gave away my camera for free... where do I go from here?

[froyd]

This morning I left my Bessa R2a on the dashboard of my car as I ran into the local bike shop for 5 minutes. To make matters worse I did not lock the car.

No prizes for guessing the ending of this story.

The funny thing is that the first emotion was a sense of relief that I had just loaded a fresh roll and that there were no precious frames on the stolen camera, but soon the negative feelings took over, and I've been mentally kicking myself for being so careless.

I'm back to my F4 for a while, but over the past three years I had really embraced rangefinders and I know I'll miss the compact package of the Bessa vs the brick-on-a-strap of the Nikon (which I love dearly, but...).

Like many others first getting their feet wet in the word of RF, I had been hesitant in my approach. I flirted with an Ikon and with an Hexar, but eventuallys settled for an R2a because of the lower investment. Well, it did not take long to fall in love with the little Bessa and my first lens, an Industar 61LD. I then added a 35 mm to the set, with an Ultron, which was the lens attached to the body when it was stolen.

The funny thing is that I imagine the guys who took my camera probably have no idea of what it is and I can see them being upset that inside he never-ready case there wasn't some plasticky compact DSLR. They'll probably sell the thing for $20 to some junk-tique store... argh!

Sorry for venting, but the point of the post was meant to be: where do I go now?

- I have always loved the Contax G system from afar but never really got to play with one to see if the viewfinder and focusing system suited me. Still, the call of those Contax lenses is hard to ignore...

- Even though I like the 35mm field of view on an RF body, I prefer 50mm and I suspect --though I never tried-- that I would really like 40mm, and thus I'm wondering if I should start over with an R3a this time. Still on the SLR I always likes superwides (18 and 20s) so I'm afraid of the R3a's field of view.

- Do I save my pennies and finally go for the Ikon?

- Do I stick to SLRs, but go for a small, compact MF system that takes Zeiss lenses? My years with the R2a cured of my phobia of manual focusing, but I now fear that MF on an SLR will be much slower than on RF.

- When I had the film RF I figured scanning negs was my cheap alternative to a digital body, but now that I have to start over, maybe the Epson should be taken in consideration, though I dislike the crop factor (the M9 is not even a remote option)

- Do I forget about RF, Zeiss glass, and cameras that are a pleasure to physically hold and operate, and take a break for a year or so with a m4/3 camera?

...I think I should not "reward myself" for being so careless with my old camera, so probably I'll just lurk around these waters for a few months wallowing in jealousy and despair 🙂

 

[kxl]

First of all, sorry to hear about your camera...

It sounds like you're all over the place... film v. digital, RF v. SLR v. M4/3, Contax G v. ZI, 35mm v. 50mm. Since you don't even have an inkling of which direction you'd like to take, your best bet is probably to put off any purchase and stay with your F4 for now.

 

[filmtwit]

Don't forget the Leica/Minolta CL or the Minolta CLE.
Both built with the 40mm in mind.

 

[Turtle]

I think you should think not about the camera you need, but the photographs you want to take. What do you want from your photography? What sort of genre appeals most etc Go from there and it will narrow your options considerably and put you much closer to deciding on how to replace the Bessa. Unless you area a camera collector, just remember to put the photographs first and choose the appropriate tool and not the other way round. Many do and it is evident in their photos.

 

[ruby.monkey]

Heck, how about the Canonet currently gracing the classifieds? That should keep you happy and in practice while you consider your options.

 

[imokruok]

In agreement with Turtle on this. I have cycled through cameras based on reviews, and without really considering what I wanted to do with them. I have a G2 and love it, but I bought it based on others' reviews and not my needs.

Unfortunately, many people don't know what they want until they cycle through a bunch of equipment. Check out a local camera store, try out some rentals or play with something at the counter for a long time, see what you feel comfortable shooting before you drop money on something that will only sit on the shelf.

Sorry to hear about the Bessa.

 

[jesse1dog]

Its sometimes surprising how quickly things can happen - losing the Bessa was such a 'silly' thing. And its only camera. But its often those 'small' things that happen that are life changing. You could just do a one for one replacement, but from what you write that doesn't seem to be the right move. I think I would be upset about losing my favourite camera but more upset and cross with myself though. So I'm really sorry for you that its gone.
I think the advice you have had already is good. Don't rush into anything. It might just be the opportunity to pick up a really simple zone focussing camera and see what pictures you can grab. Because of the freedom of not really bothering about the value of the item you might find you take better pictures - and at least it would still get you using film. And you might get a lot of sheer fun out of it - and that is what photography should involve. Sometimes it gets all too serious and the point that cameras are there to take photos is rather lost.
So don't rush into an expensive system. Take a break from that. Given time you will probably decide on something quite different from where your present inclination is leading.
But have fun whatever.
jesse

 

[oftheherd]

Sorry for your loss. My advice: Get over it first. It sounds like you are still a little in shock. I would be. The self recrimination and sense of loss would be overwhelming. Until you come to terms with that, making good choices will be difficult. If I am wrong, sorry. I just know that's how I would feel. I had a Yashica TLR and Olympus RF stolen from my car many years ago. I wasn't happy for a while. One question, do you live in the US? Wherever you live, do you have insureance that will cover the loss? That would make things easier. In my case, I didn't.

The advice to get a Canonet in the interim may have merit. Not promoting the Canonet (good as they are), but any good FLRF might keep you in RF while you decide. Then consider what Turtle said. Many of us here at RF use more than one system, and for good reason. You may feel fun as they are, RF arent' so important as to wish to spend a lot of money on another. Only you will know that though.

 

[sevo]

I think you should think not about the camera you need, but the photographs you want to take.

That always sounds like a very smart question to ask. However, while there are tools everybody will need if there is a particular task to be handled, in real life we only have to categorize by film or digital and point-and-shoot, do-it-all small format system cameras or specialized cameras (i.e. large/medium format of every medium and type, plus dedicated special ones like process and microscope/telescope attachment cameras).

If he is asking for a Bessa replacement, we can assume that the set of possible answers is already limited to any small format film or digital rangefinder or SLR. And even if many people dislike that statement because they would rather hear that their camera choice is not a matter of taste but was forced by external reasons, almost every camera in that subset can be used to take pretty much the same pictures as any other. The few restrictions that possibly might have to be considered are merely whether very long or short lenses are available in that mount (but apart from the constraints for long lenses on rangefinders, no recent system of whatever type is restricted there).

 

[mfogiel]

I think you should look through these fixed lens RF threads, chose an Olympus or Yashica with a good 40mm lens, buy one on the cheap and use it on daily basis again without much regret. After which, If I were you, I'd set aside daily an amount of money equivalent to some trivial common expense, like a pack of cigerettes or a coffee plus a journal, and save up for a camera that you will use forever. I have been shooting with Bessas, Zeiss Ikons and Leicas, and although I am convinced Zeiss Ikon is actually the best camera for shooting, I find myself always reaching for my 0.85x M7 with a 50mm lens (I removed the 75mm frame) when I go out on an average day. My ZI with the 35/1.2 Nokton has become my low light camera.

 

[tj01]

DAG has a few Canonet 28 for USD30. Put it on A and fire away

 

[rbiemer]

"Where do I go now?"
If this happened to me, I'd be checking to see if my insurance covered the loss and I'd be heading to what ever pawn/junk/antique/2nd hand stores are near you to see if the camera turns up.

If you want the 40mm lens, the R3a, CLE, or CL are the choices for built in frame-lines and, except for the R4a, you're likely going to be using external VFs for 18 or 21 any way so the native field of view of the R3a shouldn't be any thing to fear.

I think the fixed-lens RF camera suggestions are good; you can see if a 40mm lens is a good fit for you and continue to enjoy RFs while you save your nickels for what ever you decide to replace the R2a with.

And, unless you make your living with your camera, realize that you don't have to decide what's next right away, That will let you take the time to answer the question Turtle suggested you ask yourself.

Condolences on your loss, this sucks.
Rob

 

[tammons]

If I were after a high end interchangeable lens RF I would consider a Contax G2 but I am an AF guy.

Fixed lens RF there are a few, but I just ordered a Nikon 35ti form keh EX for $275.

Minolta hi-matic Af camaras are very sharp but not control. I have one that with microfilm it is as sharp as any other camera I own. I also have a Ricoh plastic camera with a 38mm lens that is sharp that cost me $8 at the swap shop.

there is also the TVS cameras. I had one TVSII that was stunning sharp, the 2nd one so-so.

Also the minlux with a 40mm lens.

I also have a canonet 28 (40mm lens) that is decent, but mine is not that sharp.

I prefer digital for color, but I hate digital B+W. To me even scanned B+W film still looks like film.

I dont see much use in shooting 35mm color film. I might shoot a roll every now and then just to confirm why.

 

[FrankS]

As suggested, IIWY, I'd buy a <$100 fixed lens rangefinder compact camera as an interim measure. It should provide you with the characteristics of a rangefinder camera similar to your stolen Bessa that are missing from the F4: primarily RF viewing, lighter weight and smaller size. These FLRF cameras usually have 40mm lenses which is a focal length you want to explore. (I suggest an Olympus SP - a great camera of this type.) Doing this buys you time to work things out for yourself, without spending a lot of money. You may ultimately decide to go in a totally different direction, say into medium format, who knows. Good luck with this opportunity!

 

[ErnestoJL]

Sorry to hear about your camera.
A good choice (at least for some time to rise funds) would be a Yashica Electro35. They have a very very decent 45/1.7 lens, plus controllable automation (aperture preferred).
Most important, a good one won´t cost an arm and a leg.

Cheers
Ernesto

 

[gb hill]

I think I should not "reward myself" for being so careless with my old camera, so probably I'll just lurk around these waters for a few months wallowing in jealousy and despair 🙂

First off, like the others sorry for your loss & I hope you filed a police report. You'll probably not see the camera again but you never know, it's not a camera you see people carrying everyday. Like Rob stated above check to see if insurance covers such a loss. My main point of writing is don't allow this to beat yourself up, or as you said "not reward myself" We have all made stupid mistakes from time to time. I once left my wallet on my bunk while in the Navy & lost several hundred dollars. I had left it there several times before without any problem but I found it only takes that one time. Never happened again after that!
As what to buy now, well I'm not as qualified to answer that as most of these guys because I never used a Leica M system. Most of my cameras are LTM (Bessa R, L) But I do think the Bessa R3A with the 1:1 view finder plus the 40, 50, 75,90 frame lines is a camera to consider. Or since you already have a love for the system that was stolen why not replace it & be done! Until you make up your mind Just shoot with what you have & save your pennies.
cheers,

 

[rbsinto]

The camera was just stolen, and before doing anything else you're wondering about what to buy next?????
Police report
insurance agent to see if it's covered in policy
craig's list
ebay
email to pawnshops and junkshops in your neighbourhood or city
notifying local camera clubs in case it's offered to a member there
local newspaper lost and found column
The chances of recovering it are slim to be sure, but one really should make an effort to get it back before moving on to the next purchasing adventure.

 

[kuzano]

Not sure if this is feasible....

Not sure if this is feasible....

I'd make every effort to put a STOLEN CAMERA ad on Craigslist, describing the camera and asking for witnesses. A stolen report to the police (suspect you've done this) will get a listing out to all loan/pawn shops in your area.

Indicate clearly that it is a film camera, but has value to you. (Don't mention it's real value in this type of ad.

I would offer a $100 reward for return, or notification resulting in return.

Lock your car. This economy has theft from cars and houses on a steep rise. Don't leave valuables where they can be seen even in a locked car.

I lost $2000 worth of camera equipment after coming home from a day of shooting. I locked the car, but forgot to come out and take the camera bag out of the floorboard on the passenger side. When I came out the next morning the driver side window was shattered, cameras gone. (instant drug money for some addict)

Again, these incidents are rising rapidly. I live in a moderate sized town 100 miles off the main interstate, but crime such as this is getting nuts.

Normally, I carry my photo equipment in the trunk. It only took one night of not following my normal patterns to get hit... hard.

The criminals are far faster than a quick jog inside to pick up one item.

Can't tell you what to do on a camera.

I caught your inference that SLR focusing would be slower than RF.

You're wrong on that by my personal experience of 40 years on cameras. It may be me, but a good SLR with a split screen focus assist (fairly normal) is much faster to focus than any rangefinder I've ever owned. (Many)

If you want to keep the camera small, then my suggestion would be any of the OM Olympus... OM-1, or OM-4 my choices. No bigger than your Bessa. I have and use two OM-1s and other than the fuss with the battery solutions, which I've resolved, I can focus and shoot reliably, faster than any of the many rangefinders I have used.

If you must use a rangefinder, I'd suggest, get what you already know.

Or, consider an Olympus QL GIII, or an Olympus 35SP (spot meter). Both can be purchased for around $100 in good condition. Both have 6 or 7 element 1.7 lenses. Both used the mercury batteries, but solutions abound.

You can get a nice OM-1 and may also score the 50mm 1.4 lens for around $75 to $100. The 1.8 50mm lens is no slouch. There are ample lenses available in the used market for reasonable prices, although prices are rising as use of these lenses on the 4/3rds and micro 4/3rds is becoming popular.

Re: The Contax G... had the original G with 3 lenses. lovely glass, did not like the camera itself. Tricky focus (a known issue requiring attention during focus even though it's autofocus). The focus patch is small and you must focus on the subject that is to be in focus, hold shutter half way down and re-compose. There's even a supplemental manual that came with later early models just for this focus situation.
The 90mm lens is a tricky focus because of the short base leg on the rangefinder beam (again, known). I guarantee, this autofocus camera is trickier to focus and slower than focusing my OM-1 SLR with split prism.
Sold it, and got my money back since it's highly regarded...(Must be the glass)

 

[froyd]

thanks

thanks

Thanks to all who offered kind words and the thoughtful advice.

Prior to the incident I had set aside a sum to fund the purchase of an R-d1. I had not pulled the trigger in small part because I was not fully convinced I could live with the crop factor, and to a greater extent because the R2a was serving me so well, and the digital workflow (scans to disc at the time of processing, PSE, and printing at home on an Epson 2200) suited me well enough to make a digital body not at all a necessity, and just something I wanted to try for the fun of operating such a well regarded camera.

However with my every day film body gone, it seemed like I should rethink where to put my money.

There are many more options now than there were when I bought the Bessa, and what I need from my camera has changed too, since I now my own children constitute 98% of what I photograph. As such, AE and AF are more valued, as are a compact, take everywhere body and lenses, and to an extent, the ability to chimp an double check if the Tasmanian devils I call my children actually stayed still for a 1/15th of a second or not (answer: not).

In any case, as some of you have remarked, I'm still too confused and somewhat in shock, so I think I'll head their advice, spend tome time with my Nikkors (a modern 50 and fun 20) and probably get a Yashica, Olympus or suchlike to experiment with the 40 focal length.

Thanks again for the advice. I'll be back for more when I'm ready to make the next big move.

 

[arseniii]

At least now you have a reason to get a Zeiss Ikon ;-)