mamiya universal focus assist

[asteroid_death]

Hi all. I just picked up a universal with 6x9 and polaroid back, and I like the versatility of the camera, but I find the rangefinder difficult to focus - especially from certain angles and in low or dramatic light.

I am able to get sharp images, but under some situations it can be a strain on my eye, not to mention my left arm.

Anyone with a good understanding of these cameras know of any accessories to make focusing easier? Or is this just something I'll have to deal with?

 

[bsdunek]

I love my Super 23, but admit, the focusing could have a little more contrast. There are two things that can help:
1. Make sure everything is clean. I mean, inside as well as outside. If you do it your self, be very careful of the mirrors. They are first-surface and are very easily damaged.
2. This will take a little experimentation. Cut a circle of black tape sized the same as the focusing image you see in the viewfinder. Looking through the viewfinder, place it over the image. This will give more contrast. Smaller is better than larger so the view is limited a little as possible.
I love my Super 23. I have several lenses, extension tubes, and this one has the bellows back. Using the ground glass, you can do some real close up work. I have used a body cap to make a pinhole lens, and that works great too. Just so versatile, and accessories are reasonably priced if you search a little.
Have fun and good luck.

 

[xya]

under normal circumstances focussing should be easy, seen the size of the viewfinder. I have several of these, as bsdunek says, the finder should all be clean and the mirrors in good condition. they are versatile, as you say. there are 2 ground glass/viewer combinations available, one straight and one right angle, depends on your needs. it's a little bit more complicated, as you have to change the back, but focus would be perfect then.

 

[asteroid_death]

Well, I just got a roll of 6x9 portra back and just as I suspected, every frame but one was out of focus. The circular elements inside the viewfinder are just too hard to see.

The tri-x from my 645 was perfect though.

I think I'll hang on to the universal for polaroids and get a pentax 67 instead.