robbz_fotoz

<p>@Michael and Thomas: Recently I purchased a rather minty FTBn with a chrome nosed 50mm 1.8 lens. I am kinda thrilled to have this new to me but vintage 40 year old camera in my collection and I know I'm in for a lot of learning. As it is, my local high school offers a night class program entitled "Classic Cameras 101" which should help. I'll get to mingle with classic camera afficionados such as myself and hopefully re-learn everything that automation since then has erased in my mind. First impression ... yes it IS a HEAVY camera. The camera has recently been cleaned, lubricated and adjusted. I'm ready to go - or as the recently spotted license plate said "F8 NBTHR" (F/8 and be there). Apparently the driver who was a retired journalist for the local paper adhered to this motto for his "next" photo.</p>

<p>oh, thank you John, again, and thank you for the additional photo. I'll have to tell my "un-informed" relatives this monument was named for the ancestral "Roberts" in our family history who have done well in life (ha!).</p>

<p>In certain parts of the city of Philadelphia, the 20-ish & 30-ish crowds gather at their sushi bars, wine bars and craft beer joints WITH their vintage cameras hanging like a new found "bling" around their necks. Occasionally I look and dare say I see a few using them or perhaps just striking the pose of a photographer. But either way it's nice to see the classic cameras out and about and not forgotten. I myself have never met a camera I did not like but there's nothing more vintage in my collection than my 40 year old FTBn. Complete with appropriate silver touches on the chrome nose lens and chromed UV filter and having lived through the 60s I'm usually considered the mascot of the times if I venture forth to aforementioned establishments. I probably would not be allowed in to mingle without such accoutrement (ha!). I enjoyed perusing this web site. Classic cameras can be cool !</p>

<p>hey JDM, that's an incredible image of the Allegheny Mountains. Anyway ... my first new lens in quite a while is the Canon EF 100mm 2.8 macro. No loose focus rings, no loose mount, none of what I was warned about. And no, it's not the L, at twice the price for the non L, that was not in my budget. But it's a true macro and that's about all I will use it for. It doesn't have the Image Stabilizer the L has. Don't mind as I usually use manual focus for small stuff although the AF does not hunt and peck as I was also warned about. I use it on a tripod too. Unless there is little to no contrast I think it should be ok for AF too. So I would say, when in doubt, get macro. Anything else is really just close focus.<br>

oh, wait ... JDM ... u wrote "allegory" ... well never mind.</p>

<p>Michael: words well spoken. I have no clue what the camera industry thought was going to happen ... after years and years and so much history with 35mm cameras and film, we were going to march to our death off the cliff like lemmings clutching this new APS technology? Canon alone, had to have taken a bath on their offerings and lost money with the initial release of the EOS IX, then the quick dumbing down of the EOS Lite. Back in 1995 / 1996, I can't imagine spending almost a 1000 dollars on the IX which is what it cost. But for a mere 30 bucks I was willing to try it in 2012, when I found some new old stock for purchase from a desperate seller in Cypress. Mint, boxed, complete with original paperwork. Too much serious technology to brush off this innovation as trifling but a real curiosity today. The camera design alone is rather sexy. And it takes all EF lenses as well. Perhaps the beginning studies for Canon's eventual APS-C digital crop sensor? Surely APS has become photography's equivalent of an Edsel. But as long as I can get APS film I'll indulge my quirkiness.</p>

<p>JDM: Because of your exposee, I was THIS tempted recently to bid on an exceptionally clean T-80 on our favorite auction site. Complete with paperwork, lens and box. It sold for 53 dollars I believe. I watched it for awhile then passed and went in search of an FTBn, I knew in my photographic heart of hearts I would not use the T-80 much after it's novelty wore off and also felt that walking around with this photographic albatross of a lens / body combo would not help me pick up chicks (actually nothing helps). Plastic is ok, but if it's too light as with the Rebel G, then it's a problem. That camera is so light the optional battery pack should have been standard ! So light it kinda reminded me of those old Diana cameras or the Time Life cameras that one got with a paid subscription.</p>

<p>John: your photos are lovely. Great posting. I thank you also for posting your experience with your A-1. Good luck. I'll be interested in what the outcome of your camera issue might be. Please keep us posted. I also smile a bit whenever I read the impressions the A-1 has made on other users... "quirky" and "too much electronics". Other than my first 35mm SLR, one very obscure Hanimex Praktica Nova, complete with a 40mm lens f/2.8, the Canon A-1 was the camera I cut my photographic eye teeth on, brought new in May of 79 with the 50mm 1.4 breech mount prime. I took to the electronics of the A-1 like the proverbial duck to water. It was a good camera for someone like me. The electronic read out, the TV and the AV mode all helped my learning curve. In my mind match needle cameras and automatic transmissions in cars were alot alike. Too much work. In 1987 I went to a workshop in the Cascades in Oregon in 1989. The electronics of the A-1 proved to be their Achilles Heal however when they got damp or wet as they did during the trip. Last year I found two affordable A-1s at a flea market / electronic swap meet, and on auction, and this duck is happy to be in familiar water again.</p>

<p>I use Canon Rebels. The XSi and T1i are fine for my hobby-ist needs. I have used them enough for auction photos to justify their initial expense as well as other purposes. While I would like to purchase a new model in the near future to enjoy new tech upgrades and features since my cameras were new, I keep using and maintaining what I have. When I've added lenses I have made sure to choose those that work both on crop and full screen sensors should I get bold and move away from the Rebel series. Basically I just use and enjoy what I have - it seems like new cameras are released faster than back in the day of film. They're like buses ... they'll be another one any minute now !</p>

<p>I purchased an XSi and a T1i with some trepidation some 4-5 years ago and have followed the progression and parade of Rebels released since then. All subsequent models up to the newly released T5i seem like updates, some bigger some smaller. The shape is all basically the same, they're all black, bulky and industrial looking plastic. Very high techy that rolls out on a yearly basis. Back in the day of Canon's "letter" series film cameras, there was quite a big distinction between the A, T, and F bodies. I don't think anyone could mistake a T-50 with a T-90 for example. I have a feeling my A-1 which has been serviced recently will last a lot longer than today's digitals. Providing there is still film available. Perhaps I should buy a freezer, just for film. With that said I would like to upgrade my digital arsenal sometime later this year. The T5i looks interesting ... Canon obviously knows a sucker when they see one. Oh, and one more thing as Detective Columbo would say. Canon F-1 bodies, and latter day Nikon film bodies all seem to be holding their value, which is something to consider when buying new.</p>

<p>Hardware and technology make the camera, marketing and ongoing product roll out make the brand. Whether it's a big jump or smaller, it's still new. And people talk about what's new and they mention your company, that's what it's all about.</p><div></div>

<p>Bob: thank you, now I can lay me down and sleep and stop dreaming of what Canon will do next. I am partial to the number " 5 " so I am glad I waited on the 4. But seriously what are the differences if any ?</p>

<p>the only Sigma lens I have experience with is the Sigma 90 AF macro lens I purchased 20 years ago to fit my Canon 10s. Another piece of history. The lens has been a faithful friend. The Canon counterpart was just not in my budget at that time. My only issue with it is that in macro it continues to focus. So I just put it in MF which works just as well. Shooting at normal distances is not an issue. I have some Sigma zoom lenses for my Canon A and T bodies, all good buys. It's one of the few independent brands I trust.</p>

<p>Aaron: I do not have a G-11 but have watched the "G" progression through the recent years and they do look convenient, and quite capable. The G-11 was the one I would have purchased but decided in January I need and can use a 100mm EF macro. Not the L, as that would have been twice the cost. And yes, it amazes me the it was about the same cost as a new T4i. My mantra is "use what you got" and keep it working. The call and lure of new technology is always gonna be there ... with new products ! But you're saying the G-11 is easier to use than your DSLR ... that's interesting.</p>

<p>Ray: the 4 yr used minimum seems right. I have 2 digital Canons, one XSi and T1i and I wouldn't consider trading them as I'd get nothing. No heavy use, the T needs cleaning, but in today's world digital SLRs and cell phones become obsolete market wise real fast. I would like a new one however ... new tech causes that I think.</p>

<p>Jeff: I am not a quirky camera collector but when an unexpected trade and purchase developed with a friend from Cypress, Greece, I did a little research on the APS format, vaguely remembering it was touted as the "new 35mm" and said yes. These bodies are sheerly overbuilt and overdesigned. They use all of my EF lenses so that adds to the fun. Film was actually still available a few weeks after it arrived at Walmart then gone, so I need film to try out the quirks. The 22-55mm lens was issued for this camera so I'll use that one to start out. Thank you much for your replies, your responses in all other forums, as you really help (me). I'm not sure how much longer the APS film format will be around so I'd better stockpile and freeze a stash. </p><div></div>

<p>While I love the T-70 for many of it's features, if you've used the AE-1p and you need to replace ... at the very least get another or an A-1. Later you might want to try a T-70 as they are still plentiful and cheap. You might regret your T purchase and still want an AE-1p. Or you might find your camera.</p>

<p>hmmm ... I have the very same lens ... have not used it in the field as of yet ... and it is a bit heavy ... would it be suggested to me to use a collar if mounted on an A-1 or AE-1p ? It is a beautiful lens, breech mount, and with SSC coating.</p>

<p>this is an interesting post considering I have recently purchased the Canon answer to APS, this being the EOS IX, with only the lack of availability of the film as the fly in the ointment. It's available but I think only on Amazon.</p>

<p>What was the title of that classic book ? "The Prince (of Photography) and the Pauper?" I'm probably the pauper then but I am kinda fond of my AE-1p, original silver and black, and my new found gem, a 28mm FD S.C. I found them both at a flea market and tech swap. I know we're not talking big bucks here (yes, I have been lusting over the F-1s on display, trust me) but I like to find a Canon gem here and there, keep it clean, usable and enjoy. Digital may be necessary for the times we live in now but film cameras, notably Canons, are intoxicating. As is the delicious camera porn thus posted so far.</p><div></div>

<p>Never let it be said I don't read posts, be they new or older and just tonight I found this sub forum concerning the 24 and 28 FD lens guide. I have just recently acquired a 24mm 2.8 and 28mm 2.8 both breech lock FD mount. I purchased the 24 intentionally but before it arrived I found the 28mm at a flea market / tech swap meet. I waited til the end of the day, the lens was still available so I haggled a bit and kabitzed with the seller a little about "old school" cameras and negotiated the price to 45 clams, with lens case and lens hood. Comparing the 24mm and 28mm breech, is wider better ? Other than weight is there any major difference between the breech and bayonet versions of these two lenses ? 34 years ago when I first put my A-1 "kit" together I was urged at that time to carry a 28mm 135mm and a 50mm lens. I think I was too visually challenged to make it work at that time. Once I have my other garage sale find, a Canon AE-1p, refurbed, I intend on keeping the 28 mounted until I use it enough to feel "accomplished". Which may be a long time :D</p><div></div>

<p>I recently acquired a 24mm FD 2.8 breech mount lens. Looks fine, came guaranteed, have not used it yet and have just read recently that "almost all of the 24/2.8 breech lock Canon lenses show separation in the rear element group." per a great posting from Jeff Adler, a member on the forum. How does this problem manifest itself and why when others laud Canon's hallowed FD lens system (as I do) does this problem fly under the radar ?</p>

<p>I've been intoxicated by my illness (no, I won't say disease) and continue to find it too easy to sit on my aperture and find some vintage minty Canons on line or hunt them down at convenient flea markets / garage sales. Recently I came across a Canon Rebel EOS 2000. Compared to the Canon G, which I also have (I may be addicted to plastic, not sure), it's a bit more upscale in appearance in it's swoopy silver and black. Added the plaid comfort strap for a little extra brightness. It may seem like a lot of plastic but there's a lot of tech beneath! Metering is nice. The camera was discovered boxed with it's Battery Pack, which adds necessary balance and weight, and makes the whole package more "grip-able" and solid. I could not imagine using this camera without the battery pack. Only needs 4 alkalines, can't argue with that, right ? Mated with my languishing 20 year old 90mm Sigma macro lens my new Canon "Ode de Plasticville" has given me an unexpected lease on fun for the upcoming season, all at a bargain price. Next stop, a nursery, greenhouse and orchid exhibit.</p><div></div>

<p>Thomas: thank you for your response. I can do heavy, I'm used to the A-1 and T-90. I use an Optech strap which helps. FTb camera bodies in good clean condition are getting harder to find. FTBn bodies are harder I believe. The foam seals I can do, my dad was a watch repair man so I hope some of his talent and patience have rubbed off and glad there is no inheritant squeal. I'm feeling positive about this and will continue my search. Did see some minty F-1s, new and old and they were like museum pieces.... wow I'm going to search for the FTB for right now though.</p>

<p>I myself hate to trade in camera bodies as I feel they hold some of "my life experience" whether they produced good images or not. With that said, I too thought of this same upgrade but won't. Have that same zoom I brought specifically to photography the Palo Duro canyons in Texas and while mounted on a Canon Rebel T-1, which is an APS-C sensor, the zoom range was more like a 16mm-35mm, which is really wide enough. Made great photos. For me it would not make sense to upgrade to a FF and then have to get either a 17-40mm or something else. FF is great but opens the door to needing only EF lenses. It's the old story and age old battle new tech presents to us all the time. Do you need it or do you just want it ? I would say continue to find more ways to enjoy that zoom, it may be an EF-s but it still is a great lens.</p>

<p>If your business is one of photography, the initial investment would be the camera, lens, and backup. Or two cameras. If it's a full time business I would think you'd need 2 bodies. I am telling you the older you get it's good to have a spare body, but lest I digress. Get insurance. Really an essential. And know if you can do your work with FF or a crop. This would be my food for thought, fresh off a night class in basic business start up. But get your replacement soon so as not to have any thing happen with your loaner body. You don't want to replace two cameras. Good luck !</p>