![]() ![]() Of course the words Aspherical and Apochromatic are two of the buzzwords that manufacturers throw around all to freely, so that when photographers encounter them we are conditioned to believe that they confer some almost magical status on a particular lens. Using straightforward illustrations and with the intent of informing rather than impressing or obfuscating, we are lead through a logical progression of concepts that if read carefully over a couple of hours is sufficient to make any photographer conversant with the basic issues surrounding lens design. In a series of well written chapters this book examines all of these questions providing a practical as well as theoretical basis for its explanations. But, what do we mean by sharpness? How is lens contrast measured? What distortions are more important than others, and why? As photographers we are always curious as to which lens is the sharpest, which has the best contrast and which ones show the lowest distortion. In some 52 pages Erwin provides a comprehensive mini-course in the theory and practice of lens design. Of course the development of Leica lenses was in concert with the evolution of both the M series and later R series cameras and the story of this path is fascinating to read about as political, social, industry and technological forces molded the company’s history and products.įor the non-Leica owner this is the section that makes this book worthwhile. The history of Leica lens design after WW2 tracks the Cold War era with the move of a significant portion of Leitz’s lens design facilities to Midland, Ontario, Canada. Of course producing the quality enlargements needed from this new miniature format required lenses optimized for the format, and Leitz’s Max Berek designed these first lenses, and eventually a large percentage of the lenses that made Leica optics famous. Beginning as a microscope manufacturer Ernst Leitz took a brave step in introducing the Leica, an innovative design by Oskar Bannack. Irwin has actually tested every one of these lenses himself and he provides a clear evaluation of their optical and mechanical properties.Īs the originator of 35mm photography the history of Leica pretty much parallels the development of the format, at least until the late-1950’s. The last 133 pages are a lens-by lens evaluation of every optic ever manufactured by Leica. This is vital information for every photographer interested in why lenses perform the way they do. The middle 52 pages contain what is without a doubt the most comprehensive explanation of optical theory for the layman that I have ever seen in one place. A fascinating read for anyone interested in the development and history of this famous marquee. The first 54 pages are a fascinating history of Leica camera and lens manufacture, from the invention of the 35mm camera in the early years of the 20th century to Leica’s 21st century state-of-the-art optics. Published in the Spring of 2001, this hardcover book is 240 pages in length. He is also a regular contributor to online discussion forums on matters relating to Leica cameras and lenses. The book’s author is a prolific writer concerning Leica optics and has contributed numerous articles to the magazine Leica Fotographie International. It is a book that every photographer interested in lenses and optical theory should immediately add to his or her collection, whether they are a Leica owner or not. you don't have to take my word for it." The bloggers at "The Wily Hound" have an excellent post describing their experience with the service.The Leica Lens Compendiumby Irwin Puts, published by Hove Books, is one of the most valuable photographic books that I have added to my library in recent years. In the past I have purchased photo books through MyPublisher as gifts for friends and have been very pleased with the end result but, to quote a great man, ". ![]() While most of their examples are of photo or memory books, the creative freedom that their book maker software allows and their seemingly-always-available offers and deals are optimal for our project.Īdditionally, their pre-defined specs allow us designers to focus on our illustrations rather than the infinite number of possibilities of printing. My solution:, a site that offers publishing services for single-copy, custom books. This end product? A book.Īs this project is one of leisure, my goal is to keep costs low without sacrificing the quality of the final product. The initial thought has always been, in addition to brushing up on old skills, that we would all be striving toward a final, physical product. We're a ragtag group of professional designers, hobbyists and former art students who've teamed together to create a themed collection of illustrations. ![]()
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. ArchivesCategories |