P3D Re: Realist in the Closet?

["Dr. George A. Themelis" <DrT-3d@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx>]

Thanks again Mark for an inspiring posting...  I might add that many
of the advantages that you list for the Realist, are also advantages
for the RBT S1, a rangefinder camera.

>I've missed shots with the X4 because I took too much time removing 
>both lenscaps and placing them in my pocket.

Solution:  Don't use lens caps when using the camera.  You have
filters to protect the lenses.

>for folks out there considering an RBT, the camera is not the
>panacea to all of your stereo desires, but rather another very nice 
>tool for your toolbox. 

Yes, indddeed!

While I was eating lunch in the Stereo Table in the PSA Convention,
one lady asked me (with what I sensed to be a disapproval tone in
her voice) why did I need a SECOND RBT (X4) camera when I already 
had the S1?  I tried to explain that they are different cameras 
(tools) good for different things.  

There was another gentleman on our table who proudly announced that 
he has 52 (I think he said "different", I might be wrong) stereo 
cameras.  No one asked him why he needed all these stereo cameras...  
(He might be a collector...) One thing I do not understand is why do 
people need many different "Realist format" stereo cameras when they 
all offer the same lens separation and focal length.

George Themelis