FOCUSSING ATTACHMENTS

[P3D Paul S. Boyer <boyer@xxxxxxxxxxxxx>]

RANGEFINDERS on STEREO CAMERAS
Franklin J. Flocks has wriiten to ask of the availability of add-on
range-finders for 35-mm stereo cameras.  Here's my feeling about
that:
Range-finders are practically unnecessary on ordinary stereo cameras.
 The reason is that stereo requires the greatest depth of field
possible.  Therefore, focus on the main object is not that critical.
The range-finder on my Realist has not worked accurately for years.
I focus by using the hyperfocal markings on the focussing dial (which
on my camera has a home-made, paste-on metric scale).  That is faster
by far than trying to use a range-finder.  Frequently, for whole
sequence, no change in focus is needed.
So, my advice is: You have spent enough on that fine camera. Don't
clutter it up with uncessary add-ons, but just practice the skills of
speedily estimating distances and focussing with the dial.  You will
be surprised how much faster you can shoot this way, if you practice.
--Paul S. Boyer   <alpha.fdu.edu>


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