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All Manual 35mm Cameras
Total Control Is In Your Hands
After more than a decade of technological innovation, the multimode SLR cameras now dominate just about every brand on the market. Packed with a full array of capabilities, their "intelligent" exposure meters, multiple Programs, "fuzzy logic" computers, and predictive AF systems offer valuable advantages. And yet, the fully manual SLR and rangefinder cameras continue to hold their own in even in this high tech era. That's because some photographers reject the automation, insisting on exercising control over the entire process. Then there are those who prefer the simplicity of old-style cameras which allow anyone to shoot intuitively without a steep learning curve. Others are looking for a rugged body as a backup to more sensitive multimode SLRs--in sub-zero conditions, or in electronics-frying temperatures. In addition, many photography teachers recommend all-manual rangefinder or SLRs as the best way to learn about exposure and focusing effects. Thus schools and photo courses are great homes for new and used manual SLRs. Whenever the photographer strays far from the nearest source of batteries, one of the models with a fully mechanical shutter will make for a suitable companion. Naturally, metering will cease to function without power. Yet there are several options for accurate exposure: the Sunny f/16 Rule, the tips packed with film, an accessory light meter, or simply relying on experience as your guide. My survey of the market revealed a surprising number of all-manual, interchangeable lens cameras, some with fully mechanical shutters. This means that the shutter is cocked by advancing the film mechanism. The following range from the inexpensive starter SLRs to the more pricey models with high prestige value, for those who can afford superior craftsmanship and materials. None of the cameras surveyed include any automatic features. Note that some do include TTL flash metering capability with dedicated units, while several feature a PC cord socket; the latter will be appreciated by those who use studio flash systems. Best Of Both Worlds The shutter is mechanical and the classy aluminum alloy and titanium body is constructed with remarkable dedication to quality control; offering extraordinary structural integrity. The S2/S2b is extensively sealed against dust and moisture, while shock absorbing precautions safeguard internal mechanisms. Contax offers nearly three dozen T* lenses but few accessories for the S2/S2b, dedicated to a "simple is best" principle. Whether this limits your options, or encourages a return to the fundamentals of photography, depends entirely on your own perspective. |
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The Leica Essentials These are all-manual, mechanical cameras with TTL ambient light metering of the central image area. Other features include a die-cast metal body, plated with black or silver chrome; extreme ruggedness; high shock resistance; and a design intended for flawless operation even in extreme temperatures. New amenities include a larger, knurled shutter speed dial for greater ease of adjustments, automatic transmission of ISO data, greater shutter speed accuracy, and a "power off" setting to conserve the battery. The improved metering guidance signals and new "Flash Ready" and "Flash Exposure OK" signals in the viewfinder also make the new cameras even more desirable than the previous M6. This is a small but hefty camera of high-grade zinc, aluminum, and brass. Superior craftsmanship, perfect finish, and technical excellence matching its lofty price distinguish this Leica SLR. All controls provide silky smooth operation. Assuring the loyalty of Leicaphiles, over three dozen lenses include superlative optics and mechanisms. |
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The Traditionalist's Nikons The FM2N is a suitable backup to an autofocus Nikon SLR as it accepts AF and conventional Nikkor lenses. Of course you won't get autofocusing or the benefits of D-type Nikkor lenses, but Nikon F-mount consistency is a major plus. Housed in the die-cast alloy body (or titanium in the FM2T) are several meaningful capabilities, all simple to access. |
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Flash control is manual and non-TTL, as with most of the models surveyed. Use an accessory flash meter for the most precise control of flash exposure or a Speedlite with external sensor when you want some automatic assist. Since this type measures distance instead of reflectance, accurate results are possible even with ultra-bright, or backlit, subjects. Nikon's entry-level FM10 is a highly affordable model used by many students. This model includes depth of field preview and multiple exposure control. It's generally sold in a kit with a Nikkor 35-70mm f/3.5-4.8 zoom but accepts the vast range of Nikkor manual and AF lenses. This camera is compact and lightweight and features an attractive black and champagne colored exterior. |
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Olympus Duo Serious photographers will appreciate the Highlight and Shadow control that automatically compensates for ultra-bright or very dark-toned scenes. Or use multi spot metering, taking precise measurements of two to eight segments of a scene; the OM3-Ti will average the readings, displaying each, plus the cumulative value, on a bar graph in the finder. More importantly perhaps, there's the ability to synchronize with flash at shutter speeds to 1/2000 sec when used with accessory flash F280. At the higher speeds, its distance range diminishes markedly, calling for faster film, wider aperture, or moving closer to the subject. Still, this versatility will be appreciated: for depth of field control in bright light and in extreme close-up photography. Over two dozen Zuiko lenses plus an extensive line of accessories are available. |
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As a low-priced alternative, consider the all-manual OM 2000, a compact SLR that is highly versatile, with center-weighted and narrow-area metering for greater exposure control. Olympus lenses include a stop-down lever for full depth of field preview. This model has a rugged die-cast aluminum chassis and alloy top and bottom covers plus a fully mechanical shutter. The OM 2000 targets the student of photography and others looking for an affordable SLR. |
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The Student's Phoenix |
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Classic Voigtlnder TTL center-weighted light metering is standard on both models, but cannot be used with lenses that have extremely short back-focus. The Bessa-L sports LED exposure signals on the camera back, while the LED lights of the Bessa-R are visible in the viewfinder. A mechanical metal shutter is used, with a double-bladed design that prevents stray light from reaching the film. Both cameras are available in silver or black. The new Voigtlnder lenses offer exceptional resolution and contrast. In his review of the Bessa-R (Shutterbug, July 2000), Roger W. Hicks wrote that the camera is "a joy to use" and he found physical operation became "almost instinctive" quite soon. |
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Affordable Alternatives Another similar model recently came to my attention, the Kalimar KX-5000. (Kalimar is now a division of the Tiffen Companies.) As indicated in our specs, this too is a back-to-basics model, sold in a kit with a lens. This camera employs the Pentax K-mount too, so you'll be able to find numerous lenses from various manufacturers, either new, or used. Tiffen's other new company, Kodak Gear, now sells some K-mount lenses as well. Because they are not available everywhere, our specs do not include the Ukrainian and Russian made cameras. For information, check the Kiev/USA and Russian Camera Exchange ads in Shutterbug, or visit www.kievusa.com and www.gkweb.com/rck on the web. Bob Shell indicates that the Kiev 19--with polycarbonate body and Nikon AI mount--is an "old-fashioned" camera with metal bladed focal plane shutter. It's "solidly made with accurate TTL exposure metering (manual) and a nice and bright viewfinder image" plus depth of field preview control, PC cord socket, and hot shoe for non-TTL flash. |
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The Fed 5C (Kiev/USA) is a Russian Leica-inspired camera that accepts screwmount lenses made for Zenit and Zorki. Its cloth focal-plane shutter offers speeds from 1 to 1/500 sec with 1/30 sec flash synch; the built-in meter does not require batteries and parallax compensation marks are provided in the finder. The metric focusing scale gets down to one meter. The Zenit 122K features the popular K-mount, TTL metering, hot shoe, PC cord socket, and LED signals in the viewfinder. It's sold with a 58mm f/2 preset lens. Other Zenit models are also available. Cambridge Camera Exchange responds with the Cambron TTL with screw thread mount, internal CdS meter that does not require batteries, and an all-metal ("airplane alloy") body. Apparently, "the gears are machined and set in Rheslum bushings like the best Swiss watches." It's sold in a kit with 58mm f/2 lens. (See their Shutterbug ad or www.cambridgeworld.com) The Rangefinder Camera Rangefinder cameras are certainly worth considering. With one of these models, you can see the subject at all times, as the view does not black out when the image is being taken. The cameras (and lenses) are usually smaller, less conspicuous, and virtually silent in operation. Most models are elegant, offering a prestigious look and feel plus fine mechanical components and optics are a bonus. In comparison to SLR systems, there are a few drawbacks: generally less automation, higher price with some brands, fewer accessories and lenses (usually from ultra-wide to short telephoto) plus a view that is not quite as clear with telephoto lenses, or as accurate in close-ups. Nonetheless, we are seeing more and more rangefinder cameras on the market. Most of the benefits mentioned earlier are appreciated when working with people, when capturing the right gesture or the "decisive moment" is important. Hence, it's no surprise that rangefinders are the preferred cameras of many photojournalists as well as travel photographers. While most rangefinder owners also have a full SLR system--often including longer telephoto lenses and high-speed motor drives--few would ever switch entirely. Tech Specs: All-Manual Cameras Manufacturers/Distributors |
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