Robin Rowell's photostream  

ISO 100 1/200 & F2 | Canon 5Dmkii | Carl Zeiss 35mm 1.4 Distagon ZE
1 430EXII w reflective umbrella; 1/4 CTO orange gel; 1/2 power - front & camera left
1 430EXII bare camera right and back & camera right @ 1/4

This is my friend and fraternity brother Pete Phillips who graciously took some time out to let me test the Zeiss 35 1.4 Distagon lens. This shot is directly from the lens with no editing. I posted this full size so check that out if interested.

I haven't been this giddy about a lens since the 24mm TS-Eii. I was close to getting the Canon 35mm 1.4L but I did a lot of research on both that and the Zeiss, and went the German route. At first I was concerned about not having auto focus available but once you get used to using it becomes much more of a non-issue. I chased my pet pig around the house and was able to get much of the shots in focus around f2.

Three things really stand out for me the most with this lens. First is the incredibly smooth & pleasing bokeh, especially at such a wide focal length. It gives a wonderful 3D effect. Samples that I have seen from the Canon 35 looked great as well, but you can see some differences between the two. The second thing that stands out is the tonal range and micro contrast. Midtone values are amazing. I can't necessarily pinpoint it, but it is there. Lastly, the build on this lens is amazing. Canon L glass is noted for its solid & durable construction, but when you feel the weight & build of the Zeiss it's a no-brainer. It is important to note that neither the Canon or Zeiss are weather sealed.

I went full-frame so I can't use this fella anymore. If you live in or around Austin, make me an offer.

Photographer: Robin Rowell

Info---| El Paso, TX
Info---| Location: East-Central
Info---| Canon 5D MKII w TS-E 24mm f/3.5L II
Info---| 30 Sec @ F8 ISO 100, @ 24mm

Luminarias (or is it "Luminarios"?) adorn the street in front of an El Paso home during Christmas 2011.

Texas State Capitol building shot from the north side usig a 24mm TS-E.

Taken in Johnson City, TX.