Why a hypocrite?
A couple of reasons.
- I have written these posts about products only to turn around and purchase them anyway.
- Exhibit A: Sony 40mm f/2.5 G So… post and later reversal.
- Exhibit B: Sony 50mm f/1.2 GM So… post and later reversal.
- It could be argued that I have made similarly questionable purchases as the topic of this post.
So what is the topic of this post?
I am seeing some articles about adapters meant to create digital images with older film cameras. There is one with a built in sensor and another meant to be used with your phone’s camera. Usually I do a bit of research, but this time around I am good. The issues I have will not be resolved by additional details. I imagine they might make even less sense the more I look into them. Wrote a list about it. Want to hear it? Here it go?
- Both solutions seem ergonomically unsound.
- Both require adapters that seem to be quite ungainly.
- Due to the MFT in one sensor lens adapters are needed to magnify the image circle to replicate full frame.
- Due to the phone camera being used it seems a form of a projection screen is required.
- Neither do any favors for the handling of these film cameras.
- The IQ does not seem to stack up.
- Yes, an image was successfully captured and that is quite the accomplishment admittedly. But…
- The few sample images I have seen do not really impress me.
- They do not look good.
- Superficial? Perhaps.But both solutions mess up one of my favorite things about the native cameras. The looks.
And last but not least there is one major competitor to these solutions, especially the SLRs.
First gen DSLRs.
Years ago I wrote a post about the twin cameras of the Minolta Maxxum 7 (film) and 7D (digital).
Yes, you have to make do with an APS-C sensor but I would much rather the 7D over the solutions above. It offers a very similar user experience to its film predecessor…
…with none of the added steps or inconveniences above. And it takes a fine photo.
Another candidate would be the digital successor to a recent film favorite of mine…
…the Pentax *istD. Again, an APS-C crop compromise. But a small ask in my book considering the lower price and better solution.
And last but not least we have my latest acquisition.
- No sensor size compromises.
- No adapters needed.
- No ergonomics compromises.
- No aesthetic compromises.
- Not a beauty like the vintage SLRs, but it has rugged look that I rather like.
- Lower price than either solution above.
- Turns out a mean picture that I doubt the other devices could match.
Now do not get me wrong. If the devices above are right up your alley, go for it. Whatever floats your boat. This is all personal preference. A safe space for my ramblings not intended to level any judgments upon the personal preferences of others. And I wish both companies luck.
Welp. That about does it.
Happy capturing.
-ELW
Eric L. Woods 