Rangefinder Vs Slr Camera

I used many Leica cameras and lenses, both rangefinder and SLR. I was always impressed with the quality of optics and build. When it was time to choose binoculars I went with my old standard. Most reviews compared Zeiss and Swarovski as comparable but I am extremely happy with the Leica product. Optics and build are still top notch.

We understand what this adapter does to the image, the squeeze on the picture and the flares and all, so then what's really to discuss here is the practicality of using this on a set. Considering the anamorphot adapter requires focus adjusting in addition to the taking lens, it's rather impossible to shoot any sort of complex cinema without the rangefinder. One cannot pull or push focus on two elements simultaneously at any level of efficiency - if it's discovered that this is in fact a practice on any set, then the cinematographer deserves both and award and a slap on the head. You see, if the adapter and the taking lens are both pushed to infinity focus, then the rangefinder takes over focusing responsibilities, thus making it possible to use a standard geared focus system to push and pull. Then, the issue becomes finding a taking lens that can maintain a proper relationship with the anamorphot+rangefinder. It appears that unless using an SLR Magic brand taking lens, the quality of results will vary. The rangefinder includes instructions on how to dial in the perfect focus using any lens other than one of the SLR Magic brand (assuming that lens is of the smaller diameter), though such is to be practiced with discretion. Apparently not all "other brand" lenses match perfectly with the anamorphot+rangefinder. To properly dial in focus, one should apply the anamorphot and the rangerfinder to their taking lens of choice, push the taking lens and anamorphot to infinity, and then focus the rangefinder to exactly four feet away from the sensor of the camera. Here, final focus adjustments to the taking lens are to be made, to achieve perfect focus. Then, so long as the taking lens focus does not move, the rangefinder can take over. Understand that with SLR Magic lenses, this extra step may not be necessary. Perhaps there's other alternatives, but for the price, this is a legitimate option. Be prepared to baby your rig, but the results pay off.

I have been a photo enthusiast for many decades and had much of the best SLR (Nikon) and rangefinder equipment (Leica) in the past. Unless you are shooting in very low light, fast action or sports photography this little gem should handle most of your needs. Gone are the days where I am going to take ten pounds of equipment and a huge amount of bulk on a trip or even casual photography. This camera is a mini-computer with image stabilization and all sorts of goodies. Like any camera, much depends on the glass. If you are seriously into image quality, then I strongly recommend the Panasonic/Leica 45mm 2.8, the Panasonic 20mm 1.7 and the Panasonic zoom 7mm-14mm. Although the lenses are fairly expensive, they are far less than comparable SLR (or regular $$$$$Leica) lenses. Although many big shot photo authors are constantly underrating the quality of Micro Four Third, lets face it, they make their money off the DSLR market. How many people make their living shooting sports action? I am coming down from the DSLR, rangefinder, SLR world. It is an easy transition. And it has movie capability. If you are tired or carrying weighty and voluminous equipment you should intelligently consider E PL2. Also, you should consider the VF 2 viewfinder if coming from the DSLR world. One other plus, you can use ANY micro four thirds lens, regardless of make.

I use this wrap to protect a small rangefinder camera when I'm traveling.

Well machined and does not get into the field of view of my rangefinder camera

It worked well for my need to online video and have not tried it with my SLR camera yet.

Used with SLR and even with a video camera

It's a rangefinder, clarity matters.

The pancake lens on a rangefinder makes the camera appear to be less intrusive for street photography

Perfect size for a rangefinder camera, two extra lenses, etc. Great color!