]

@@BlaineWestropp1 if this footage is graded or only just convert to arri rec 709 ?

[@BlaineWestropp1]

@kristicifci5389 oh! I graded this footage. There is a link in the comments somewhere that has the rec709 only version.

[@chrisniswonger]

Amen. 🙏

[@BlaineWestropp1]

😇

[@nickbradyfilms]

wow those look pretty!

[@BlaineWestropp1]

They are tasty

[@abgehen6931]

Great Video:) Could you compare the Zeiss Contax with the Zeiss Jena?:)

[@BlaineWestropp1]

Thank you. I love both. Jena looks more vintage, contax very clean but amazing. Contax very solid build.

[@PLArseneau]

Have you tried Leica R's?

[@BlaineWestropp1]

Yes. I like.

[@dpixvid]

Just got 25 2.8 for my APC to get the 40mm fov so acclaimed by some great cinematographers. Started with 35-70 3.4 which is a curious sharp but slow zoom & 85 1.4... I look at 25, 35, 50, 70, 85... semi poor man approach

[@BlaineWestropp1]

I want the 25.. and the 21, and the 35 :)

[@eike.zender]

In the moment where I wanted you to ask, if you have any experience with Canon FD lenses, you started frankensteining it - lol

[@BlaineWestropp1]

Hahah those are a little more involved to change the mounts I hear.

[@Asomers322]

Cute dog!

[@BlaineWestropp1]

He is a precious angel

[@romain_do]

I'm sorry you went down this rabbit hole. Welcome. haha

[@BlaineWestropp1]

oh I love it. thanks for the help!

[@mahutaproductions8498]

If you're serious, I'll fly in from Europe for an NYC rooftop party with filmmakers, lol.

[@BlaineWestropp1]

Please do!

[@jena1821]

I got 18mm and 28mm MMJ, I love 28mm

[@BlaineWestropp1]

I’ve seen nice footage from the 18. I really want the 21.

[@joshdiditt]

When you film on an Alexa, every lens looks good, lol.

[@BlaineWestropp1]

lol.. not ALWAYS

[@thatsamuellu]

I have a MMJ set want to sell, 25mm 28mm 35mm all F2.8 and a 50mm 1.4 all cine moded EF mount, focus ring, front 80 hood 77 filter thread, gear purchased at simmod.

[@BlaineWestropp1]

Ooo what’s the condition like?

[@thatsamuellu]

@@BlaineWestropp1 mint! Super clean.

[@BlaineWestropp1]

Good to know…

[@cringejoon]

master lens thumber at work

[@BlaineWestropp1]

😂😂 I have a clear filter I want to scratch up.

[@cringejoon]

4am upload🙏🙏

[@BlaineWestropp1]

Was a late one.

[@enriquetoso]

T* coating is based on SMC coating by Pentax. Actually in the K line of vintage prime lenses, that is a mix between contax re branded (3.5/15, and 2/28) and takumars with new coating. If you liked the 2.8 version, you would love the f2 version.

[@BlaineWestropp1]

good to know. thank you! yes of course I want the f2 😭

[@aaronklein451]

drop the addy for the rooftop party

[@BlaineWestropp1]

😂😂

[@ArriOG-ve9tq]

dope

[@BlaineWestropp1]

😇

[@TheTjark57]

get the 28 F2.0 best one I know

[@BlaineWestropp1]

I need it

[@nocnoc_ee]

Can i please come to your party if you open one.. I’m a nobody that works at Nipppn Photo Clinic if you ever heard of us before 😅..

[@BlaineWestropp1]

Hahah yes! Should I stop by Nippon? What y’all got in stock right now?

[@nocnoc_ee]

Haha you could if you need us but .. we repair film cameras and lenses. Specialize in Contax cameras + lenses too. Unfortunately we don’t sell here 😅

[@BlaineWestropp1]

Ooo cool. If I mess up any contax lenses I can bring to you? 😇

[@BlaineWestropp1]

Also, you have any recs for any Arri 435/235 owners in NYC?

[@nocnoc_ee]

@@BlaineWestropp1 hmm.. no but ill keep a look out for customer who might own one.

[@_o__o_]

Blaine Westropp

[@BlaineWestropp1]

Dot dot is that you

[@flochfitness]

🥯

[@BlaineWestropp1]

💪🫡

[@smalldeekgeorge]

I don't want to be that guy but this is the "LOOK" actually this is the first video I saw on youtube that have that "LOOK" even without grading applied! Don't change this camera lenses combination ever! Now you just need to go out and film!

[@smalldeekgeorge]

Now i'm gonna go in corner and cry with my sigma fp and 7 artisans 50mm T1.05...or untill I get all focal lengts from same company...

[@BlaineWestropp1]

Hahah thank you! The look is really really nice and I love the lenses. :) I may head back up to the roof today, but it’s so cold here 😭

[@ForestCinema]

I have a 35mm 2.8, 50mm 1.4, and 85mm 1.4. Love em. Also… lemme know if you’re interested!

[@BlaineWestropp1]

need to acquire more...

[@ForestCinema]

@@BlaineWestropp1 need to fund my Atlas Mercury pre-order, so…

[@BlaineWestropp1]

Hmmm thinking!