P3D FED challenge

[Mark Shields <beamsplitter@xxxxxxxx>]

Hi!

As some of you may have noticed, I recently changed from
a FED dreamer to a FED user.

I bought this particular camera, used, with a certain purpose
in mind. I got a very good price on it and don't mind at this
point that the autoexposure doesn't work (ironic since that was
one of my main reasons for wanting a FED in the first place),
and it doesn't handle 36-exposure rolls very well.

I note that a great many P3D members will buy and
use Realists, Kodaks, and other classic cameras of the '50's
that have certain mechanical problems. If they have problems,
they get them fixed and continue using the cameras. I even read
in a recent post that Belplascas, which command premium prices,
are not very good mechanically. And another 7-perf camera, the
Verascope F40, has a bad flare problem (not to say it can't be
fixed with the judicious application of some matte black paint).

So here is the FED Stereo, admittedly with a reputation for
mechanical problems, but also with a reputation for excellent
optics. If I understand correctly, it costs a _lot_ less than
the other 7-perf cameras, and is still being manufactured. In
fact, you can buy a new one for less than a used example of the
'50's 7-perf cameras.

I know a lot of P3D members like the full control of a manual
camera, but using a FED and bracketing would come pretty close
IMHO. You can also do manual exposures at 1/30 second with
your choice of aperture. The later improved versions give you
B at f/5.6, a very useful aperture (earlier ones are f/2.8 on B).
That 24X30mm image area is really nice, and the camera handles
very well, at least IMO.

FWIW, I'm using mine for indoor stereo yearbook pictures at
1/30 second on manual (pick your own aperture--I use f/5.6 on
Kodak Gold Max 800, which is fine for yearbook-size prints).
It has also delivered some nice shots outdoors in shaded areas.
I use a little chest tripod to keep the camera steady at 1/30.

Steve Berezin sells new ones with a money-back guarantee and has
lined up someone who will work on them.

What do you say, guys?

Mark Shields
(a delighted first-time FED owner)

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beamsplitter@xxxxxxxx
http://www.stmattpitt.org
"Let the little children come to Me," Jesus said, "and don't keep
 them away. The kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these."
  -Matthew 19:14


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