Archived posting to the Leica Users Group, 1997/08/04
[Author Prev] [Author Next] [Thread Prev] [Thread Next] [Author Index] [Topic Index] [Home] [Search]> >For the Leica at pool's edge, I've used a right angle finder for low down >shots. Didn't need to remove the prism. My Nikon friends' only complaint >about removable prisms is that they seem to allow a lot of dirt and grime >into the prism/screen area. I know a dozen pro photographers that use Nikon >and not a single one uses anything but the original prism. > >I would really like to know a.) which different prisms do you have, b.) >what do you use them for, and c.) how often do you actually really need the= m? > >Thanks, > >Jim > >ps... This is not a derogatory post, it's of real interest because nobody >I've ever been associated with has ever had or used different prisms. And >I'm old and been doing this stuff a long time. This is really off-topic, but since you asked: I use the high mag. 6X "chimney - type" finder with my Bowens Ilumintran and when doing true macro work on a vertical stand (Nikon Multiphot sort of like the Leitz Aristophot) and the DA-1 "Action finder" for follow-focus work with longer lenses - works great for following birds, was actually used first for an U/W housing-- both used on old F2 bodies -- it is a super-high eyepoint finder. These finders also fit the F with the nameplate removed. The 6X is pretty much dedicated to one body which I keep at work and use just a few times a year. The DA-1 is in a pelican 1500 case of N gear, ready to go, whenever I want to use brand N (2 F2 bodies in there, one has the DA-1) topside SLRs. The DA-1 is used fairly frequently. Similar finders were/are made for the F3, F4, and F5. Canon had a similar finder that rotated for the F1 series. Pentax had a slightly different approach with the late LX - 45 degree view action finder, I believe. Yes the focusing screens do get dirty, big deal, does not affect performance. Tom Thomas C. Kline, Jr., Ph.D. Research Scientist/ Diving Safety Officer Prince William Sound Science Center 300 Breakwater Avenue, P. O. Box 705 Cordova, AK 99574, USA 907-424-5800 tkline@grizzly.pwssc.gen.ak.us http://www.pwssc.gen.ak.us/