The smc PENTAX-FA 50mmF1.4 Classic is a single-focus, standard lens designed for use with K-mount digital SLR cameras. It produces a unique image rendition commonly associated with lenses from 50 years ago. Through intentional fine-tuning of the lens design, this lens is engineered to create a distinctive visual effect known as rainbow flare when capturing images at an open aperture and against strong backlight. This unique, one-of-a-kind visual expression is not available with the latest lenses.

By closing the aperture down to F4 or smaller, photographers can capture sharper, crisper images that are free of not only rainbow flare, but also ordinary flare and ghost images. The lens retains the exterior design of the original smc PENTAX-FA 50mmF1.4, featuring a black matte finish and a matte-black focus ring. It lacks the green ring – the symbolic design of recent PENTAX digital-specific lenses – to recreate the nostalgic appearance of an old-time lens from the film-format SLR era.

When mounted on a PENTAX digital SLR camera body, this lens can be used as a 50mm standard lens in the full-frame format, or a 76.5mm medium-telephoto lens in the APS-C format. The large F1.4 open aperture produces images with a very shallow depth of field. Additionally, the water- and grease-repellent SP (Super Protect) Coating applied to the front surface of the lens makes it easier to wipe off water or stains.

The eight-blade diaphragm control mechanism produces a soft, natural bokeh (defocus) effect from open aperture to F2.8, and also minimizes the streaking effect of point light sources. Designed to be fully compatible with older K-mount digital SLR cameras and film-format AF SLR cameras, this lens allows the photographer to retain all camera functions, thanks to the aperture ring installed on the lens body and the mechanism designed to couple the lens with the camera's motor-driven, in-body AF system.

During shooting, users are advised to mount a Neutral Density (ND) filter (included as a standard accessory) on the lens. When observing an image through the camera's optical viewfinder, users are advised to avoid looking directly at strong light sources. Included accessories are the Lens Cap O-LC49, Lens Mount Cap K, and Lens Filter LF-ND16 49mm.

In summary, the smc PENTAX-FA 50mmF1.4 Classic is a unique, single-focus, standard lens that combines modern engineering with nostalgic design cues. It offers a distinct visual expression through its intentionally designed rainbow flare effect, as well as the ability to capture sharp, flare-free images by closing the aperture. This lens is a versatile choice for PENTAX digital SLR users, providing a classic aesthetic and a range of creative photographic possibilities.

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