My thoughts on the 5050 stereo rig

[P3D Phil Palmer <phil@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx>]

I have recently been using a stereo twin-rig put together by the Widescreen
centre called the 5050 system 3D and I thought I would pass on my thoughts.

The kit consists of 2 FED 50 cameras, a mounting bar, a mechanical dual cable
release, 2 camera retaining screws and the bits and pieces that came with the
cameras (2 soft cases,2 lens hoods, 2 straps, 2 manuals).

The cameras - could vaguely be described as olympus trip copies. The exposure
control is either aperture priority, automatic or B. The focusing is manual with
no rangefinder.

I have run a couple of (pairs of) films through the system - I intend to use
print film with a view magic viewer - one to check for light leaks and
generally check the mechanism - no problems there, and the other in good
lighting conditions (bright afternoon winter sunlight, a rare event in
Lancashire), the exposures were good - there was a slight exposure difference
between cameras but under the viewer it is not noticable.

My major gripe with the camera's is the film loading, you are expected to place
the film leader under a sprung metal clip that goes 3/4 around the winding
spindle. I can do this with the aid of a screwdriver - I doubt I could reload
the cameras in the field.  

The promo photo on the box / in the press, suggest the camera can be used
hand-held. I have used it hand-held but I have attached a mini tripod/pistol
grip (I think it would be too cumbersome to use without additional grip or a
tripod).

The dual cable release looks sturdy enough but I doubt I will ever be able 
to sync the cameras enough to use the hot shoe for flash.

In general I am very happy with the rig. 
I suspect it will get used in 'planned' scenic/strong sunlight situations, 
we will leave the 'defining moment' shots to the Realist.

For those interested the lens seperation is 127mm.
 
STANDARD DISCLAIMER - I have no connection with the Widescreen Centre 
except they occasionally debit my credit card and send things to me that
my wife does not know about!

-- 
Phil Palmer, Oldham, Lancashire, UK
http://www.norma86.demon.co.uk


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