I only acquired a 135/4.5 farily recently. It is an excellent lens
optically and I really appreciate the working distance. The 65-116 tube
is a unique solution that is a bit odd at first compared to a looong
helicoid, but actually faster to use now that I'm used to it.
The only problem for me is that the combo only goes to 1:2.3, which
often isn't enough for me. Oly recommends against using another auto
tube with the 65-116, although some listees report having done so
successfully. In the ultimate theoretical sense, the 80/4 is the lens
Oly designed for the range closer than the 135/4.5, but I've read on the
list that its bokeh is poorer than the very nice bokeh of the 135. The
result so far is that I love the 135 with 65-116, but the Kiron 105/2.5
1:1 gets more use because of it's greater overall flexibility without
fuss. Even the lens hood is built in, less bits and pieces = less fuss
to use. With 135mm, 65-116, hood for 135mm and 80mm or another tube
that's 4 pieces to juggle to do what the Kiron does with one, other than
the greater working distance at moderate macro. The slightly greater
magnification possible with the 80mm doesn't matter to me. As mostly
work outside, fewer pieces and complexity are big pluses.
By the way, a Tamron 55mm lens cap is much more practical with the
135/4.5 than the Oly cap. It has center squeeze tabs and can be easily
put on and off with the hood in place.
Moose
Walt Wayman wrote:
Rich,
You're leaning in the right direction. The 135/4.5 is my most
often used macro lens, usually on the 65-116 auto tube, rarely on
the bellows, which I don't use very often. I've got the 38/2.8,
50/3.5, 50/2, 80/4 Zuiko macros and a 90/2.8 Tamron 1:1 macro.
Except for the 50/2, which has become my de facto "normal" lens,
the 135/4.5 sees more use than any of the others.
I don't get up and down as easily as I once did myself, and the
longer focal length comes in handy. Besides, on the 65-116 tube,
it focuses to infinity, so you're good to go from about six inches
on out.
Walt
---------- Original Message ----------------------------------
From: "Richard Hawkins" <rhawkin3@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx>
I am currently considering the purchase of a macro lens to use
with the auto extension tube, focusing rail and stage, and tripod
or with the auto bellows. I seem to be leaning towards the 135mm
f4.5. The distance from lens to subject is an import factor for
me due to medical problems (arthritic knees and ankles).
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