Cameras that just get out of the way...

[bigeye]

I think we're on almost exactly the same page. 🙂

Godfrey

X3. It might be a generational thing - we're all about the same age.

I don't think you can't ignore price in this discussion,though. Unfortunately, you have to pay for less. The top-end pro-level D4, 1Dx and Leica have the best operations in today's cameras. Ricoh may be closest in reasonable cost cameras.

An odd thing, I get frustrated *with the camera* if it blows auto focus or exposure. The result is that I don't completely trust the camera.

With my cameras, it is *me* who is lacking skill or preparation if something goes wrong and that doesn't bother me. I made the mistake, not the camera. There are no false expectations of the equipment and I trust the camera to do what it is designed to do, every time.

-Charlie

 

[RobGetz]

What do you mean it needs batteries?! Full frame costs how much!? Blown highlight?

Wait 15 years. The second two will be solved, at least.

And what is this about the Fuji X100s having a digital array with a random distribution?

 

[semilog]

Wait 15 years. The second two will be solved, at least.

And what is this about the Fuji X100s having a digital array with a random distribution?

X100s uses a Fuji XTRANS sensor with a pseudo-random array of red-green, and blue pixels rather than the typical 2x2 Beyer arrangement. It prevents (most) color moiré, and consequently doesn't need an anti-aliasing filter. However, it does require more complex algorithms in RAW development.

In my hands (with an X-Pro1 or X-E1) it works really well.

 

[Duane Pandorf]

I like what I'm seeing out of the Leica M-E. Simple setup and controls. I have 4 preset profiles, Bright Light (Manual WB ISO 160) Normal (Manual WB ISO 200) Low Light (Manual WB ISO 800) & Indoors (Kelvin 3200 ISO 800). I carry a WhiBal card and can quickly manually set my WB for the first 3 presets.

This was a quick snap shot while sitting at the bar this evening:

 

[leicapixie]

http://www.rangefinderforum.com/forums/showthread.php?t=128143

http://www.rangefinderforum.com/forums/showthread.php?t=128143

The simpler a camera the easier. My M3 is way easier to carry around. Changing lenses not an option, due to light leaks. This will be rectified in a coming service. Using a SLR or a DSLR, causes a problem of logistics. Carrying extra lenses.. New decisions.Wide,tele,macro, add a flash..Now one needs a bag. Tripod in case of long exposures. Where oh where is the cable release? A simple Leica M, with on deck meter or none or built in is a compact, easy to use, secure focus unlike Auto Focus. I hate programming a camera. A roll of film, easily acquired, drop in loading and 24, 36 exposures to go. Enough for a day on the street. Coffee with a friend, .Developing is easy and scanning takes time but you can go sleep,read a book or play on internet at the RF Forum.
I also use, mainly simple point and shoot compact digitals. Easily carried. No accessories! Spare battery. Have returned from a trip to South Africa. Mostly on the Beach. Better I left the Leica at home! Sand and surf bad for Leica.
In my years of experience only the Leica stays out of way. Did I miss my Leica? You betcha! Still my digitals were more than sufficient.Truly extension of my arm, my eye. See the picture push the button!

 

[SausalitoDog]

This may sound silly but the camera that completely gets out of the way for me is my iPhone. Proficiency with rangefinders and other cameras aside, my phone is the ultimate fuss-free digital camera I shoot with... point, compose, tap (shutter). Simplicity in the truest sense for me.

...not that far behind is my rx100 (but it doesn't allow me to text 😉)

That's true, as far as it goes. I use my iphone more than any other camera, and it will make a nice 8x10 many times, but that is really it's outer limit. Whereas the x100 will still fit in many pockets and now you're talking 16x20 for good shots, so there is a pretty big difference.

But you have hit on my 2 most used cameras because they are the two that are easiest to be with me 🙂

 

[Godfrey]

Interesting how you use the presets. I have mine set up for different lens codes to use with my usual four lenses.

 

[Duane Pandorf]

Interesting how you use the presets. I have mine set up for different lens codes to use with my usual four lenses.

I only have one!

 

[Paul Jenkin]

I'm lucky as I have (and am familiar with) a few cameras that are relatively unobtrusive. My favourite "pocket" camera is my Ricog GR1s. Beyond that, it's a toss up between my Leica M6TTL, OM2n / OM4 or my Nikon F3.

At the moment, my carry-round kit is my F3HP, 20mm/f2.8, 50mm/f1.4 and 105mm/f2.5. I wanted an 85mm/f2 originally - but couldn't find a good one. However, I've really warmed to the 105mm.

I also think you need to be familiar with a film as well. My "go-to" options are XP2 Super or Tri-X. Very different in end result but also very forgiving.

 

[sukumizu]

Gonna have to agree with the fact that it just sort of gets out of your way while you're working with a Leica M. Many people might believe that using a Leica makes you less obtrusive but I honestly don't believe any of that (the minute you bring up a box-like object with a lens you'll grab attention). I think that it's just a less obtrusive camera for the operator him/herself while shooting.

I admit that as a DSLR user in the past it took a while to get used to the M6, but once I got it down it was a pure joy to use.

 

[paradoxbox]

One camera that keeps popping up in this thread is the GRD.

I agree. The GRD definitely gets out of your way, especially when you attach an external viewfinder to it. Turn off the display and just snap away with whatever settings you pre-programmed into the camera.

The Epson R-D1 is also pretty good at getting out of the way - simple meter, auto exposure mode, and all manual controls including ISO. The screen even flips away to get your mind purely into photo mode. Unfortunately its short battery life sometimes distracts.

The Leica M3 has been revolutionary for me. It's utterly simple, relatively compact and for me, most importantly, it has NO BATTERIES.

I really dislike cameras with batteries these days. The battery always seems to die just when you find a perfect shot to take, or you go to take your photo and discover you left your battery in the charger this morning on the way out.. damn!

I think that all digital cameras have a lot of work to do to catch up to the clever interfaces of cameras like the GRD and the Epson R-D1. A blend of manual controls of the R-D1 with the supreme customizability of the GRD would make for a digital camera that really gets out of your way.

 

[tigerphil]

Think "Trip 35"