Newby question - book recommendation

[mich8261]

Hello All,

This is my first post to RFF. Today I purchased my first Rangefinder camera (a Canonet QL 17) and I must profess that I don't think I know how to use it. I am looking for a book or website that would give the basics of RF operations. I found the manual online, but it didn't give me much info.

Thanks for reading and for your recommendations.

Michel

 

[akptc]

Perhaps this site will be of help:

http://licm.org.uk/livingImage/Rangefinder-Camera.html

 

[rover]

Somebody has the manual posted online.....

Here we go

http://www.kyphoto.com/classics/instructionmanuals.html

Kim probably has it posted on his web site too.

 

[wlewisiii]

He noted that he alread found the manual online.

Before I offer any suggestions as to books, I'd ask what your overall photographic experiance is, Michel? That will help determine what would be the most benifit for you.

William

 

[mich8261]

Thank you for your responses and links. I will review that information as I wait for the camera to arrive.

Now to answer William's question. I consider myself an amateur photographer with SLR experience. I have a pretty good understanding of exposure, DOF and other basic elements of photography. I became curious about Rangefinder cameras when looking for a photographer for my wedding last year. The one we chose shot with a rangefinder (well, really, several). At one point, knowing my interest in photography, he ended me one of his camera with his newest lens, a wide-angle 15mm. I took a couple of pictures and that planted the seed. I was browsing the buy & sell forum on Fred Miranda's site yesterday and I saw the Canonet that I have now purchased. I have no idea if I got a good deal, but from the pictures, this thing looks beautiful. I can't wait to roam NYC with this beauty.

Michel
Brooklyn, NY

 

[ddunn]

Hello All,

This is my first post to RFF. Today I purchased my first Rangefinder camera (a Canonet QL 17) and I must profess that I don't think I know how to use it. I am looking for a book or website that would give the basics of RF operations. I found the manual online, but it didn't give me much info.

Thanks for reading and for your recommendations.

Michel

Your best bet is to go to the photography section of your public library & look at some of the older Leica & Contax books (like Leica Way or Contax Way). They cover the RF basics pretty well.

 

[wlewisiii]

Ok, just needed to be sure on that. I think I'd point you at this:http://www.amazon.com/Rangefinder-E...ef=sr_1_1/103-5256922-9375862?ie=UTF8&s=books

It's a nice volume on RF techniques by a writer/photographer how mainly uses rangefinders. He was a member here for awhile but was a bit put off by how laid back we are. Good guy though. Perhaps your local library can get it for you so you can check it out before buying.

Good luck & good light!

William

 

[mich8261]

thank you William. I ordered it used through Amazon. Now I'll have to dust of my scanner so I can get some nice images on here.

I forgot to mention the other factor that drew me to this camera is the 40mm lens. Just last week I read an interesting article called Why 40 on luminous-landscape.com