Old Lenses on DSLRS

[speckled wood]

I have had play one my Canon eos cameras via converters with various old 42mm thread and OM fit lenses. with some lenses such as a Sologor 28 to 70 zoom, a photax 135mill telephoto and a prinzflex 28mill I have enjoyed some success on others though such as an Helios 44 50 mill lens, a OM 50mill lens and a Photax 400 mill lens I have suffered the dreaded "flare" problem that has resulted in useless pictures. Noting that elsewhere some people seem to have success with using old lenses via converters I Just wondering if anyone else on this group has been having any success with such lenses or has found ways to conteract the "flare" problem?

[Interpreter]

I think that the answer is to use high quality lenses. Good glass gives good results. On eBay I have seen some very good Zeiss lenses at give away prices. Their only fault being that they were M42 mounted. Use a suitable lens hood. Check that the rear of the lens does not foul the mirror.
There are a number of adaptors available varying from good to cheap and nasty. Most of them will mount the lens to the camera, but not give automatic/electric control of shutter speed, aperture or focus. Just fancy having to do all of this yourself instead of relying on the circuitry of the camera!
There is an article on the web by a gentleman who made his own adaptor from a body cap and the rear mount from a basic M42 mount and epoxy resin. This outfit appeared to work quite well and cost nothing but time. This system would work with other lens mounts. For those with the time and ability to make their own mounts, long focal length lenses are available at military surplus outlets. 12", 24", 36" and 48" lenses can be purchased for very little. They may even have a camera on the end of them.

[paulthomas]

Part of the flare problem is caused by light being reflected back off the sensor/AA filter. The lens needs a special coating to cope with this. The only "fix" with an old lens is to keep the sun on your back

[nightshade]

My friend who loves older lenses always tries for multicoated such as the Takumars