Just ordered an RD-1s

[jeffmatsler]

Hello,

I just ordered an RD-1s from KEH.

I'm going to be travelling for extended periods without access to film or processing, so I felt this would be a good time to try out a dRF.

Does anyone have any suggestions or guidance for me that I need to hear regarding the camera? From the reviews I've read, it's pretty user-friendly. I haven't used a Cosina / Voightlander - I've been using an M3, M5 and CLE - but I hear they're not that difficult to use.

I'd appreciate any guidance you might provide: headaches to avoid, shortcuts to set up for optimal use, preferred WB settings that work best, etc.

Thanks in advance.

Jeff M

 

[LocoDuck]

All you really need is a lens, a couple extra batteries, and a how ever much memory your heart desires. From there, just shot RAW and forget about the in-camera processing settings... at least this is what I did, and I am very happy with mine!

Happy shooting

 

[JNewell]

Agree w/ above.

1. Definitely buy extra batteries.
2. Buy one (or more) 2GB cards.
3. Buy a protector for the LCD. I like Shieldzone (there is one that's the correct size), but there are others. I leave my LCD out most of the time, not so I can "chimp," but so I can delete pics or, less often, change menu settings.
4. Order the right eyepiece correction lens if you use 'em; the Nikon FM2-series fits perfectly.
5. Shoot raw and forget the "film" and related settings. My experience so far is that I'm also leaving the WB set to "auto" and getting better results correcting when I "develop" the pictures, rather than using the preset specific WB settings.
6. Take stock of any viewfinder needs you have below 28mm, taking into account the crop factor.
7. Read the stuff on Rich Cutler's R-D1 FAQ page (see sticky at top of thread list here) for issues like the metering pattern, frameline coverage, etc.
8. Prepare to be pleased with great results!

 

[Delta KJ]

JNewell covered the ones that I would list and in the correct order of importance. However, I don't think that you need to shoot in RAW exclusively. Don't disregard rule No. 1; have extra batteries. You will be surprised how much "juice" that little camera consumes! I normally shoot with the LCD turned inward; saves battery and makes me focus on shooting rather than admiring.

 

[jl-lb.ms]

Very important - don't buy crappy 3rd party batteries from ebay. Some of them will make the camera malfunction and potentially seize up due to incorrect voltages. Pay a little more (e.g. $18) from Adorama or elsewhere. I've been ok with Adorama batteries.

John

 

[emraphoto]

very, very good point there re: the battery's. don't be tempted... buy the epsons!

 

[Jim Watts]

very, very good point there re: the battery's. don't be tempted... buy the epsons!

I'm not sure that the Epsons are a good buy any longer. I doubt since the camera is now discontinued that they have had any batteries produced under their own brand for well over a year. Li-Ion batteries deteriorate whether used or not. (See Rich's FAQ or search the many threads on batteries here).

It though worth buying good reputation third party ones, preferably 1500 or 1650 Mah.