Director's Finder / Viewfinder to Preview Pics

[Mike1234]

Does anyone here use a director's viewfinder to preview before shooting? These are the types that have adjustable aspect ratio and zoom. I'd like one that I can add a W/A adapter to and I want a nice bright/big eyepiece but I don't want to spend a fortune.

Any experiences and/or advice? Brands/models/sources/prices?

 

[BradS]

Fotoman camera used to (still does?) sell a very nice view finder with masks for varios farmats. They sold many different pano fomat cameras and so, would certainly have a finder for the format / lens combo you're using.

I'm just not really confident that they are still in business.

Their finders were very nice though....and didn't cost a fortune either.

 

[David A. Goldfarb]

I've used the two different Linhof finders (there are actually more than two, but there are two general types) and had one for 6x17cm that I think was made by Gaoersi, and I once had the Voigtländer Kontur finder for normal lenses with either 35mm or 6x9cm. They're handy things. I've often used the Linhof finder for setting up a shot or selecting a lens before setting up the camera.

 

[darinwc]

most finders ive tried for framing cause too much distortion to be useful.
When I am using a 4x5, I like to carry a medium-format 6x7 slide mount in my pocket.
I whip it out and use it to use for framing.
Some people attach a string to it marked so you can hold it at diferent distances for different focal lengths.
If 6x7 is too small, you can also use a mat board cut to whatever size you desire.

You can also use a 35mm SLR or a digicam.

 

[frotog]

The horseman finder is a gem. Unfortunately not made anymore. Got mine from midwest photo for $350. They usually have a few in stock.

 

[eclarke]

I use a current model Technika finder which has a 4x5 and a 6x9 mask. Focal lengths from 75mm to 360mm. It's near me 24/7 and a great tool..Evan Clarke