Which Softar?

[David Nash]

Hi

I'm sitting here waiting for some computers to reboot, so I thought I'd ask a qu estion! A local dealer has a special offer on Heliopan Zeiss Softar filters, an d I thought I'd try one. I'd like to try it for some portraiture on 5x4" and 10 x8" (platinum prints). I don't know whether to buy the Softar I or Softar II. O r both? Any opinions? If I like the soft focus effect, I might join the queue for the new Cooke portrait lens!

David Nash

[John Burke]

Depends on the effect you want. I've found that most clients (wedding image buye rs, usually brides & their moms) pick the Softar II images as preferable. If you 're shooting LF, though, don't forget the softness & pleasant flare given by old uncoated lenses... have fun!

[miles]

howdy david,

i'd take the camera and some film to his shop and try both. i personally own the softar I for my 6 by 7 camera setup. i find it sufficient so far.(no pun intended)

miles

[Scott Walton]

I too have the 1 and find it sufficient. The 2 to me is nice for a dreamy window light portrait but it is just a little to soft for me...