This new zoom seems to do very well in macro work. Not only is it a sharp lens but its f/45 DOF is noticeably better than the 135 macro. One problem I've noticed is that it will flare very easily when used in landscape shots. It will flare even though the sun is not striking the front element. The sharpness at f/45 is better than I was expecting. It makes me wonder if f/64 would have been possible. I have put hyperfocal marks on the lens but for f/45 only. Have also put the close focus marks to go with the hyperfocal marks. Pentax should have put these on themselves. My first impression of the lens is quite good. Feel free to add any comments on this new zoom.

-- Steve Rasmussen (srasmuss@flash.net), May 15, 2002

Answers

To add a bit to what I said about this lense's macro ability, I've noticed that the focus will not hold while zooming. This can be an advantage in macro because you can use the zoom to focus. With the helicoid fully extended, the zoom can be used for framing and focusing both. It seems that the 90mm setting will give 50% greater magnification than the 180mm setting in macro.

-- Steve Rasmussen (srasmuss@flash.net), May 20, 2002.