shyoon
Well-known
If she's already got a 35mm SLR, I think a medium format camera would be fantastic. Something like a Hasselblad 500C/M or a Rolleiflex T. A simple, high quality medium format cameras to cherish for a long time.
pagpow
Well-known
+1 on MF if you want to introduce her to real differences
and if you go that way, I'd suggest considering one of the Fuji 690 models.
and if you go that way, I'd suggest considering one of the Fuji 690 models.
Nando
Well-known
I'd go with a Leica M2 or M3 and with classic Leitz M lens - a 50mm Summicron DR or Rigid, a 35f2.8 Summaron, a 50f2.8 collapsible Elmar, etc.
jljohn
Well-known
Hassy 500c/m, Waistlevel Finder, A12 Back, 80mm CF Lens, and a Meter. Cannot imagine a better gift if you want a camera, that is top quality, classy, and built to last. Could easily be done for under a $1,000.
gho
Well-known
Maybe a Holga? *ducks* However, camera choice is indeed highly personal. I gave my ex-girlfriend an XA2 once, but she insisted on continuing to use her Ricoh KR-10x. Not a bad camera indeed. Maybe just ask?
Naumoski
Well-known
A Rolleiflex, they suit quite sexy on girls.
http://www.flickr.com/photos/chicolin/4551397420/
Or the new Diana white maybe, they look beautiful - http://eur.shop.lomography.com/cameras/diana-f-cameras/diana-mini-white
Or the new Diana white maybe, they look beautiful - http://eur.shop.lomography.com/cameras/diana-f-cameras/diana-mini-white
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film4ever
Member
Hi, it's my first post!!!! I am almost embarassed...
Why don't you consider an old FSU camera? They are really cheap (you can find one on ebay for few money) and the quality is not bad at all!
I really fell in love with the FED2, I bought it with a 50 mm F2.8 (very good) for less then 40€, then I added a 50mm F1.5 and now I have a really good system. No lightmeter, simple mechanic, good optics. I assure it is really enjoiable to shoot with that camera. Maybe a bit challenging the "16 sunny rule" but after some time it become simple and adds something to the shooting...
film4ever
Why don't you consider an old FSU camera? They are really cheap (you can find one on ebay for few money) and the quality is not bad at all!
I really fell in love with the FED2, I bought it with a 50 mm F2.8 (very good) for less then 40€, then I added a 50mm F1.5 and now I have a really good system. No lightmeter, simple mechanic, good optics. I assure it is really enjoiable to shoot with that camera. Maybe a bit challenging the "16 sunny rule" but after some time it become simple and adds something to the shooting...
film4ever
t.s.k.
Hooked on philm
I do like that FD idea as the "L" lenses are very reasonable and well within your cap.
Never would I have thought the legendary 85/2.1L could be had for a little over $500.
But then again, MF is a great option too. A nice Rolleiflex could fit in your budget and will teach her a whole new discipline.
Can I be your friend too?
Never would I have thought the legendary 85/2.1L could be had for a little over $500.
But then again, MF is a great option too. A nice Rolleiflex could fit in your budget and will teach her a whole new discipline.
Can I be your friend too?
Neare
Well-known
The Contax g2 or the Contax Aria are great choices for all round affordable quality.
Rolleiflex's as well are great.
Also Nikon FM2 etc...
I'd avoid the Alpa's (not the new 12 series, though I don't think those are what you had in mind with their price tag =P). Although they are built like tanks, their insides do break down every so often, so they need to be taken very good care of. And I doubt you'll get one with a lens in good working order for less than $1k anyway.
But yeah, I'd save but wait on making any decisions. Who knows what might happen in the next 2 years.
Rolleiflex's as well are great.
Also Nikon FM2 etc...
I'd avoid the Alpa's (not the new 12 series, though I don't think those are what you had in mind with their price tag =P). Although they are built like tanks, their insides do break down every so often, so they need to be taken very good care of. And I doubt you'll get one with a lens in good working order for less than $1k anyway.
But yeah, I'd save but wait on making any decisions. Who knows what might happen in the next 2 years.
Chris101
summicronia
If you've got a thousand bucks, you should be able to find a decent, user quality M4P - I got mine for about that with a Voigtländer 35mm lens.