People's reactions to stereo cameras

[P3D Gregory J. Wageman <gjw@xxxxxxxxxx>]

Some stereo cameras are obviously more distinctive than others.  The
Revere 33, for example, almost looks like a "flatty".  The Realist,
on the other hand, is pretty distinctive with its "three-lens" look
and the attached lens cover.  Since I've been using an RBT X2, usually
with a handle-mount flash attached, people have to be pretty un-observant
NOT to notice that it's something unusual, if just on account of its
rather imposing size.  What I've found to be amusing is the range of
people's reactions.  Here's what I've observed:

1. Staring.  The person has obviously recognized that it's something
   unusual, but is too shy or doesn't want to intrude on your privacy
   to ask what it is, so they just stare at it (and you).

2. Commenting aloud.  They've noticed your camera, and they make a
   loudly audible comment to someone they're with about it, but not
   directly to you.

3. "Why does your camera have two lenses?"  I think this is by far the
   most common question I've gotten.  This is usually followed by a brief
   explanation on my part about binocular vision and stereo viewing.
   Often after they've caught on, "ViewMaster" is mentioned.  "Yes, just
   like ViewMaster, only bigger."

4. "Is that a stereo camera?"  This one usually comes from a more
   gadget-minded crowd; or someone in their family had one.  "Yes", I
   respond, and they smile and nod knowingly.  "My [father/brother/
   grandfather/etc.] had a [Kodak/Realist/etc.]."

5. "Is that an RBT?  Which model?"  Yeah, right.  In your dreams. :-)
   Likely only to be heard at NSA conventions.  Usually asked by the
   person carrying the twinned SLR rig.

So how common are these?  What have *you* experienced?  Have I missed
any common ones?

	-Greg W.


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