As a passionate photographer who started exploring manual focus lenses of the past generation, I had the pleasure of working with an absolute classic lens; a relic of the past. A lens that isn't in production, designed for a different medium and designed by Walter Mandler - one of the most iconic lens designers. This manual focus only, all metal and glass lens is the Leica Summilux-R 80mm f/1.4.
Known for its exceptional optics and legendary build quality, this lens was, at one time, a staple for many photographers seeking top-notch performance in a portrait lens. In this essay, I'll share my hands-on experience and impressions of using this gem. Obviously, this is not a technical review of any sort.
Build and Handling:
The moment you pick up the lens, you're greeted with the unmistakable feel of superior craftsmanship. The lens exudes a sense of solidity and durability, with its robust metal construction and smooth, precise focus and aperture rings. The weight is substantial, conveying a sense of stability that complements high-end Leica cameras perfectly. The lens balances very well on present day full frame cameras quite well.
In the field, the lens handles like a dream. The focus ring glides effortlessly with just enough dampening, allowing for precise manual focusing. Despite its weight, the balance on a Leica body feels just right, contributing to a comfortable shooting experience. The aperture ring, with its distinct clicks, provides a satisfying tactile feedback, making it easy to make adjustments without taking your eye off the viewfinder.
Optical Performance:
Now, let's talk about the star of the show – the optical performance. The f/1.4 aperture of the Lux-R 80mm is a game-changer for low-light situations and achieving that dreamy, shallow depth of field. The lens delivers stunningly sharp images with remarkable clarity, even wide open. The bokeh is creamy and pleasing to the eye, creating a beautiful separation between the subject and background.
Colors are rendered with the signature Leica warmth and richness. The lens excels in capturing skin tones, making it an ideal choice for portrait photography. Contrast is well-balanced, and the lens handles challenging lighting conditions admirably, preserving details in both shadows and highlights. Its ability to "draw" textures with fine details and to render smooth surface textures are both equally superb; a quality that makes this lens an absolute gem.
Versatility:
While the Lux-R 80mm is undoubtedly a portrait powerhouse, its versatility extends beyond just capturing people. I found it surprisingly capable for other genres, such as capturing intricate details in still life and achieving compelling results in landscape photography. The focal length provides a nice compression, allowing for visually striking compositions.
Autofocus aficionados might miss the speed and convenience of modern autofocus systems, as this lens relies on manual focus. However, for those who appreciate the art of manual focusing, the Leica R Summilux 80mm offers a satisfying and immersive experience. The process of focusing manually slows down your shooting rate, thus making you press the shutter button consciously; something the digital medium has allowed us to get away with.
Conclusion:
The Leica Summilux-R 80mm f/1.4 lens is a masterpiece that lives up to the Leica legacy. It's not just a tool for capturing images; it's an instrument that enhances the photographer's creative vision. While it comes with a premium price tag, the impeccable build quality and optical performance make it a worthwhile investment for those who demand the best in their photographic pursuits.
Whether you're a portrait enthusiast or a discerning photographer seeking excellence, the Leica Summilux-R 80mm delivers an unparalleled combination of craftsmanship and image quality.
Thanks for reading.
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