Re: Answers to Gary's accumulated questions

[P3D Dr. George A. Themelis <fj834@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx>]

John Ohrt writes:

>Finally, this is a hobby :-).
>That means you get to do what you want and not answer to anyone :-)

My feelings exactly.  And those who think that my opinions, based on
experience, are "nonsense" they can safely ignore them.

The point I was trying to make with Gary's questions, is "try it first and
worry later".  There are people that hesitate to try a 50s stereo camera
because they are afraid that, because of age, the camera might not be
working properly, or that they might not be able to use it in manual 
operation.   My recommendation is "go ahead and try it first and worry 
later."

Regarding SLR lenses I have at least 5  pairs in my X-700 system that I
have used.  All have acceptable (for me) FL matching.  The only problem I
once had was with two 35/3.5 mm lenses that were mismatched due to a
_rotational_ error. I had no explanation for this and went ahead and sold
them (to 2D photographers; they were fine for 2D), got another pair and
this one is fine.

Unless you plan to match 85/1.8, 100 macro, 300/2.8, or other expensive
lenses you can use the "trial and learn approach".  My favorite Minolta
lens is the 45 mm/2.0 because it is  compact and lightweight. I have 5 of
them.  For each one I have paid from $0 to $20.  In every system you can
find normal-ish FL lenses with smaller max aperture (stay away from the
1.4s) that are sold for around $20-$30 (used).  My recommendation is to
start with such pair. If everything fails, you have not lost much.  I don't
want Gary to worry about trying an SLR system because of matching lens FL. 
There are other, more important things to worry about, IMO.

Regarding Sam's case, when you try to build a stereo camera with fixed
lenses, I agree that matching the lenses in an important concern.  I would
be irritated if my Realist had mismatched lenses.  But if you are dealing
with SLRs with interchangeable lenses you can find cheap lenses to play
with.  In this case, matching FLs is not a serious concern.

You can be as much technical as you like.  But I'd say, unless if a lot is
at stake, instead of wasting your time worrying, go ahead and try it first!

-- George Themelis


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