Videos

There are an abundance of inexpensive adapters available that enable photographers to use vintage lenses on modern DSLRs and mirrorless cameras, and it’s often possible to pick up a premium legacy lens for far less than the cost of a current entry-level or mid-priced lens.

In the video below you’ll see an interesting shootout between an old Pentax Takumar 100mm f/4 macro lens and the moderately priced Canon EF 100mm f/2.8 USM lens. Photographer Mark Holtze picked up an M42 screw-mount version of the Pentax lens for $100, while his modern Canon 100mm macro sells for $600.

A couple things to keep in mind before watching the video: First, it should be obvious that the Pentax 100mm macro is a manual focus lens, while the Canon EF 100mm f/2.8 USM provides the convenience of autofocus. And remember that it’s necessary to purchase an inexpensive adapter for using legacy glass on modern digital cameras.

It’s also important to note that the Pentax Takumar 100mm f/4 macro has a reproduction ratio of 1:2, while the Canon EF 100mm f/2.8 USM delivers life size photos at 1:1. So take a look and see what you think.

You can find more interesting videos on Holtze’s YouTube channel, and be sure to look at our recent tutorial with 10 tips for shooting better macro photos.