Bessa T to back up my M6

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kennethcooke

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I have a leica M6 with Summicron optics but I read that a Bessa T makes a good back up camera to an M6 especially used with super wide angle 12mm and 15mm optics also Voigtlander. Could you comment please
 
Actually, for a 12 or 15, just about any body would do, since those lenses' extreme DOF preclude critical focusing. A lot of people use th Bessa L for these lenses.

Of course, a Bessa T would suffice as well, as long as you get an LTM to M adapter. What the T gives you is a long EBL that allows critical focusing with long/fast lenses at minimum distances. The T, however, requires an external viewfinder, which makes shooting a little slower.
 
I carry a T as a back-up camera for my M3's- and one that allows higher flash sync, if I need it- but most often it carries my CV 21mm Skopar. Since this lens is RF coupled, but also wide enough that you can easily scale focus, the T is perfect with it- fast and easy, and yet is has a great RF for those moments when careful focus will help. It's mostly just a cheap little body that keeps me from changing lenses as much.
 
kxl said:
What the T gives you is a long EBL that allows critical focusing with long/fast lenses at minimum distances. The T, however, requires an external viewfinder, which makes shooting a little slower.
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100% spot on.. But the 1.5x RF magnification doesn't only allow extremely accurate focussing, it's also very easy on the eyes.

Other plusses:
+ built-in diopter adjustment -2 .. +2
+ changing film is a lot easier than with a bottom loader
+ metal shutter that the sun won't burn holes into
+ top speed 1/2000
 
The Leica M6 is just about the best camera made.

Why does it need backing up?

And why does the back up need a 12mm or 15mm lens?
 
Can't make a better choice!

Can't make a better choice!

Can't make a better choice for a back-up! And what do you know... I have one for sale here in the Classifieds! :D And a Bessa L! :eek:

Actually, I think the Bessa L makes a more interesting back-up. Its a real "change of pace" camera. I feel that using the Bessa L frees you up a bit and lets you respond to the passing scene in a bit more relaxed fashion. You simply scale focus your lens, preferable a fairly wide lens... I used the CV 25, take a quick check of the top edge-located meter, and start shooting. Very fast and intuitive.
 
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I still have a Bessa T and this thread just reminded me about why I liked this camera so much. Its the light meter. I wish M's had the light meter external as well (or at least a 2nd display). It allows metering along with zone focusing without ever lifting the body to your eye. With a 28mm or 21mm lens I would usually take the "T" out without a viewfinder. Its a great lil' camera.
 
pvdhaar said:
So how did you frame, or did you shoot from the hip? Just curious..
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Semi shoot from the hip I guess :D For 21mm, 28mm and 35mm focal lengths I find I dont have a lot of trouble guesstimating the framing. Even with an M, I find over 50% of my work is done without ever looking through the finder... :eek:
 
Hey guys,

I'm completely new in the RF world but have been photographing long enough with a dSLR to want to go back to films :). I went out and got a Bessa T for myself at a decent 2nd shop (Campion Brussels) just today, but now I have one question about lenses. What's the sort of realistic second-hand price for a Nokton 40/1.4? and can anyone please point out any (affordable) m-mount lens that's good for starting out.

I've been doing so much research but have returned with such limited knowledge in the lens department. But as I am holding a Bessa T here i can say so far it's really sturdy for its price (held an m6 in the shop... heaven).

thanks in advance.
 
You might want to check out the Head Bartender's (Stephen Gandy) site: www.cameraquest.com for a wealth of information. You can also order CV lenses from him -- IMO CV lenses are good value options. BTW, Stephen is also the registrant for this website.

You can also check out the classifieds here at RFF for used lens options, or the Sponsor classified ads for new/used lenses.

As to which lens to recommend, that's tough without first nkowing which focal length you like. Secondly, your purpose/style, and thirdly, your budget. Just remember, with a Bessa T, you'll also have to get an external viewfinder

Good luck!







adji_jo said:
Hey guys,

I'm completely new in the RF world but have been photographing long enough with a dSLR to want to go back to films :). I went out and got a Bessa T for myself at a decent 2nd shop (Campion Brussels) just today, but now I have one question about lenses. What's the sort of realistic second-hand price for a Nokton 40/1.4? and can anyone please point out any (affordable) m-mount lens that's good for starting out.

I've been doing so much research but have returned with such limited knowledge in the lens department. But as I am holding a Bessa T here i can say so far it's really sturdy for its price (held an m6 in the shop... heaven).

thanks in advance.
Click to expand...
 
As to which lens to recommend, that's tough without first nkowing which focal length you like. Secondly, your purpose/style, and thirdly, your budget. Just remember, with a Bessa T, you'll also have to get an external viewfinder

Good luck!
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Cheers for the info. I was thinking of the 40mm actually. basically > 25mm.

thanks for that i'll go and check the cameraquest site!
 
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