jeff_drew4

<p>I agree with Chris! The TLA 200 is very good (I like & use mine!), and I have looked at the 360 for the same reasons. However, I keep checking nearly every brand's flash vs the Metz versions when needing power & design perks. Metz generally has given me more features for the similar dollar when compared with some other major brands. Using the TLA200 as a trigger for other flashes is also a plus.</p>

<p>Scott, I use both P645 and Hasselblad V systems and have both lenses in manual focus. Frankly, the Pentax 75mm is excellent as is the CZeiss Planar 80mm. Comparing a relatively late model 75mm vs which CZ 80mm (C,F series) is kind of an exercise in degrees of image "excellence." Workflow and mechanical quality etc are different and unique to your preferences. Your skill will affect the images & output more than the differences between the lenses given portraits & landscapes. Question: are you considering film format questions and the rectangle vs square choice? Still, both lenses are fine as are both camera systems. Decades ago,I chose to have both systems and skip expensive adapters . . . ;-) LOL! Today, I question putting any more dollars into film systems given the digital universe.</p>

<p>Kerkko, I have & use the 250mm on a 501cm with a couple different extension tubes as needed. So I am sharing based on experiences etc. I agree with Ed's comment, and the other reference/recommendation for the Bogen/Manfrotto 293. I use an older version of the 293 for other telephoto rigs & combos needing the support, but I am surprised that you would need this for your rig. What tripod & head combo is causing the problem? I use an older Gitzo Studex & ballhead with no issues, but it is an old, heavy-duty rig. For my 501CM + 350mm + Extender, I use a monster Gitzo + bigger ballhead. Here is a suggestion: Add a small counterweight atop your 503CW - like a small beanbag filled with lead shot. That may center & balance your combo. and absorb vibration from your winder if you are using it. The winder may be adding torque & vibration. That said, it may be time to shop for a bigger tripod & head? good ones last a lifetime; as some of mine are 40+ years old and still work great!</p>

<p>Update: I finally donated enough fluids to afford the Pentax 20-40mm Ltd that I have lusted for. On the K3ii it is a pleasure to use and the images are very sharp & well exposed. Playtime continues, but the sun finally came out today and the snow has stopped for now . . . hurry up springtime!<br> I also am playing with the new, little Metz 26AF-1 for Pentax. Shirt-pocket size but lots of punch and very versatile! Manual & design are a bit strange, but I do not miss the built-in flash on this K3ii. <br> :-)</p>

<p>Law of supply & demand? More people looking at the K3 now that the FF is here - and what a deal? That mint K1000 in the closet is looking pretty good now too! :-)</p>

<p>speaking of "panoramas" take a look at this instrument! The K3II etc mounted on one of these would really rock! Lots of pixel shifted, stacked images and then stitch away! Woof! Time for a new quad-core processor with lots of ram! http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/689699-REG/Giga_Pan_EPIC_PRO_EPIC_Pro_Robotic_Camera.html</p>

<p>I live in a rural area with no photo supply vendors, so I have bought many items from the Ebay platform and have rarely had a problem. However, I gravitate toward known sellers, UK, Canada, Australia, Japan, and U.S. with excellent track records! Price is secondary to me as the seller can make the deal very pleasant and then repeatable. A few Asian vendors have been perfectly honorable in my transactions - no problems. There were no challenges working out the customs, but good communications with the seller are helpful. Each new relationship needs to be developed for a good comfort level. Waiting for the treasure to arrive is the hardest part!</p>

<p>Decades ago, I weighed the 6x6 options and fell into a slightly used 501CM kit at a local shop. The 501CM is mostly bare-bones Hassy design with no electronics. Perfect for me! I have since added all sorts of the usual lusted-for accessories including a metering hood, but I rarely use it. I am old-school with gossen light meters & tripods etc. Occasionally I use my Droid phone as a photo tool & meter; wondrous! Frankly, I like having a plain, reliable body, back & lens combo for film, but that is how I learned the craft long ago. Just my ramblings FWIW.</p>

<p>There is a lot published comparing the K3 vs K3II. The following list of items brought me to the checkout counter with a K3II! I already have significant Pentax system components and this new body/tech adds value for me. Unfortunately, new lenses will have to wait, but old lenses are delivering nicely - I am mostly a prime lens shooter.</p> <ul> <li>Improved Built-in Image Stabilization mechanism (4.5 stops, up from 3.5 stops)</li> <li>Built-in GPS and Electronic compass</li> <li>Improved AF Tracking performance</li> <li>‘Pixel Shift Resolution’ technology</li> <li>New high-precision Gyro sensor</li> <li>Panning detection</li> <li>Automatic horizon correction</li> <li>ASTOTRACER mode</li> <li>Auto level compensation</li> </ul>

<p>10 years later (almost) and time for an update! When the K200d got real cheap, I added that body and learned from there. The 24-90mm lens and MZs still kick butt as an all-around combo! The K200d with the same lens is very good! Overall, no regrets and I still use a variety of Pentax systems. Quite recently, I gathered in a new K3II and a couple more lenses. Awesome technology! Pentax just announced the new FF-K1 and is now taking orders, but I think I'll hang loose and wait for the next one. There is still a lot to learn and then there is film again . . . I love it! To all of you still vertical; Happy New Year!</p>

<p>for us old dogs, Group f/64 philosophy produced a special segment of incredible, sharp pictures. One can spend a small fortune in time and wealth pursuing razor sharp quality. Lens quality and light are important. Inevitably, the whole technique & process for an image is additive. Practice & play!</p>

<p>I am no digital expert or repair tech, nor do I play one on TV! I'll guess the problem is a failing screen component (regulating) with a power issue. I don't know if you have any power options with your rig; i.e. grip w/AA cells vs lithium pak. You could gather more info by swapping cells & experimenting. Also contacting Ricoh tech support may help. Your unit may need a service call to fixit. Just some thoughts - I could be daft!</p> <p> </p>

<p>I am a rangefinder user 75% of camera time. Leica, CV, Fuji 670 etc. with film and I love them all! A couple years ago I got a Fuji X10 as a travel & all-around shooter. Totally satisfied with it and it rocks for quality and work flow etc. after several hundred images and thousands of miles logged. I agree with the Fuji X100 or Fuji RF channel.</p>

<p>Vahe,<br> I was able to snag a N.I.B Elmar-M 50mm f2.8 on Ebay from a large camera dealer who was cleaning shelves & reducing inventory. $450US several years ago. At the time these lenses were out-of-favor. I recommend taking this search on as a fun quest. Since then, the market for these has firmed up, but you may get lucky if you widen the search and make offers etc. :-)</p>

<p>I like the 50mm Elmar M; it's kinda retro and affordable. It also is a good all-around lens.</p>