Leica VARIO-ELMARIT-R 28-90 MM F/2.8-4.5 Asph

Chapter 7

Leica R-Lenses	2

__ LEICA VARIO-ELMARIT-R 28-90 MM F/2.8-4.5 ASPH

__Zoomrange

The choice of focal lengths is very practical. Many years ago Canon has analysed thousands of photographs and concluded that the most often used apertures and speeds are 1:8 and 1/125 and that the most used focal lengths were within the 28 mm and 90 mm range. If we believe these studies, the new Leica lens would cover the most used range of focal lengths with one zoom movement.

This Leica lens is a fine addition to the expanding range of Vario-lenses, but it cannot be a jack of all trades.

A macro facility is not available, but can be found in the companion lens Vario-Elmar-R 35-70 mm f/4 . And for most applications, the near focus limit of 0.6 meter on the 90

mmposition may suffice. The aperture range from 1:2.8 to 1:4.5 has enough speed for current high quality medium speed films. One would have hoped for a slightly wider aperture at the telephoto side of the zoomrange. But that

wish would have clashed with the desire for a compact lens. Remember that the famous Vario-Elmarit-R 35-70 mm f/2.8 had a front diameter of 88 mm and extrapolating this to the 90 mm position, one would have to live with a lens with a diameter in the neighbourhood of 120 mm and a much hig- her weight due to the proportionally heavier glass lenses.

The aperture ring has numbers from 2.8 to 22 and one should be aware that this range only holds for the focal lengths from 28 to35 mm.

The 50 mm aperture starts at 3.4 and the 90 mm at 4.5.

If you are at the 90 mm position, the aperture setting of 2.8 corresponds to 4,5 and the 22 is in fact 36.

One should be careful when using a handheld meter or when one uses the A-setting and wants to select a specific aperture. It is easiest to use the aperture indication in the finder.

R-Lenses specifications

Leica R-Lenses have long been revered by photographers for their exceptional quality and performance. Designed for use with Leica R-series film and digital cameras, these lenses embody the brand's commitment to optical excellence, precision engineering, and user-friendly functionality.

One of the most notable features of Leica R-Lenses is their superb optical design. Each lens is crafted using high-quality glass, often featuring special elements such as aspherical glass and low-dispersion lenses to minimize aberrations and enhance sharpness. This meticulous attention to optical performance ensures that images captured with R-Lenses exhibit remarkable contrast, clarity, and color fidelity, allowing photographers to achieve stunning results.

Another key characteristic of Leica R-Lenses is their robust build quality. These lenses are constructed with durable metal housings, ensuring they can withstand the rigors of professional use. The precision of the manufacturing process results in smooth focus and aperture adjustments, providing photographers with a tactile and reliable shooting experience. The use of weather-sealing in certain models allows for shooting in challenging conditions, further enhancing their versatility.

Leica R-Lenses also feature a distinctive aesthetic, characterized by their sleek design and distinctive red dot logo. This iconic branding signifies a level of craftsmanship and quality that is synonymous with the Leica name. The manual focus mechanism on R-Lenses is particularly praised by many photographers, as it allows for fine-tuned control over the focal point, which is especially useful in portrait and macro photography.

In addition to their optical and mechanical excellence, many Leica R-Lenses come equipped with advanced technologies. For instance, some models include the ROM (Read-Out Memory) contacts, which enable the camera to communicate with the lens for enhanced functionality, including automatic aperture control and accurate exposure readings. This integration of technology with traditional craftsmanship exemplifies Leica’s approach to modern photography.

Ultimately, Leica R-Lenses offer an unparalleled combination of optical brilliance, robust construction, and user-friendly features. With a range of focal lengths and specializations, from wide-angle to telephoto, photographers can find the perfect lens to suit their creative vision. Whether one is capturing landscapes, portraits, or close-up details, Leica R-Lenses provide the quality and precision expected from one of the world’s leading camera manufacturers.