Recommend starting with M42 Screw Mount lenses and the Pentax brand. These are excellent build quality and optics, some with multi coatings that help clarity. eBay and local antique stores are a great source for lenses.
Start with a Super Takumar 50mm f1.4 or 55mm f1.8 – less than $100 in great shape. As the focal length is reduced, the pricing will increase, so look for the deals. I picked up a Helios 58mm f2 with a stuck aperture at f2 for $22 at KEH in the store on our first trip together.
Adapters
M42 – Fujifilm X mount adapter
The least expensive and easiest way to get into vintage lenses. The resulting focal view is magnified by 1.5x on Fujifilm cameras. So a 35mm lens will behave like a 52.5mm lens. Since lenses are designed for full frame you might lose some of bokeh on the edges of the lens
M42 – Fujifilm X Helicoid adapter
All the same as above but now you have an adjustable macro extension tube for close focusing.
M42 – Fujifilm X mount Focal Reducer / Speedbooster
Do NOT buy the high dollar Metabones adapters. You will be paying for autofocus circuits not being used. Gets you back to close to original magnification of the attached lens. Most adapters are a 0.71x de-magnification. So a 35mm will be 35×1.5=52.5 x 0.71= 37.27mm
We are working on more detailed guides to help you get started with shooting vintage lenses. Check those out links on the main page of the website.
Be sure to share your questions and comments below!
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