Petri 28

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Petri 28

Type: Manual/Automatic

Focal Length: 28mm

Aperture Range: f2.8 - f22

Filter Thread: 62mm

This one came from a Petri TTL camera which was beyond repair. At the time I had no other wide angle prime so I retained this lens for use with the digital. Even allowing for the crop factor this is still only 42mm which provides a reasonable angle. The performance, although not great is acceptable and beware of the sun. Due to its large surface area it is very prone to flare if pointed in any way toward the sun, a hood would have helped but I don't have one at 62mm.

The results I find interesting because it takes me to the argument between sharpness and contrast. On the same day I took these pictures I also had with me a Carl Zeiss Flektagon and a Super Takumar all of which were similar length, the Felktagon at 35mm being the slightly longer unit. The direct comparison is between this Petri and the Takumar. Initially the Takumar appears the better lens because it is noticeably sharper, however the pictures are a bit pale. The Petri, on the other hand has a much stronger contrast with better saturation and, although not as sharp, creates a more rounded picture. As for the flare and stray light issues this applies to both, as does the perspective control.

On pictures like this the performance is, as I have said, pleasantly acceptable but not outstanding. The high level of contrast does exaggerate the shadows.

These three pictures are the same location taken to right, centre and left, with the sun behind, as you can see from the shadows.

Under these conditions the lens has done a pretty good job. Any further round and the story would be different.

This one is to show that it can deliver respectable detail, but note the building to the back is showing signs of overexposure. I am now facing about 20 degrees further round to the right than picture #1.

Its biggest weakness is with architectural verticals. Because it is intended for use as a wide angle lens the perspective control (converging verticals) are very noticeable at closer range.

Below are two somewhat more chronic examples.

The buildings in the far distance are fine, however, the two either side are falling into the picture.

The two pictures below highlight the problem it has with stray light

Now this one is a fine picture, this is where this lens comes into its stride. The depth of colour and detail are excellent, and at this range the perspective control is not a problem.