Introduction
M42, also known as the Praktica or Universal thread mount, was a standard lens mount for 35mm film cameras introduced by Praktica in 1938. It was adopted by many other camera manufacturers, including Pentax, Ricoh, and Yashica. M42 lenses are still popular among photographers today for their high quality and relatively low cost.
Wide angle lenses are a great way to capture expansive landscapes, architectural interiors, and large groups of people. They can also be used to create dramatic perspectives and interesting distortions.
There are a number of great M42 wide angle lenses available. Here are a few of the best:
- SMC Takumar 28mm f/3.5
This lens is a classic for a reason. It is sharp, well-built, and relatively affordable.
- Carl Zeiss Jena Flektogon 20mm f/2.8
This lens is a bit more expensive than the SMC Takumar 28mm f/3.5, but it is worth it if you need a faster lens or a wider field of view.
- Tamron SP 17mm f/3.5
This lens is a great option if you are looking for a compact and lightweight wide angle lens.
- Tokina 17mm f/3.5
This lens is another great option if you are looking for a compact and lightweight wide angle lens.
- Chinon 28mm f/2.8
This lens is a good option if you are looking for a fast and affordable wide angle lens.
Key Features and Benefits
- Sharpness: All of the lenses on this list are sharp and produce high-quality images.
- Build quality: These lenses are all well-built and will last for many years.
- Affordability: These lenses are all relatively affordable, especially considering their quality.
- Wide field of view: These lenses all have a wide field of view, which is great for capturing expansive landscapes and architectural interiors.
Conclusion
There are a number of great M42 wide angle lenses available. The best lens for you will depend on your individual needs and budget. If you are looking for a sharp, well-built, and affordable lens, the SMC Takumar 28mm f/3.5 is a great option. If you need a faster lens or a wider field of view, the Carl Zeiss Jena Flektogon 20mm f/2.8 is a good choice. If you are looking for a compact and lightweight lens, the Tamron SP 17mm f/3.5 or the Tokina 17mm f/3.5 are both great options. And if you are looking for a fast and affordable lens, the Chinon 28mm f/2.8 is a good choice.
