Family Photos with a SLR

[raid]

After having used rangefinder cameras almost exclusively for some time, I picked up my heavy but wonderful Zeiss Contarex "Bullseye" SLR camera with a Zeiss Planar Blitz 50mm/2.0 lens. I used Kodak Portra 160 film with the Contarex.

The color images came out very nice looking. Some photos were out of focus or maybe unsharp, but this was due to my focusing errors. I tried to shoot the lens wide open, immitating the regular wide open shooting with rangefinder cameras.

Here is a link to the images:

http://www.photo.net/photodb/folder?folder_id=736018

This is my little one, Lina:

I took this photo in the historical district of Pensacola. Lina was for the first time being self assured in photos. She was herself.


This photo is of both of my daughters, taken at Seville Square in Pensacola. The Bay Bridge shows in the background,with Pensacola Bay.

This photo was taken on the front porch of our home:

I like using the Contarex once in a while, but it is very heavy and large. It does not compare to carrying and using an M3.

Raid

 

[raid]

The point is that whether we use RF cameras or SLR cameras, a camera is just a tool. I happen to prefer the look that I capture with vintage [but excellent] lenses. This particular Contarex belonged to the editor of a well-known photography magazine.

I am always searching for a new look with a lens. Older lenses still hold surprises that need to be discovered.

 

[Ducky]

I wasn't sure what you were asking.
For family shots a SLR, no matter how old, is great since you are not trying to be inconspicuous.
I do like the look of these photos. There is a somewhat vintage look to them that I find appealing.
Having been in the Pensacola sunlight I think these shots are very good. The shadows are hard to read but the look like they were taken in the harsh daylight of the Florida sun.
They're also very lovely kids. Mine (grandkids these days) wont sit or pose any more.
The Bay Bridge is one of my favorite drives and the little beach that used to be on the East end was very pleasant.

 

[NickTrop]

Nothing wrong with an SLR (as long as it's not a "D"SLR : ) Wonderful colors, and your(?) children are beautiful. I use my SLR pretty often, especially for portraits. I just love the look of the Jupiter 9 which is nearly always on it.

 

[raid]

I wasn't sure what you were asking.
For family shots a SLR, no matter how old, is great since you are not trying to be inconspicuous.
I do like the look of these photos. There is a somewhat vintage look to them that I find appealing.
Having been in the Pensacola sunlight I think these shots are very good. The shadows are hard to read but the look like they were taken in the harsh daylight of the Florida sun.
They're also very lovely kids. Mine (grandkids these days) wont sit or pose any more.
The Bay Bridge is one of my favorite drives and the little beach that used to be on the East end was very pleasant.

I rarely find someone here who has been to Pensacola!
I am not asking for any specific respsonses here; I just wanted to share photos with a vintage SLR lens for a change.
I took the photos in the middle of the very sunny day, but I tried to find some open shade for the people being photographed.
I also view the Planar lens for the Contarex as quite good for remdering faces nicely.

Raid

 

[raid]

Nothing wrong with an SLR (as long as it's not a "D"SLR : ) Wonderful colors, and your(?) children are beautiful. I use my SLR pretty often, especially for portraits. I just love the look of the Jupiter 9 which is nearly always on it.

Thank you, Nick. The photos are of my wife and two daughters.
I do not have the Jupiter 9, but I have other excellent portrait lenses such as a Nikkor 105mm/2.5 and Nikkor 85mm/2.0 and others. 😀

Raid