Re: [Leica] contax G2?

[inyoung@jps.net]

I agree completely.

At 08:33 PM 6/30/99 -0400, you wrote:
>I have used Leica rangefinders for many years, and presently have an M6
>with a 35mm f1.4 ASPH.    I purchased a G2 system when our first
>grandchild was born, thinking that the G2 would be quicker to focus on a
>moving subject.    My assessment of the G2 is that it is a very fine
>camera, and the Zeiss lenses are superb.  For the vast majority of
>photographers, I strongly doubt that any difference between Leica and
>Zeiss optics would be noticeable.  Leica lenses tend to be a little
>faster, but then you pay a huge amount more.  The G2 is automated, but
>this is deceptive, because if you don't know what you're doing, you can
>easily end up with photographs which are out of focus.  In dim light
>situations, the Leica is not so easy for old eyes to focus, but you
>adapt by setting the lens at the hyperfocal distance, and in general
>shooting at small apertures.  Experienced photographers know by feel
>where the focussing lever should be in relation to the camera/subject
>distance.  With the G2, you must ensure that the focussing frame of the
>autofocus is aimed at the right subject, and that the AF is working,
>which some people find to be a problem with some textured subjects, and
>also with the 90mm lens.  A typical mistake I made at first was shooting
>two people, with the AF inadvertently focussing on the wall behind them
>instead of on their faces.  When they stand ten feet in front of a wall,
>you can imagine how out of focus the photographs will be!  With the G2,
>film is wound on automatically, a very considerable advantage, the film
>is advanced and rewound by motor, and the whole camera and lenses are
>very samll and compact.  The G2 is growing on me, but you definately
>cannot treat it as a point and shoot.  I'd say that for my intended
>purpose, shooting moving subjects, it's hard to beat, especially in  dim
>light situations.  People who shoot more than I do and for whom
>focussing an M is instinctive, would not benefit as much from the G2.
>I've touched on only a few of the features of the G2, and on few of the
>shortcomings, e.g. you would not take such an automated camera into a
>very cold environment without worrying about the batteries, etc.  My
>conclusion: I'm delighted I can afford to have one of each!
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