Anyone using a 21 w/o ext. VF?

[ampguy]

I just got a 21 and am wondering if I'll be able to adjust w/o ext. vf. I'm almost able to use the 15/4.5 w/o, but usually the first frame is needed for guidance, so I've given in to using a vf (21 CV) with the 15mm.

I'm hoping for compactness and speed, that I can adjust to the 21 w/o external vf.

 

[Al Kaplan]

I think that after awhile the coverage of a lens becomes instinctive. You might not get exact framing, but then with a rangefinder camera you never do. I take a lot of shots with my 15 without using the finder.

http://thepriceofsilver.blogspot.com

 

[ampguy]

Hi Al

Hi Al

I agree, and can adjust fairly easily with 35 and longer, 28 to an extent on cameras without those framelines, and have no need for the M8 vf upgrade with better lines at distance.

However, with 28 and wider, sometimes my first shot is not level, even if I'm OK with the borders. With the 15, even with the VF I have to concentrate to get the horizon level.

I think that after awhile the coverage of a lens becomes instinctive. You might not get exact framing, but then with a rangefinder camera you never do. I take a lot of shots with my 15 without using the finder.

http://thepriceofsilver.blogspot.com

 

[Al Kaplan]

I don't seem to have that problem. Not sure if it's instinctive or lots of practice since I first started shooting with a 19mm Canon on my Leica over 40 years ago. I really don't use the 15mm finder very much when shooting but it's nice to know it's there. For one hand shooting it gives you something to wrap your finger around. Lately I've been shooting the 21/3.4 S.A. no finder because the plastic foot broke. Anybody got a used one?

Just for grins a few months ago I shot a roll with the 85mm f/2 Nikkor wide open, scale focusing, and not using the finder. I was amazed at both the framing and focus I achieved! I had a lot of very acceptable frames.

 

[ampguy]

Thanks Al and DN - the whole frame matches the 21 at around 3m, so that's a start. Could just be that it takes practice on the level part with ultra wides.

DN - if you have or get a 35-ish mount on the 25, it should bring up the 24/35 pair and the 24 should be somewhat helpful for the 25, depending on subj. dist. and old or new lines.