FS7: Zeiss ZF Nikon mount lenses for FS7. Opinions, advice?

A

alohype

Veteran
Hi everyone!
Would like to hear some opinions on this combo: Zeiss ZF Nikon mounted lenses for FS7. Any issues, what to keep an eye on? What adapters to use?
Thanks!
 
Sounds like a great combo, the ZFs are about as nice as still lens come for shooting video. With manual focus and iris, and lovely glass.

I'd consider getting a Metabones Speedbooster (Nikon F-mount to Sony E-mount) to give you the added benefit of an extra stop of sensitivity, and giving you a wider field of view with faster lenses (The Zeiss apertures get smaller on their wider lenses).
 
They are great but the only negative is the focus ring turns in the opposite direction from most other lenses. sShort of buying much more expensive primes with longer focus throws they are probably the best thing out there.
I agree about the speed booster though I would get both speed booster and the standard metabones Mark IV adapter so you have 2 different focal lengths and depth of field choices for each lens.



I've got a set for sale if your interested 28 f2, 35 f2, 50 f1.4 & 85 f1.4 that are Duclos Cinemods.
 
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I picked up a used Zacuto follow focus with a reverse wheel. Others make them too. That solves the reverse direction focus of the ZFs
 
I've read zf and zf2 are optically the same, but which will be a better choice for fs7? I guess zf as there is less electronics, right?
 
alohype said:
I've read zf and zf2 are optically the same, but which will be a better choice for fs7? I guess zf as there is less electronics, right?
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If you don't need the electronics than the dumb ZFs may save you money. But if you get a good deal on a ZF2 lens you can mix and match safely.

I used to have a set of six ZF lenses, and I only sold them so I could afford Ultra Primes. They're good glass for the price range. You can get them cinevized for reasonable prices with shops like Duclos.
 
Ben Scott said:
Contax Zeiss is the best alternative to ZF in my opinion. Excellent optics, beautiful organic coatings and focus the correct way.
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well yes Contax is a great glass, BUT there are a few BUTs:
- it has a breathing, to me its an issue
- the price, 1st its hard to find it in great condition as its available as used only!, but also the price of used glass in many cases is same or too close to new zeiss glass, but also in some cases its even more expansive then a modern glass.

ebay prices for a used glass like zeiss are very high, i ve been trying to buy some glass from ebay for several weeks, but stopped because the price was what new coasts. but then i managed to find european dealer that sold me zeiss glass like 30% cheaper then what it coast at ebay, i was surprised, and its new and with warranty!

so i would not recommend Contax because of its price, but the glass is good (i still have 50mm T1.7 - small and great)
 
oh 1 more thing to consider !!! not all Zeiss lenses have long focus throw, for example 15mm f/2.8 and 25mm f/2.0 have short focus throw. 50 f1.4 and 85 f1.4 - long
 
Which nikon->nex adapter would you recommend as most reliable? There's that pin that makes the whole difference if it's a cheaper one :/
 
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