Lenses and Contrast

[P3D Sam Smith <sam@xxxxxxxxxxxx>]

A short time ago there was a discussion about contrast in lenses, and the
fact that most modern lenses have much more contrast than older ones. Can a
lens actually increase the contrast of a scene, or is this just in
relationship to other lenses? My theory about a low contrast lens is that
stray light from dirt, internal reflections, etc tends to boost the shadow
detail in a way similar to " flashing" to reduce contrast in prints or
slides. Is this accurate? If so, is it not possible to design a filter to
reduce contrast in high contrast lenses?

A classic example of the effects of light "noise" in a stereo camera is the
Verascope F40. I once did a test shot with a Belplasca and the Verascope and
the results were amazing. The Belp shot was super crisp and contrasty, while
the F40 was very muddy, but had better shadow detail. It turns out the
Verascope has internal reflection problems as light bounces off the internal
walls in front of the film window.
It seems to me there will be situations where you would want to vary the
contrast while shooting, that's why I wanted to know if it's ever been done.

By the way, my Stereo Miranda is now on the 3D Hacker's website. Any
comments or criticisms would be appreciated.

Sam
The 3D Hacker

http://www.barint.on.ca/~sam/imn23d.htm
Sam
website: http://www.barint.on.ca/~sam/imn23d.htm


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