Rangefinder Cameras

Rangefinder Cameras

A rangefinder camera is a camera that allows the photographer to judge the range between the camera and the object that is going to be photographed. This helps the photographer judge the distance and gets the object in focus to take a clear picture. The first rangefinder cameras made their appearance in the 19th century. However, most of the rangefinder cameras were popular between the 1930s and the 1970s. The best-known and most popular rangefinder cameras have interchangeable lens and employ focal plane shutters and use 35mm film.

Nikon Rangefinder Camera

In 1950 Douglas Duncan, a photographer for Life Magazine, “discovered” the Nikon Rangefinder Camera. Duncan covered the Korean War and helped to make the Nikon Rangefinder Camera the American Standard for photojournalists. Because of the high quality of the optic lenses, the photojournalists mostly only used this particular rangefinder in the 1950s.

Digital Rangefinder Camera

Digital imaging was not applied to rangefinder cameras until 2004. With collaborations between Epson and Cosina, the first ever digital rangefinder camera was introduced. The Epson R-D1 and two other models are the only rangefinder cameras that have been made to this point. All three of these cameras have interchangeable lenses, lack the line preview on the LCD and are quite expensive. There are pros and cons to traditional rangefinder cameras and digital cameras. As the purchaser, it is important that you research the kind of camera that will work best for your needs. You can purchase these cameras in a number of ways. First, try photography stores so that you can see and hold the cameras you are about to purchase. Ask questions. Ask as many as you need to and shop around. You don’t have to buy the camera on your first trip. Sometimes it takes several trips to the store before you actually purchase. Panoramic cameras are extremely useful and can be used for many, many years, so you will want to purchase the best camera that you can. If you choose to purchase one from the Internet, do twice as much homework. You may be able to purchase the camera cheaper, but you will not be able to see it in person first. And, make sure the seller is reputable and just be cautious to see if you can read any reviews about your seller. However, if you still don’t feel comfortable, ask friends or even people that work or own photography shops. They might be able to help you out with some hints or who may be a reputable seller online.