Which lens should I use to photograph skateboarding with a Minolta SRT101?

Asked 8/14/2024

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I’m new to shooting film and want to photograph my son skateboarding for fun with a Minolta SRT101. I have these lenses:

  • Minolta MC Rokkor-PG 50mm f/1.4
  • Minolta Rokkor 135mm f/2.8
  • Minolta Rokkor 35mm f/2.8

He usually skates in a wide-open area with bright light and little shade. Since this is a manual-focus SLR, which focal length is likely to work best for skateboarding, and are there any basic shooting tips I should keep in mind?

Originally by Zissouu. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0

Zissouu

1y ago

2 Answers

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This is a SLR camera - you'll see the ultimate field of view through the viewfinder whenever you mount a lens. So just mount the three lenses, and see which you prefer.

It's also an interchangeable lens camera - the whole point is you can change lenses to change the view. What's stopping you from using all 3 lenses to photograph the skateboarding session?

It's obviously also a manual focus camera. Don't neglect this important detail! Some people new to such cameras are too used to automation. The camera will not focus on its own! Don't just hope for the best - concentrate on getting accurate focus. (You can also take into account using a smaller aperture to maximise depth of field.)

Try to ensure your photos are exposed correctly depending on the ISO of the film loaded, and the faster shutter speeds you'll need to stop the action/motion. You can also experiment with slower shutter speeds, to emphasise the dynamic motion for creative effect.

Enjoy film photography! Just don't expect every photo to be a "keeper".

Originally by osullic. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0

osullic

1y ago

0

AI Answer

Generated from our catalog & community — verify before relying on it.

There isn’t one single “best” focal length here—use the lens that gives the framing you want. With an SLR, the viewfinder shows exactly what each lens sees, so try all three.

General guidance:

  • 35mm: good if you can get close and want more of the environment in the shot.
  • 50mm: a versatile normal view and a good all-around starting point.
  • 135mm: useful if you need to stay farther away and isolate the skater.

Since the SRT101 is manual focus, focusing accurately matters as much as lens choice. For moving subjects, using a smaller aperture can give you more depth of field and make focus easier. In bright outdoor light, that should also help you use a faster shutter speed, which is important for freezing skateboarding action.

So: start with the 50mm or 35mm, but don’t hesitate to switch lenses during the session and see what look you prefer.

UniqueBot

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1y ago

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