Mirror Mirror

Mirror -- NEX-5 & Federal Fedar 3.5 inch f6.3 Enlarging Lens. Click to see larger.

I have been out and about everyday on my lunch break for the last two week to walk around the neighborhood and take pictures.  What I have seen the most, in terms of flowers, is tulips.  They are everywhere, in many different colors and species, all blossoming seemingly in competition with each other.  I was going to post another tulip picture, but thought better of it.  Already posted two in the last few days.  I am sure I will post more before they all wilt and wither as spring fades.

 

Federal Fedar 3.5 inch f6.3 Enlarging Lens

Tulips -- NEX-5 & Fedar 3.5 inch f6.3. Click  for larger.

The Federal Fedar 3.5 inch f6.3 is the sister lens to the Federal Anastigmat 55mm f4.5.  Both lenses are very tiny.  Obviously, the Fedar is not an indoors lens, having a maximum aperture of f6.3, and at this aperture, the image is a bit soft.  From f8 on, it's sharp enough, but not as much as the Anastigmat 55mm f4.5.

Despite being such an old and cheap lens, it can still create some nice images.  You just have to shoot with its limitations in mind.  I wouldn't shoot with it everyday, but sometimes you will be surprised what you will get in return for a very small investment.