The Canon FL No.138758 is a vintage lens that was part of Canon’s FL series, designed for film SLR cameras. Canon FL lenses were popular in the 1960s and early 1970s, particularly for the Canon F-1 and other manual focus cameras of that era. These lenses are still sought after by collectors and photographers who appreciate the craftsmanship and optical quality of older glass. Despite being a product of its time, the Canon FL No.138758 continues to have a loyal following thanks to its unique characteristics and compatibility with modern camera systems when used with the appropriate adapters.
Key Features of Canon FL No.138758
1. Optical Design The Canon FL No.138758 is known for its sharp optical performance. It was designed to deliver clear, crisp images with minimal distortion, which was considered advanced for its time. The lens produces a smooth bokeh effect, making it ideal for portrait photography and achieving beautiful background blur.
2. Build Quality Built with a metal body, this lens has a robust and durable construction that can withstand years of use. The focus ring is smooth and easy to operate, providing precise manual focusing control. The lens also features a manual aperture ring, which allows for full control over depth of field.
3. Focal Length and Aperture One of the standout features of the Canon FL No.138758 is its fixed focal length, typically around 50mm, making it a versatile option for various types of photography. Its maximum aperture of f/1.8 allows for excellent low-light performance and better control over the amount of light entering the lens. This makes it a great choice for indoor and low-light shooting.
4. Compatibility While the Canon FL No.138758 was designed for older film cameras, it can still be used on modern digital cameras with the help of an FL-to-EOS lens mount adapter. However, keep in mind that this is a manual focus lens, so you’ll need to focus manually when using it on modern DSLR or mirrorless cameras.
5. Affordable and Accessible Compared to newer Canon lenses, the Canon FL No.138758 is relatively affordable. Since it is no longer in production, the lens can often be found on second-hand markets or through specialty camera stores. Its affordability, combined with its high-quality construction, makes it a popular choice for those looking to explore manual focus photography on a budget.
Why Choose the Canon FL No.138758?
The Canon FL No.138758 has gained popularity due to its combination of affordability, build quality, and optical performance. While it may not have the modern features found in today’s lenses, it is a fantastic choice for those looking to get back to the roots of photography and explore manual controls. The ability to use this lens with modern cameras opens up new creative possibilities, and its compact size makes it an excellent addition to any photographer’s kit.
How to Use the Canon FL No.138758 with Modern Cameras
If you’re planning to use the Canon FL No.138758 with a modern digital camera, here’s how you can do it:
- Use an FL-to-EOS Adapter: To attach the Canon FL No.138758 to a Canon EOS camera (or any other camera brand), you will need an FL-to-EOS lens mount adapter. This will allow the lens to fit on the camera body.
- Manual Focus: Since this lens lacks autofocus functionality, you’ll need to focus manually. Fortunately, many digital cameras today have focus peaking and magnification features, which can make manual focusing much easier.
- Manual Aperture Control: The aperture on this lens is manually adjustable. You’ll need to set the aperture ring according to your desired depth of field and exposure.
- Exposure Settings: The Canon FL No.138758 has a relatively wide aperture, which makes it suitable for low-light conditions. However, you’ll need to adjust your exposure settings, including shutter speed and ISO, to achieve proper exposure.
Conclusion
The Canon FL No.138758 lens is a great choice for photography enthusiasts looking to explore vintage gear or those who want to experiment with manual photography. With its excellent build quality, sharp optics, and affordability, it holds a special place in the world of camera gear. While it may not have the advanced features of modern lenses, its simple yet effective design allows for a unique photographic experience.
If you’re looking to dive into manual focus photography or just want to add a vintage Canon lens to your collection, the Canon FL No.138758 is definitely worth considering. By using it with the proper adapters, you can breathe new life into this classic lens on modern camera bodies.
FAQs
1. What is the Canon FL No.138758 lens used for?
The Canon FL No.138758 is primarily used for general photography, including portraits, landscapes, and low-light shots, thanks to its f/1.8 aperture.
2. Can I use the Canon FL No.138758 on a digital camera?Yes, you can use the Canon FL No.138758 on a digital camera with an FL-to-EOS lens mount adapter. However, it will be a manual focus lens.
3. Is the Canon FL No.138758 lens good for beginners?
Yes, the lens is a great option for beginners who want to learn manual focusing and aperture control. It’s also an affordable choice for those starting with vintage lenses.
4. Is the Canon FL No.138758 lens compatible with autofocus?
No, the Canon FL No.138758 does not have autofocus. It requires manual focus, which can help photographers improve their focusing skills.
5. Where can I buy the Canon FL No.138758 lens?
The Canon FL No.138758 lens can be found at second-hand camera stores, online marketplaces like eBay, or specialty camera retailers that deal in vintage equipment.
