🔴 Shoot Like HCB! | Top 10 50mm Lenses for Leica M (Leica M3 Portraits)

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

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[@normandong4479]

Henri Cartier Bresson is a remarkably gifted photographer. It isn’t just about the equipment, lens or film that HCB used but also his ability to spot the right moment and human interest when he shot his photos. Can remember photo class I took after completing my MA degree for a change of pace, and the instructor gave us a slide show of HCB photos. I was moved then and continue to be moved by his work. Whenever I shoot photos with my Leica M3 with a collapsible 50mm Summicron,I try to put myself into HCB’s mindset and be open to whatever comes my way. Events/people and coincidences happen if we are patient enough to observe. Well done

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Great point, some people can see photos (and moments) easier than others for sure. My non-perfect eyesight seems to help but I used to draw/paint as a child so that might help too.

[@seventeendegree]

My favourite is the 50mm f2 Summicron Dual Range, stunningly great for closeups and the images have a timeless look.

[@lensman5762]

I agree, it has an indescribable magical sort of rendition. Biting sharp but not in your face. There is magic to the old Leica glass indeed.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks, I plan to do a new video for the DR so stay tuned!

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Agreed! It's sharp but the lower contrast makes it looks smoother

[@chrisloomis1489]

YES , that is one Leica vintage lens I am lusting after , Steven Tanno in JAPAN did an amazing video of that lens. He and I see the same way. Yeah. 😌

[@seventeendegree]

@@chrisloomis1489 That's where I discovered it! I'll never sell this lens. It has the most pleasent bokeh I've ever seen. I just need the 35mm Summicron from that time era with the goggles and my Leica set is complete. Another lens I extremely love is the Helios 40-2, but on my Pentax Spotmatic, not on my Leica. My DR lens needs a fix. The aperture ring turns more than it should. ^^ Quite hard to get a repair done. Even Leica told me that they don't have spare parts anymore.

[@japanvintagecamera8869]

I've used a lot of 50mm lenses on my Leicas, and two really stand out. The first is the early collapsible L mount Summicron with the thorium glass (looks yellow). This one is sharp and contrasty, and makes colors warm. The other favorite is the plain-Jane 50/2.8 Elmar. The Elmar exceeded my expectations, and turned out to be a stellar lens. For that "Leica Glow," get a Summar.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks! I have the Summitar and Summarit 1.5 for glow, I do have the Elmar but use it less these days. The early Cron sounds good. I want the v2 Lux 50 Pre-ASPH ..1 day (see that video, amazing bokeh)

[@olliolli32]

Hi Matt, even though some argue it may lack some character, the TTArtisan 50mm f1.4 ASPH is meant to be very sharp, with good bokeh and 3D pop.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks Olli! I will have to try to get a copy to review sometime.

[@normandong4479]

I use a Voigtlander 50mm Nokton ASPH f1.5 on my Leica M3. At the time could not find a clean Summicron 50mm that was affordable. Found my Voigtlander is slightly heavy but very smooth to use and quite sharp. I like the build quality and it came w a lens hood. Well done.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks Norman! I think I have the same lens. I have in LTM mount. Yes great lens.

[@esimonson718]

I have the Zeiss sonnar, DR Summicron, Summicron collapsible and vintage 2.8 collapsible Elmar….. the issue in choosing a favorite for me is that I pick a favorite based on my favorite image I’ve taken so it’s not very scientific. It’s comes down to mood and light. If I get a great shot in amazing light, I think “I love this lens, it’s really special” but in reality I don’t know how much of it has to do with the lens. It’s happened for me with all lenses so far aside from the Elmar. I have yet to take image on the Elmar that stops me in my tracks but I’ll keep trying just to avoid getting rid of it. I have recently started marking my contact sheet sleeves with the lens used for reference. I have caught myself saying “wow, the sonnar is really an amazing lens, my absolute favorite” and then realizing that I mis-labeled the contact sheet and it was a different lens. 😂 I may never know the answer to this question. Help!

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Haha thanks Eric, love that. Yes light is more important than the lens as you know. Maybe people buy a lens (me included) based on one good photo they saw shot with that setup.

[@FrankGrauStudio]

Actually, the Canon 1.4 LTM can focus macro with Canon’s Auto-Up 450 attachment. That’s too close for portraits, but it’s still an added capability. I tried it and it works very well.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks Frank, I've not seen that. Thanks for sharing!

[@jaym2084]

I love my Canon 50mm 1.4 LTM with adapter and was very pleased to see it come in at #2. I did not need to sell my car to buy this lens!! I also use it on my Barnacks, of course.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Yes great lens!

[@jaym2084]

@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom Thanks, by the way, I am a subscriber to your channel and really appreciate your videos.

[@juliussternfeld428]

I love the Zeiss Sonnar 50 1.5 Zm , it has the nicest rendering.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks Julius, great lens except 0.9m MFT and focus shift AND mainly many copies not being calibrated to be sharp at f1.5. I owned it, great lens and copy, sold when got the Lux, tried to re buy twice (new) and both were not sharp at f1.5. (When it works its lovely!)

[@williaminbody205]

Hard to beat the modern Voigtländer 50mm lenses. I own the 50mm f1.2, spectacular.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks William, agreed. Some days I still think that perhaps I should have got the 1.2 not the APO :)

[@MakersTeleMark]

This is the way.

[@chrisreich40]

My favorite lenses in this category are the Carl Zeiss 50/2.0 and the vintage Nikkor 50/2.0 Sonnar LTM, which focuses down to 0.5 metre.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Yes I love Sonnars too!

[@francescolanteri40]

Bravo franchement je me régale c’est photos c’est le top tu est un champion Matt

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Merci Francesco!

[@HerrGrainy]

Interesting list, the only lens I own of the mentioned is the summicron collapsible and it's my favourite of the lenses I have tried. I like it because it's very predictable and for the photos I like to take it has enough sharpness, but still not to much to create a too clean of a photo either. Simply it's just in the sweet spot for what I like. When I started gaining an interest in photography about 3 years I would bring with my a bunch of different lenses and alwaysbe on the lookout for new ones. Nowadays I only bring this lens and it never disappoints me. It has joined me on many adventures and has always delivered, for me it feels almost like the family dog, trustworthy, always by my side, and bringing out the best of my creative abilities

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks Robert, sorry I missed this! Yes it is nice to have a lens like that - gives the look you like and can be relied upon.

[@briansilcox5720]

My first Leica camera… bought in 1982, an M3 with 50 f2 Summicron D/R. Many thousands of Kodachromes made with that, but never had the goggles. More recently inherited a IIIf with collapsible Summicron 50 f2. Both of these 50mm have delivered well. Wish I could have kept the M3. I have the modern Nikkor 50 f1.4 on my reissue Nikon S3… modern and excellent. Also the vintage Zeiss Sonnar 50 f1.5 on my Contax IIa…probably my favorite 50mm. I use the Zeiss and Nikkors on my Sony A-7 as well.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Nice! The Nikon SC 5014 and My Opton Sonnar 5015 are both stunning and punch above their weight.

[@skipheitzig2383]

Great info. Thanks very much. I’ve been using the Summilux 50 on my M3 and love the results

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thank you, great combo!

[@thedondeluxe6941]

I attached the Nokton F1 to my M10 when I bought it last winter, and it's still there😄 My new favourite 50 for sure. Plenty of 3d pop, sharpness and creamy bokeh all the way from F1. And don't tell anyone, but it's better corrected for aberrations wide open than the Noctilux!

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks Don! Nice :) ..and yes agree it's better correct than my Noctilux too

[@d30gaijin]

Excellent video Matt. It's great to see such a variety of 50mm Lenses for Leica in one video. Going off script; For me the best 50mm lens is the Voigtlander 40mm f/1.2 Nokton. I dearly love that lens.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks Don! Yes the 40mm f1.2 is a really nice size too!

[@wilfredshum3703]

Right you are. I love my 50 mm Summilux ASPH black chrome on portrait photography

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks Wilfred, black chrome, nice!

[@raybeaumont7670]

I use my 50mm f3.5 collapsible Elmar on my M2. I never shoot wider than f5.6 and I love the results for landscape. If shooting portraits/glamour I reach for my RB67 with 127mm Sekor.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Great setup Ray! Yes the 3.5 makes for a killer combo. I use mine on the Leica iii bodies. I did give it a mention in the linked blog post.

[@epstar83]

That’s a sweet list! If you ever get the chance, there is one more Heliar Classic to try. The 50/2 collapsible. It’s got the ‘Heliar’ look wide open but has better ergonomics than the 50/3.5, collapses to a really compact size and uses standard 39mm filters. It’s surprisingly heavy given it’s dimensions though. Only problem is they not easy to find and a little pricy. I sold mine and regret it. Lol.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Hey Mike! Thanks. Yes amazing lens.. I hear.. I looked at them on eBay years ago but didn't want to pay the price. I should have got one!

[@adamw.20]

...danke Matt du hast echt schöne Modells und machst mit der M3 super Fotos!!!....

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks Adam!

[@Visions_in_Toyko]

The 50 summilux ASPH is my favourite lens of all time. It’s simply incredible

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Yes at 1.4 it's the clear winner for me (though I notice mine is not calibrated to my M3 currently so using other lenses)

[@ming-artoflight2761]

What does that mean? I use the Summilux 50 ASPH on my M3 ..perfectly …

[@Visions_in_Toyko]

@@ming-artoflight2761 he’s saying that his copy is not calibrated for his m3. It just needs to be adjusted so it’s calibrated correctly. I have a Summicron 35mm that’s not quite calibrated for my m6, but works perfectly on my MP. It’s just the nature of these systems and lenses

[@ming-artoflight2761]

@@Visions_in_Toyko hi , I am sorry, but this is not true. I ve been to Wetzlar many times for adjusting and they explained it to me. Sometimes, it can be the lens that need an adjustment. Sometimes it’s the rangefinder. So the rangefinder of your M6 is maybe not accurate, and the MP is. I have M3/MA/M7 and M9M. All adjusted rangefinders, all lenses working the same as it suppose to be. This is physics.

[@kostyafedot551]

I went through bunch of Crons and Cosina VM, ZM fifties. Keeping only Jupiter 3 and Canon 50 1.8 LTM. This is the one of the major benefit of Leica M cameras. Old lenses are working way much better than on Sony_else. And for film here is nothing wrong with old, not expensive lenses for sure.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks Kostya, yes the Jupiter 3 is nice. I’ll cover in a future video.

[@zenjitsuman]

Another great review. Matt I made a couple of additions to my Kits. First for my L mount SL2 and CL I got a Lumix 50mm f1.8 AF. Second I got a Sigma 35mm f/1.4 for my Sony A9, & A7r2. Both are sharp and fast and the Sigma for a 1.4 is compact. My 5A9 now has a 24mm f 1.4 G master and the Zeiss Sony 55mm f1.8 for street

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks and great additions to your kit. I have the 50 1.8 too now. Used at a wedding this weekend. Works great.

[@KeedonMD]

Recently I tried Noctilux 50mm f0.95 ASPH on M3 shooting with E100 Kodak. It’s pretty good combination.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Great! That less renders the same as the Lux 50 so I went for the older f1. Both will give nice results on slide film

[@harrycover9180]

Another VERY GOOD alternative is the Helios 103 53mm f1.8, better than the Sonnar. I have both of course and have compared them extensively. Have you reviewed the Helios ?

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks Harry, nice lens and bokeh! I have it yes. It's on my ever growing list of lenses to review. I'll get to it eventually!

[@xavisabater]

Zeiss plannar 50/2

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Yes sorry I should have mentioned this. It was my first 50mm for M mount. Good value and sharp.

[@kalenderquantentunnel9411]

Hi Matt, would be interested to learn why you got rid of the Planar? Best Stefan✌️

[@patrickjclarke]

I don't know if I got lucky or they are calibrated now, but I just purchased the TTArtisan 50mm f/1.4 ASPH 2 months ago and it was perfectly calibrated. I think it sits between the Leica non-ASPH and ASPH 1.4's in. rendering quality and sharpness but its coating isn't up to par with either. It might be worth a shot (I got mine thru Amazon) trying it on film and doing a test roll and if it isn't calibrated send it back. The only downside of this lens for me is that it's longer than the Leica's. But for the price...hands down an amazing lens

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks Patrick! I will have to give it a try sometime, thanks!

[@jacovanlith5082]

Matt, how about 50 mm lenses made by: Schacht in Ulm Meyer in Görlitz Berthiot in Paris Ross in London Kilfitt in Munich Astro in Berlin Ektar in New York Old Delft in Delft

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks Jaco, I will share them if I get to use them. Some are big names ofc.

[@normandong4479]

Thank you, Matt, for clarifying for old and new Leica M3 users what they can use for a 50mm prime lens. There are an incredible variety of very good lenses from Leitz, Canon, Nikkor, Industar, Voigtlander that can fit or can fit with an adapter the Leica M3. The relatively few vintage Leica lenses in good condition that are on the market will sell for a high price, but there are other choices. It takes several views for the slow minded, myself included, what your essential message is about. Even if older lenses have some haze that reduce contrast & sharpness, there are a few repair technicians who can clean and adjust the lenses-it is the potential payoff and personal choice to get a cleaning for a lens that has good glass. Love the examples (and models) that demonstrate what these lenses are capable of doing. Nicely done and very helpful.❤❤😊😊

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks Norman! Yes I guess there is 3 options, new modern lenses, new vintage design lenses (like LLL) and original vintage (which often come with haze/ scratches etc). I have all 3

[@williamschaffel3760]

I have an M240 and an M262 and it took me a while realize that the only lens I ever use is a 50mm. So now the only lenses I have are four 50mm; :Leica Summicron-M 2/50mm V5, Zeiss Planar 2/50mm, Zeiss C-Sonnar 1.5/50mm, and just for fun, a Leica Summitar Collapsable 2/50mm LTM built in 1942.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Nice William! The Summitar is excellent on digital, I love mine.

[@Wotsluvgottodowithit]

Hi Matt, I like my ageing Summicron 50mm (version 3, which is supposedly the black sheep of the Summicron flock) and my slightly younger Voigtlander Nokton 50mm f1.5 (the one with the knurled focusing ring that many people dislike - I love it!).

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Great! I have the Nokton 1.5 ASPH LTM and it's great. Not sure if that is the one you mean.

[@Wotsluvgottodowithit]

It's the ASPH, but M mount. Can't go wrong with either version, IMHO.

[@Definitely_not_Andrew_Yoshiaki]

A bit late to the discussion, I don’t have any of these lenses unfortunately, but I do have a fun unique piece that’s really suited to my needs and my decision getting it revolves around the Henri Cartier-Bresson look. The lens is a Canon made, Serenar 5cm f/1.9, they’re quite cheap and easy to get here in Tokyo (about 150-250 usd last I checked) and for all purposes it’s canon’s post war answer to the old school collapsible Summitar 5cm f2. There’s stories behind it specifying how it’s based off of the older Summitar design (a lot of blades, circular aperature) and stops from f/11-f/1.9 (though in reality it goes to about f/14 or so). It’s considered a poor man’s Summitar even over here, but if you can find it I can definitely recommend it, even for low light street and portraits. It has a distinctive slight swirl of a bike wide open yet classically sharp in the center. I’ll see if I can link some shots. Awesome video as always!

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks Andrew! I believe the 1.9 is a Sonnar designed my 1.4 and 1.8 that are not. As you say, that means better bokeh etc! If I get one to try sometime I’ll make a video.

[@Topsyrm]

Hey Matt, I enjoyed that. I have an Elmar f2.8 which was on my M2 when I bought it and it is a nice lens, I do like how it collapses down. I also have an older Summicron from 2002 which has the built in hood that colapses into the lens, I shot one of my favourite photos with that lens on an M9. I'm not normally a 50mm shooter, preferring 35, 21 and 75 but there's a place in my bag for those 2.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks and nice setup. I think your Summicron is the v5 as I had.

[@brineb58]

I actually love that Canon LTM lens, I use it a lot on my Leica IIIf!!!

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks Brian! Yes me too! (iif for me)

[@p51d10]

Matt, if you can find one you need to try the LTM Topcor-S 1.8/50. It is a double gauss design that has blown my Canon 1.8/50 out of the water and has easily replaced the Topcor-S 2.8/50 Heliar as my favorite 50mm.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks Steve, I have that lens, I still need to use it more so can make a video. I got it soon after my Canon 1.8 (during my LTM phase!) ..mine is black. Nice colours (See my Lomography 800 video for Leica film sample shots). Thanks for reminder!

[@jeromearnould9940]

wow ... nice summary of all those nice gears.... my favorit is still the Summilux 50mm f1.4 on the M6 and the Elmar 50mm f2.8 on the M3 And I just received my TT artisan 0.95 50mm for my SL2 S ... what a beast ! 🙂

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks Jerome! Great to hear you just got the TTA 50 - Love that lens!

[@jeromearnould9940]

@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom Made some tests and photos ....portraits ... it is great and look great on the SL2S 😃

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

@@jeromearnould9940 great, yes I love mine 👌🏻

[@jessekoskinen]

Well, I have the 50mm f/2.8 Elmar. I like how compact it is. I also like my 50mm f/2 Summicron Titanium. Nice and sharp.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks Jesse, yes I still have the Elmar 2.8M (I sold the LTM one as use the 3.5)

[@harrycover9180]

One more you could test: the Helios 103. It happens that I shot with it mounted on my M3 this afternoon !

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Fun lens Harry! I will do a video on it a some point. Awesome for bokeh shots :)

[@robertchestnut3331]

You should try the modern Leica 50mm elmar M f2.8. I have one. its one of the only lenses I sold (because I had the summicron v5) then repurchased later. my copy at least seems every bit as sharp as the v5 summicron and it collapses to a size smaller than most leica lenses other than maybe the 28mm summaron.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks Robert. Yes at 2.8 I imagine the newer version has better contrast vs older one and from f4 hard to tell a difference vs. Cron.

[@theblackandwhitefilmproject]

Hi Matt. Recently I bought a Leica Elmar-M f2.8 50mm in Silver. I mainly do landscapes so I am OK with f2.8 and didn't want to spend too much as I mainly use 35mm, 28mm and 21mm lenses. It takes nice photos. I wish I knew that the Black Elmar-M is lighter as this is quite a heavy lens for its size. It is a bit fiddly to make sure it is opened correctly. Interested in your thoughts on the Elmar-M. Regards.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks Bernard, the "modern Elmar" came in black too and yes like other black lenses is lighter. Great lens for a compact setup. Fun with close focus goggles.

[@zoltankaparthy9095]

Another great review. You sure do get a lot out of your models. They must love the portfolios you send them. And you know my fave is the Cooke Amotal followed by my great copy of a '57 KMZ Jupiter-8 followed by the Canon 1.8. I have the Canons and they are good but Amotal is the best for me. Cheers

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks Zoltan! :) Yes I still need to try the Cooke Amotal one day, and do a J8 review!

[@zoltankaparthy9095]

@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom It's your show. I am just out here in the cheap seats. Cheers.

[@sunny16portraits]

Another vote for the Dual Range! Btw any thoughts on the older Summiluxes with >1m close focus distance? You know, the solid brass juicy ones :) Pair it with a 90mm Summicron and you have all the bases covered no?

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Hey Thomas! :) I'll have new DR work coming soon :) The older Lux are nicely made but a bit soft for me, get a cheaper old Leica lens instead, Summarit or Summitar.

[@poniatowski3547]

I have the 50mm f2 collapsible Summicron. I love it adapted on my Z6 but find it a bit soft and low contrast on my M3.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks! Yes some of the lenses I mention at the end were not in the top 10 as too soft for me for film.. But on digital they are excellent.

[@blackjackshellac5022]

Great information, as usual. I wonder if you have any experience with the Hektor 2.5? I have a Summitar, but am not liking the bulk on my iiif rdst. Is there a great sacrifice of sharpness to keep my rig as pocketable as possible, in comparison to, say, a 2.8 Elmar? And, I do like the prospect of using the same nooky hesum with the Hektor and the Summitar.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks. I've never used the Hektor so I did some research. It had the same vintage look as the 3.5 Elmar, sharp but soft with low contrast and some flare. The 2.8 Elmar later design is "better" but it's bigger too. I like the idea of the 2.5 but for the higher price tag i'd use the 3.5 and push film 1 stop.. but if you want to get closer.. hmm ..there is an argument to get one. My issue is i'd likely stop it down for better performance so then the 3.5 is fine. Equally I tend to prefer high quality on film (like modern glass)(weird I know).. so I use the new 40mm Voigtlander Heliar the most. See that video. If you can cope with 35mm consider the LLL 35mm f2 (goes to 0.5m). See vid.

[@timhazen1180]

Have you tried the Zeiss Planar 2/50mm? Not number one, but maybe better than the Voigtländer lenses..

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Hi Tim, thanks. Yes it was the first M mount 50 I owned when I got my M9. Great value lens, I bought again this year when I did the 50 APO video but sold soon after. Sharp lens but I found my vintage Sonnar could be as sharp at f2 (but with more character). It's a good cheap alternative to the APO if you just need sharp.

[@moncalierieaghemio7960]

My favorite it’s Canon 1.4 50mm

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Yes! Good lens!

[@Kokoro-ss5iv]

You can try Jupiter 3+ next time, which is new make, easier to find a clean copy which using Zeiss 50/1.5 sonnar formula, and not so expensive

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks, I have a J3. I’ll try to make a video in the coming months!

[@Kokoro-ss5iv]

@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom I have the lomo version, let me know if you want to borrow

[@stevehoffman9735]

As always, great. Thanks, Matt!

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks Steve!

[@smartdoctorphysicist3095]

Hi I just found a few store who sell Rodinal, so I am happy I will start doing film again. Also I believe Leica 50mm 1.4 for me is best or if I had some big time money the Leica 1.4 apo or Voiglander 50mm f1.2 only if is better than Leica 50mm F1.2 ?

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Rodinal - great! If need 1.4 then Lux is good, if f2 Voigtlander APO is the sharpest (but most mentioned lenses are good at f2 including f1.2 Voigtlander. Leica 1.2 is designed to give the look of the Heliar 50 1.5 - classic style.

[@Odins.Valhall]

Servus Matt, I don't know if I've seen the video before, but there was already a thumbs up so it could be. What are your favourites? I have three so far, my Zeiss Ultron 1.8/50 unfortunately for M42 but then with adapter no coupling unless this shooter comes from China. I might have to try it out. Then the Summarit 1.5 and the Summicron 50 DR. Hi, I just realised that the video was more than 1 year ago, but it doesn't matter, so I watched another video.😁😁 Lg Anderl

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Hi thanks! Yes there is a blog post for this too where I give more details and example photos full res for each lens

[@scheist4]

Hi Matt ..no mention of the Carl Zeiss Sonnar 50mm 1,5 ? From what i have researched .. Bresson and Robert Frank used ( obviously ) early versions of this lens in their work ?.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks Lorne, I mention the Sonnar in the blog post. I owned the ZM copy in the past and love the vintage copy shown near the end of this video with the Kiev. Yes the old lens easily out performs Leica lenses from the same period (Summarit, Summatar etc - see those in blog post).

[@scheist4]

@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom Thanks for reply Matt ..I love your work , you r a great photographer , you capture the essence and beauty of the female gender .

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

@@scheist4 thank you! Yes I try to 🙏🏻

[@madnesstothemethod3328]

I have owned two copies of the v1 collapsible Summicron and while they render beatifully in monochrome, I have noticed a few issues: *Odd colour rendition *Slight but noticeable barrel distortion *F-stop clicks are soft and indistinct. *The front lens elements are soft and scratch easily, so it's uncommon to find a clean one. *Focus calibration issues on digital M bodies due to misaligned focus helicoils. Both my copies had this issue (could be used in LV but this entirely defeats the purpose of having a rangefinder). *Front element group contain thorium oxide (from s/n 1205362 on) and are mildly radioactive (beta and gamma emitter)

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks for sharing, yes it's annoying when I nice lens isn't calibrated (even my Lux is out currently)

[@IsmaCapture]

Hey Matt, great content, as usual, thanks for taking the time to share with us. What do you think about the Zuiko 50mm 1.8 on a M camera (or the SL?) ? I'm curious and eager to know your opinion. Cheers!

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks Ismail, i've not tried the Zuiko but you can adapter anything to the SL so you can give it a try. I'm sure you'll get nice results.

[@IsmaCapture]

@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom Thanks for your reply, I did on my SL (that I bought, thanks to all your videos and articles on your blog) and I liked it ver much, especially in black and white, cheers!

[@Skipsul]

Just got both a Kiev and a Contax, the latter with the Zeiss Sonnar. Looking forward to trying it out. Is there a good Contax to M or L39 adapter you can recommend that doesn’t cost hundreds?

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Congrats James! In brief, sadly no. You need to pay to get a calibrated adapter for RF. (if only for mirrorless then yes cheaper options)

[@FranciscoRodriguez-ug8gc]

Hi Matt, you mentioned the advantage of a lens that can focus down to .7 meters but M3 cameras only focus to 1 meter. Is it easy/cheap for a repair person to convert the camera to focus down to .7 meters like yours?

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Hi Francisco, great point your mention, thanks. Yes both my M3 are 0.7m, one came like it, one I had done. It makes a HUGE difference. When you next get your camera calibrated just ask them to set to 0.7m. (No expensive modifications required)

[@anthonyphillips3421]

Hi Matt another great and informative review of 50mm lens. I have a collection of vintage 35mm cameras and recently watched a KZbin video of someone using a Voigtlander lens on a Fed 4 Russian rangefinder. Do think any of the lens you’ve reviewed will fit a Fed 4 or Kiev rangefinder cameras…? Regards. A.T

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Hi Anthony, Ltm lenses fit screw mount cameras, both Canon lenses. Kiev is different mount, look at Jupiter 3, Jupiter 8 and the Zeiss Sonnar I mentioned at the end.

[@anthonyphillips3421]

@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom thanks Matt keep up the good work.

[@bobk888]

i have a really old Leica. i think it is a 3c? 1949. has a summitar 50 f2. i used it many years ago when i got it, but difficult to focus. i should see if i run a roll through it. but i have a canon 7. do u think that lens would work on that? i really would like a later leica, but not in the cards at this point... but thanks for the vid, it is alway interesting, as i access all these lenses through you.even if i m not actually doing it.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks Bob, yes you can use Canon lens on Leica and Summitar on Canon, no problem.

[@lionsbussum]

My favourite lens is the 50MM F2 summicron (5) because it is light ans small, compared to my F1.4 Summilux, i find that one too heavy for every day use

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks Erik, yes the v5 is the perfect size for sure!

[@carlosmcse]

I settled on the Summicron v5 for all the reasons you mentioned. Small. Light. Compact. Built in hood. Built like a tank. Smooth. And for me, at least in the M10R 40MP sensor it has a different looks at different apertures and let’s me be more expressive. And thats going to be my 50. I went through the Planar, Nokton f1.5 II, and the APO-Lanthar. All of them great but not as special as the Summicron. You would think the APO-Lanthar is no contest. Cheaper and perfect from f2, but for me that was the problem. Is a bit too big and heavy for f2, and then on the M10R is just way too perfect. It’s too sharp and too much perfection. Every photo is the same. The only thing that changes is the depth of field increasing or decreasing. So it’s definitely a special use case for those who need that. One time I took a photo of tiny bees on a lotus flower. Just increasing the exposure it already looked like it was over processed and I hadn’t done anything to it. On the 10R I could crop in and see the veins in the wings. 😅 … too much. “Sharp, contrast, 3D Pop” are all the rage nowadays. But I just want a lens that lets me express my ideas and an optically perfect lens just can’t do that. It’s inflexible. So many 50mm lenses there’s something for everyone.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks Carlos! I read the words before the name and thought, this sounds like Carlos! :) What you say makes complete sense.

[@carlosmcse]

@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom ha. 50mm. Can’t beat a good 50.

[@jlwilliams]

I bought the Cosina Voigtlander 50mm f/1.5 Nokton vII based partly on Matt's recommendation, but now that he's said it isn't sharp enough at f/1.5, I am always going to be wondering if I shouldn't have gotten something else instead 🤔 And I have the 50mm f/1.4 and 50mm f/1.8 Canons, but don't see what the fuss is about them; IMO just typical slightly mushy '50s-era designs. So I guess I don't have ANY favorite 50mm Leica-mount lens at all! I won't even talk about my M-converted 50mm f/0.95 Canon, which invariably produces either absolute garbage or absolute magic, but you never find out which until it's too late...

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Hi James, sorry regarding the v2 1.5. It's the lens I want to love, the size and looks are perfect. Maybe I need to get another copy to try. At f2 it's fine and mid-infinity it's very sharp. The old Canons vary a lot I think. My 1.8 is very sharp. The 1.2 is too soft for me.

[@chrisloomis1489]

Matt: Send any lens that is L39 Canon or your NIKKOR lenses to KANTO CAMERA in Japan. My L39 Canon 50mm 1.2 is a lovely reliable shooter , cannot believe you do not have that sweet lens. My rear element was replaced by KANTO as they have a supplier reproducing the exact element minus the bonding glue issues that attack these lenses in hot humid storage in their leather cases. Yes , I have the hood and case too , even for my Canon 50mm 1.4 , original vented hood , you want one for the 50mm 1.2 ... then the 0.95 ... ah , later.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks Chris, that’s an excellent service, thanks for mentioning

[@Veeremets]

How do you focus film range finder with adapter and canon lens?

[@Veeremets]

But really, how? With digital you can do it from the screen. Is zone system the only way with film camera?

[@jls2975]

Summilux pre asph, the best for me

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Yes! Very much on my to buy list!

[@lensman5762]

I have the Summicron DR and the collapsible Elmar for my M3, plus a 35mm summarit with goggles. Beautiful beautiful lenses. I keep the 35mm F1.4 Summilux ASPH for my M6. I don't think I need any more lenses, for now atleat.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Nice setup! Both great lenses on the M3. I will try to do a new DR lens video before Christmas.

[@lensman5762]

@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom That would be nice. As I wrote in my reply to n0x, the DR is bitting sharp but without being in your face, like a lot of modern lenses. There comes a point when sharpness on a macro level becomes a menace, like everything else in life.

[@lugentaubner6853]

12:00 summitar “better on digital” - 🧐 I want summitar magic + (real!) film grain

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks Lugen, you can if you don't mind softer looking images. There is no doubt it will create some unique magical shots on film but maybe a low hit rate. I mention it in the blog post.

[@weisserth]

The DR should range higher in the list for portraits given how sharp it is at f2, and you can get closer than 0.5m. Quite unique. Not to mention that lens is Ralph Gibson's favorite lens. Let's see if the rumors are right and Leica is also refreshing the 50 Summilux with more aperture blades and a closer focus distance like the 35mm Summilux. In October, we'll know.

[@paulgerrard99]

I had the DR for a while and I just found it too annoying shooting portraits having to keep swapping between goggles on and off as I just kept hitting the crossover point. My Voigtlander f/1.5 VM goes to 0.7m which I find to be close enough and is almost a stop faster so the DR was staying at home! I sold it and got a Collapsible Summicron instead - it's compact size and more vintage quality to the images give me two good reasons to use it

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks TW, yes, the list was not supposed to be in any order. The DR is great. I'll plan to do a new video for that lens in the coming months.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks Paul, yes is for sure the one issue with the DR, on off, on off :)

[@crissignori7482]

Another brilliant video ! Thanks, Matt I would be interested in knowing which is your most used / most favourite 50mm lens regardless of camera. On another note the single stroke M3 cameras seem to command a higher price than the double stroke which I imagine is solely due to the ease /quickness of operation. I'm not sure if there are any other differences.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Hi Cris, just catching up at comments at the airport. 50 - hmm, I go through phases. TTA 50 0.95 currently! M3 - yes I use SS

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

..I have DS too but forget to advance twice!

[@crissignori7482]

@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom How about a non-Chinese lens? In the meantime I think I'm going to pick up a used Zeiss 55mm Otus for my Nikon D850. Do you know if I would be able to use all my Nikon AF-S glass on a Leica SL2?

[@crissignori7482]

@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom Do you now own more than a thousand pieces of equipment? Geeeesh !!!

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

@@crissignori7482 haha I owned more a few years ago, slowly selling the odd piece that I don’t use as much. (Still need to buy a house though!)

[@kurocamera]

Not a 50mm, but the 40mm f2.8 Heliar is amazing for an M3 too :)

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Yes Daniel!! I just got my film results back from the 40mm on my Leica iif and was blown away with the results. I will probably need to buy that lens :)

[@i.f.haddock527]

What Adapter are you using for the S mount Nikkor lens?

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Amedeo - see that video (Great if can find them)

[@weizhang6979]

What about the vintage Leica Elmar 50mm f3.5? :)

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks Wei! Yes great lens but I use it less (never so far) on the M3 for portraits. I use on Leica iii bodies. I do give it a mention in the blog post and it will give the smallest 50mm M3 setup

[@weizhang6979]

@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom Yes, it will be small. I have a prewar one. Probably should try it out with the SL first.

[@nocommentnoname1111]

I had heard that HCB had used a 50mm Zeiss planar.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks. I've not read that but i'm sure smarter people will add their comments to correct me.

[@ginobartali9338]

I‘m missing the Canon Serenar 50mm f1.9 collapsible. Light, cheap and with carachter

[@0action847]

I've been trying to pick up a Canon Serenar 50mm 1.9 LTM collapsible but they're hard to find at a good price.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Nice choice Gino! I still need to try that one

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Agreed

[@jklphoto]

Did I miss the Zeiss ZM 50mm f/2 Planar? Too modern?

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks Jk, I used to use it. Not my favourite for portraits but I should have still mentioned it. Good value and sharp.

[@MakersTeleMark]

vm noct 1.2 was and is my 50mm on my m3

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Nice, strong combo!

[@ductritran8637]

Don’t count out the Zeiss 50mm f2 ZM . As good as summicron sharpness /bokeh but the colour is so pop .

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks, yes I forgot the ZM f2. My first 50. It's sharper the Cron lenses (I had both) and offers great value for a cheap sharp 50. I rebought when I did the APO video but sold soon after. It had less character than many I list for portraits (and for B&W I didn't make use of the colour!)

[@codiecrieg2480]

I own Summicron 50mm now ;3 Good lens for dummy like me ;3 And i paid 550$ it was good price i guess

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Yes Summicrons are great, can't go wrong with those!

[@maartenmoerman]

A few more unconventional ones are: - Zeiss opton 50/1.5 (contax in amedeo adapter) - Zeiss opton 50/2 (contax in amedeo adapter) - Nikkor 5cm f2 LTM (with the same builtin close focus as the 1.4 from Nikkor) - Fujinon 5cm f1.9 LTM (VERY nice) - Jupiter 3/3+ LTM (cheap and fun) - Canon 50/1.2 LTM (same optical design as their 0.95 dreamlens) - Canon 50/1.5 LTM (more character than the 1.4 as it's a Sonnar)

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Hey Maarten! Great to hear from you! I hope life is good. Thanks for those excellent alternatives! A strong list! Drop me a message sometime!

[@tompaste387]

canon serenar f1.8 50mm

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Nice, I know it but haven’t tried yet!

[@Hans_Holt]

I spend my money in a Zeiss Planar f2. Nice sharp fotos, and a smooth bokeh. It’s a really un excited lens…

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks Hans! That was my first 50mm M lens too :) Nice and sharp.. almost too much on my M9 at the time!

[@jacovanlith5082]

Imperfections of film .....................? Which?

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Haha nice Jaco! Yes film is great :)

[@lugentaubner6853]

3:55 hoping all these ladies are still alive and ok

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thanks, yes I still speak to some and follow others. Thanks for noting.

[@moot6794]

*Looks disappointingly at my Zeiss 50mm f/1.5*

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Dont Moo! If your copy works then make sure you keep it. I sold my good copy when I got the Lux years ago, tried to rebuy new twice and both not sharp at f1.5 (not calibrated for 1.5), so now I dont recommend to people to be safe. (and the 0.9m MFD and focus shift was a pain for me).

[@devroombagchus7460]

Not very practical if you consider the enormous price range of the lenses shown.

[@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom]

Thank you, yes the idea was to show a range of prices to suit all budgets. As you see the price doesn't reflect in the image quality to the most part.