List must have A-mount lenses for old-timer amateur

Thank you for sharing! Superb pics!

Thank you, Stan, & a happy, healthy new year to you!

Thank you for great advice everyone!

I just added to my collection two following lenses in almost new condition:

Minolta Maxxum 80-200mm f/2.8 APO HS

Minolta Maxxum 100mm f/2.8 Soft Focus

I also replaced my beaten up Tamron 90mm f/2.8 AF Macro 1:1 with like new condition

stan_pustylnik said:

Thank you for great advice everyone!

I just added to my collection two following lenses in almost new condition:

Minolta Maxxum 80-200mm f/2.8 APO HS

Minolta Maxxum 100mm f/2.8 Soft Focus

I also replaced my beaten up Tamron 90mm f/2.8 AF Macro 1:1 with like new condition

Click to expand...

Stan,

Two nice additions, especially like the 100mm SOFT on my A850. :-D

I also would NOT be without the 500mm reflex when I travel.

Robin, can you recommend book or link on how to use STF for best effect?

stan_pustylnik said:

Robin, can you recommend book or link on how to use STF for best effect?

Click to expand...

Stan,

The Minolta 'soft' is not an Apodized STF lens, but relies on a variable spherical aberration correction, independent of aperture (optimum effect at f5.6). The soft effect is adjustable in four lessening steps from 3, 2, 1 and sharp at 0 (f2.8) to razor sharp by f8.

Most users think of it only as a portrait lens, but I like the effect (setting #1) on some landscape and close ups of flowers etc. Particularly when backlit. When used, it adds a dreamlike quality.

Sorry, I can't think of any sources on how to use for best effect, In my view it's an experimental and unique lens.

I too, like the Soft Focus lens. the SF is good for dreamlike portraits. YMMV

GaryG