Archived posting to the Leica Users Group, 1998/07/25
[Author Prev] [Author Next] [Thread Prev] [Thread Next] [Author Index] [Topic Index] [Home] [Search]I have commented on techniques for the best possible image quality before in this group. Recently Zeiss published a 10 step programme with the same aim. It closely follows my strategy. Here it is: Zeiss words:"More than ever before, extremely careful and deliberate technique must be used to obtain the results of which the [Zeiss] equipment is capable" The 10 steps are as follows: 1. Select a high performance optic 2. Select a matching body 3. Place camera and optic on a very sturdy tripod. (Phototripods are not good enough: use a carbon fibre television tripod with a fluid head for damping purposes) 4. Select high performance film; Ektar 25 (no longer available, Erwin!), or Techpan 25 or Fuji Velvia. (Zeiss forgets the best of all: Kodachrome 25. Erwin!) 5. Use split field indicator 6. Prefer f/stops from 5,6 to 8 (For Leica 4 to 5,6, Erwin ) 7. Use mirror pre release 8. Wrap hands around camera to dampen vibration 9. Make notes on the object you are focusing on and note real physical dimensions: "licence plate on truck, 350 feet away, character line width on plate: 3/8"). 10 Select quality lab and one with really good optics BTW: Zeiss will introduce at Photokina 36 (!!) new lenses for all kinds of formats and uses. Erwin