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When Wayne and I (Kevin) get together to record a podcast, we usually bring some things (cameras, prints, etc.) to show to each other. The day we recorded show #78 was no different, except that I don't usually bring a Leica M2 that I had just purchased the day before. But that is exactly what I did. I didn't even tell Wayne about it beforehand.
It might seem like an impulse purchase, but it actually was years in the making. If you have been a long-time UJC listener, you have heard me discuss the idea of getting rid of most all my cameras just so that I could own and use a Leica M. I even did a lot of online research into just which M body I would want, and I landed on the M2 and it's three sets of frame lines (35, 50, and 90mm). But you no doubt know, purchasing a Leica M camera and lens is not something one jumps into quickly. It is a sizable financial investment, to say the least.
However, four weeks ago I saw an online ad for a clean looking Leica M2 with a Summmicorn 50mm f2 collapsable lens; it was priced right, and it was local. A killer combination for certain, but even then, I didn't jump at it. I waited three and a half weeks before contacting the seller just to give myself some time to talk myself out of it.
Soon, I will publish a blog post dedicated to the subject of purchasing this camera and why I could not say no this time. As I write the show notes, Chattanooga is in the middle of what is predicted to be a three day steady rain, but Debbie and I are making a trip to our cherished Jekyll Island next week. The Leica M2 will be the only camera a take with me, so I should have some photographs to show soon.
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| My new-to-me Leica M2. |
As it happens, I haven't been the only Shutter Brother who has been playing with a classic German-designed miniature 35mm camera. The Rollie 35 is truly iconic mainly due to its small size. To put the Rollei 35 into the "miniature 35mm camera" category along with all other rangefinder 35mm cameras doesn't seem fair. If you can fit a pack of cigarettes into your shirt pocket, you can carry your Rollei 35 the same way. However, as much as it it known for being one of the smallest full frame 35mm cameras, it also known for its strange design, which no one would describe as being "ergonomic." Just having the hot shoe on the bottom plate freaks me out, and that's just the beginning. I keep asking myself, "How could Wayne like this camera?" We may have a better answer to the question after he develops the roll of film he shot in it last week.
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| Wayne's Rollei 35. Your smartphone is larger. |
As has been the case for the last several show, Wayne and I devoted most of the show to the feedback we received from our listeners. I am thrilled to say that my dream of publishing a listener-driven podcast is coming true! In show #78 we read questions about split grade printing, Minolta SR-T film transport problems, darkroom design, and more. And I learn something new every show. This is why we created this podcast to begin with, and our faithful listeners are making it happen!
So, we would love to hear from you. We want your questions, comments, tips, reviews, and stories to share with our listeners. You can join our community by sending your emails to unclejonesyscameras@gmail.com, or you can post comments on our on Facebook and Instagram pages (@ujcpodcast).
Thank you for listening, and Happy Photography!
