Does the make of RF really make any difference?

[Barolodrinker]

Hi - I started with rangefinders, went to SLR's and am now making my way back to the light - so quick question - as any camera is just a light tight box, does it make any difference which camera you use?

Now I'm not talking about the photo taking experience, I mean technically, isn't it all in the lens?

I'd love to know your thoughts after all do I go for a Leica 3 or a cheap as chips Bessa?

Thanks!

 

[raphaelaaron]

In terms of film cameras no. the only real discrepancy is with how well sealed your film box is.

in this digital age, some mirror less cams and digital rangefinders will cause the tables to turn. some people want higher resolution, so they go for the bigger sensor, but then it causes trouble with high noise at increased ISOs. then the features of the digitals will cause even more variation.

it was simpler to go back to film, and have optics and choice of film as the main variables. of course, processing i left out because both film and digital can be processed.

i used an R2a for a while and found it outstanding in terms of shooting. the images were great. though me being my covetous self, i just had to have that mechanical feel of a leica. so i went and bought an M6. the images are still the same.

 

[hteasley]

For rangefinders, there's a lot of difference in the rangefinder itself (the viewfinding window). Is it big, bright? Is the focusing patch contrasty and distinct? Since the cameras are generally manual affairs, and you're very likely not shooting from the hip, zone-focused, most of the time, the quality of the rangefinder matters pretty significantly, and there's wide variation in quality there.

 

[thegman]

Technically, they're all just light tight boxes.. except:

shutter accuracy/top speed
Light tightness, I've had a couple of Leica M3s with light leaks, never a Bessa or Zeiss Ikon.
Metering, generally the newer the better.

 

[Murchu]

The difference will be tactile experience and functionality, but ultimately the affinity the camera will allow you to develop with it. These will all assist in getting the shot. After that, the lens will determine the ultimate technical quality of that image.

 

[edge100]

The camera matters. Shoot with a 50? Then the M3 finder is perfect for you. Shoot with a 21? Bessa R4A/M. Want a 1:1 finder? R3A/M. Shoot in conditions likely to produce flare? Maybe choose an MP over an M6.

I get your point, and certainly what ultimately matters is the lens and the film. But the camera body makes an enormous difference, depending on the specific conditions in which it is being used.

 

[denizg7]

hahaa go to 0:49
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6yc9MlNS-Rk

 

[venchka]

Some folks say that the M5 is the biggest, ugliest light tight box that Leica ever made.
They would a few points lost in their prejudice.
Like the big, bright, flare free viewfinder and focusing patch.
Or the nicest, easiest to adjust, continuously variable shutter and speed dial.
Worst of all, they would miss the best light meter ever. Period. Regardless of where it is placed.
But then I'm prejudiced too.
And happy as a clam to use the Fugly M5.

Wayne