Dan Kerin

 Voigtlander 40mm F1.4 Nokton SC

When I was shooting with the Voigtlander R3M I paired it with the Voigtlander 40mm F1.4 Nokton SC. I have shot a lot of Voigtlander lenses in the past and think they are great value for money. I have always found the 40mm focal length to be a little strange and as the R3M had frame lines for 40mm thought it would be worth a try. The 40mm Nokton has 7 lenses in 6 groups with 10 aperture blades. Only weighing 175g this is a very light but very well-built lens and when used on the R3M makes for a very capable and lightweight setup. Voigtlander offer this lens in a single coated or multi coated options. The single coated version offers lower contrast but is more prone to lens flaring, while the multi coated option offers more contrast. If you like classic lenses or want a more traditional film look, go for the SC option and if you like contrast or are planning on using this lens on a digital camera the MC option may be a better choice.

The lens performed really well as to be expected from Voigtlander. In the hands it feels light but sturdy. Shooting wide open the lens is sharp and stopping down only improves this. In addition, shooting wide open allows for some smooth out of focus areas making this lens a great everyday carry.

Whether you decide to use this lens on a Voigtlander rangefinder, Leica or adapt it to a digital camera it’s one of the best value for money lenses on the market. The only negative trait of this lens is its focal length. For me I found 40mm to be a odd. I would much prefer to shoot 35mm or 50mm and Voigtlander do offer a 35mm F1.4 Nokton as well as a range of 50mm’s.