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What does slightly chipped glass produce? (70-200 f/2.8 IS)

Started Sep 23, 2017 | Questions thread
Michael Fryd
Michael Fryd Forum Pro • Posts: 16,059
Re: What does slightly chipped glass produce? (70-200 f/2.8 IS)
1

My_name_is_Ben wrote:

I have the chance to buy a 70-200mm f/2.8 IS at a very very steep discount because the front element has a small chip, about the size of a half grain of rice. This lens is way out of my budget ordinarily (I'm just an amateur with gear envy), so should I just go for this? Or will every shot come out obviously messed up? Anyone have sample shots to show?

As others have pointed out, the only optical issue from a small chip will be a small increase in flare, and a possible corresponding decrease in contrast.

If you take a black Sharpie and fill in the crack, that will solve your flare and contrast problem.  Once filled in, the chip should not cause a visible difference in the final image.

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