Hi!
First of all - give an accomplished snapper a pinhole camera, and give a
monkey an L lens. Which will deliver a better pic? The point is, there's
slightly more to it than comparing results from two completely different
workflows. Just because someone else's pics look different to your own
means diddly squat. Careful processing in Photoslop will produce as
varied a look as you like.
Indeed. It is just that I am not very good in PhotoSnob. I've just posted my workflow, so perhaps I will get some sound advice and critique.
I will let others comment about the perceived quality of the lenses you mentioned, but let me say this - try and achieve the finished look that you desire - don't be sidetracked by someone else's opinions. I can't remember if you shoot film or digital, but either way, create pictures that *you* like.
I mostly shoot digital these days. But sometimes I would struggle with the picture not being able to get the look I want. Lack of skill on my side. Or lack of planning in time of shooting...
If you like a plastic look (whatever that means) then emulate it, develop it, master it. If you want good quality glass, sell a bunch of stuff and buy some Limiteds. Just because someone has a couple of Canon L lenses means bugger all. And as for being told that your gear is holding you back! I would have wrapped that 70-200 around his neck!!
Judging from your photos next to Jostein, you can wrap 70-200 around one's neck... Well, I am not that strong :).
I am not sure I need the limiteds, because I am quite certain I've extracted all I could from my current glass. I wouldn't want to spend the money without knowing for sure that it will give me benefits...
3. If I indeed have to replace all/some of those "questionable" lenses, what would you recommend?
See other's responses. I imagine if I had stayed with Pentax I would be using Limited lenses.
I cannot readily afford Limited Lenses. So for 43 I would use my 50/1.7 or 50/1.4. For 77 I would go with Tamron 90/2.5 SP. I've nothing for 31, and M 35/2.8 does not seem to be a match either. Isn't 31 the most expensive one though? :)
I must say that your tone is very encouraging. I can almost hear you talking to me in person... I am still remembering my laff from "Jumping Jupiter", you know... My wife just chuckled by my side...
Boris
