ZM 21mm/f2.8 on ZI body

[sf_kang]

Hi, I am considering buying a ZM 21mm/f2.8, and would like to know if it's practical to try and compose and shoot without using the accessory external veiwfinder that sits in the hotshoe.
The widest framelines are for the 28mm lens.
What lens width would the entire ZI viewfinder approximate?

Thanks.
Fred

 

[bennyng]

The Zeiss Biogon T* 25mm f/2.8 would be much easier to use on the Zeiss Ikon without a viewfinder. I do get by without it.

Cheers,

 

[kshapero]

I have a 21mm lens and sometimes I go "naked" and just see what happens, almost always liking the result, other times I use the External VF. Good to have both. IMHO.

 

[ZeissFan]

21 is much wider than you think, and an external viewfinder should be considered a necessity. Some go without it, but I think a 21mm lens demands its own viewfinder.

 

[Tompas]

For the price of a new Zeiss 21mm viewfinder you should be able to get a nearly new Bessa R4a or R4m... 🙂

 

[kossi008]

Well, who says you have to buy the Zeiss? I recently bought the CV metal 21/25 and really like it. Barrel distortion is more than with the Zeiss, but the CV is so tiny you can always leave it on...

 

[myM8yogi]

I use an external VF when shooting landscapes or other considered subject matter. When shooting street I don't use an external VF because I shoot from the hip or chest a lot anyway.