Re: [photo-3d] Beginner's questions

[Paul Talbot <ptww@xxxxxxxxx>]

Paul Young wrote:
> 
> A couple of (several) jargon (and otherwise) questions from a
> beginning photographer/3D photographer:

Welcome to the wonderful world of stereo photography and the
photo-3d list, Paul!

> What are "RBT" mounts?

RBT mounts are perhaps the highest quality mounts on the market
today.  (Also the most expensive.)  They are made of plastic and
feature an ingenious pin bar system for adjusting the vertical
alignment of the two images in a stereo photo.

> What does the acronym "SLR" stand for?

It may depend on the context, but in photography it usually means
"single lens reflex."  That is the type of camera that allows
the photographer to see the image through the same lens that
records the photograph (rather than having a separate viewvinder
lens).

> Stereo Realist question:
> 
> How does the "Hot Shoe" flash attachment work on a Stereo Realist?

Not exactly sure what you are asking.  The hot shoe on the
realist is not compatible with modern flashes.  It can be
modified by filing down the bump and slightly expanding the
width.  Alternatively, an adapter can be used to attach a
modern flash.

> I've heard many instances of using an electronic flash with a
> Realist.  How is the electronic flash triggered from this "HotShoe"?

As you can see from table of contents
http://www.rmm3d.com/funlearn/umsr_toc.html
flash with the Realist is covered in Chapter 7
of the book by DrT.

> Any light box recommendations (style, size) for use in mounting
> slides?

You can use anything from a light table just large enough
to hold a single stereo mount, to a full 8x10 size or
larger table.  Tom Martin of this list has in the past
offered via Sell-3D a fairly large table at a good price.
For economy, try the 4x5 table that WalMart sells for
about $15.  Downside: it's battery operated; if you don't
already have an a/c adapter to use with it, you'll need
to buy one separately.  For higher quality at a reasonable
price, contact me off-list about a CCFL light panel.

> How about tweezers for handling chips? Do you use them?

I sometimes use tweezers, sometimes gloves, sometimes I
just make sure I only touch the edges of the chips.

> Any particular kind more practical?

I suggest a sturdy tweezers, such as those that a camping
supply store sells.

> How about a magnifier for looking at the slides... necessary,
> recommended, don't bother?

Inexpensive reading glasses (try to find them for $3 or less
if you are budget-minded; try the "dollar" stores) can be
an aid to freeviewing while mounting, but are not required.

> I just ordered some "heat seal" cardboard mounts from Reel3D. Good,
> Bad, Ugly?

Biggest advantage: they let you see 3D slides!  They are also
inexpensive and they are a little easier to learn to use than the
higher quality "Spicer" mounts. http://www.rmm3d.com/supplies/spicer.html
But they have some disadvantages such as being less flexible to use,
edges not quite as sharp as "Spicers," and allowing too much light to
leak through the mounts.

> Heat seal 'em, or just tape 'em in?

Most people heat seal them, but some people tape them instead.
Heat sealing saves the step of securely affixing the film chips,
but may be tricky to learn to do without damaging the film.

> Also trying to get to a point where
> I have what I need for a bit... this stuff is starting to get
> expensive.

3D equipment is one of the best bargains on the photo market
today, IMO.  You can easily pay $500 to $1,000 for an SLR,
but a basic Realist can be had for around $150.  And your
Realist will most likely hold its value better than a high-
priced new SLR.

Once again, welcome to the "club," and good luck with your efforts.
Let us know how things are going from time to time, and always feel
free to post your questions here.

Paul Talbot