R3A and the 40/1.4 results from a long-time SLR user

[clintk]

I've been shooting with SLR's since I was in the eighth grade. Now I'm 31 and I was looking for a smaller, more portable package than what Nikon and Canon offered.

I can't remember exactly how I came across Bessa cameras, but they seemed to get favorable reviews and they are way more affordable than Leica and Contax.

I did some shooting with my R3A, 40 and 15 lenses and compared those results with a Canon body and their 17-40. Same subject, same light, same exposure.

The Voightlander lenses are just as sharp and prodcuse good color. All test images were made on Fuji Provia 100F.

It's taken some getting used to using the rangefinder. I am happy that I am able to focus accurately, but not as quickly as AF.

I am used to the exacctness of a SLR viewfinder, so the RF is new to me. I wear glasses right now so if I want a more presice image I focus with the glasses on, then compose with them off. My contact lenses should come in this week so I won't have to bother with this procedure much longer.

What else can I say, other than I'm very pleased with the R3 and the 40. I use the 15 sparingly, but the results are equally impressive.

I tried some of Kodak's C41 process black & white film. It's okay, but I think I'll stick with 100 and 400 speed Fujichrome in the camera for now.

Clint

 

[Frank Granovski]

400 ASA B&W film is what I prefer, whether I push it 1 stop or not. Iford's HP5+ is my favourite. With colour, I'm just running a 2nd roll of Konica VX400 through my new R3A. It's a nice camera. 😎

 

[sockeyed]

Hi Clint,

I'm glad to hear that you're enjoying the R3A + 40/1.4. I've got the same setup and have shot well over several thousand frames with it, and am always impressed with the results.

You mention that you find the lenses have equal sharpness to your SLR gear. I've used Canon FD glass for years and actually find the Voigtlander glass noticeably sharper, the contrast better and the rendering more appealing. I find the quality jump most obvious at the wide end of the spectrum, and the lack of distortion in CV optics quite stunning.

It's also very nice to be able to carry such a small kit around: body + 3 lenses fit in a small wait pouch.

Happy shooting!