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How to get a 50mm f/1.2 lens for only $20

Sep 13, 2016 by John Aldred 12 Comments

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50mmf1220

Super fast primes are a handy thing to have. But they’re not cheap. Their price puts them out of reach for many photographers. Even if funds aren’t an issue it can still be difficult to justify spending that much on one prime lens. But what other options are there?

Well, if you’re Mathieu Stern, one option is to breath new life into a $20 Bell & Howell 50mm f/1.2 projector lens. In his latest video, Mathieu shows us just how simple it is to start using one of these with your DSLR or mirrorless camera.

Camera and projector lenses work on essentially the same principle, just in reverse. They both collect light from one side and project it out of the other. For camera lenses, they collect light from the world and projected it onto your small sensor. For projector lenses, they collect a concentrated amount of light and project it out into the world.

While the primary functions are opposite, either type of lens can theoretically work in either direction. The only major differences is that camera lenses offer more control over features like aperture and focus distance. Projector lenses are typically focused on the projector screen by moving the lens toward or away from the light source.

crazy_swirly_bokeh

Using a projector lens as a camera lens works the same way, by moving the lens closer to or further from the sensor. To faciliate this, Mathieu uses a set of extension tubes. This then allows the lens to float freely within the tubes, while providing a seal around the lens mount of the camera.

A great technique, and an it produces some pretty amazing results, especially given the cost.

razor_sharp

To see more of Mathieu’s videos on weird lenses, check out his YouTube playlist, and see his channel for other cheap and weird lens reviews

Have you tried this? What other lenses have you repurposed to work with your camera? What was their original function? Let us know in the comments.

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Filed Under: DIY Tagged With: 50mm f/1.2, DIY, lens, Mathieu Stern, projector lens, Weird Lenses

John Aldred: from diyphotography.net

About John Aldred

John Aldred is a photographer with over 20 years of experience in the portrait and commercial worlds. He is based in Scotland and has been an early adopter - and occasional beta tester - of almost every digital imaging technology in that time. As well as his creative visual work, John uses 3D printing, electronics and programming to create his own photography and filmmaking tools and consults for a number of brands across the industry.

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