What To Know
- However, if you prefer a more compact and lightweight design, or if you are on a tighter budget, the S.
- lens offers a classic design and solid image quality, while the NFD lens provides improved close-focus performance and slightly better image quality.
- The NFD lens has a redesigned optical formula and improved close-focus performance compared to the S.
The Canon FD 50mm f/1.4 S.S.C. and NFD are two iconic lenses that have shaped the history of photography. Both lenses share the same focal length and maximum aperture, but they differ significantly in design and optical characteristics. This blog post will delve into the key differences between the Canon FD 50mm f/1.4 S.S.C. and NFD, helping you make an informed choice when selecting a lens for your Canon FD system camera.
Historical Background
The Canon FD 50mm f/1.4 S.S.C. was introduced in 1971 as part of the original FD lens lineup. The “S.S.C.” designation stands for “Super Spectra Coating,” a multi-layer coating that reduces flare and ghosting. The Canon FD 50mm f/1.4 NFD was introduced in 1979 as an updated version of the S.S.C. lens. The “NFD” designation stands for “New Formula Double,” referring to its redesigned optical formula and improved close-focus performance.
Optical Construction
The Canon FD 50mm f/1.4 S.S.C. features a 7-element, 6-group optical construction. The Canon FD 50mm f/1.4 NFD, on the other hand, has a 9-element, 8-group optical construction. The additional elements in the NFD lens contribute to its improved close-focus performance and reduced distortion.
Image Quality
Both the Canon FD 50mm f/1.4 S.S.C. and NFD lenses are capable of producing stunning images. The S.S.C. lens is known for its sharp and contrasty images, with minimal flare and ghosting. The NFD lens offers slightly better image quality, particularly in terms of sharpness and color rendition.
Close-Focus Performance
The Canon FD 50mm f/1.4 NFD has a significant advantage over the S.S.C. lens in terms of close-focus performance. The S.S.C. lens has a minimum focusing distance of 0.6 meters, while the NFD lens has a minimum focusing distance of 0.45 meters. This makes the NFD lens more suitable for close-up photography.
Bokeh
Both the Canon FD 50mm f/1.4 S.S.C. and NFD lenses produce beautiful bokeh, with smooth and creamy transitions. However, the NFD lens is generally considered to have slightly better bokeh quality, thanks to its more advanced optical formula.
Build Quality
The Canon FD 50mm f/1.4 S.S.C. and NFD lenses are both solidly built, with all-metal construction. The S.S.C. lens has a slightly more compact and lightweight design, while the NFD lens feels more substantial and durable.
Price and Availability
The Canon FD 50mm f/1.4 S.S.C. and NFD lenses are both relatively affordable, especially considering their legendary status. The S.S.C. lens can typically be found for around $150-$250, while the NFD lens is slightly more expensive, ranging from $200-$350. Both lenses are readily available in the used market.
Choosing the Right Lens
The choice between the Canon FD 50mm f/1.4 S.S.C. and NFD lenses ultimately depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you prioritize close-focus performance and slightly better image quality, the NFD lens is the better option. However, if you prefer a more compact and lightweight design, or if you are on a tighter budget, the S.S.C. lens is a solid choice.
Verdict: The Canon FD 50mm f/1.4 S.S.C. and NFD lenses are both excellent choices for Canon FD system cameras. The S.S.C. lens offers a classic design and solid image quality, while the NFD lens provides improved close-focus performance and slightly better image quality. Whether you choose the S.S.C. or NFD lens, you can be assured of owning a piece of photographic history.
Popular Questions
Q: What is the difference between the Canon FD 50mm f/1.4 S.S.C. and NFD lenses?
A: The NFD lens has a redesigned optical formula and improved close-focus performance compared to the S.S.C. lens.
Q: Which lens has better image quality?
A: The NFD lens generally offers slightly better image quality, particularly in terms of sharpness and color rendition.
Q: Which lens is better for close-up photography?
A: The NFD lens has a shorter minimum focusing distance, making it better suited for close-up photography.
Q: Which lens is more affordable?
A: The S.S.C. lens is typically more affordable than the NFD lens.
Q: Which lens is more durable?
A: Both lenses are solidly built, but the NFD lens feels more substantial and durable.
