Vintage Camera Lens Numbers, Symbols, and Markings Explained

Check out this quick video tutorial explaining some of the markings, numbers, and symbols on vintage camera lenses. So you've got your new (old) vintage lens, but all the markings, symbols, and numbers on it look like gibberish to you. Well in this video we’ll explain what some of these markings mean, so you can become more familiar with your photography gear. We’ll start with he front of the lens looking at diameter, focal length, and maximum aperture. We’ll then move to the barrel of the lens where we’ll take a closer look at the focus and aperture rings. Finally we’ll go over how to use the hyperfocal distance scale. These numbers, symbols, and markings can look confusing, but they really are there to aide us in operating our vintage lenses:)

Written Summary:
Front of the lens:
ø62MM = diameter 62 millimeters
28MM = 28 millimeter focal length
1:2.5 = maximum aperture is f2.5

Lens Barrel:
focus ring = numbers measured in feet and meters
∞ = infinity focus
aperture ring = numbers measured in f/stops

using the hyperfocal distance scale:
1. select an aperture on the aperture ring
2. find the two corresponding aperture stops on the hyperfocal distance scale
3. follow the lines above the hyperfocal distance scale numbers into the focus ring
4. match up the lines with the focus ring numbers.

Back of the lens:
red dot = mounting dot used to align your lens with the mount on your camera (or adapter)

Adapting vintage lenses can be an excellent way to acquire quality glass at a bargain price.

If you liked this video go ahead and hit the like button, if you want to see more like it go ahead and subscribe, and I always like hearing your comments so leave a comment down below. Don't forget to check out all my other AdaptedAlpha videos:)

Видео Vintage Camera Lens Numbers, Symbols, and Markings Explained канала AdaptedAlpha