Re: M6, 50mm Summicron and more

[ted grant <75501.3002@CompuServe.COM>]

Donal Philby wrote:

<<<Both of us grabbed him at the same time, got in his face, told him he was
rude and such behavior was unacceptable and recommended he learn professionalism
and professional courtesy.  With both of us angry and aggressive I think we
surprised him and he got humble and courteous.

Gee that felt good!>>>>>

Hi Donal,

It's a shame we have to go through this routine with the video guys so often.
I've begun to wonder if in their "How to Shoot video schools" if they are taught
an aggressive action towards other photographers and the TV guys right to "get
the picture at all costs attitude!"

During the recent Federal election here in Canada it was one of the worst ever
for pushing, shoving and mouthing off at each other that anyone could remember.
I mean there is always going to be the "rat pack" and the give and take in the
trenches, but this was very real hostility TV to stills. Well maybe they see it
in reverse! :) I know a few are still hurting from a big lens placed surgically
in the mid rib cage! :)  (not me of course :) 

The TV guys seem to be bigger physically than we and it's pretty difficult to
stop them when they come jamming in and swinging that damn big camera like a
weapon on their shoulder, and always just at your head level! OUCH!!

When they have their eye plugged into that view finder and they have whacked you
a few times in the head, of course with the usual "sorry old man" and smile! Man
it isn't the least bit sincere, as you know it was deliberate at times.

The defense on our side is, that when they are with eye in the viewing cup they
can't see you and that is your strike back moment! :)

Holding the Leica Apo 280mm up as though shooting and making a quick turn to the
left,  so that the lens catches the TV guy on the knuckles of his right hand
holding the camera control pistol grip! Now it is you who returns with a smile
and "Oops sorry!" 

After several of these movements, just the right amount of "knuckle tap" is
acquired leaving the guy with a very distinct message of "do not hit me in the
head again!" :)

Just thought you might like to know a little "how to action" from the old
campaigner! :)

ted