About ten years ago, I was given a couple Pentax 35mm film SLR bodies, and some lenses, which I was happy with. Especially the SMC-M 50mm f/1.4 lens, with which I discovered bokeh and existing-light photography. But after a while, I got tired of having to store and process film, since I just put all the pictures into my computer anyway. So I got a *ist DS, since that was compatible with all my lenses. But my favorite prime lens has been turned into a zoom by the reduced sensor size. The closest equivalent I've found is the FA 31mm Limited, but that costs ~$1000 USD, and its not even f1.4, its f1.8. Given this issue, along with the fussiness of getting all the auto-exposure/focus stuff to work the way I want it to, and I'm really missing my film camera bodies. Or is there an alternative? [more inside]
posted by Hither on Jun 20, 2010 - 16 answers

Are there cheap alternatives for the large and elaborate "dry boxes" I see listed for use as dehumidified storage cabinets for lenses and other camera gear? I've built up a little collection, live where the summer humidity is often high, and do not run my AC 24/7. My first thought is that this is basically an airtight box with a bunch of dessicant inside. Can't really be that simple, though.
posted by justcorbly on Jul 31, 2009 - 6 answers

CanonFilter: It appears I have dirt inside the my Canon 28-135mm lens... Rather, it looks to me like it's on the inner optics, and not the prime lens... [more inside]
posted by disillusioned on Jun 24, 2009 - 6 answers

I'm interested in fitting odd lenses -- and making custom lenses -- to/for digital cameras and digital video cameras. I'm not terribly concerned with the electronic side of things, so you shouldn't be either. What I'm looking for is a crass/crash course in optics -- something (a book, a video, a class, a kit) that will teach me the basics of optics and allow me to force photocopier lenses, telescopes, and microscopes onto unsuspecting recording devices.
posted by fake on Dec 28, 2006 - 12 answers

Lens dilemma - I'd appreciate some help in choosing my first "non-kit" lens for my Digital Rebel. [more inside] [more inside]
posted by stonerose on Dec 15, 2003 - 19 answers