I got this lens from a good Pentax buddy some while back. A very compact AF lens that I think gets overlooked because it isn't very fast in terms of lens aperture (f/3.5~f/4.5) and because the zoom range isn't very wide. However it performs very well and I would rate it as one of the better zoom lenses that Pentax has produced. The zoom range is quite useful for candids and the bokeh is decent.
In comparison to another Vivitar AF 35-70mm f/3.5~4.6 that I have, the 2 lenses are about equal in image quality. However the Vivitar is quite a bit bigger, heavier and a little better in build quality. The Pentax uses a 49mm filter thread while the Vivitar uses a 52mm.
Both lenses have a useful macro feature and is engaged by turning the zoom ring beyond the 70mm setting. While not as good as a dedicated macro lens, I have found the macro quality to be quite good for both lenses. All in all they are nice lenses that focus pretty quickly but the Pentax gets used more often because it is much more compact.
The smaller Pentax versus the larger Vivitar 35-70mm zoom.
1 comment:
You have a great blog. I also use the Pentax K100d and its good to see what is possible with that body. Look forward to seeing more of your work.
Post a Comment