The Canon FD 35mm f/2 lens has long been celebrated for its exceptional optical performance and versatility, making it a prized possession among photography enthusiasts and professionals alike. Introduced in the 1970s, this lens has stood the test of time, continuing to deliver impressive results even in the digital age.
Overview of the Canon FD 35mm f/2
The Canon FD 35mm f/2 is a wide-angle lens designed for the FD mount system, popular during the era of Canon’s manual focus film cameras. Its 35mm focal length offers a natural perspective, making it suitable for a wide range of photographic applications, from landscape to street photography.
Key Specifications
- Focal Length: 35mm
- Maximum Aperture: f/2
- Lens Construction: 8 groups, 9 elements
- Minimum Focusing Distance: 0.3 meters
- Filter Diameter: 55mm
- Dimensions: Approximately 67mm x 60mm
- Weight: Approximately 370 grams
These specifications underscore the lens’s compact and robust design, contributing to its enduring popularity.
Optical Performance
The Canon FD 35mm f/2 is renowned for its sharpness and contrast. Users have praised its ability to deliver crisp images with minimal distortion. However, some versions of this lens, particularly those with a concave front element, contain thoriated glass elements, which can develop a yellow tint over time due to radiation. This discoloration can affect color accuracy but can be mitigated by exposing the lens to ultraviolet light.
Despite this, the lens’s overall rendering is highly regarded, offering smooth transitions from focus to defocused areas, contributing to a pleasing bokeh effect.
Build Quality and Handling
Constructed with a metal body, the FD 35mm f/2 exudes durability. Its breech-lock mount ensures a secure attachment to the camera body, a feature appreciated by many photographers. The focus ring operates smoothly, allowing for precise manual focusing, which is essential for achieving optimal sharpness.
Adaptation to Modern Cameras
With the resurgence of interest in vintage lenses, the Canon FD 35mm f/2 has found new life when adapted to modern mirrorless cameras. Photographers value the unique character and image quality it imparts, which often differs from contemporary lenses. However, it’s important to note that adapting FD lenses requires a compatible adapter, and the user must be comfortable with manual focusing.
Conclusion
The Canon FD 35mm f/2 remains a testament to Canon’s engineering excellence from the manual focus era. Its combination of build quality, optical performance, and versatility continues to make it a sought-after lens for both film and digital photographers.
FAQs
1. Does the Canon FD 35mm f/2 lens work on modern digital cameras?
Yes, with the appropriate adapter, the FD 35mm f/2 can be used on modern mirrorless cameras. However, functionality may be limited to manual focus and aperture control.
2. What is the significance of the “concave” front element in some versions of this lens?
Early versions of the FD 35mm f/2 featured a concave front element and used thoriated glass, which can become yellowed over time due to radiation. This design is often associated with superior sharpness but may require UV treatment to clear any discoloration.
3. How can I address the yellowing of my Canon FD 35mm f/2 lens?
The yellow tint resulting from the radioactive elements can often be reduced by exposing the lens to ultraviolet light, such as sunlight, over an extended period.
4. Are there any known issues with the Canon FD 35mm f/2 lens?
Some users have reported issues with degrading slide-bearing rollers in these lenses. If these components are in good shape or have been overhauled, the optical performance remains superb.
5. How does the FD 35mm f/2 compare to modern lenses?
While modern lenses may offer advanced coatings and autofocus capabilities, the FD 35mm f/2 provides a unique rendering and build quality that many photographers still appreciate. Its manual focus design encourages a more deliberate shooting process.
