External Optical Viewfinder guidance sought

[Canyongazer]

Not a Leica question but I'm posting here since I'm guessing you all have the experience to show me the way.

I have a new Panasonic GF1 with 20mm prime.
The lens has a 40mm equiv. FOV on the m4/3 format.
As I have difficulty seeing the screen at times I planned to get a rectangular 40mm Voigtlander finder, however, I am told that this will prevent the pop up flash from popping. As I sometimes use a touch of flash fill in bright sun (just the circumstance under which I'll need the OVF) this is a problem.
I have been told the round, metal 35mm Voigtlander finder will allow the flash to pop up.

Which brings us to the question: Would the discrepancy of view (35mm finder/40mm lens) be a problem to the point where I'd be better off with the proper 40mm finder and a blocked flash?
As I have no experience with external finders I'm uncertain as to whether this would be significant problem or not.
(I do realize only I can determine how important flash fill is to me)

Thanks In Advance,
Joseph

 

[Sonnar Brian]

The 4/3 format has a different aspect ratio from a 35mm camera.You would be better off with the correct 4/3 viewfinder.

 

[Canyongazer]

I shoot and print at 3:2

 

[Sonnar Brian]

That is useful information!

I would go with the 35mm viewfinder and mask off part of the frame if it is too wide for the 40mm FOV.

Myself, I would be using an inexpensive viewfinder, such as from a Ricoh 500 wide-angle Auxiliary lens. The mask is easily accessible from the front, held in by a retaining ring.

 

[brainwood]

Joseph

You could try one of these cheap round finders made by Helios. They are small and have brightlines for 35, 85 and 135

They are available on eBay

http://wap.ebay.co.uk/Pages/ViewIte...&hash=item20b2bc3ac5&autoredirect=off&sflag=1

 

[Canyongazer]

Thanks Brain...but I just ---like two minutes ago---bought a round black 35mm Voigtlander used from a fellow RFF member.

Also ordered a Minox leather wriststrap from B&H...it looks just like the Artisan and Artist yet costs half as much...we shall see.

Coupled with the vented hood from eBay, I now have my digital IIIf
😉
Thanks to all for the advice.