R&R PHOTO

    I get asked a lot of questions about how to focus the older cameras and about coupled and uncoupled Range Finders. Also use of a optional attachment range finder that can be used with any older style camera.

     Most older folders use the "Guesstamation Focus Method" that is, first you determine the distance between the camera and the subject you want to photograph. Once the distance is decided upon the range is set on the focus dial of the Len's. This is easy if over 30 feet to infinity but anything less starts to cause problems for some. Errors in your "Guesstamation" can be overcome by using a large depth of field i.e. f/22 or f/32. I use mostly ASA 400 film HP5 Development which allows me to use a large depth of field most of the time. When shooting up close I measure with my arms and sometimes  I will carry a tape measure to get right on.

    The other option is the attachment range finder sold separately. These are used by looking through the view finder of the finder and turning a dial until the two prism images line up. Than the number "feet, or meters" on the finder is transferred to the camera lens.

    One version of a coupled range finder is the Zeiss Super Ikonta B. Some models have a separate range finder view finder others are combined as the example below. The range finder is connected to the front lens element thus "coupled". The dial  is turned while looking through the view finder and the dial until the two prism images line up. At this time the camera is in focus and nothing else needs to be done. As far as early folders these cameras are much more complicated than most.

    A version of a uncoupled range finder is a Zeiss 524/2 6x9mm  ZEISS 524/2   The range finder is built into the camera but is not connected to the front lens element thus "uncoupled".  The dial (seen above and left of the lens) is turned while looking through the range finder view finder until the two prism images line up. Than the number "feet, or meters" on the finder is transferred to the camera lens. The camera is now in focus and the other view finder is used to line up the image.

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