Digital BW, The Print

A week or so ago we were discussing the various published tests and 
how well (or not) they seemed to predict the performance of lenses or 
agree with our own evaluations.

Using my Canon 8 mp Rebel, I tested a number of lenses I had that 
were also tested by some magazines (Popular Photo in particular), 
Photodo, and Photozone.  In comparing the results of my tests, which 
use standard resolution charts as well as printed pages with assorted 
print sizes and shapes, I must say the only tests that seem to 
correlate well are the Photozone tests.  

See http://photozone.de/

In fact, their tests, which use a similar digital camera, give almost 
identical relative results.  This is probably becuase our test 
routines are similar.  On the other hand, the Photodo tests, which I 
used to think were about the best with respect to film cameras, have 
a much lower correlation with what I see with the Rebel.  I suspect 
part of the difference is the distinction between digital and film 
cameras.

At any rate, I'm impressed with Photozone, although I hope they start 
testing on full frame Canons also.

Paul
www.PaulRoark.com