Bronica SQ Tele Lenses

[brian steinberger]

I've finally decided on a MF 6x6 kit. I'm going with the Bronica SQ-A with an 80/2.8. I would like to add a another focal length for situations that I cannot do with my MF rangefinders; telephoto and close focusing for portraiture. My lens options are the 135/4 PS or the 180/4.5 PS. Both of these lenses focus close enough for close-up portrait work. Not sure which to get though. I would also like a longer focal length around 200 or 250mm. If I got the 180 that might fill the void of two lenses, being able to do close up portrait work and be long enough to be my telephoto for landscapes. Where as if I went with the 135 I would want to get another lens, either the 200 or 250. But still, as a pair, the 135 and a 200 or 250 is cheaper than the 180 alone. Also something else to think about.

Any thoughts from using of either of these two lenses? I've heard some reviews that the 180 has a nicer perspective than the 135. Also heard that the 180 is a rather large and heavy lens. I'm sure both are great lenses, I'm just looking for some opinions from users.

 

[glbeas]

The 180 is pretty heavy. I rarely use it though as I shoot a lot of landscape and macro. The 110 macro lens is not bad for shooting people too.

 

[brian steinberger]

Thanks Gary. Anyone else have any experiences?

 

[PhotoJim]

I really like my 150. I'd have to check the closest focusing distance. Mine is the f/3.5 S version. The f/4 PS version is supposedly better but I'm not disappointed with mine.

 

[paul_c5x4]

I really like my 150. I'd have to check the closest focusing distance. Mine is the f/3.5 S version. The f/4 PS version is supposedly better but I'm not disappointed with mine.

Zenzanon-PS 150mm F4 Angle of view, 29.5°. Min focusing distance, 1.5m. weight 750g.

Zenzanon-PS 180mm F4.5 Angle of view, 24.7°. Min focusing distance, 1m. weight 865g.

Have specs for all of the PS lenses and most of the SQ-Ai accessories if you need them.

 

[brian steinberger]

Thanks, I think that extra 30mm in focal length and 1/2 meter of closer focusing advantage would make the 180 worth it over the 150mm. Still not sure between the 180 and 135 though. The 135 focuses to 1m also.

 

[psvensson]

Focusing to 1m with the 135mm will not give you a tightly cropped head for portraits. I use the 150 with an extension tube. That works fine and I haven't felt the need to go to 180, though obviously that would give you the convenience of not messing with a tube.