In last week’s blog post I fiddled around with the Leica M8 and an Infrared Filter (because the M8 is extremely Infrared sensitive). Even though all of my wide and so-called “normal” focal length lenses demonstrate a very prominent “hot spot” when photographing with an Infrared Filter. This requires significant post production work on the computer to balance the tones. I should never have sold my 28 mm Elmarit. It performed beautifully with the M8 and IR. The 28 Summicron, 50 Summilux Asph, and 35 Summilux Asph — not so much — they all produce prominent hot-spots with IR.
So I’ve agonized over what lens to acquire for this singular purpose. Something to simply leave on the M8 as the IR tool. I didn’t want to spend much cash as one never knows which lenses will produce these IR hot spots. I also didn’t want a “dog” in my bag. I looked at various possibilities in the 28 to 50 mm range. I watched the old Canons in the various markets; and a couple old Nikons. I also tracked the 40 mm Summicrons which were produced for the old Leica CL film cameras; as well as their Japanese Minolta counterparts. I finally found a lovely 40 mm Summicron with glass in very fine condition, no easy task, and at a more than fair price.
What a little gem it turns out to be. A wonderful performer; with plenty of that vintage Summicron bokeh. And so far no hot spot showing up in the IR images. It’s also a whole lot of fun on the M Monochrom and M (240); quite a wonderful focal length on the full frame actually. I’ve fallen in love with this tiny, light little lens; as well as my front yard; since directing my attention to the old M8 / IR potential.
Leica M8, 40 mm Summicron + BW F Pro 093 IR Filter
Leica M Monochrom, 40 mm Summicron
I love the IR images. Such a dream scape. I shot IR film for several years in the 1980s, and loved the alabaster look of skin” etc.
Thanks for stopping by and taking the time to comment.
I have an M8, IR filters, 21 elmarit, 28 ASPH, 35 2.0 ASPH, 35 V4 50 Elmar (both versions) 75 APO, 90 Summicron, 90 2.8 telemarit, 90 elmarit, 90 Macro, 092 and 093 B+W, old Leica IR filters
I would be willing to check for hot spots at your request. What kind of subjects make it worse?
If the lens produces a center hot spot it will do it under most normal conditions. It appears as sever vignetting; with a very bright center; and increases as you stop the lens down. While it would be interesting to know how each of those lenses perform on the M8 with 092 and 093 filters; no need to test on my account. My kit is quite complete at this point. Can’t really afford additional lens lust. Thanks for the offer though. If you do decide to test I’ll post your results on my blog if you like.