Version française ici: http://www.jparchibald.com/?p=354
This is my first attempt at blogging in english. Since the french version of this article generated some interest, I decided to translate it and my future technically related posts. I am working right now on a lenghty review of the FS100 as a tool for independent (and low budget) filmaking. Recently I did the cinematography on a short movie with the FS100 and I will share with you my experience.
Some time ago, I bought a Super-35 Sony NEX-FS100 camera. This camera is equipped with the new e-mount system from SONY and allows, via the right adapter, to mount virtually any existing lens. I bought adapters for Nikon and CanonEF to use my collection of lenses that I used with the Canon 7D.
The Nex-3 mirrorless camera with 16mm lens
Moreover, since the Sony FS100 replaces the Canon 7D completely for my video productions, I sold my 7D body. I could not justify keeping a pro body for my photo needs. The logical choice to replace the photographic functions of the 7D for me turned out to be the SONY NEX-3. It shares the e-mount with the FS100, so I can swap all my lenses between the two devices with different adapters I have. It is a kind of hybrid between digital SLR and compact digital cameras. it’s still a big sensor (APS-C) and interchangeable lenses while being less bulky and easier to use (the manual controls and raw files are still present).
The 16mm "pancake" lens
Wide angle converter
The Nex-3 is sold with either a 18-55 lens, or in a kit with a 16mm fixed lens (24mm equivalent to 35mm FF) f2.8. As I have a stabilized 18-200 superzoom that cames with the FS100, I opted for this little 16mm. I also purchased the wide angle adapter specifically designed to be installed on the 16 mm, making it equivalent to a 12mm (18mm in 35mm FF). To take pictures, no complaints, especially since I am an advanced amateur at best … I do not sell any photos. What interested me most was the performance of this lens (and its adapter) coupled with the FS100 for the video.
Here is the test:
My finding are in the video, but overall:
- Sharpeness is good except in the corner
- Corners are soft wide open, improves when stopping down. at f5.6 they are pretty good.
- The adapter is great, no light loss, but it makes the soft corners more apparent.
- We can use it with a matte box.
Overall, the pair work well on the FS100, and can be used wide open depending of the subject (my subject with details all over the frame render the corner softness more apparent.)
