What is the Bronica 50mm f/2.8 Zenzanon MC Lens?
The Bronica 50mm f/2.8 Zenzanon MC Lens is a high-quality lens designed for use with Bronica medium format cameras. Bronica, a renowned Japanese camera manufacturer, released this lens in the mid-1980s as part of their Zenzanon MC lens lineup. It is compatible with cameras such as the Bronica SQ, SQ-A, and SQ-B.
Features and Specifications
The Bronica 50mm f/2.8 Zenzanon MC Lens offers a wide maximum aperture of f/2.8, allowing for greater control over depth of field and low-light shooting. It has a focal length equivalent to 50mm on a 35mm film camera, making it a versatile lens for various photography genres such as portraits, landscapes, and street photography.
With a multicoated (MC) lens construction, the Bronica 50mm f/2.8 Zenzanon ensures reduced lens flare and improved contrast. It features a 55mm filter thread for attaching filters to enhance image effects and creativity. The lens also has a minimum focusing distance of approximately 2 feet, allowing for close-up shots with detailed clarity.
Performance and Image Quality
The Bronica 50mm f/2.8 Zenzanon MC Lens delivers outstanding performance and image quality. The wide maximum aperture enables beautiful background bokeh and shallow depth of field, adding a pleasing blur to the out-of-focus areas. The lens produces sharp and contrast-rich images, capturing fine details and vibrant colors.
The lens exhibits minimal distortion, chromatic aberration, and vignetting, ensuring accurate and well-corrected images. The multicoating on the lens elements helps minimize ghosting and flaring, even in challenging lighting conditions. Whether shooting in the studio or on location, the Bronica 50mm f/2.8 Zenzanon MC Lens delivers reliable and consistent results.
Availability and Pricing
As of its initial release, the Bronica 50mm f/2.8 Zenzanon MC Lens was available at a retail price of around $400. However, current availability and pricing may vary, as this lens is now considered a vintage and collectible item. It can be found through various online marketplaces, specialized camera stores, or through second-hand markets.
Conclusion
The Bronica 50mm f/2.8 Zenzanon MC Lens is a remarkable lens for Bronica medium format cameras, offering excellent performance, image quality, and versatility. With its wide aperture, multicoated construction, and precise optical design, it allows photographers to capture stunning images with ease. Though it may no longer be in production, it remains a favorite among film photography enthusiasts and collectors.
