Rigid magniying hood

[grant_lupton1]

I've just bought a magnifying hood enabling 100% coverage of the

viewing area.

 

While reverse images are OK horizontally, it is somewhat

disorientating vertically (plus it has to be viewd at a right angle to

the camera).

 

Surely a basic right-angle attachment/scope containing a mirror to

correct this is available?

 

Any suggestions?

 

Grant.

[ilkka]

Sure, it is called prism finder. Pentax makes two versions, one with a built in light meter.

[grant_lupton1]

Ilkka, I don't think they provide 100% coverage; the reason for buying the above.

 

Grant

[ilkka]

Yes, but that is why you have three choices: folding focusing hood if you want small and light and 100%, but with the problem of vertically reversed image; rigid hood which is basically the same but in one piece; and prism if you want the conveniece of fully upright image but then you need to compromise a bit on the coverage. If the prism copvered 100% it would be even bigger and heavier than it is now. Life is full of compromises.

[grant_lupton1]

Ilkka, compromises is the definitive word,

especially re Pentax 6x7. I have the standard prism

(with a magnifier). While less than 100% coverage is

ok for landscapes, for example, some of my shots of

close-up details (architectural features, sculpture, etc)

were being spoiled by unseen elements.

 

For example, I took a shot of some carved woodwork

above the window of a 16th century mansion. I noticed

a burglar alarm to the side and was careful (so I thought) to

close in and exclude it. It was there in the developed shot.

 

Of course, it could easily be cropped out if printed but being a perfectionist I prefer to get it right and maintain as close as possible the original scene in the camera. This includes maintaining the subject-format relationship, if you see what I mean.

 

I used the magnifying hood for the first time today. It's brilliant for detailed, close-up or symmetrical shots (eg a Grecian urn type grave monument in a church yard) but a nightmare for general shots, eg the church or landscape.

 

So when appropriate, I just switch back to the standard prism. Still a pain in the arse but it's actually a lot quicker and simpler than changing lenses.

 

Grant.