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I have the v3. Absolutely beautiful lens. Works great on my M cameras, Fuji XT100, as well as my Canon EOS-R. No magenta vignette. Really gorgeous rendering.
I just became aware that all the cockpit shots in the new Tom Cruise move Top Gun 2, were film with a Voigtländer 21mm f1.4. Lol. I knew it was good…. Glad I made that decision. It is spectacular.
I have had the version 1 for several years, usually mounted on my Bessa-L. A great compact setup. Voigtlander made a filter holder for their 12mm that uses 77mm filters. I have used that on my 15mm for years. Works perfectly, with no vignetting at all. I recently bought a Sony A7 iii and just got the adapter for 39mm ltm. So far great results.
I'm interested to get this lens on A7C ( same sensor od A7iii ) if I get v1 is color cast always visible or does it show up only in some situations? which kind ok adapted should I need?
Hi Matt Bought the V3 for my trip to Hanoi and Saigon to take pics for my book from the wonderful, very very narrow alleys. Perfect tool. Used with my M240 and live view. Sharp to the corners. Stopped down to 5.6 - 8 with auto ISO. Greets from Switzerland.
Thanks sorry I missed this. Great to hear confirmation for the V3 and sounds the perfect tool for the job, great planning!! I look for forward to post Covid travel!
I have version 1 for years, but didn't use it that much. When I bought a Leica M8 a few weeks ago, I use it daily. 20mm on an M8 is the perfect angle for me. It is very sharp, and cropped to a 20mm there is practically no vignetting.
Matt,great video as usual. Thanks for your precious insight. I do have the version two of this lens bought cheap from a friend, second hand but like new. I have started to use it on Nikon Z8 albeit mine is a M mount lens. I have this adapter hat actually turn the lens autofocus. Lots of people do not believe is possible until I actually show them. Anyway, is a great lens and has very little distortion for a lens that wide. I haven’t notice much purple vignetting in mine.
Thanks Albert! Yes some of my Patreons use Sony and they use the AF adapters with VM mounts. Yes purple edges is more camera specific so thanks for sharing.
Thanks Matt. Very useful review. For some strange reason I have only just found your channel. I use version 1 and love it on my Ricoh GXR A12 mount so I guess it makes it a 21mm effectively. No colours and little vignetting on this.
Thanks for finding me and commenting.. there are over 100 videos now if you're ever bored and want to binge ha. Great to hear the V1 works on the Ricoh. Thanks for confirming!
Version 1 is LTM and has a built-in hood. When adapting it for M it can be impossible to screw-in - aligning the top of the lens perfectly. How far from perfect depends a bit on the adapter I expect. Voigtlander have (thankfully) put offset pairs of holes behind the lens mount. You can remove the four mount screws, shift over one hole (rotating the lens in relation the the mount) and this helps get ‘close enough’ to perfect. The hood doesn’t seem to interfere with the images. The tiny Voigtlander wide-angles put the rear element so deep into the camera they are a challenge for digital sensors but their inherent lack of distortion makes them ace for film.
Get the version 1 if your camera can use it. The sigma FP with the in camera lens correction works. One of the lightest lenses ever and the optics are very close to version 3. Version 3 is not huge and heavy but version 1 is a dream. Also look at the LTM 12mm. Amazing lens.
İ used to have this lens (V1) nearly 8 years ago and used it with my Bessa R and Ricoh GXR m mount module which was an amazing camera (no magenta casting).
I’ve had the v1 on a IIIf since it came out. Couple notes to add: you can use the 12mm/5.6 filter adapter. It’s not a perfect fit but does work. Also, there are (were) 2 different CV 15mm viewfinders - one plastic as shown here and a more Leica-like round silver metal one. I have both. The metal one is prettier, but the plastic one works a bit better. Super sharp and fun lens.
I use the version II of the15mm on my CL as a 22mm lens and it is great for daylight shooting. Not so much in low light, although the CL can get good results down to 1/5 of a second at f4.5 hand held.
I like this video. Detailed information about a lens and its different versions and variants is content I like to devour. I just find it interesting. Very nice architecture shot at 7.45 by the way. The coloured one has lovely colours.
I have a v1 in M mount, so I don’t think they were all only screw mount. It’s a great lens, certainly worth carrying, and there are cases where it will do what no other lens will do. You definitely have to watch out for your feet, tripod legs, and stray neck straps!
I have the Nikon Z mount on version for my ZF, the lens hood has two screws that hold the hood on the lens body, the hood can be removed with a small screwdriver. I took a few test photos some of them i was shooting in the direction of the sun on a relatively clear day, this was at a local river. The photos were taken from f8 to f 11, the lens showed no signs of flair, and the sun star was beautiful, as far as weight goes it is light and for people that think this is a heavy lens, spend the day with a 100-400 zoom lenses or get a gym membership.
Hi Matt, I have the Version 1 which I use with a Sony A7 Mk II (and an older Nex 7) and I correct the magenta colour caste with the Cornerfix program. As you say, it's very sharp and has a lovely build quality.
Thanks sorry I seem to have missed lots of comments on this video. Ah yes I saw the Cornerfix word mentioned online so great to hear people use it. I saw results with it and it looked good. Thanks for mentioning for others.
Hi Matt. You are talking about the external vf and with the Barnack Leica, focusing with the rangefinder and compose with the evf. But version 1 is not RF coupled. So zone focusing only. Easy with this lens🤗🤗
How do you like it? I am awaiting mine. I had to order a super wide as I have a job coming up that requires some photos of a dentist office. I was worried my 20mm 1.8 may not be wide enough and did not want to be unprepared. I technically wanted a 14-30 for the job but a little tapped for money and got this for 500. Any info would be great. Would obviously be shooting around f8 for max sharpness and such
@DSG0805 must be careful to magnify, with peaking. Some uses seem to have little distortion, keep llevel I have 14-30 f/4.l too. AFS 20 1.8 G and FTZii also. (D810 use also). A year ago I would not believe I'd transition to Z
@@stevenj2380 thanks for the advice. Yes I have the 20 g version as well. I also have a d810 and d850. I was supposed to sell d810 but feeling nostalgic and don’t necessarily want to let go. I have uses for my other 3 but the d810 really gets no lovs these days, but I shot a lot of things with it. I may transition it to infrared
Thanks for the review Matt. Great videos. I use version one on my Leica M240p and Nikon Z6. The purple fringing is obvious on the Leica M240P but disappears when the lens is used on the Nikon Z6. I also did a little review of this lens on my TH-cam channel, GriniFlix. Love your work. Thanks. Peter
Hi David, I shoot mostly B&W so I might not be the best person to ask. CL should be fine as APS-C so doesn't use/shows frame edges. SL not sure sorry. I think a little..
Hi Matt, on the m8.2, with and without the IR Cut filter there is no color cast issues using the version 3. However, the edges are slightly softer and as for vignetting not noticeable. (standard lens no coding on the mount)
Rookie question Matt. When using the Heliar (or any lens) on a crop.sensor camera i.e. the Leica CL, is the correct Lightroom lens profile the Heliar 15mm or it's 35mm equivalent i.e. a 21mm lens?
I am also inclined to believe that it would work perfectly on the Lumix S1R as well as the Leica SL2 and SL2S which probably use a Panasonic sensor.@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom
Hi Matt. I just bought a version 1 of this lens, primarily intended for my Bessa L. What Leica adapter do I buy in order to use this lens on my M3 and M4? The 35mm? I assume it doesn't matter since my frame lines don't go out to 15mm on either camera anyway.
Hi Joseph, great. Yes you can use any cheap Chinese adapter and the frame lines don't matter. (Perhaps buy the adapter for the next LTM lens you will get then share it with the 15mm too). Ie. If you will get a 50mm LTM get a 50-75 adapter. (See tonight's video for LTM cameras and the next video will be on lenses).
Hello Matt. Thanks for as always a very informative video. I bought the version 1 for use on my Barnack iif and my M4. Didn't realize it is not rangefinder coupled. So what would you recommend for "set it and forget" settings. It's usually quite bright here in Colorado but I'd like to use in lower light situations too.
Hi Rex, ah yes the v1 is not coupled. No fear. Pretty much everything is in focus all the time with 15mm. Set your infinity to the f stop you are using and you never need to focus again! (unless doing close up and change as needed). Perhaps try to use ISO 400 film, 1/60 and whatever f stop that gives you.
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom yes I made a £200 profit straight away but I don't buy to sell I'm hoping this enthuses me to get out more as the winter weather always creates the best street pics
Do you think it's a good idea to get this lens and the Leica M1? I just want to shoot ultra wide and focus to infinity in all my shots, I would need an adapter if I get version 1 of this lens, right?
Matt I knew you had something about this one. Do you know if the version I is usable on the Leica SL2 without any problem? I mean the magenta corners and other stuff. Thanks!
@@justcallmesando this is the II. I have the v1 also. I’d expect it to have magenta edges yes but it’s worse on M cameras. I think they fixed it by v3.
Hi Roy, not yet I think. Mainly a lack of travel and always testing different lenses. If you need to know so you can buy it message me through Patreon and I will dig it out and test for you to check.
Which version would you rec for us Fuji & Leica TL (asp-c)users? I see the V I(LTM) is about $75-100 cheaper than the II. Is the closer focus & savings worth it over the V II on a digital camera? I assume the purple corners are less of a thing on aps-c cameras.
Hi! Can you rotate the hood in the M39-version? I have some bodies, where the lens is a little misrotated, when atteched. Say: the markings are not in the 12 o´clock-position. In that case you would have some shading of the negative.... Thx, Stephan
Just bought a V1 example of this lens through EBay and 1. On rangefinder bodies my patch doesn't move when I move the focal length.The patch is "on" at about 20 inches from the subject. 2. I cannot get any kind of focus mounting the lens through an adapter on a micro 4/3 body. 3. With the lens unmounted the body does move in/out when moving the focus ring. 4. One of the rf bodies I've mounted it to is a Bessa R. I guess it needs to go back: any thoughts Matt?
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom It seems that Cosina recently announced a new 15mm. It would be great if you could also review this product. Thanks for your kind reply...
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom thanks for quick reply. I have had 15mm V3 before but was not happy with the corners. As I do color landscapes the other two versions are not valid either.
Hi you need I guess Fuji - (then it can be called "M39, L39, LTM, Leica screw mount) All are the same for this purpose. Maybe search L39 or M39 and you will find on eBay
I bought this lens along with a Bessa L when it first came out in 1999. My 15mm Heliar has no branding or other labeling, only a serial number 9931478, screw mount (m39). The lens cap is labeled "Voigtlander". These were probably from when Cosina made the cameras.
Great video. I’m hankering after the soon to be launched (22nd of Oct) Voigtlander Nokton Classic 50mm f1.5, now wouldn’t it be great if they could appoint you as their UK Brand Ambassador, give you a free one and then you could let us know how fantastic it is (hopefully)
Thanks Matt! Awesome review! Actually I have two Ms, M240P and M10R, and I'm looking for a wide-angle lens for them. Should I buy a V3? I was wondering that V1 and V2 might be too old for the modern digital M?
Hi Flynn, while you are waiting for Matt to reply, I thought I’d give you a quick answer from my perspective. Matt’s opinion is better than mine so if he disagrees, follow his advice. I don’t think the V1 or V2 lenses are too old in terms of glass quality. From what Matt said, they may actually be better for the M10R as they are sharper than the V3. The main reason to go for the V3 with both your cameras is to get rid of the magenta colour cast on the edges. If you primarily take black and white photos, this isn’t much of an issue as it would just show as a slightly darker vignette.
Hi Fynn, James beat me to replying.. what he says is correct, the main reason to get the v3 is for colour photography. If B&W go for the v1 as smaller and focuses to 0.3m ..but.. if you like to use filters get the v2 or v3 (v2 that I have is 52mm filter)(v1 can't use filters)
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom I’m just watching some of your 21mm lens reviews again. I don’t have the money to buy yet (the cheques seem to have gotten lost in the mail). I’m also looking at photo printers but it’s all just dreams at the moment.
Since this lens is not rangefinder coupled it makes sense to use it on a camera without a rangefinder like the Bessa L. I use a 1935 black Leica Standard which is like a Leica II but without a rangefinder just like the original Leica. Even smaller than a IIIa!
Gordon Coale thanks Gordon. Smaller than a Leica iiia..interesting! Thanks for that. I totally overlooked that it is not RF coupled. I have quite a few lenses but I thought it was RF coupled. I have the Voigtländer 25mm and that isn’t but every other lens I have is (as I thought). Thanks for sharing that. 🙏🏻
@@mozaic_channel neither the 15mm Heliar nor 25mm SnapShot Skopar are rangefinder coupled but have such a deep depth of field if set to f8 pretty much everything from .7 meter to infinity is in focus.
Hi Matt, i have the version 1. I use it with a bessa L, a Zeiss ikon ZM and a fuji xt10 with no color cast. Best lens for interiors. Its tiny and incospicuos. Set the focus in 2 meters and you are ready to shoot. Love it. Has anybody used it with a sony A7?
Hi Matt .. can you share when you take photos (as samples on the video), do you usually take JPEG in BnW directly from the camera or RAW and done the BnW over the computer? Thank you.
Hi Rusdi, yes almost every photo on every video (150+ vids) are RAW converted via LR or PS to JPEG. A few recent videos have included in camera JPEG. If I say JPEG at any time that mean in camera.
Another way to avoid the colour cast is to use a Nikon z5 camera or other cameras with older sensor designs. I’m not sure about the newer z cameras but they may be ok too, because I believe Nikon tweaks the filter array over Sony sensors, but I have only tried it personally with z5.
Hi Matt! I know you like old lenses. I was surprised to learn that there are a significant number of lenses produced from the 1940s to the 1970s that are measurably radioactive. This does not apply to the Voigtlander Super-Wide Heliar 15mm. I just wanted to know if you attach any importance to that when you buy old lenses. What do you think, is there a danger for the photographer keeping and using such lenses? I am mainly interested in LTM lenses.
Денис hi yes correct. I’m quite relaxed so don’t worry or consider it. I believe it is low levels too. I think my most radioactive lens is a big Kodak Aero Ektar 4x5 lens. LTM lenses in comparison are nothing to worry about I think. So small lenses.
Thanks yes agreed a great little lens. It pretty good to scale focus but yes sorry I forgot to mention that aspect. (When I use some lenses on the CL I don't notice this!).
Hi Matt Thanks for your review. I have both v1 & v2. I enjoyed the compactness of v1 and used it with Leica film cameras. However since getting the M10, for some reason the v1 won’t won’t on my M10 despite the adapter on it. Camera doesn’t register a lens on it and won’t take an image. Maybe it’s my adapter. Anyway I found a v2 and now enjoying some wide angle shooting, especially sunrise shots and now dabbling in astro.
Voigtländer and even old Leitz adapters can cause your issue. It has to do with cutaways in the adapter flange confusing the camera’s 6-bit code reader. I’ve found the current Rayqual adapters work correctly.
gettons1980 The Rayquals work just like all other LTM (screwmount) to M adapters but are designed to not confuse the 6-bit code readers built into the M8 and later Leica M cameras. The cameras see a lens with a Rayqual adapter as a typical non-coded lens instead of a lens with a code the reader can’t decode. There may be other LTM-to-M adapters besides Rayqual that work well, but the Rayquals are the ones I own.
I have a v1 and a v3 and can confirm that v3 is softer in the corners wide open and at f/5.6. Also at f/8 but not by much. No magenta cast on the M9 and later with v3.
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I have the v3. Absolutely beautiful lens. Works great on my M cameras, Fuji XT100, as well as my Canon EOS-R. No magenta vignette. Really gorgeous rendering.
Ian Bea thanks for confirming all that info. It will help others viewing this 🙏🏻
I just became aware that all the cockpit shots in the new Tom Cruise move Top Gun 2, were film with a Voigtländer 21mm f1.4. Lol. I knew it was good…. Glad I made that decision. It is spectacular.
Really! That's great info. I'll have to check them out in more details, thanks :)
I have had the version 1 for several years, usually mounted on my Bessa-L. A great compact setup. Voigtlander made a filter holder for their 12mm that uses 77mm filters. I have used that on my 15mm for years. Works perfectly, with no vignetting at all. I recently bought a Sony A7 iii and just got the adapter for 39mm ltm. So far great results.
Thanks sorry I missed this! If you like the Bessa L you may like a camera I will share this week! ;)
I'm interested to get this lens on A7C ( same sensor od A7iii ) if I get v1 is color cast always visible or does it show up only in some situations? which kind ok adapted should I need?
Hi Matt
Bought the V3 for my trip to Hanoi and Saigon to take pics for my book from the wonderful, very very narrow alleys. Perfect tool. Used with my M240 and live view. Sharp to the corners. Stopped down to 5.6 - 8 with auto ISO. Greets from Switzerland.
Thanks sorry I missed this. Great to hear confirmation for the V3 and sounds the perfect tool for the job, great planning!! I look for forward to post Covid travel!
Beautiful photos, very sharp rectilinear lens, and nice review.
Thanks!
You have some really great sample photos. I really enjoyed them.
Thanks Erich, very kind!
The version III is superbe. Took lots of pictures in the ultra narrow aleys in Saigon. To be honest I bought this lens especially for those pictures.
Great, I’ve never been but even in central London I can visualise what you mean. Perfect for this situation!
I have version 1 for years, but didn't use it that much. When I bought a Leica M8 a few weeks ago, I use it daily. 20mm on an M8 is the perfect angle for me. It is very sharp, and cropped to a 20mm there is practically no vignetting.
Jo Van de Vijver thanks yes a great combination with the M8 👍🏻
Matt,great video as usual. Thanks for your precious insight. I do have the version two of this lens bought cheap from a friend, second hand but like new. I have started to use it on Nikon Z8 albeit mine is a M mount lens. I have this adapter hat actually turn the lens autofocus. Lots of people do not believe is possible until I actually show them. Anyway, is a great lens and has very little distortion for a lens that wide. I haven’t notice much purple vignetting in mine.
Thanks Albert! Yes some of my Patreons use Sony and they use the AF adapters with VM mounts. Yes purple edges is more camera specific so thanks for sharing.
Love your sample images
Thank you! Great lens.
Thanks Matt. Very useful review. For some strange reason I have only just found your channel. I use version 1 and love it on my Ricoh GXR A12 mount so I guess it makes it a 21mm effectively. No colours and little vignetting on this.
Thanks for finding me and commenting.. there are over 100 videos now if you're ever bored and want to binge ha. Great to hear the V1 works on the Ricoh. Thanks for confirming!
Version 1 is LTM and has a built-in hood. When adapting it for M it can be impossible to screw-in - aligning the top of the lens perfectly. How far from perfect depends a bit on the adapter I expect. Voigtlander have (thankfully) put offset pairs of holes behind the lens mount. You can remove the four mount screws, shift over one hole (rotating the lens in relation the the mount) and this helps get ‘close enough’ to perfect. The hood doesn’t seem to interfere with the images.
The tiny Voigtlander wide-angles put the rear element so deep into the camera they are a challenge for digital sensors but their inherent lack of distortion makes them ace for film.
Great info thanks. Lovely little lens!
Get the version 1 if your camera can use it. The sigma FP with the in camera lens correction works. One of the lightest lenses ever and the optics are very close to version 3. Version 3 is not huge and heavy but version 1 is a dream. Also look at the LTM 12mm. Amazing lens.
Yes v1 is great and focuses closer and I can use on old film cameras.
Thanks to your video, I finally got the courage to use this lens on my Leica iiif. Can’t wait to developer the roll.
Ah amazing Henry! Probably the best lens you can use on that body as you can’t miss focus and the size is perfect too!
İ used to have this lens (V1) nearly 8 years ago and used it with my Bessa R and Ricoh GXR m mount module which was an amazing camera (no magenta casting).
cerbay1974 thanks for sharing. I have the Bessa R but I’ve not used that combo yet. I will!
Very cool video Matt.
Funny thing , I am now deciding if I want to buy the ver I or II and then you pop up...
Thanks Arthur! :)
Hi, great review. Please share what do you set the "lens detection" in the camera for this lens. Thank you
Thank you! I tend not to use lens profiles (as I'm always changing lenses)
I’ve had the v1 on a IIIf since it came out. Couple notes to add: you can use the 12mm/5.6 filter adapter. It’s not a perfect fit but does work. Also, there are (were) 2 different CV 15mm viewfinders - one plastic as shown here and a more Leica-like round silver metal one. I have both. The metal one is prettier, but the plastic one works a bit better. Super sharp and fun lens.
Thanks for the info! Cool re. The filters. Yes I also have metal and plastic Voigtlander finders!
I use the version II of the15mm on my CL as a 22mm lens and it is great for daylight shooting. Not so much in low light, although the CL can get good results down to 1/5 of a second at f4.5 hand held.
Thanks Jim! Great combination, i've used that setup for weddings in the past (in bright conditions)
I want to get this version on a CL digital, how to find the edges? any of the purple color cast seen on other digital bodies?
Also my use.
I like this video. Detailed information about a lens and its different versions and variants is content I like to devour. I just find it interesting. Very nice architecture shot at 7.45 by the way. The coloured one has lovely colours.
Thanks for the feedback Jesse, yes they were the famous Leica M9 colours! :)
I have a v1 in M mount, so I don’t think they were all only screw mount. It’s a great lens, certainly worth carrying, and there are cases where it will do what no other lens will do. You definitely have to watch out for your feet, tripod legs, and stray neck straps!
Thanks! It might be the LTM on an adapter ring? Yes I like the tiny V1 lens for size.
I have the Nikon Z mount on version for my ZF, the lens hood has two screws that hold the hood on the lens body, the hood can be removed with a small screwdriver. I took a few test photos some of them i was shooting in the direction of the sun on a relatively clear day, this was at a local river. The photos were taken from f8 to f 11, the lens showed no signs of flair, and the sun star was beautiful, as far as weight goes it is light and for people that think this is a heavy lens, spend the day with a 100-400 zoom lenses or get a gym membership.
Thanks James, yes this lens is great fun! See my Zf video coming soon!
Hi Matt, I have the Version 1 which I use with a Sony A7 Mk II (and an older Nex 7) and I correct the magenta colour caste with the Cornerfix program. As you say, it's very sharp and has a lovely build quality.
Thanks sorry I seem to have missed lots of comments on this video. Ah yes I saw the Cornerfix word mentioned online so great to hear people use it. I saw results with it and it looked good. Thanks for mentioning for others.
does the magenta cast on sony A7ii shows up on every photo or only occasionally?
Hi Matt. You are talking about the external vf and with the Barnack Leica, focusing with the rangefinder and compose with the evf. But version 1 is not RF coupled. So zone focusing only. Easy with this lens🤗🤗
Thanks Fee, yes! I eventually sold my v2 as I love the v1 so much. You don’t really need to focus a 15mm lens as everything is in focus.
thanks a lot for the reveiw mr osborne....
Thank you Yudi, welcome! :)
Con la leica cl digital también se daria el color magenta en las esquinas de la versión 2??
No, APS-C and MFT cameras crop in to use the centre of the lens so you dont see vignetting and colour cast at the edges.
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom thanks
Thanks
Hans Albers 👍🏻
2024 Sept. Loving the one for Nikon Z mount. On Zf for now. A must to use magnification and peaking.
Great they made on for Nikon users too!
How do you like it? I am awaiting mine. I had to order a super wide as I have a job coming up that requires some photos of a dentist office. I was worried my 20mm 1.8 may not be wide enough and did not want to be unprepared. I technically wanted a 14-30 for the job but a little tapped for money and got this for 500. Any info would be great. Would obviously be shooting around f8 for max sharpness and such
@DSG0805 must be careful to magnify, with peaking. Some uses seem to have little distortion, keep llevel I have 14-30 f/4.l too. AFS 20 1.8 G and FTZii also. (D810 use also). A year ago I would not believe I'd transition to Z
@@stevenj2380 thanks for the advice. Yes I have the 20 g version as well. I also have a d810 and d850. I was supposed to sell d810 but feeling nostalgic and don’t necessarily want to let go. I have uses for my other 3 but the d810 really gets no lovs these days, but I shot a lot of things with it. I may transition it to infrared
@@DSG0805 the focus 'throw' for V. 15 can be such a tiny adjustment to get it sharp. But I do love the lens. Byes, thanks.
Do you have any video or info on the skopagon 40mm f2?
Sorry i've not seen this one
Thanks for the review Matt. Great videos. I use version one on my Leica M240p and Nikon Z6. The purple fringing is obvious on the Leica M240P but disappears when the lens is used on the Nikon Z6. I also did a little review of this lens on my TH-cam channel, GriniFlix. Love your work. Thanks. Peter
Griniflix - Adventure8 thanks Peter and thanks for confirming about the Z6 too 🙏🏻
Thanks! I was wondering about the color cast if I brought it for my iiia on my z6ii.
Does the magenta color cast issue also affect the SL and CL cameras?
Hi David, I shoot mostly B&W so I might not be the best person to ask. CL should be fine as APS-C so doesn't use/shows frame edges. SL not sure sorry. I think a little..
Hi Matt, on the m8.2, with and without the IR Cut filter there is no color cast issues using the version 3. However, the edges are slightly softer and as for vignetting not noticeable. (standard lens no coding on the mount)
Thanks for sharing Richie, yes this was my understanding for the v3. Thanks for confirming!
Rookie question Matt. When using the Heliar (or any lens) on a crop.sensor camera i.e. the Leica CL, is the correct Lightroom lens profile the Heliar 15mm or it's 35mm equivalent i.e. a 21mm lens?
I don’t use profiles but they would expect FF so none really suit the CL. No need to fix corners if only using the centre of the image circle.
I own version 1 and it works perfectly on Lumix S1, no purple discoloration at the edges like my Leica M240.
Thanks Jacques! Yes I have the Lumix S5 (not sure if you saw that video) and I noticed the same using another super wide lens. Thanks for confirming.
I am also inclined to believe that it would work perfectly on the Lumix S1R as well as the Leica SL2 and SL2S which probably use a Panasonic sensor.@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom
@@jacquesmathurin8389 yes agreed. It’s not the sensor as such, it is how it mounts in front I think.
Hi Matt. I just bought a version 1 of this lens, primarily intended for my Bessa L. What Leica adapter do I buy in order to use this lens on my M3 and M4? The 35mm? I assume it doesn't matter since my frame lines don't go out to 15mm on either camera anyway.
Hi Joseph, great. Yes you can use any cheap Chinese adapter and the frame lines don't matter. (Perhaps buy the adapter for the next LTM lens you will get then share it with the 15mm too). Ie. If you will get a 50mm LTM get a 50-75 adapter. (See tonight's video for LTM cameras and the next video will be on lenses).
Hi! can i use any adapted m39 / m with this lens?
Hi Sebastian, sorry for my slow reply. Yes L39/LTM/M39 adapters are normally all the same thing with same thread.
Hello Matt. Thanks for as always a very informative video. I bought the version 1 for use on my Barnack iif and my M4. Didn't realize it is not rangefinder coupled. So what would you recommend for "set it and forget" settings. It's usually quite bright here in Colorado but I'd like to use in lower light situations too.
Hi Rex, ah yes the v1 is not coupled. No fear. Pretty much everything is in focus all the time with 15mm. Set your infinity to the f stop you are using and you never need to focus again! (unless doing close up and change as needed). Perhaps try to use ISO 400 film, 1/60 and whatever f stop that gives you.
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom Thanks so much for your prompt response and great advice Matt. All the best to you.
I have the version 1 for my m8 haven't noticed the colour cast or is it cropped out like the vignette
davejenx yes correct it shouldn’t be a problem on M8 due to crop but thanks for iii ting that out as I didn’t specify it 🙏🏻
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom yes but im poor now because of you 😂
davejenx haha sorry! You might thank me and send me a Christmas card if Leica prices continue to rise and you sell for a profit in the future! 😬😂
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom yes I made a £200 profit straight away but I don't buy to sell I'm hoping this enthuses me to get out more as the winter weather always creates the best street pics
davejenx nice Dave and yes the winter long shadows make for interesting photos for sure 👍🏻
I got lucky & got a relatively clean black version 1 for a good price off ebay. Should be getting it & the adapter just in time for next weekend.
Congrats!
Matt, was the V1 lens rangefinder coupled with your Barnack Leica? I read that the V1 isn’t rangefinder coupled
Hi no v1 is not coupled. Easy to focus with large depth of field
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom ok. Thanks Matt
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom Hey Matt, does this mean you cant focus through the rangefinder in i.e. the M6? And is Version 2 able to do this? Thank you!
@@beneett6800 correct but remember everything is in focus with 15mm!
Do you think it's a good idea to get this lens and the Leica M1? I just want to shoot ultra wide and focus to infinity in all my shots, I would need an adapter if I get version 1 of this lens, right?
Look at my Leica ic video.. or Leica iii videos.. or Bessa L .. all these cameras are great for 15mm. M1 will also work but i've not tried it.
Matt I knew you had something about this one. Do you know if the version I is usable on the Leica SL2 without any problem? I mean the magenta corners and other stuff. Thanks!
@@justcallmesando this is the II. I have the v1 also. I’d expect it to have magenta edges yes but it’s worse on M cameras. I think they fixed it by v3.
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom Thanks, hope to try it sometime.
May I know if the ver 2 can fit into Leica CL (digital) without colliding with the sensor?
Hello yes it works no issue. I use v1 & v2
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom Great, thanks
How does the Voigtlander 15mm f4.5 V3 compare to Zeiss Distagon 15MM F2.8?
I would expect the Zeiss to be better but I've not tried it. The Heliar is excellent but the Zeiss coatings normally even an even greater wow factor.
Have you used it on your Sl Matt?
Hi Roy, not yet I think. Mainly a lack of travel and always testing different lenses. If you need to know so you can buy it message me through Patreon and I will dig it out and test for you to check.
Which version would you rec for us Fuji & Leica TL (asp-c)users? I see the V I(LTM) is about $75-100 cheaper than the II. Is the closer focus & savings worth it over the V II on a digital camera? I assume the purple corners are less of a thing on aps-c cameras.
The v2 and v3 can accept filters. I prefer the smaller v1 that goes closer.
Hi! Can you rotate the hood in the M39-version? I have some bodies, where the lens is a little misrotated, when atteched. Say: the markings are not in the 12 o´clock-position. In that case you would have some shading of the negative....
Thx, Stephan
Hi Stephan, no it is a fixed hood design i'm afraid, like the M version I have too.
Just bought a V1 example of this lens through EBay and 1. On rangefinder bodies my patch doesn't move when I move the focal length.The patch is "on" at about 20 inches from the subject. 2. I cannot get any kind of focus mounting the lens through an adapter on a micro 4/3 body. 3. With the lens unmounted the body does move in/out when moving the focus ring. 4. One of the rf bodies I've mounted it to is a Bessa R.
I guess it needs to go back: any thoughts Matt?
Hi my apologies for missing this. Yes it sounds like you have a bad copy. Return it for a full refund if you can.
ver 2 has magenta cast on leica M11 ?
Probably yes as it's a lens issue not the body
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom It seems that Cosina recently announced a new 15mm. It would be great if you could also review this product. Thanks for your kind reply...
Hi Matt, have you ever used 15mm zeiss ZM ? or you have the possibility to test?
Hi Aziz, no sorry I've not and I've not seen one. You can't go wrong with the Voigtlander
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom thanks for quick reply. I have had 15mm V3 before but was not happy with the corners. As I do color landscapes the other two versions are not valid either.
@@aziznasuti2690 v2 is said to be sharper but only for b&w
This very much for your video, I am going to buy V1 with M39 , I would like to mount it on Fuji Xt3 ; what would be the adapter? thks for answering
Hi you need I guess Fuji - (then it can be called "M39, L39, LTM, Leica screw mount) All are the same for this purpose. Maybe search L39 or M39 and you will find on eBay
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom merci beaucoup
couldn't you use a slip on style filter with the version I of the 15mm lens?
I think you'd get heavy vignetting but have never tried
I bought this lens along with a Bessa L when it first came out in 1999. My 15mm Heliar has no branding or other labeling, only a serial number 9931478, screw mount (m39). The lens cap is labeled "Voigtlander". These were probably from when Cosina made the cameras.
Yes the early Voigtlanders had no writing. If it focuses to 0.3m it’s the v1. There is only 1 LTM lens version
Great video. I’m hankering after the soon to be launched (22nd of Oct) Voigtlander Nokton Classic 50mm f1.5, now wouldn’t it be great if they could appoint you as their UK Brand Ambassador, give you a free one and then you could let us know how fantastic it is (hopefully)
Marcus Outdoors thanks! I don’t have a contact for Voigtlander but I do need one so fingers crossed maybe I can get a connection in the future. 🙏🏻
Thanks Matt! Awesome review! Actually I have two Ms, M240P and M10R, and I'm looking for a wide-angle lens for them. Should I buy a V3? I was wondering that V1 and V2 might be too old for the modern digital M?
Hi Flynn, while you are waiting for Matt to reply, I thought I’d give you a quick answer from my perspective. Matt’s opinion is better than mine so if he disagrees, follow his advice. I don’t think the V1 or V2 lenses are too old in terms of glass quality. From what Matt said, they may actually be better for the M10R as they are sharper than the V3. The main reason to go for the V3 with both your cameras is to get rid of the magenta colour cast on the edges. If you primarily take black and white photos, this isn’t much of an issue as it would just show as a slightly darker vignette.
Thanks James, you are hired as my PA! :P (Joking, I know we chat on Patreon but yes thanks for the great answer here).
Hi Fynn, James beat me to replying.. what he says is correct, the main reason to get the v3 is for colour photography. If B&W go for the v1 as smaller and focuses to 0.3m ..but.. if you like to use filters get the v2 or v3 (v2 that I have is 52mm filter)(v1 can't use filters)
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom I’m just watching some of your 21mm lens reviews again. I don’t have the money to buy yet (the cheques seem to have gotten lost in the mail). I’m also looking at photo printers but it’s all just dreams at the moment.
@@jimbob119874 nice yes I like the 21mm FL for walk about
Since this lens is not rangefinder coupled it makes sense to use it on a camera without a rangefinder like the Bessa L. I use a 1935 black Leica Standard which is like a Leica II but without a rangefinder just like the original Leica. Even smaller than a IIIa!
Gordon Coale thanks Gordon. Smaller than a Leica iiia..interesting! Thanks for that. I totally overlooked that it is not RF coupled. I have quite a few lenses but I thought it was RF coupled. I have the Voigtländer 25mm and that isn’t but every other lens I have is (as I thought). Thanks for sharing that. 🙏🏻
Matt Osborne so it is not RF coupled for all versions, including v1? How easy does it focus?
@@mozaic_channel neither the 15mm Heliar nor 25mm SnapShot Skopar are rangefinder coupled but have such a deep depth of field if set to f8 pretty much everything from .7 meter to infinity is in focus.
HI Matt … I have the version 3 but I can’t attach it to my Leica M2 Button … It doesn’t click … can you advise? Thank you.
Hi Rusdi, hmm I would expect it to fit, is it just tight?
Hi Matt, i have the version 1. I use it with a bessa L, a Zeiss ikon ZM and a fuji xt10 with no color cast. Best lens for interiors. Its tiny and incospicuos. Set the focus in 2 meters and you are ready to shoot. Love it. Has anybody used it with a sony A7?
Miguel Lopez-Araus thanks for sharing about Fuji. It sounds many uses have no issue with colours.
Miguel Lopez-Araus ..and agreed love the size and sharpness especially 👌🏻
How are the corners on your fuji? Is there any purple cast?
Hi Matt .. can you share when you take photos (as samples on the video), do you usually take JPEG in BnW directly from the camera or RAW and done the BnW over the computer? Thank you.
Hi Rusdi, yes almost every photo on every video (150+ vids) are RAW converted via LR or PS to JPEG. A few recent videos have included in camera JPEG. If I say JPEG at any time that mean in camera.
..See MrLeica.Com blog - I just apply my LR presets available there to all my images.
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom thank you so much for your kind reply. Love your channel and learned a lot from it. 🙏🏻
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom will visit for sure. Thank you 🙏🏻
@@macipaq no problem, there are posts on there since 2013 so quite a lot (350+) :)
Just curious to know, I have the V1 of this lens will it have the color cast with an M8?
Hi I think no because the M8 is a crop sensor so you don’t use the edges of the lens.
I used the same setup but mostly shot BW so never noticed ..
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom Thanks, because this is an amazing lens. Super sharp!.
@@hanselalvarez2690 yes very good lens 👍🏻
Hi, Matt. If I pick up a v1 for my Hexar RF & M240, will the rangefinder couple using something like the Voigtlander 28mm/90mm Ring M-adapter?
Hello, sorry I miss this. You can use any ring adapter as you wont use framelines in the finder anyway
CameraQuest actually still has the L39 screw mount versions for sale new in box
Really! Nice, thanks for info. Good for anyone in the US. I like their website too.
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom They still have the 12mm w/finder too. Crazy wide
@@anthonymiller8979 that is wide!
Can this lens handle the 45 Megapixel of Canon R5 😊?
Try it! Not sure if you’ll get soft corners on a Canon..
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom thx
Another way to avoid the colour cast is to use a Nikon z5 camera or other cameras with older sensor designs. I’m not sure about the newer z cameras but they may be ok too, because I believe Nikon tweaks the filter array over Sony sensors, but I have only tried it personally with z5.
Thanks! Yes on the SL cameras these types of lenses perform better than M cameras too (for Leica users)
Hi Matt! I know you like old lenses. I was surprised to learn that there are a significant number of lenses produced from the 1940s to the 1970s that are measurably radioactive. This does not apply to the Voigtlander Super-Wide Heliar 15mm. I just wanted to know if you attach any importance to that when you buy old lenses. What do you think, is there a danger for the photographer keeping and using such lenses? I am mainly interested in LTM lenses.
Денис hi yes correct. I’m quite relaxed so don’t worry or consider it. I believe it is low levels too. I think my most radioactive lens is a big Kodak Aero Ektar 4x5 lens. LTM lenses in comparison are nothing to worry about I think. So small lenses.
Help,
Does anybody know the correct cap size for the v1? I’m receiving one without the original cap. Thanks!
It has fixed hood so can’t use standard clip on cap. Need a push on. You might need to try DIY with plastic bottle caps etc.
I will get the Sony E-mount version for my "Leica" A7RIV 😉
Nice!
Fun lens my v1, and definitely has its place as a unique lens. Too bad its not rangefinder coupled.
Thanks yes agreed a great little lens. It pretty good to scale focus but yes sorry I forgot to mention that aspect. (When I use some lenses on the CL I don't notice this!).
Hi Matt
Thanks for your review. I have both v1 & v2. I enjoyed the compactness of v1 and used it with Leica film cameras. However since getting the M10, for some reason the v1 won’t won’t on my M10 despite the adapter on it. Camera doesn’t register a lens on it and won’t take an image. Maybe it’s my adapter. Anyway I found a v2 and now enjoying some wide angle shooting, especially sunrise shots and now dabbling in astro.
William Woon thanks William. Yes sounds like an adapter issue but you sound fine with v2. Yes lovely lens 👍🏻😊
Voigtländer and even old Leitz adapters can cause your issue. It has to do with cutaways in the adapter flange confusing the camera’s 6-bit code reader. I’ve found the current Rayqual adapters work correctly.
David Kieltyka thanks David
David Kieltyka Hi there, do you mind sharing the details of the Rayqual adapter you are referring to?
gettons1980 The Rayquals work just like all other LTM (screwmount) to M adapters but are designed to not confuse the 6-bit code readers built into the M8 and later Leica M cameras. The cameras see a lens with a Rayqual adapter as a typical non-coded lens instead of a lens with a code the reader can’t decode. There may be other LTM-to-M adapters besides Rayqual that work well, but the Rayquals are the ones I own.
I have a v1 and a v3 and can confirm that v3 is softer in the corners wide open and at f/5.6. Also at f/8 but not by much. No magenta cast on the M9 and later with v3.
Thanks David, I appreciate you confirming this for anyone tempted to buy these lenses. Sorry I missed this.
Very late comment…. 3 years late…. Just bought a v2… virtually no magenta colour cast on a M10…. Only the most minute amount of right hand side
Thanks Simon! I think it behaves better on SL bodies too.
In this video, in this video. Ok we got it.
Thanks, sorry i'm learning as I go.
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom Nevermind me. Just that people always tend to say that when what they’re gonna talk about is already in the title lol.