To conclude what was started in Part 1, this lens seems to be able to do it all. Not only can it do well at infinity settings and hyperfocal work, it also does quite well for macro work. For macro work, it is best to use the 100mm setting because of the needed stand off distance required. Macro work with the zoom is almost as good as when using the 135mm macro lens. The ability of this lens to be sharp wide open at all focal lengths was really a surprise. It is noticably sharper wide open, in the corners than the 600mm. Overall, this lens is a real winner and easily capable of pro work. Feel free to add any thoughts about this lens.

-- Steve Rasmussen (srasmuss@flash.net), July 16, 2001

Answers

Jim, I use the Helicoid ext tube for macros for the zoom. I don't own the auto tubes. The Helicoid works well and if I used the tubes for my work, the DOF would be too thin. SR

-- Steve Rasmussen (srasmuss@flash.net), July 27, 2001.

After using this lens quite a bit more since my first report, I really miss having the DOF scale on the barrel. Even with my hyperfocal marks for f/32 for various focal lengths, I miss a full DOF scale. Shooting at f/11 at 65mm is an example. I don't like using DOF tables but I feel there is not much choice.

-- Steve Rasmussen (srasmuss@flash.net), November 11, 2001.

Steve,

I got back another set of 6 rolls from the 67II and this lens and I am just blown away all the more at its performance. I used it handheld for 60% of the shots. I have also purchased a Monopod to use with it. I now find myself looking for excuses to use the 67II instead of my Nikon.

When you use the 55-100 for macro, what do you use for decreasing hte minimum focus? Tubes? I would be interested in trying this out.

Jim K

-- Jim Korczak (korczaks@ptdprolog.net), July 23, 2001.

Steve,

If the auto tubes reduce the DOF too much, how is it that the helicoid tube avoids this? Curious.

Jim

-- Jim Korczak (korczaks@ptdprolog.net), August 08, 2001.