Bronica SQ series focusing questions/comments

[JonPorter]

I recently bought a clean SQ-A with standard prism and 80mm S lens. The camera is fairly easy to focus using the split-image/microprism of the focusing screen, but I find it difficult to focus on the ground glass. There doesn't seem to be very much contrast. I've tried focusing with and without eyeglasses and with a diopter correction lens, but there wasn't any difference. I assume it's because of the low light transmission of the plain prism, so my question is does using one of the metered prisms (which may be a newer design?) or the waist-level finder make focusing easier? Thanks for any comments!

 

[PhotoJim]

The focussing screen is in the camera, not the finder, so I don't think the choice of finder will matter much.

Beattie does make brighter screens, but they are quite expensive.

I don't find the contrast to be too bad, actually. Same camera, same prism, same lens (when I don't have my 50 or 150 mounted anyway).

 

[evilhomer78]

I have a sq-a with a waist level finder. I don't have a split prism and I find it very easy and accurate to focus with. You may want to try a different focus screen. However they seem to be a bit hard to come by. I know because mine has some black spots on it so I've been thinking of replacing it.

 

[DWThomas]

Maybe it's the prism? I have an SQ-A and recently acquired an unmetered prism but haven't yet tried it seriously. Looking through it I thought it a bit dull. I normally use the waist level finder (with the flip up magnifier) and can't say I've had a serious focus problem. With the WLF I've used both the matte screen with a grid, and the split image variety.

Yes, traffic in SQxx focus screens is pretty thin. KEH sometimes has them. I think I see about 3 a year on ePrey.

DaveT

 

[middy]

I have no problem focusing through my WLF. Never tried a prism.

evilhomer, those spots are probably dust on your mirror. You can take the focus screen off to clean and check it, see page 21 of the manual. Don't attempt to clean the mirror unless you know exactly what you're doing!

 

[evilhomer78]

evilhomer, those spots are probably dust on your mirror. You can take the focus screen off to clean and check it, see page 21 of the manual. Don't attempt to clean the mirror unless you know exactly what you're doing!

I've tried to clean it. Its like the previous owner drew on it or something because the markings are down in the grooves of the focus screen. Its got scratches in the corners as well so if I find a decent screen at a reasonable price I'll buy it, other wise it doesn't affect my ability to use the camera.