Viewfinder Magnifier with Fast Lenses

[Geoffsco]

I currently have a higher proportion of near misses than I would like in very low light, and was wondering how effective a viewfinder magnifier would be in improving focus accuracy? What are the draw backs of using one?

I'm using a .72 MP and Noctilux, focus is generally OK from 1.4, but I miss quite a few at F1.

I've noticed that Leica have recently released a 1.4x magnifier, and there's also the 1.25x. I'd also be interested in recommendations on other quality options.

Perhaps I just need to practice more? I've had the Noctilux for only a couple of months.

 

[Krosya]

Do you only miss shots at f1.0 in low light or any light? Reason I ask is that some people here had to have their cameras "calibrated" to thier fast lenses or lens to camera for it to focus right.
As far as magnifiers - I tried non-Leica one that's 1.25x and while it's Ok, I find that I dont use it much. I dont have Nocti, but for Canon 50/1.2, CV 35/1.2 and Nikkor 10.5cm/2.5 - I usually do OK wide open w/o magnifier. Even in fairly low light.
Hope this helps.

 

[Geoffsco]

Do you only miss shots at f1.0 in low light or any light?

It's really just a problem in very low light when my eye struggles to focus, I don't think it needs calibrating. I figured it may be slightly easier with a magnified rangefinder patch, assuming there are no drawbacks in using one.

Does having a longer rangefinder base make a significant difference in focus accuracy?

 

[Mackinaw]

Sure a magnifier will help with focusing your Noctilux. I use the 1.25X magnifier with 50mm lenses and the 1.40X viewfinder with 75mm and 90mm lenses. The magnifiers will enlarge the focusing patch as well as the overall image area. As for drawbacks, there are none in my book, outside of cost, these magnifiers don't come cheap.

Jim B.

 

[cam]

the magnifiers are magnificent, but there is one drawback in low light situations -- magnifiers tend to make the images darker as well (at least mine does, i use the Megaperls). whilst the larger images help, if you already struggle in low light, this could be a problem.

just something to be aware of. i use mine all the time, but....

 

[ferider]

I use a Leica 1.25x one all the time, on M6 to focus 75 Summilux or 90 Summicron; rarely miss a shot.

Like cam said it reduces brightness (like a tele converter), but since contrast is most important for focusing, it doesn't bother me.

For a fast 50 with 1m min. focus distance, it shouldn't matter that much (the 75 at .7m is harder to focus). It does sound like a good idea to have your camera/lens combo checked out.

It's also technique: for fast lenses I find it better to pre-focus, and then do the fine-tuning by moving back and forth.

That being said, you might want to try an M3 with your Noctilux. Magnifier built in 🙂

Best,

Roland.

 

[Praxis Unitas]

for the .72 MP, I'd recommend a 1.4-- it would put your eyes on 'parity' so that you could use both at the same time comfortably. The M3 is great, too, but I suspect it is not as bright as the MP. Also, are you sure that the lens/rangefinder are within specifications?