Give old lenses or camera systems a new lease of life with a manual or electronic lens mount adaptor
(Image credit: Peter Fenech)
There is a reason we call it ‘buying into a system’ when we invest in an interchangeable lens camera. Once we have acquired a significant number of lenses and accessories it can be an expensive affair to replace everything, should we change camera systems. However, in the rapidly evolving photo industry of today, there may be a call for a switch, promoted by new technology in another camera range. The costs of time and money may be offset by the benefits the new camera will bring.
However, even with a major change in camera brand, the use of a lens adaptor can save a lot of outlay on new compatible optics. There is a choice of automatic adaptors, which feature electrical contacts, enabling full autofocus and aperture control, as well as lens-based image stabilization systems.
These are more expensive than manual adaptors, which serve as ‘cold’ mechanical bridges between the camera and lens mounts. Whichever adaptor you choose, ensure it allows focussing at infinity, despite the extra distance between the sensor and rear elements. Furthermore, with an automatic adaptor, check that the camera will still be able to drive AF - some older lenses lack an internal AF motor, relying instead on the camera to drive the elements.
Be certain to check you have the correct adaptor for the lens-camera pairing you need. A Canon EOS - Samsung NX adaptor, as used here, will allow Canon EF/EF-S lenses to be used on NX camera bodies.
Check secure lock
(Image credit: Future)
Check to ensure your adaptor allows a secure connection to the lens and the camera body - cheaper adaptors have been known to improperly lock, which can result in separation and damage to the lens.
With a manual adaptor autofocus control will be lost, so focus manually. If you have an AF adaptor always ensure your lens and/or camera are set to the correct focus mode to enable the camera to drive the AF motor.
Check for vignetting
(Image credit: Future)
With the correct adaptor you should not experience edge darkening, but always check at first use and crop if necessary. Similarly, with aperture-fitted adaptors, test each setting for vignetting strength.
Use an ND
(Image credit: Future)
If you lose aperture control by using a manual adaptor, the diaphragm will be locked wide open. To control exposure in bright light, use an ND filter to prevent overexposure. Focus stack to deepen depth-of-field.
Shooting mode
(Image credit: Future)
With the loss of aperture control you may also lose auto exposure. While you may still be able to shoot in Aperture Priority, if errors occur switch to manual to lock in settings and gain predictable results.
Restricted perspective: Without owning an ultra-wide lens belonging to a new system, this landscape scene could not be captured in its entirety, resulting in lost detail around the edges. (Image credit: Peter Fenech)
Uninterrupted control: A Canon EOS - Samsung NX adapter allowed the use of a full complement of Canon EF mount and proprietary Samsung NX optics to be used as one system. (Image credit: Peter Fenech)
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