Collecting

[Michael Watters <wattersm@xxxxxxxx>]

I've never kept a strict count of the number of cameras I've had. 
Never cared to.  Right now in fact, I'm kinda on the low side of
things.  But there ARE a number of reasons for having several.  The
difference between a "User" and "Collector" has more to do with the
motivations than the volume.  I've usually had a pretty broad
assortment of cameras, but each one has had it's nitch.  I used to
have several Realist Format cameras (fav was the Realist 45), but I
got rid of all those after going 7P all the way.  The 7P cameras each
had their benefits.  I preferred using the FED under most
circumstances, but the Belplasca (bye bye sniff) was the only option
if I needed full manual control.  My USUAL camera of choice however
is some sort of twin rig (can't bitch about collector pricing
there!).  The SLRs give GREAT control of lens focal length/exposure
etc, but don't have critical sync for fast moving subjects.  The twin
XA-2 rig DOES have critical sync and is smaller/lighter for
portability.  It's also less hyper than the SLRs, B U T doesn't have
manual exposure if that's what's needed.
I've also got a ViewMaster camera and cutter.  I don't use it THAT
much, but it's nice for doing the DALE trick and making a slew of
little VM reels if THAT's the desired output.

I won't even mention the non-stereo gear.  :)

The reality is that NO camera is going to be the ideal "best" under
all possible foreseeable circumstances.  Having a variety, each with
their different strengths allows you to tailor the camera you are
using to the situation at hand.

For most conditions, I like to be lazy and use a FED or XA-2x2. 
Those cameras are auto-exposure (do a fine job of it) and allow me to
focus on composition.  However, neither would have worked for that
DEVO concert I shot in January.  Given the odd lighting, I NEEDED to
have manual control.  I also wanted to use more than wide-angle
lenses so I shot with twin SLRs.  The Belplasca also came along as a
backup.

Prices:
   If the prices of the "collectable" equipment bothers you, DON'T
GET IT.  The VAST majority of stereo gear can be either replicated or
replaced by do-it-yourself bits and pieces.  Case in point: My first
move out of 5P cameras was using a twin SLR.  I liked the wider image
but couln't afford a "real" camera so got away with using twin
cameras.  As stated above, under MOST circumstances a twin camera rig
will perform just as well, sometimes better depending on your
requirements.
  If you don't like the price of the linked polarizing filter
accessories for the Realist, cobble up your own version.  I've got a
pair of polarizers for my FED.  They aren't "linked" but they (and
the camera) have registration marks so their rotation can be matched
manually.  Sure it takes a LITTLE longer, but I saved myself a couple
hundred bucks and ended up with higher quality filters to boot.
   Homemade cameras and accessories usually require a little extra
attention from the user (and imagination in their creation), but it's
the RESULTS that count and THOSE are just as good.

mike
watters


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