VM Copies

[P3D rmt <rmt@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx>]

George asked about the possibility of using VM originals for copying - 
fat chance, I would think - but I have copied from the discs to make 
Holmes - format cards as well as 2-d prints up to 8x10, and the amount 
of information available on those tiny chips is remarkable.

One method I have used is to put the SLR right up against the viewfinder 
of a VM model D viewer; this method worked OK but would have been more 
effective if I had an SLR with depth-of-focus preview.  Also, there is 
some fringing owing to the doublets in the viewer.  This is minimized by 
racking dead center, but is hard to control.  I had the camera mounted 
on a focusing rail (2 axis) from Adorama, an indispensible piece of 
equipment for the stereographer, IMHO.

A better method is to use extension tubes and closeup lenses, favoring 
the tubes.  The lenses tend to degrade the image.  I understand that 
pricey Nikon achromat c/u lenses are available, but haven't seen them.

I am guessing that good Realist-format copies will look good projected, 
and somewhat degraded in the viewer.  Hope George will keep us posted on 
his results with this project.

Dick Twichell


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