Camera for a project...

DRabbit

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I have a project in mind... and I think I want to buy a camera specifically for this project so I can keep it loaded with specific film.

Requirements:
  1. Has to be useable with the Voigtlander 15mm f/4.5 Heliar (LTM)
  • Has to be fairly rugged - I will be carrying it with me a lot and may even leave it in my car sometimes.
  • I'd like it to be relatively inexpensive. I realize that means it might have be a copy or an older model, but I'm okay with that.
  • It must have either an aperture-priority type mode or a built-in light meter. I'm not that hardcore where I can figure out exposures reliably myself, and don't want to always have to have a light meter with me.

I'm posting this hear since I'm start with a LTM lens, and figure if I buy a LTM camera, maybe I can save some money 🙂 - Maybe? LOL

And one stupid question (if you'll indulge me further)...
Obviously I use the 15mm Heliar with my M-Mount cameras but they aren't rangefinder coupled. If I used it on a LTM camera without need for an adaptor, would it be coupled?

Thanks for the info all... Look forward to your thoughts...
 
Dear Amy,

The original Bessa-L may feel plasticky but is surprisingly reliable and silly cheap: the easy winner for minimum cost.

Anything cheaper (and most things that are more expensive) won't be metered.

The ZI SW is excellent if you don't mind spendng more money.

Cheers,

R.
 
The Bessa-L looks pretty interesting... and you're right... very cheap 🙂

I like the idea of the Zeiss Ikon SW (I actually have a Zeiss Ikon and love it)... just not sure I want to spend that much. I'm into cheap little jewel rangefinder type cameras these days (just bought 2 Yashicas) that can be had for under $100... that's the kind of thing I'm looking for (though I'd spend more for the right camera)... it just has to accommodate my WIDE angel...

It doesn't HAVE to be LTM... as long as an adaptor will work... I already have the LTM-M adaptor.
 
My Bessa-L came as the rear cap for my Voigtlander 15mm Heliar. It's a nice, reliable camera, regardless of cheap plastic feel, like Roger has mentioned.

The only caution I will give (if you're not already aware of it) is to be careful with metering using the 15mm Heliar - because the lens is so wide, it picks up a lot more sky than most lenses & consequently can skew the meter to underexpose.
 
If you're going to leave it in your car on occasion, then you must take that account possible theft.

And for that reason, I would get a Bessa-L. It has a built-in meter, and if someone steals it, you won't be out too much money.

It's a screw-mount body, which should work well with the 15mm Heliar.

Downside: There is no viewfinder. You'll need the Cosina Voigtlander viewfinder.
 
Canon LTM

Canon LTM

Amy,

During half the year, leaving cameras in cars isn't good for the film. Leaving the camera behind isn't good for your photography. You can't use a camera left behind in the car. 🙂

While reading all of the above, I kept thinking of my first real camera: A Canon IVS2 or something like that. Small. Rugged. No meter. They make tiny meters for such occasions. Gossen makes one. The name escapes me. Naturally the camera will accept all LTM lenses. Bottom loading may be an obstacle. It's not terrible-you'll learn to do it. I did. Anyone can.

Moving up a notch to more modern bodies with opening backs, any of the Canon V, VI, P, etc. work for your project.

Did anyone answer your rangefinder question? If the lens doesn't couple on an M mount body, it won't couple on an LTM body. Or at least that's my understanding.

PS: Late one night, running to catch the last train out of Heidelberg, the strap holding my Canon IVS2 came loose and the camera and 50mm lens bounced on the marble floor. I caught it on the bounce. Except for a small dent on the top cover, the camera and lens were fine.
 
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