The Leica R 90 f2 Pre ASHP is a renowned piece of optical engineering that has captivated both professional photographers and enthusiasts alike. Known for its exceptional image quality and craftsmanship, this lens has become a classic in the Leica lineup. In this article, we will explore what makes the Leica R 90 f2 Pre ASHP stand out in the world of photography, highlighting its design, features, performance, and history.
What is the Leica R 90 f2 Pre ASHP?
The Leica R 90 f2 Pre ASHP is a 90mm focal length prime lens that was part of the Leica R system of cameras. The “Pre ASHP” designation refers to the version of the lens released before the introduction of the ASHP (Anti-Reflective Super High Performance) coating. The Pre ASHP variant of the lens is known for its rich optical performance, high-quality materials, and the renowned precision that Leica lenses are famous for.
This lens was produced during the early years of the Leica R system, which was first introduced in 1976. The 90mm focal length makes it a popular choice for portrait photographers, as it allows for flattering compression of facial features while maintaining excellent sharpness and bokeh. As a fast lens with an f/2 maximum aperture, the Leica R 90 f2 Pre ASHP is perfect for low-light conditions and offers a shallow depth of field, which is highly sought after for artistic purposes.
Build Quality and Design
One of the most notable features of the Leica R 90 f2 Pre ASHP is its exceptional build quality. Leica is known for producing lenses that are built to last, and the R 90 f2 Pre ASHP is no exception. The lens features a solid, metal construction with a matte black finish, giving it a premium and durable feel. The attention to detail in the design is evident in every aspect, from the precision-engineered focus ring to the smooth aperture control.
The lens features a manual focus system, which provides photographers with complete control over their focusing. The focus ring is buttery smooth, making it easy to achieve precise focus even in challenging conditions. The aperture ring is also well-damped, allowing for smooth adjustments to the f-stop setting. The lens has a compact form factor for a 90mm prime, making it relatively lightweight and easy to handle compared to other lenses of its focal length.
Optical Performance
The optical performance of the Leica R 90 f2 Pre ASHP is one of the key reasons why this lens is highly regarded by photographers. Despite being released before the introduction of the ASHP coating, the lens offers remarkable image quality, with sharpness and contrast that rival more modern lenses. The f/2 aperture allows for beautiful subject isolation, producing stunning bokeh with a pleasing, creamy background blur.
The lens is known for its outstanding resolution and sharpness, especially when stopped down slightly from its maximum aperture. At f/2, the image is already impressively sharp, but stopping the lens down to f/4 or f/5.6 results in even better sharpness across the frame. The lens also exhibits minimal chromatic aberration and distortion, making it a versatile tool for a variety of photographic styles.
The 90mm focal length is ideal for portrait photography, providing a flattering perspective that avoids the compression and distortion found with shorter lenses. The sharpness of the Leica R 90 f2 Pre ASHP ensures that facial features are rendered with great detail, while the lens’s shallow depth of field helps to emphasize the subject and separate it from the background.
Bokeh and Subject Isolation
One of the most celebrated aspects of the Leica R 90 f2 Pre ASHP is its ability to produce beautiful bokeh. The lens’s rounded aperture blades contribute to a smooth, creamy background blur that enhances subject isolation. This is particularly important for portrait photographers who wish to create an aesthetically pleasing separation between the subject and the background. The bokeh produced by this lens is often described as smooth, natural, and pleasing to the eye.
The fast f/2 aperture also allows photographers to work with a shallow depth of field, which is essential for achieving that coveted bokeh effect. Whether used for portraiture, close-up photography, or even street photography, the Leica R 90 f2 Pre ASHP delivers stunning results with its ability to isolate subjects and create a visually engaging atmosphere in the image.
Versatility and Usage
While the Leica R 90 f2 Pre ASHP is primarily known as a portrait lens, it is incredibly versatile and can be used in a variety of other photography genres. The lens’s fast aperture and sharpness make it well-suited for low-light conditions, making it an excellent choice for indoor events, concerts, or any situation where you need to capture subjects without using a flash.
The 90mm focal length also allows for some telephoto capabilities, making it useful for shooting distant subjects such as wildlife, landscapes, or even architectural details. Despite its primary association with portraiture, this lens can easily adapt to other creative purposes, offering photographers the flexibility they need to explore different styles.
The Leica R System and Compatibility
The Leica R 90 f2 Pre ASHP was designed to work with the Leica R system of cameras, which were manual-focus SLRs that provided photographers with full control over their exposure settings. While the Leica R system is no longer in production, many photographers still use these cameras today, and the Leica R 90 f2 Pre ASHP remains a prized lens among collectors and vintage camera enthusiasts.
For photographers using digital mirrorless cameras, the Leica R 90 f2 Pre ASHP can still be used with the right lens mount adapter. This opens up the possibility of using the lens on modern digital systems, where it can still deliver stunning optical performance despite its vintage status.
Comparisons to the Leica R 90 f2 ASHP
It’s important to note the distinction between the Leica R 90 f2 Pre ASHP and its successor, the Leica R 90 f2 ASHP. The ASHP version of the lens features the addition of the Anti-Reflective Super High Performance coating, which enhances contrast and reduces lens flare. While both lenses share the same optical design, the ASHP coating offers improved performance in certain lighting conditions. However, many photographers appreciate the unique qualities of the Pre ASHP version, which is often praised for its character and signature rendering.
Conclusion
The Leica R 90 f2 Pre ASHP is a remarkable lens that combines Leica’s legendary craftsmanship with exceptional optical performance. Whether you are a portrait photographer looking for a lens that delivers stunning sharpness and bokeh, or a creative photographer seeking versatility and beautiful subject isolation, this lens is a fantastic choice.
Despite being an older lens, the Leica R 90 f2 Pre ASHP remains relevant in the world of photography today, thanks to its timeless design and unparalleled image quality. Its ability to produce sharp, detailed images with smooth bokeh makes it a favorite among those who appreciate the art of manual photography. If you are a Leica enthusiast or simply a lover of fine optics, the Leica R 90 f2 Pre ASHP is a must-have in your collection.
