Shutter Release Technique, Rolleicord

[Murchu]

I've always seemed to struggle to keep my Rolleicord (VA) steady 100% of the time when releasing the shutter via the little lever you use to cock it. Something like the original button release on the rolleicord would seem to be ideal, but have not been able to find one at all.

I'm sure many will suggest using a short cable release, or even pistol grip, but I wonder if those of you who fire it via the shutter lever have any tips or techniques you find most effective, or perhaps just tips/ technique in general for when you release the shutter.

 

[Mr_Flibble]

My technique when standing straight is to hold both hands underneath, steadying the back against your chest or abdomen and fire the shutter with your thumb or index finger.

Doesn't work well for every pose/composition especially like when you are squating or kneeling though.

 

[ruby.monkey]

I'm sure many will suggest using a short cable release, or even pistol grip

Whatever technique you come up with will be less reliable and comfortable than using the pistol grip. That lever release is a right pain in the proverbial.

 

[rayfoxlee]

After focusing, cup the camera in your left hand, with your thumb held vertical on the left hand side just in front of the lower spool knob. Fire with your left hand index finger. The thumb will help to offset the pull to the left as you fire.

It is some years since I owned a 'Cord, but this worked for me. What is much better, though, is to find an old Stitz bracket, drill out the plastic handle to take a chunky cable release and fire with your left index finder in a trigger style. With this, you can hold the camera, focus with thumb and forefinger and fire the shutter all one-handed.

Practice makes perfect, too!

Good luck -they are great cameras!

Ray

 

[pschauss]

I put my index finger on the release lever and my thumb on the body of the camera and squeeze.

 

[Shutterspark]

For all cameras with WLFs I hang it from the neck and pull down against the strap while bracing it against my body to keep it steady. Both my hands tend to be under the camera.

For speeds lower than 1/30 I like to just leave the camera hanging and use a short cable release.

 

[Murchu]

Cheers for the feedback and tips. I've had my rolleicord out trying some of them, and for shots where the camera is around my neck, and sitting just in front of my stomach, some of the tips here will work well enough. I often raise the 'cord, when I am using the magnifier, especially for portraits or where focus accuracy is critical. Any helpful advice on keeping the camera as steady as possible when using the magnifier is very welcome too.