[photo-3d] Re: Next step from Realist?

["Ray Moxom" <raymoxom@xxxxxxxxxx>]

George Themelis wrote:
> I do not count single or twin cameras as a substitute for
> the Realist but as a supplement that gives you variable
> stereo base and variable focal lengths.  I always used
> SLR cameras together with my stereo camera and I
> will continue to do so.

I agree that twin SLRs are not a substitute for a stereo camera.

However, the very small twin Olympus XAs which give 100mm (4 inch) lens
separation and are no bigger or heavier than a Realist are a more than a
suitable (and economic) replacement for the Realist.

Lenses are pin sharp and the aperture priority auto exposure is spot on. The
100mm separation gives a little bit more stereo bight, which in most cases
is an advantage. The one in 30 rule tells us that the closest object needs
to be 3m (10') away for 100mm separation. I find that this is the case
anyway for most of my shots.

Nancy (wife) has taken almost all of her recent (last 6 years) stereo images
with a pair of XAs. She no longer uses an 'ordinary' stereo camera as this
rig is her 'ordinary' stereo camera. A quick browse through a few exhibition
catalogues will give an indication of her success with this very compact
rig.

As I said in my earlier posting, anyone interested in the Olympus XA twin
rig operating in master slave mode is invited to download a free copy of the
September 1999 issue of '3D Window' from www.sscc.asn.au/sscc

My confession:  I use an RBT-X2!  But, I do borrow Nancy's XAs when
portability is a problem.

Ray Moxom