135mm... What's the Big Deal?

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 Post subject: 135mm... What's the Big Deal?
Unread postPosted: Fri Aug 19, 2011 9:43 am 
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It has long been said that 135mm isn't a common focal length on RFs. It's easy to understand why though. Nevertheless, here's a rundown of using the Leica 135mm f/4 Tele-Elmar-M on the M9.

I don't have a high-powered magnifier, just the 1.15x and I shot all of these on the M9 in a quick, half-hour walk through the park. Focusing was pretty easy - and framing as well, though the framelines for 135mm are indeed a bit small in the VF. On the M9 at least, I don't really find it a big deal. Though a Leica SCHOOC finder is very worthwhile.

I have to say, I'm quite happy with the results for several reasons. One, my RF alignment must be spot-on - and two, this lens is incredible! I shot primarily at ISO400, f/5.6 or f/8.0 with varying shutter speeds, handheld. Post-processing was very minimal (slight contrast bump, resize, slight USM):

NOTE: On some forums it's customary to post the obligatory "duck shots" when you get a new lens. So... I didn't want to disappoint anyone that's also on said forums... Though granted, these are geese and swans. Anyway...

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A couple more images are available in the Hecksher Park, NY gallery.

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 Post subject: Re: 135mm... What's the Big Deal?
Unread postPosted: Fri Aug 19, 2011 9:52 am 
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Here are some more recent shots...

M9 - and no, this is not cropped:
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Also on the M9, shooting the shooter:
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On the M8 it makes for a nice 180mm:
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...which came in handy as I walked out in the morning one day to find an osprey just hanging out on my pool cover!
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 Post subject: Re: 135mm... What's the Big Deal?
Unread postPosted: Tue Jan 10, 2012 3:45 pm 
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I love the 135mm on the rangefinder, I've not had problems focusing or composing only with camera-shake when hand-held under 1/15 speeds. My love for the 135 (and the 90) is the main reason I recently ordered an alc M7 with 0.85x magnification.

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