george_doumani

<p>thanks both Ian and J LaRocco.</p> <p>@Ian. I think I need to try things out in my hands and see what actually works for me. Maybe it's just a question of getting used to the system. I am yet to get a roll processed so once I see how accurate my focusing has been with the WLF I will be better able to assess what actually works for me. I am aware that the PME Prism is not electronically coupled to the body.</p> <p>@J Larocco. I need to practice. Absolutely! Too many years of "liveview" with 10x magnification has made me lazy in terms of technique. </p>

<p>Thanks so much for the thorough response Ethan. I'll check the HM2 out.</p> <p>Metering would be nice although it's not a deal breaker for me. As far as the reversed view goes... I know I'll need to get used to it but my Hasselblad will definitely not be my daily carry around so that may take some time. Have you ever used a PME (the original model without metering)? I can get one for a reasonable price at my local store.</p>

<p>I recently picked up a pristine 503CW + 80mm Planar CFE and I am struggling to focus it accurately. It has the standard view finder on it with a split prism screen in it. I find that looking down at my subject simply very hard to see when the split lines up accurately. Combine this with the "back the front" nature of the viewfinder and I am totally baffled.</p> <p>I am considering in investing in a PME prism. Preferably one at a 45 degree angle. Can anyone let me know if this has increase focusing accuracy for them? Also if the split screen is actually compatible with a PME prism or do I need to invest in a matt screen?</p> <p>I plan to use my Blad for "slow photography" out in the field and for portraiture work. I would like to use it both handheld and tripod mounted. In terms of ergonomics I do realise the prism adds considerably to the weight of the system but if that is offset by achieving critical focus than I am sold. </p>

<p>ok everyone, thanks for the input but may I, as the OP, put a few things straight concerning my intentions and my needs. I do exhibit my work and sell a little so I am no stranger to a quality print. I do own a high end DSLR kit with the highest standard of quality glass available in that format but the reason I want to shoot and scan (120) film (not interested in 35mm) is simply because of some of the newer film emulsions, namely Kodak Portra. It is superb from what I have seen.</p> <p>I can hear everyone now saying... "with good technique and a little focus on PP skills everything is achievable via digital". I agree to a point but I also disagree. The way the larger formats render an image in the right light with the right technique on the right emulsion shot at a particular EI is something digital has never come close to as far as I am concerned. I know I will hear objections. </p> <p>Please I don't want this to degenerate into the typical digital versus film debate.</p>

<p>thanks everyone for your input.</p> <p>I've decided to avoid an old computer with a SCSI interface just because I know it will be a nightmare. </p> <p>Concerning the suggestion to use a high end DSLR to take photos of the negs I am yet to see anyone do this that produces results that are comparable to a dedicated high end film scanner.</p> <p>My options are either to outsource the work and get it done at a lab or to find a semi cheap "in house" solution. I am eying off an Epson V700 as I have heard with third party neg holders one can get very good results with a little tweaking. Any user experiences with that combo or anything similar please would be much appreciated.</p>

<p>thanks Marc,</p> <p>great idea to maybe pick up an old G4 with a scsi card. I do remember though how unreliable that transfer protocol was. I think maybe a "modern" scanner may be the way forward?</p> <p>However a Flextight/Imacon/Hasselblad up to date model seems extremely expensive in comparison.</p> <p>Anyone?</p> <p> </p>

<p>Hi,</p> <p>after years of digital I am dusting off my Mamiya 7II (+ N 65mm f/4) and putting some Portra through it after viewing the beautiful results I have seen online.</p> <p>I am looking to buy a used scanner capable of giving me very good results. I am looking at a used Flextight Photo which I believe is only SCSI which will be a nightmare as it was back then and will be now. I am running a Macbookpro and OSX 10.9.4 with only USB, Thunderbolt and Firewire ports.</p> <p>Can anyone recommend a good scanner please that will handle up to 6 x7 cm negatives? Please remember I want exhibition quality results printing up to A3+.</p> <p>thanks</p> <p>George</p> <p> </p>