Author Topic: Is there a real need of a "soft focus" lens in m4/3? (Read 450 times)

adash · « **on:** July 13, 2010, 07:05:15 AM »

Of course there is the Soft focus software effect, but photographers have been using both special "soft focus" lenses or soft filters in the past. How about a "soft focus" or just a soft lens for m4/3?
Whould there be a need for such a dedicated glass or it would just bother you change lenses too often?
If such a lens is to be created, what would it be like?

voyager · « **Reply #1 on:** July 13, 2010, 09:30:59 AM »

It's such a niche lens, I'd rather get a lot more lenses in the system first. When that happens though, sure, why not. Can't hurt I suppose.

popo · « **Reply #2 on:** July 13, 2010, 12:36:06 PM »

I got one already. The cheap 25mm f/1.4 C-mount lens that's popular on ebay doesn't focus sharp at f/1.4, without being blurry either. I suspect it is uncorrected spherical aberration.

I think in practice you might as well have a sharp(ish) lens and post the soft focus effect if you really want it. Fortunately it is one effect that can be simulated well. Thinking more, are there not front filters that offer that effect too?

Centauri27 · « **Reply #3 on:** July 14, 2010, 09:49:06 AM »

I think soft focus lenses will become even more niche than they already are, thanks to digital manipulation. I'd never consider one. I find the soft Art Filter on my E-P1 quite adequate.

Is there a real need of a "soft focus" lens in m4/3?