I'm currently searching for more information about this marvel (and I've actually purchased one). Couldn't find too much in apug.org or RFF or anywhere else, so my question is: anybody here in this forum using this fantastic camera? If so, what are your experiences? Any tips & tricks?
Fun aside - the Makinas are fantastic cameras. Small, fast, precise rangefinder, almost spot lightmeter and a razorsharp Nikon lens! Real precision tools compared to the new Tupper boxes with attached sensors
like ann I know little -- only what i'vew read on the web--, but have always thought this vamera would be a gem. Let us know what you find both in information and (more imprortantly) use.
jd, I will set up a gallery with images and post the link here. But it might take a while because I won't be able to test this cameras before the end of this week.
One thing is for sure: it is (or was) the most unusual MF camera on the market and I'm a weird guy with a faible for exotic precision instruments
jens, will definitely be looking forward to your posts. I had a Makina 6x7 some 20 years ago and was quite impressed with it. Replaced it with a "Texas Leica" Fuji 690II which I still use. I have often thought of replacing the Fuji with the Makina Proshift but have been put off by, if I am correct, its lack of any focus control beyond zone focus.
Ted, you are right, there is no focus control. But at f 8.0 you have a DOF from 3.09 to infinity, or with a distance set to 3.00 meters from 2.03 to 5.78 meters. I think that's plenty - at least a lot more than with my Fujis.
With this wide angle lens you really don't need a precise focus control, at least not for architecture, landscapes, interiors. OK, I have to admit that I'm pretty good in estimating distances with my eyes
I'm waiting for a document from Dr. Nasse, chief engineer lens development @ Zeiss, about depth of field. I hope it will give me a 'better feeling' because when I use my Fujis I don't use the rangefinder too often, I tend to rely more on the DOF tables/scales which worked well for me so far.
The lens itself is comparable to the Fuji lenses - crisp, razor sharp, excellent color rendition. The camera is more 'convenient' in the field and on location compared to a LF with a 6x9 back, better protected against sea spray, rain, dust, sand - you name it. With 1.7 kilograms you can pack it into a small bag, grab a tripod and off you go. Very flexible and easy.
With this wide angle lens you really don't need a precise focus control, at least not for architecture, landscapes, interiors. OK, I have to admit that I'm pretty good in estimating distances with my eyes
Welllllll .... maybe. Depends on how critical you are, how critical your client/viewer is, how big the print, etc. and wheether you are shooting for yourself or comercially. I agree that I can do awfully well in estimating distances with my eye and don't miss the ability to focus with a groundglass or rangefinder on my Noblex. OTOH, for the $2500 or so used you pay for the Makina I at least want the option of a ground glass if I have a real critical focus need and I do feel cheated at that kind of a price not to have a rangefinder.
Ted, if you want spot on focus, you can get a Stanley laser distance measure for some 80 or 90 Euros at ebay. Place it on top of your camera, click the button and read the correct distance with a precision up to millimeters. IMHO this method is superior to a groundglass focusing in average and low light conditions because you will use a tripod anyway with a camera like this one if you want to deliver commercial quality.
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Originally Posted by jens g.r. benthien 
