This just arrived in the post. It's for my girlfriend to replace her Ricoh that sadly became faulty over the past couple of months, with a repair out of the question given the value. I found a Minilux at a good price and wow, I'm jealous! I'm sure I'll be sneaking this off her from time to time, or at least one reason for me to not take a camera with us when we're out and about. Really looking forward to getting the first roll put through.
I'm unsure of how to use the AF though, and the manual doesn't help. This is important as I know she won't be using MF. The lens focuses down to 0.7m, which isn't great, but very usable. However, when in AF, if I hold my hand in front of the lens it will still release the shutter. We do not want OOF shots, as this is exactly what happened to the Ricoh, the AF system became faulty always going to MFD.
Any suggestions on how to use this effectively ? Much appreciated.
Richard,
I recall its AF doesn't work if it is TOO close (with in a foot or so). Beyond ~1 foot, AF starts to work and if it's under .7m the shutter will lock. It's a little confusing but in practice it's not that bad. I just need to remember <=1 foot it's too close and above that the camera AF takes care.
It's a nice little camera (not so little anymore) and the lens is good. I wish it had a larger viewfinder like the Contax T2. Hope it helps.
P
Thanks Phuc. I guess I'll just have to drill it into her that you need to keep the subject a certain distance away... should be relatively easy. It's just her Ricoh went down to 0.35m, so lets hope old habits down prevail. I read a lot of bad stuff about the VF but to me it's fine. It's small for sure, but makes composition easier in some ways. I looked at the T2 as well, but couldn't find one at a good price like the Minilux, and I've read the Minilux is a lot better in the fill-flash department (atleast a friend tells me). Ultimately I think they're very similar though.
Let's see how long it lasts before she breaks it... :/
