Re: Pentax SMC DA 18-135mm, anyone?
2011/6/13 Christine Nielsen ch...@inielsen.net: You mean, like the red photo me pumps? Something along those lines might help if I want to blend in to the local scene. The town we are staying in, Sitges, is a summer destination well-known as a hedonistic fleshpot ( I quote from the guidebook, here, not my own description...). If you'll pardon me for saying so, you would like it, I think. :) Are you bringing your sister Brigitte then? :] -- PDML Pentax-Discuss Mail List PDML@pdml.net http://pdml.net/mailman/listinfo/pdml_pdml.net to UNSUBSCRIBE from the PDML, please visit the link directly above and follow the directions.
Re: Pentax SMC DA 18-135mm, anyone?
On Mon, Jun 13, 2011 at 1:08 PM, Ecke PDML overpenta...@googlemail.com wrote: 2011/6/13 Christine Nielsen ch...@inielsen.net: You mean, like the red photo me pumps? Something along those lines might help if I want to blend in to the local scene. The town we are staying in, Sitges, is a summer destination well-known as a hedonistic fleshpot ( I quote from the guidebook, here, not my own description...). If you'll pardon me for saying so, you would like it, I think. :) Are you bringing your sister Brigitte then? :] Har. If I were part of that gene pool... well... my what-to-wear conundrum would be quite different, wouldn't it? For example, the bathing suit question: one or two-piece? would be simply: yes or no? -- PDML Pentax-Discuss Mail List PDML@pdml.net http://pdml.net/mailman/listinfo/pdml_pdml.net to UNSUBSCRIBE from the PDML, please visit the link directly above and follow the directions.
Re: Pentax SMC DA 18-135mm, anyone?
On Jun 13, 2011, at 6:09 AM, Christine Nielsen wrote: On Sun, Jun 12, 2011 at 11:59 AM, Larry Colen l...@red4est.com wrote: On Jun 12, 2011, at 7:52 AM, Christine Nielsen wrote: On Sat, Jun 11, 2011 at 12:27 PM, Christine Aguila christ...@caguila.com wrote: Thanks for the response, Christine, you've given me some great food for thought and the more I think about it, the more I like the idea of the 21mm. A great focal length, and that it's a pancake is a huge plus. H maybe you can help me decide which shoes to pack, too? You mean, like the red photo me pumps? Something along those lines might help if I want to blend in to the local scene. The town we are staying in, Sitges, is a summer destination well-known as a hedonistic fleshpot ( I quote from the guidebook, here, not my own description...). If you'll pardon me for saying so, you would like it, I think. :) Y-chromosome? check pulse? check Yup, I'd probably enjoy a hedonistic fleshpot. -- Larry Colen l...@red4est.com sent from i4est -- PDML Pentax-Discuss Mail List PDML@pdml.net http://pdml.net/mailman/listinfo/pdml_pdml.net to UNSUBSCRIBE from the PDML, please visit the link directly above and follow the directions.
Re: Pentax SMC DA 18-135mm, anyone?
2011/6/13 Christine Nielsen ch...@inielsen.net: Har. If I were part of that gene pool... well... you mean the murky spot over at the shallow end? my what-to-wear conundrum would be quite different, wouldn't it? For example, the bathing suit question: one or two-piece? would be simply: yes or no? yeah and getting refurbs would be normal... no more new lenses... VVEG -- PDML Pentax-Discuss Mail List PDML@pdml.net http://pdml.net/mailman/listinfo/pdml_pdml.net to UNSUBSCRIBE from the PDML, please visit the link directly above and follow the directions.
Re: Pentax SMC DA 18-135mm, anyone?
Christine, putting your 17-70 on your istD may be a bad idea if you didn't think about the fact you'll lose the AF. 17-70 is SDM-only and istD can't do SDM, I'm sorry to say. 2011/6/12 Christine Nielsen ch...@inielsen.net: On Sat, Jun 11, 2011 at 10:25 PM, John Coyle jco...@iinet.net.au wrote: Said this before, but in Egypt I took just the 16-45 and 50-200, and didn't have any coverage problems. I wasn't going to be shooting sport so I didn't need something with longer reach, and the short lens was fine for interiors, temples etc. This year we're going to Italy, and I'll take the same kit: only one potential lens change to be considered, it's light, and that's a consideration too since we tend to do a lot of walking when on holiday. I'd recommend you take just the 17-70 and 50-135 plus a flash. The flash is far more useful than a wider aperture lens for holiday photography, in my experience. Yes, I'll definitely throw my flash into the bag as well... And I'll probably put the 17-70 on my old *ist for my son to use, and that way, it'll be there if I really want it... My long-term goal is to nurture photographers in my family, so that there will always be plenty of gear to share...! -- Thibault Massart aka Thibouille/Thibs -- Photo: K-7, Sigma 28/1.8 macro, FA50/1.4, DA40Ltd, K30/2.8, DA16-45, DA50-135, DA50-200, 360FGZ KX, MX, SuperA+Motor, Z1, P30 Mamiya C330+80/2.8 Sekonic L-208 FalconEyes TE300D x2 Studio flashes Laptop: Macbook 13 Unibody SnowLeo/Win7 Programing: Delphi 2009 -- PDML Pentax-Discuss Mail List PDML@pdml.net http://pdml.net/mailman/listinfo/pdml_pdml.net to UNSUBSCRIBE from the PDML, please visit the link directly above and follow the directions.
Re: Pentax SMC DA 18-135mm, anyone?
On Mon, Jun 13, 2011 at 4:23 AM, Thibouille pentaxl...@gmail.com wrote: Christine, putting your 17-70 on your istD may be a bad idea if you didn't think about the fact you'll lose the AF. I didn't think about that! I've never used the two together before, so I hadn't had that face-palm moment yet. Thanks for the reminder. :) -c -- PDML Pentax-Discuss Mail List PDML@pdml.net http://pdml.net/mailman/listinfo/pdml_pdml.net to UNSUBSCRIBE from the PDML, please visit the link directly above and follow the directions.
Re: Pentax SMC DA 18-135mm, anyone?
On Mon, Jun 13, 2011 at 1:42 AM, Boris Liberman bori...@gmail.com wrote: Or it could mean that a conditional probability of these people being a bit of Pentax fanboys is actually increased with pixel count of their cameras (K-5 having the highest pixel count among those with K-mount). Haha. Good thing I'll never be a fanboy... :) -c -- PDML Pentax-Discuss Mail List PDML@pdml.net http://pdml.net/mailman/listinfo/pdml_pdml.net to UNSUBSCRIBE from the PDML, please visit the link directly above and follow the directions.
Re: Pentax SMC DA 18-135mm, anyone?
On Sun, Jun 12, 2011 at 11:59 AM, Larry Colen l...@red4est.com wrote: On Jun 12, 2011, at 7:52 AM, Christine Nielsen wrote: On Sat, Jun 11, 2011 at 12:27 PM, Christine Aguila christ...@caguila.com wrote: Thanks for the response, Christine, you've given me some great food for thought and the more I think about it, the more I like the idea of the 21mm. A great focal length, and that it's a pancake is a huge plus. H maybe you can help me decide which shoes to pack, too? You mean, like the red photo me pumps? Something along those lines might help if I want to blend in to the local scene. The town we are staying in, Sitges, is a summer destination well-known as a hedonistic fleshpot ( I quote from the guidebook, here, not my own description...). If you'll pardon me for saying so, you would like it, I think. :) -c -- Larry Colen l...@red4est.com sent from i4est -- PDML Pentax-Discuss Mail List PDML@pdml.net http://pdml.net/mailman/listinfo/pdml_pdml.net to UNSUBSCRIBE from the PDML, please visit the link directly above and follow the directions. -- PDML Pentax-Discuss Mail List PDML@pdml.net http://pdml.net/mailman/listinfo/pdml_pdml.net to UNSUBSCRIBE from the PDML, please visit the link directly above and follow the directions.
Re: Pentax SMC DA 18-135mm, anyone?
On Sat, Jun 11, 2011 at 12:22 PM, Ecke PDML overpenta...@googlemail.com wrote: Tempted. But now that I have the FA 28-105/3.2-4.5 I'll rather shop for a zoom that goes wider than my DA*16-50 so I won't be able to report. Sorry Ecke Oh that's ok... but maybe I could trade you a seen-better-days condition 18-55 kit lens for that 16-50? Then I'd be all set. ;) -c -- PDML Pentax-Discuss Mail List PDML@pdml.net http://pdml.net/mailman/listinfo/pdml_pdml.net to UNSUBSCRIBE from the PDML, please visit the link directly above and follow the directions.
Re: Pentax SMC DA 18-135mm, anyone?
On Sat, Jun 11, 2011 at 12:27 PM, Christine Aguila christ...@caguila.com wrote: Hi Christine: For our recent trip, I took the DA 21mm the DA* 50-135mm. The DA 21 covered indoor museum, storefront streetscape, playful portraits of Darrel on the street, you know, the usual playful tourist walkabout stuff. I needed the 50-135mm for the distance stuff--domes of buildings, as well as for close-up architectural details--and the 50-135mm is good for *across the street* reportage. If you will be in the country side at all, you'll probably want the 50-135mm as well. I love the DA 21mm as much as I love the DA* 50-135mm. If for some reason I had to go ultra, ultra light, I'd take the DA 21mm the FA 50mm 1.4. Thanks for the response, Christine, you've given me some great food for thought and the more I think about it, the more I like the idea of the 21mm. A great focal length, and that it's a pancake is a huge plus. H maybe you can help me decide which shoes to pack, too? :) -c -- PDML Pentax-Discuss Mail List PDML@pdml.net http://pdml.net/mailman/listinfo/pdml_pdml.net to UNSUBSCRIBE from the PDML, please visit the link directly above and follow the directions.
Re: Pentax SMC DA 18-135mm, anyone?
On Sat, Jun 11, 2011 at 12:27 PM, Boris Liberman bori...@gmail.com wrote: Christine, the on-line reviews of 18-135 are a mixed bag. I attribute it either to significant sample variation or to potential bias of the reviewer. I know... it can be hard to sort out the truth in online reviews (of all kinds). It did seem that those who were happiest with the lens had a k-5... which introduces a whole 'nother kind of enablement crisis.. Ultimately it depends on your shooting style and your willingness to carry bulk and weight. Personally, I traveled several times with a small set of primes (21, 43, 77 or even 21 and 50) and it worked for me. I don't particularly like shooting longer than 77 mm on APS-C camera so that I cannot say too much about 50-135. Assuming Barcelona is similar to Oslo, Brussels, London or Prague that I visited, (speaking purely photographically, of course) I'd go for a quality wider lens and worry less for telephoto end. Another vote for the 21mm! For my own shooting style, I prefer to keep things simple. I am deathly afraid of fumbling an expensive lens on a busy city sidewalk or onto the sand at the beach. So, I'm not sure I'd have the courage to take a set of primes on a family trip... But I like the idea of the 21 plus the 50-135 and/or the 50... It would make Pentax great good to introduce DA* 16-50 with the same AF motor as there is in 18-135, but I recall they said specifically that they won't... Any luck on your trade? I made Ecke an offer for his, but haven't heard back yet. ;) Thanks, -c -- PDML Pentax-Discuss Mail List PDML@pdml.net http://pdml.net/mailman/listinfo/pdml_pdml.net to UNSUBSCRIBE from the PDML, please visit the link directly above and follow the directions.
Re: Pentax SMC DA 18-135mm, anyone?
On Sat, Jun 11, 2011 at 2:42 PM, Larry Colen l...@red4est.com wrote: Rather than spending money to buy a new lens, bring me along, and I'll share my lenses with you. There's a thought. A ticket to Spain just might be cheaper than the lenses... :) -- PDML Pentax-Discuss Mail List PDML@pdml.net http://pdml.net/mailman/listinfo/pdml_pdml.net to UNSUBSCRIBE from the PDML, please visit the link directly above and follow the directions. -- PDML Pentax-Discuss Mail List PDML@pdml.net http://pdml.net/mailman/listinfo/pdml_pdml.net to UNSUBSCRIBE from the PDML, please visit the link directly above and follow the directions.
Re: Pentax SMC DA 18-135mm, anyone?
On Sat, Jun 11, 2011 at 6:27 PM, Jim King jamesk8...@mac.com wrote: All said, it's fine for my intended purpose but certainly below Pentax's DA 50-135 in IQ. If you're taking snaps it will be fine; for critical work where edge-to-edge sharpness is needed it probably is not what you are looking for. That's where I'm having trouble leaving the 50-135 at home... it is a family vacation we're talking about, but, still... when am I going to get back to Barcelona? Shouldn't I bring/use the best equipment I have? I think I might do as you did, though, and keep an eye out for a used 18-135... even if not for this trip, but to try out closer to home see if the super-zoom fits in to the line-up. Thanks, Jim. -c -- PDML Pentax-Discuss Mail List PDML@pdml.net http://pdml.net/mailman/listinfo/pdml_pdml.net to UNSUBSCRIBE from the PDML, please visit the link directly above and follow the directions.
Re: Pentax SMC DA 18-135mm, anyone?
On Sat, Jun 11, 2011 at 8:31 PM, Ken Waller kwal...@peoplepc.com wrote: The latest issue (July 2011) of Popular Photography contains a review of this lens. Biggest negative they mention is the street price - $500 USD. All in all they like it from the excellent subjective Quality Ratings to the placement of the manual focusing ring - closest to the mount as opposed to other Pentax Zooms with the focus ring out past the zoom ring. Thanks, Ken -- I'll look for that issue. -c -- PDML Pentax-Discuss Mail List PDML@pdml.net http://pdml.net/mailman/listinfo/pdml_pdml.net to UNSUBSCRIBE from the PDML, please visit the link directly above and follow the directions.
Re: Pentax SMC DA 18-135mm, anyone?
On Sat, Jun 11, 2011 at 10:25 PM, John Coyle jco...@iinet.net.au wrote: Said this before, but in Egypt I took just the 16-45 and 50-200, and didn't have any coverage problems. I wasn't going to be shooting sport so I didn't need something with longer reach, and the short lens was fine for interiors, temples etc. This year we're going to Italy, and I'll take the same kit: only one potential lens change to be considered, it's light, and that's a consideration too since we tend to do a lot of walking when on holiday. I'd recommend you take just the 17-70 and 50-135 plus a flash. The flash is far more useful than a wider aperture lens for holiday photography, in my experience. Yes, I'll definitely throw my flash into the bag as well... And I'll probably put the 17-70 on my old *ist for my son to use, and that way, it'll be there if I really want it... My long-term goal is to nurture photographers in my family, so that there will always be plenty of gear to share...! -c -- PDML Pentax-Discuss Mail List PDML@pdml.net http://pdml.net/mailman/listinfo/pdml_pdml.net to UNSUBSCRIBE from the PDML, please visit the link directly above and follow the directions.
Re: Pentax SMC DA 18-135mm, anyone?
On Sun, Jun 12, 2011 at 12:56 AM, Tim Bray tb...@textuality.com wrote: The 50-135 is a brilliant lens but it's awfully big heavy. I don't take it along on biz trips for that reason. But for serious tourism where I expect to encounter extreme beauty, sure. Agreed. I think Barcelona could be 50-135-worthy... Of my lenses, the 21mm is the one absolute must-have. The 21mm and 40mm are a good very compact pair. Recently I've been taking the 100mm macro because it's quite a bit lighter than the 50-135; particularly if I expect to do any portraiture. -T Yet another vote for the 21mm! Hmm... I also have the 100mm macro, but it's the older model... a tank in of itself. I'd have to compare side-by-side to see if there's a significant weight difference. Thanks for the input, -c -- PDML Pentax-Discuss Mail List PDML@pdml.net http://pdml.net/mailman/listinfo/pdml_pdml.net to UNSUBSCRIBE from the PDML, please visit the link directly above and follow the directions.
Re: Pentax SMC DA 18-135mm, anyone?
On Jun 12, 2011, at 7:52 AM, Christine Nielsen wrote: On Sat, Jun 11, 2011 at 12:27 PM, Christine Aguila christ...@caguila.com wrote: Thanks for the response, Christine, you've given me some great food for thought and the more I think about it, the more I like the idea of the 21mm. A great focal length, and that it's a pancake is a huge plus. H maybe you can help me decide which shoes to pack, too? You mean, like the red photo me pumps? -- Larry Colen l...@red4est.com sent from i4est -- PDML Pentax-Discuss Mail List PDML@pdml.net http://pdml.net/mailman/listinfo/pdml_pdml.net to UNSUBSCRIBE from the PDML, please visit the link directly above and follow the directions.
Re: Pentax SMC DA 18-135mm, anyone?
2011/6/12 Christine Nielsen ch...@inielsen.net: Oh that's ok... but maybe I could trade you a seen-better-days condition 18-55 kit lens for that 16-50? Then I'd be all set. If you could just send me better days than I've seen lately, I'd let you have the lens in an instant... -- PDML Pentax-Discuss Mail List PDML@pdml.net http://pdml.net/mailman/listinfo/pdml_pdml.net to UNSUBSCRIBE from the PDML, please visit the link directly above and follow the directions.
Re: Pentax SMC DA 18-135mm, anyone?
On 6/12/2011 17:55, Christine Nielsen wrote: I know... it can be hard to sort out the truth in online reviews (of all kinds). It did seem that those who were happiest with the lens had a k-5... which introduces a whole 'nother kind of enablement crisis.. Or it could mean that a conditional probability of these people being a bit of Pentax fanboys is actually increased with pixel count of their cameras (K-5 having the highest pixel count among those with K-mount). Realistically and seriously the lens that has only average resolution/sharpness would likely have more trouble with K-5 due to its higher pixel density. Another vote for the 21mm! For my own shooting style, I prefer to keep things simple. I am deathly afraid of fumbling an expensive lens on a busy city sidewalk or onto the sand at the beach. So, I'm not sure I'd have the courage to take a set of primes on a family trip... But I like the idea of the 21 plus the 50-135 and/or the 50... The smaller lens, the more fumbling you would have to be to inflict any damage on your gear. To that end 50-135 may be ill-advised. I should point out the obvious - no matter what gear you'd take, it is very likely that you'd see scenes that you'd like to photograph but couldn't be able to - no suitable lens with you at the moment, too far away, too close, too wide, too narrow, no tripod at hand, etc. Any luck on your trade? I made Ecke an offer for his, but haven't heard back yet. ;) I cannot say that I am all set on that. May be I'd just buy DA 16-45/4 (after all K-5 has a very good sensor) and settle for that. Or even I can stay with that Sigma 24-60/2.8 despite some of its imperfections. Boris -- PDML Pentax-Discuss Mail List PDML@pdml.net http://pdml.net/mailman/listinfo/pdml_pdml.net to UNSUBSCRIBE from the PDML, please visit the link directly above and follow the directions.
Pentax SMC DA 18-135mm, anyone?
Hello all, Curious if anyone has tried or been tempted by this one? I'll be traveling to Barcelona in a couple of weeks, and am experiencing a pre-trip enablement crisis of sorts. Last summer, I packed light for our summer vacation, with only one 17-70 lens, and I kind of regretted it. So, this summer, my original plan was to bring along my k-7, the sigma 17-70 lens, the pentax 50-135, and 50/1.4. But, I wonder how much patience I'll have for lens-swapping lens-schlepping on the family vaca, and maybe the 18-135 (for day), plus the 50/1.4 (evening wear) is a better solution. Then again, why own the lovely 50-135, and not bring it? OTOH, I bet the 18-135 is a fine substitute for the sigma, though not as fast by a stop. My dilemma gets down to the question of the travel lens... assuming you are not on photo safari, does it make sense to have a super-zoom for travel, and leave the super-nice lens at home? Security, packing light, ease of use all factor in... but, also image quality... what say you? I am also experiencing a pre-trip wardrobe crisis, but I think I'll have to seek help on another list for that one. :) Thanks, -c -- PDML Pentax-Discuss Mail List PDML@pdml.net http://pdml.net/mailman/listinfo/pdml_pdml.net to UNSUBSCRIBE from the PDML, please visit the link directly above and follow the directions.
Re: Pentax SMC DA 18-135mm, anyone?
Tempted. But now that I have the FA 28-105/3.2-4.5 I'll rather shop for a zoom that goes wider than my DA*16-50 so I won't be able to report. Sorry Ecke 2011/6/11 Christine Nielsen ch...@inielsen.net: Hello all, Curious if anyone has tried or been tempted by this one? I'll be traveling to Barcelona in a couple of weeks, and am experiencing a pre-trip enablement crisis of sorts. Last summer, I packed light for our summer vacation, with only one 17-70 lens, and I kind of regretted it. So, this summer, my original plan was to bring along my k-7, the sigma 17-70 lens, the pentax 50-135, and 50/1.4. But, I wonder how much patience I'll have for lens-swapping lens-schlepping on the family vaca, and maybe the 18-135 (for day), plus the 50/1.4 (evening wear) is a better solution. Then again, why own the lovely 50-135, and not bring it? OTOH, I bet the 18-135 is a fine substitute for the sigma, though not as fast by a stop. My dilemma gets down to the question of the travel lens... assuming you are not on photo safari, does it make sense to have a super-zoom for travel, and leave the super-nice lens at home? Security, packing light, ease of use all factor in... but, also image quality... what say you? I am also experiencing a pre-trip wardrobe crisis, but I think I'll have to seek help on another list for that one. :) Thanks, -c -- PDML Pentax-Discuss Mail List PDML@pdml.net http://pdml.net/mailman/listinfo/pdml_pdml.net to UNSUBSCRIBE from the PDML, please visit the link directly above and follow the directions. -- PDML Pentax-Discuss Mail List PDML@pdml.net http://pdml.net/mailman/listinfo/pdml_pdml.net to UNSUBSCRIBE from the PDML, please visit the link directly above and follow the directions.
Re: Pentax SMC DA 18-135mm, anyone?
Hi Christine:For our recent trip, I took the DA 21mm the DA* 50-135mm. The DA 21 covered indoor museum, storefront streetscape, playful portraits of Darrel on the street, you know, the usual playful tourist walkabout stuff. I needed the 50-135mm for the distance stuff--domes of buildings, as well as for close-up architectural details--and the 50-135mm is good for *across the street* reportage. If you will be in the country side at all, you'll probably want the 50-135mm as well. I love the DA 21mm as much as I love the DA* 50-135mm. If for some reason I had to go ultra, ultra light, I'd take the DA 21mm the FA 50mm 1.4. As to lens swapping, I try to think about what our day's itinerary is and start with the most appropriate lens--works pretty good, but, of course, there are always exceptions and you have to lens change, but that's just part of photography. HTH. Have a great trip! Cheers, Christine/Chicago - Original Message - From: Christine Nielsen ch...@inielsen.net To: Pentax-Discuss Mail List pdml@pdml.net Sent: Saturday, June 11, 2011 10:48 AM Subject: Pentax SMC DA 18-135mm, anyone? Hello all, Curious if anyone has tried or been tempted by this one? I'll be traveling to Barcelona in a couple of weeks, and am experiencing a pre-trip enablement crisis of sorts. Last summer, I packed light for our summer vacation, with only one 17-70 lens, and I kind of regretted it. So, this summer, my original plan was to bring along my k-7, the sigma 17-70 lens, the pentax 50-135, and 50/1.4. But, I wonder how much patience I'll have for lens-swapping lens-schlepping on the family vaca, and maybe the 18-135 (for day), plus the 50/1.4 (evening wear) is a better solution. Then again, why own the lovely 50-135, and not bring it? OTOH, I bet the 18-135 is a fine substitute for the sigma, though not as fast by a stop. My dilemma gets down to the question of the travel lens... assuming you are not on photo safari, does it make sense to have a super-zoom for travel, and leave the super-nice lens at home? Security, packing light, ease of use all factor in... but, also image quality... what say you? I am also experiencing a pre-trip wardrobe crisis, but I think I'll have to seek help on another list for that one. :) Thanks, -c -- PDML Pentax-Discuss Mail List PDML@pdml.net http://pdml.net/mailman/listinfo/pdml_pdml.net to UNSUBSCRIBE from the PDML, please visit the link directly above and follow the directions. -- PDML Pentax-Discuss Mail List PDML@pdml.net http://pdml.net/mailman/listinfo/pdml_pdml.net to UNSUBSCRIBE from the PDML, please visit the link directly above and follow the directions.
Re: Pentax SMC DA 18-135mm, anyone?
On 6/11/2011 18:48, Christine Nielsen wrote: I'll be traveling to Barcelona in a couple of weeks, and am experiencing a pre-trip enablement crisis of sorts. Last summer, I packed light for our summer vacation, with only one 17-70 lens, and I kind of regretted it. So, this summer, my original plan was to bring along my k-7, the sigma 17-70 lens, the pentax 50-135, and 50/1.4. But, I wonder how much patience I'll have for lens-swapping lens-schlepping on the family vaca, and maybe the 18-135 (for day), plus the 50/1.4 (evening wear) is a better solution. Then again, why own the lovely 50-135, and not bring it? OTOH, I bet the 18-135 is a fine substitute for the sigma, though not as fast by a stop. My dilemma gets down to the question of the travel lens... assuming you are not on photo safari, does it make sense to have a super-zoom for travel, and leave the super-nice lens at home? Security, packing light, ease of use all factor in... but, also image quality... what say you? Christine, the on-line reviews of 18-135 are a mixed bag. I attribute it either to significant sample variation or to potential bias of the reviewer. Ultimately it depends on your shooting style and your willingness to carry bulk and weight. Personally, I traveled several times with a small set of primes (21, 43, 77 or even 21 and 50) and it worked for me. I don't particularly like shooting longer than 77 mm on APS-C camera so that I cannot say too much about 50-135. Assuming Barcelona is similar to Oslo, Brussels, London or Prague that I visited, (speaking purely photographically, of course) I'd go for a quality wider lens and worry less for telephoto end. It would make Pentax great good to introduce DA* 16-50 with the same AF motor as there is in 18-135, but I recall they said specifically that they won't... Boris -- PDML Pentax-Discuss Mail List PDML@pdml.net http://pdml.net/mailman/listinfo/pdml_pdml.net to UNSUBSCRIBE from the PDML, please visit the link directly above and follow the directions.
Re: Pentax SMC DA 18-135mm, anyone?
On Jun 11, 2011, at 8:48 AM, Christine Nielsen wrote: Hello all, Curious if anyone has tried or been tempted by this one? I've got my 18-250, which can be a little soft when pushed hard but which is usually plenty sharp enough. It's also a lot lighter and a bit smaller than my 16-50. I love my DA40 but have been very tempted by the DA35 macro as a walkabout lens. I'd want to have least one fast prime in the standard, i.e. 25-40mm range, i.e. f/1.8 or faster. I don't remember which body you have, but with the K-5 I can get away with lenses as slow as 2.8 a lot more often than I'd expect. I'll be traveling to Barcelona in a couple of weeks, and am experiencing a pre-trip enablement crisis of sorts. Rather than spending money to buy a new lens, bring me along, and I'll share my lenses with you. -- Larry Colen l...@red4est.com sent from i4est -- PDML Pentax-Discuss Mail List PDML@pdml.net http://pdml.net/mailman/listinfo/pdml_pdml.net to UNSUBSCRIBE from the PDML, please visit the link directly above and follow the directions.
Re: Pentax SMC DA 18-135mm, anyone?
Christine Nielsen wrote on Sat, 11 Jun 2011 08:49:30 -0700 Hello all, Curious if anyone has tried or been tempted by this one? I'll be traveling to Barcelona in a couple of weeks, and am experiencing a pre-trip enablement crisis of sorts. Last summer, I packed light for our summer vacation, with only one 17-70 lens, and I kind of regretted it. So, this summer, my original plan was to bring along my k-7, the sigma 17-70 lens, the pentax 50-135, and 50/1.4. But, I wonder how much patience I'll have for lens-swapping lens-schlepping on the family vaca, and maybe the 18-135 (for day), plus the 50/1.4 (evening wear) is a better solution. Then again, why own the lovely 50-135, and not bring it? OTOH, I bet the 18-135 is a fine substitute for the sigma, though not as fast by a stop. My dilemma gets down to the question of the travel lens... assuming you are not on photo safari, does it make sense to have a super-zoom for travel, and leave the super-nice lens at home? Security, packing light, ease of use all factor in... but, also image quality... what say you? I have a copy of this lens - bought it used for a good price as I wanted a WR travel zoom. I found it to be very sharp in the center of the image but a bit weak in the corners, and the IQ drops off at the long end as you might expect. I think that the Photozone review is too harsh, at least for my copy. All said, it's fine for my intended purpose but certainly below Pentax's DA 50-135 in IQ. If you're taking snaps it will be fine; for critical work where edge-to-edge sharpness is needed it probably is not what you are looking for. Regards, Jim __ Kindness is the language which the deaf can hear and the blind can see. - Mark Twain -- PDML Pentax-Discuss Mail List PDML@pdml.net http://pdml.net/mailman/listinfo/pdml_pdml.net to UNSUBSCRIBE from the PDML, please visit the link directly above and follow the directions.
Re: Pentax SMC DA 18-135mm, anyone?
The latest issue (July 2011) of Popular Photography contains a review of this lens. Biggest negative they mention is the street price - $500 USD. All in all they like it from the excellent subjective Quality Ratings to the placement of the manual focusing ring - closest to the mount as opposed to other Pentax Zooms with the focus ring out past the zoom ring. Kenneth Waller http://www.pentaxphotogallery.com/kennethwaller - Original Message - From: Christine Nielsen ch...@inielsen.net Subject: Pentax SMC DA 18-135mm, anyone? Hello all, Curious if anyone has tried or been tempted by this one? I'll be traveling to Barcelona in a couple of weeks, and am experiencing a pre-trip enablement crisis of sorts. Last summer, I packed light for our summer vacation, with only one 17-70 lens, and I kind of regretted it. So, this summer, my original plan was to bring along my k-7, the sigma 17-70 lens, the pentax 50-135, and 50/1.4. But, I wonder how much patience I'll have for lens-swapping lens-schlepping on the family vaca, and maybe the 18-135 (for day), plus the 50/1.4 (evening wear) is a better solution. Then again, why own the lovely 50-135, and not bring it? OTOH, I bet the 18-135 is a fine substitute for the sigma, though not as fast by a stop. My dilemma gets down to the question of the travel lens... assuming you are not on photo safari, does it make sense to have a super-zoom for travel, and leave the super-nice lens at home? Security, packing light, ease of use all factor in... but, also image quality... what say you? I am also experiencing a pre-trip wardrobe crisis, but I think I'll have to seek help on another list for that one. :) Thanks, -c -- PDML Pentax-Discuss Mail List PDML@pdml.net http://pdml.net/mailman/listinfo/pdml_pdml.net to UNSUBSCRIBE from the PDML, please visit the link directly above and follow the directions. -- PDML Pentax-Discuss Mail List PDML@pdml.net http://pdml.net/mailman/listinfo/pdml_pdml.net to UNSUBSCRIBE from the PDML, please visit the link directly above and follow the directions.
RE: Pentax SMC DA 18-135mm, anyone?
Said this before, but in Egypt I took just the 16-45 and 50-200, and didn't have any coverage problems. I wasn't going to be shooting sport so I didn't need something with longer reach, and the short lens was fine for interiors, temples etc. This year we're going to Italy, and I'll take the same kit: only one potential lens change to be considered, it's light, and that's a consideration too since we tend to do a lot of walking when on holiday. I'd recommend you take just the 17-70 and 50-135 plus a flash. The flash is far more useful than a wider aperture lens for holiday photography, in my experience. John Coyle Brisbane, Australia -Original Message- From: pdml-boun...@pdml.net [mailto:pdml-boun...@pdml.net] On Behalf Of Christine Nielsen Sent: Sunday, 12 June 2011 1:49 AM To: Pentax-Discuss Mail List Subject: Pentax SMC DA 18-135mm, anyone? Hello all, Curious if anyone has tried or been tempted by this one? I'll be traveling to Barcelona in a couple of weeks, and am experiencing a pre-trip enablement crisis of sorts. Last summer, I packed light for our summer vacation, with only one 17-70 lens, and I kind of regretted it. So, this summer, my original plan was to bring along my k-7, the sigma 17-70 lens, the pentax 50-135, and 50/1.4. But, I wonder how much patience I'll have for lens-swapping lens-schlepping on the family vaca, and maybe the 18-135 (for day), plus the 50/1.4 (evening wear) is a better solution. Then again, why own the lovely 50-135, and not bring it? OTOH, I bet the 18-135 is a fine substitute for the sigma, though not as fast by a stop. My dilemma gets down to the question of the travel lens... assuming you are not on photo safari, does it make sense to have a super-zoom for travel, and leave the super-nice lens at home? Security, packing light, ease of use all factor in... but, also image quality... what say you? I am also experiencing a pre-trip wardrobe crisis, but I think I'll have to seek help on another list for that one. :) Thanks, -c -- PDML Pentax-Discuss Mail List PDML@pdml.net http://pdml.net/mailman/listinfo/pdml_pdml.net to UNSUBSCRIBE from the PDML, please visit the link directly above and follow the directions. -- PDML Pentax-Discuss Mail List PDML@pdml.net http://pdml.net/mailman/listinfo/pdml_pdml.net to UNSUBSCRIBE from the PDML, please visit the link directly above and follow the directions.
Re: Pentax SMC DA 18-135mm, anyone?
The 50-135 is a brilliant lens but it's awfully big heavy. I don't take it along on biz trips for that reason. But for serious tourism where I expect to encounter extreme beauty, sure. Of my lenses, the 21mm is the one absolute must-have. The 21mm and 40mm are a good very compact pair. Recently I've been taking the 100mm macro because it's quite a bit lighter than the 50-135; particularly if I expect to do any portraiture. -T On Sat, Jun 11, 2011 at 7:25 PM, John Coyle jco...@iinet.net.au wrote: Said this before, but in Egypt I took just the 16-45 and 50-200, and didn't have any coverage problems. I wasn't going to be shooting sport so I didn't need something with longer reach, and the short lens was fine for interiors, temples etc. This year we're going to Italy, and I'll take the same kit: only one potential lens change to be considered, it's light, and that's a consideration too since we tend to do a lot of walking when on holiday. I'd recommend you take just the 17-70 and 50-135 plus a flash. The flash is far more useful than a wider aperture lens for holiday photography, in my experience. John Coyle Brisbane, Australia -Original Message- From: pdml-boun...@pdml.net [mailto:pdml-boun...@pdml.net] On Behalf Of Christine Nielsen Sent: Sunday, 12 June 2011 1:49 AM To: Pentax-Discuss Mail List Subject: Pentax SMC DA 18-135mm, anyone? Hello all, Curious if anyone has tried or been tempted by this one? I'll be traveling to Barcelona in a couple of weeks, and am experiencing a pre-trip enablement crisis of sorts. Last summer, I packed light for our summer vacation, with only one 17-70 lens, and I kind of regretted it. So, this summer, my original plan was to bring along my k-7, the sigma 17-70 lens, the pentax 50-135, and 50/1.4. But, I wonder how much patience I'll have for lens-swapping lens-schlepping on the family vaca, and maybe the 18-135 (for day), plus the 50/1.4 (evening wear) is a better solution. Then again, why own the lovely 50-135, and not bring it? OTOH, I bet the 18-135 is a fine substitute for the sigma, though not as fast by a stop. My dilemma gets down to the question of the travel lens... assuming you are not on photo safari, does it make sense to have a super-zoom for travel, and leave the super-nice lens at home? Security, packing light, ease of use all factor in... but, also image quality... what say you? I am also experiencing a pre-trip wardrobe crisis, but I think I'll have to seek help on another list for that one. :) Thanks, -c -- PDML Pentax-Discuss Mail List PDML@pdml.net http://pdml.net/mailman/listinfo/pdml_pdml.net to UNSUBSCRIBE from the PDML, please visit the link directly above and follow the directions. -- PDML Pentax-Discuss Mail List PDML@pdml.net http://pdml.net/mailman/listinfo/pdml_pdml.net to UNSUBSCRIBE from the PDML, please visit the link directly above and follow the directions. -- PDML Pentax-Discuss Mail List PDML@pdml.net http://pdml.net/mailman/listinfo/pdml_pdml.net to UNSUBSCRIBE from the PDML, please visit the link directly above and follow the directions.
Re: Pentax SMC DA 18-135mm, anyone?
On 6/11/2011 21:42, Larry Colen wrote: Rather than spending money to buy a new lens, bring me along, and I'll share my lenses with you. Mister Roberts, your attention is required :-). Boris -- PDML Pentax-Discuss Mail List PDML@pdml.net http://pdml.net/mailman/listinfo/pdml_pdml.net to UNSUBSCRIBE from the PDML, please visit the link directly above and follow the directions.
