lens/bokeh test: 35/1.4 vs 50/1.4

Probably not perfect, but here we go:

Shots taken using:
100ISO
tripod with AS turned off
Raw converted using batch converting in acdseepro
batch resize to 800x???

35@f1.4


50@1.4


35@2


50@2


35@2.8


50@2.8


35@4


50@4



Conclusions:
35/1.4 is an amazing lens! Better bokeh, better colour, better contrast, and more microdetail. Why did i buy the 50/1.4 again?

Edited by sixty9 - 05 January 2007 at 05:56

dont get me wrong, i think the 50/1.4 did admirably. I've heard from users that the 50/1.4 Original produces harsh bokeh, and i can that 50/1.4's with the circular apertures certainly do not. I'm sure the 50/1.4 compares favourably to other lenses and still believe the 50/1.4 is the cheapest great lens you can get.

THis test, however, highlights the fact that the 35/1.4 is an amazing lens. Is there a comparable 35/1.4 lens in any dslr system? Worth more than every dollar i spent on it. Just goes to show you how you can't blindly rate lenses by their photodo score. The 35/1.4 trumps the 50/1.4 in every way. Even if i get a full frame sony when it comes out, i will aways have a aps camera so i can use the 35/1.4 as a 50mm equivelent.

BTW, i know why i bought the 50/1.4.. to take up close portraits of course... just too bad they don't have a 50/1.4G

Hey Damian,

I've just quickly read the post, please be kind if i pose questions/comments that have already been addressed:

1. I'm not quite sure the subject matter is sufficient. I like the tinfoil, but not sure about the boxes with their 2d detailing. Plants and small objects are great subjects to guage bokeh. I think you need more 3d objects.

2 I think with the proximity of the objects in your proposed test, you don't get enough depth or variety of objects, whereas with my test u get more depth, and more variety of subjects which can display differences in bokeh.

3. I don't know if you can have a standard test to address all focal lenghts. This is why i separate my 100mm test with these tests. With shorter focal lengths, the lens has to be closer to the focused point, and the oof areas have to be farther (I actually did a test with my 20mm lens but the oof areas were to close to the bottle, so i couldn't get enough bokeh to test). With long focal lengths the focus area has to be farther from the lens, otherwise the subject fills up the shot and you get no oof areas to compare.

yeah, i can't believe my stupid dumb luck in getting such an absolutely mint copy for only $875 USD. Unbelievable.

About the 85/1.4... i'm still not sure i'd ever find that range necessary, but if i ever saw a reasonably priced CZ 85/1.4 i may be tempted to experiment.