Macro-Sironar 300mm

[fix_se]

I am interested in buying a macro lens for 8x10". Perhaps a Macro-Sironar N 300 mm (I have enough bellows). However, I wonder if the lens also is ok to take portraits with? Or is there better options if I wan't a lens that I could use for both macro and portraits (perhaps two different and cheaper lenses)? I can't find a 300mm Macro-Sironar at ebay right now, does anyone know how much they usually costs in good condition? Are there any cheaper alternatives?

[John Berry]

At macro distances I can use mt 210 macro sironar.

[Matus Kalisky]

Well, I have seen one Macro Sironar N 300 sold for ~ $1100. I think that some process lenses like Claron or other should work, but they are usually only f/9. If you are only after macro work close to 1:1 than shorter (and usually cheaper lens) like would do. Anyhow Claron 210/9 stopped down should cover 8x10 at infinity. Fujinon A 240 might be also an interesting option.

[Brian K]

I own a 300mm Macro Sironar, it's a great lens for LF macro work. I have never used it for portrait work as it is optimized for either 3:1 or 1:3. However given that you are working 8x10 and that is not too far off from 1:3 for a waist up portrait, and the 8x10 is only going to get enlarged so much, I think it would do a good job. If you were to consider using it for full length portrait or for landscape work I would reconsider.

[fix_se]

Thank you for the information. It seems that the lens could be something for me. Is the any photographs taken with the lens on the web?

[fix_se]

And does anyone know if there are different versions of the Macro Sironar 300mm, for example N:s and non-N:s? If so, what is the differecne between the versions?

[Bob Salomon]

And does anyone know if there are different versions of the Macro Sironar 300mm, for example N:s and non-N:s? If so, what is the differecne between the versions?

Only one version each of the Macro Sironar 210 and the 300. They were replaced by the Apo Macro Sironar 120 and 180mm.

[Bob Salomon]

Sorry the correct name was the Macro Sironar N. There was no non-N version.

[Bob Salomon]

And does anyone know if there are different versions of the Macro Sironar 300mm, for example N:s and non-N:s? If so, what is the differecne between the versions?

Only one version each of the Macro Sironar N 210 and the 300. They were replaced by the Apo Macro Sironar 120 and 180mm.

[fix_se]

Thanks. How long must the bellows on a 8x10" camera be for using the Macro-Sironar for 1:3 and 3:1? I guess that t he lens is optimized for 8x10", but is it also possible to use the lens for 4x5"?