Can Old SLR Lenses Be Used on New Mirrorless Cameras?

Introduction

With the rapid advancement in technology, many photographers are curious about whether their old SLR (Single-Lens Reflex) lenses can be used on modern mirrorless cameras. This article aims to provide clarity on this topic and explore the possibilities with the help of lens adapters.

Using Old SLR Lenses on Mirrorless Cameras

Firstly, it is possible to attach an old SLR lens to a mirrorless camera body, but there are certain considerations. If you can find a lens mount that fits, you can indeed use the lens. However, note that you will lose the automation of autofocus and the automatic setting of aperture. This means that you will have to shoot using manual focus and manual aperture.

Your aperture control will be a ring on the lens, and your focus control will also be manual. Despite these limitations, you will still receive the absolute benefit of a digital display that shows whether your scene is correctly exposed. You will still be able to control ISO and shutter speed, making the transition smoother for many photographers.

Theoretical vs. Practical Performance

While the theoretical answer is yes, the practical performance of the lens can vary. According to DxOMark lens ratings, the same lens can perform somewhat differently on different cameras. When using an old SLR lens on a mirrorless camera, you might notice slight differences in sharpness and overall performance compared to the same lens on a DSLR. DxOMark will ask you what camera you will be mounting the lens on, and you can expect to see noticeable performance differences in ratings of sharpness.

Adapter Compatibility and Usage

In most cases, older SLR lenses can get a second life on modern mirrorless cameras with the help of an adapter. These adapters are designed to bridge the gap between the lens mount and the camera body, allowing you to bring your favorite lenses into the mirrorless world.

For example, Metabones manufactures many adapters to mount Nikon and Canon lenses specifically for Sony Mirrorless bodies, but you can explore other manufacturers as well. If you haven’t specified your mirrorless body, a good place to start is by visiting the Metabones product tab.

I personally use my Nikon Z mount mirrorless camera with a F2Z adapter from Metabones, and I have successfully used my late 1970s lenses. There is no linkage to the electronics of the camera, so I have to work in aperture priority mode. However, I can set the aperture on the lens and use manual focus. The lenses work fine through the electronic viewfinder and perform much better than using them on a DSLR.

Conclusion

Overall, while using old SLR lenses on new mirrorless cameras comes with certain drawbacks, the benefits of preserving your collection and extending the life of your equipment make it a worthwhile endeavor. It is always a good idea to invest in a high-quality adapter and thoroughly test the lens on your specific camera model to ensure optimal performance.

Explore the possibilities, and discover how old SLR lenses can enhance your mirrorless photography experience!