Glen, if you are after dedicated macro lens, then the likes of
90-100-105 mm lenses either from Pentax or from Tamron, Sigma, Tokina,
etc are highly regarded, affordable and useful. With shorter lenses the
problem is that you loose the working distance. To achieve magnification
you ought to be very close to your subject. If you plan to take pictures
of live objects (insects, etc) - that may pose a limitation.
I would probably lean somewhat towards DFA 50 mostly because you can
also use it on (some) film cameras if you have any. DA 35 is a limited
lens with all that comes with it - mostly excellent build and pleasure
of operation (which by the way, does not necessarily makes the pictures
look prettier). Both can be used as a standard lens for all practical
and known purposes with added bonus of being able to get very close to
the subject.
Presently Galia is shooting with older FA 100/3.5 (1:2) macro and it
proves to be most capable lens, though it has rather plastic build.
HTH.
Boris
On 2/1/2011 12:36 AM, Glen Berry wrote:
I'm considering spending some money on a new macro lens. I used to have
an older Pentax 50mm f2.8 autofocus lens that was built like a tank, and
took very sharp photos. I bought it used at a local shop for only about
$100, which was a huge bargain! Unfortunately, that lens got stolen
along with the camera it was mounted on at the time. God, how I wish the
thieves had stolen my inexpensive kit lens instead! :)
Anyway, I'm currently shooting with a K100D, and I'm trying to decide
between getting one of these new macro lenses:
Pentax smc P-D FA 50mm f/2.8
Pentax SMCP-DA 35mm f/2.8
Are either of these lenses noticeably sharper than the other?
Which would you buy, especially if this were going to be your only macro
lens?
Are there any other macro lenses I should consider?
thanks,
Glen
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