What is Leitz Thambar 90mm f/2.2 Lens?
The Leitz Thambar 90mm f/2.2 lens is a vintage lens produced by Leitz, a renowned German optics company. It was originally released in 1935 for Leica cameras. This lens is renowned for its unique soft-focus effect, which creates a dreamy and ethereal look in photographs. The Thambar lens was especially popular in portraiture and still life photography, adding a romantic and nostalgic touch to images.
Features and Characteristics
The Leitz Thambar 90mm f/2.2 lens is designed to produce a soft-focus effect that sets it apart from other lenses. It achieves this effect through the use of an uncoated, air-spaced doublet lens. The lens construction deliberately introduces spherical aberrations, resulting in the intentional diffusion of light and reduced contrast. This creates a distinctively hazy and dreamlike atmosphere in images.
In addition to its soft-focus capabilities, the Thambar lens also has several other noteworthy features. It has a maximum aperture of f/2.2, allowing for excellent low-light performance and beautiful background blur, commonly known as bokeh. The lens has a minimum focusing distance of 1 meter, making it suitable for capturing both close-up details and wider scenes. It is available in various mounts, making it adaptable to different camera systems.
Price and Availability
As a vintage lens, the Leitz Thambar 90mm f/2.2 is no longer in production. However, it can still be found on the second-hand market or through specialty photography stores. Due to its rarity and unique characteristics, the Thambar lens often commands a higher price compared to other vintage lenses. The price can vary depending on the lens condition, age, and included accessories. It is advisable to research and compare prices before making a purchase.
Using the Leitz Thambar 90mm f/2.2 Lens
To achieve the best results with the Thambar lens, it is important to understand its specific characteristics and shooting techniques. Here are a few tips for using this lens:
1. Embrace the soft-focus effect: The Thambar lens is known for its soft and dreamy look. Emphasize this effect by focusing on subjects with delicate details, such as portraits or still life scenes.
2. Utilize wide apertures: The lens performs exceptionally well at wider apertures, such as f/2.2 or f/2.8. These settings allow for maximum diffusion and bokeh, enhancing the lens’s unique qualities.
3. Experiment with lighting: The Thambar lens responds well to different lighting conditions. Soft, diffused light or backlighting can further enhance the lens’s soft-focus effect, creating a more ethereal atmosphere in your photographs.
4. Pay attention to composition: As the Thambar lens intentionally reduces contrast, it is important to consider composition and framing to create visually appealing images. Balance the softness with strong subjects or interesting compositions to maintain visual interest.
In conclusion, the Leitz Thambar 90mm f/2.2 lens is a vintage gem cherished by photographers who appreciate its unique soft-focus effect. With its ethereal qualities and dreamy atmosphere, it allows photographers to create stunning and nostalgic images. Though no longer in production, the Thambar lens remains a sought-after piece of equipment for those seeking a distinctive and artistic look in their photography.
