I'm thinking that the only practical way to do this would be to replace the back, which would make all kinds of things possible, but the project somewhat less visually attractive. Ultimately, I am happy just to shoot film once in a while to get that feeling back.
Right on. I think as computer chips get smaller and smaller a digital back might be more possible. Just replace the back like the picture in the OP. I'd buy one if they were cheap and produced high-quality images. If I could get one for my F5 that was cheaper than upgrading my digital body to a pro body I would for sure, but I don't think it's a realistic hope.
I can't imagine anyone making one any more. Maybe there was a day when the business proposal might have made some kind of sense, but given the low price of decent digital bodies these days, I don't think many people would buy one. Even if I did end up buying the FM2(n) I am eyeing, and even if someone did make a replaceable digital back for it at a good price, say 500 Euro or somewhere around there (the cost of a decent entry-level APS-C DSLR), I am still not sure if I would buy it. And I don't think that the 500 Euro is even a realistic price due to the reasons I have listed earlier in the thread. The body would need a full overhaul which could easily cost more, before the back could even be dropped on.
If I ever get independently wealthy, the likelihood of which drops every day, I might buy an R9+DMR setup. I always liked that combo, but the price was not in the right range for me at the time, and by the time I could afford it, there were better options around (well, better according to highly subjective reasons, so IMO I guess).
That would be a turning point and a blessing considering how everyone is into saving money today. But as many commentators say it might just be to prevent others from exploiting the idea and damaging Nikon's DSLR sales.
Eventually, when the sensors are cheap, someone will start doing this, I am awaiting that day!
I don't see this being viable for a conventional 35mm SLR. Too many different film models, and you'd need a different dedicated back for every model. Digital SLRs are widely available at cheap prices.
Besides, many film SLR users shoot film for the look rendered by film - using a digital back defeats the purpose - why not just mount your alternate lens to a digital body using an adapter?
Maybe if they targeted a particular camera model that was very popular with enthusiasts, with superb lenses (Leica perhaps?)
scottam10 wrote:
Besides, many film SLR users shoot film for the look rendered by film - using a digital back defeats the purpose - why not just mount your alternate lens to a digital body using an adapter?
because modern dslr bodies are nothing like old school film bodies. they just don't make em' like they used to when comes to build, ergonomics, and size.
sebboh wrote:
because modern dslr bodies are nothing like old school film bodies. they just don't make em' like they used to when comes to build, ergonomics, and size.
I read this thread from start to finish...having woken up too early, again, with jetlag.
Apart from the technical/ design/ manufacturing challenges, the thread is more a commentary on human psychology than anything else (and I speak as a layman - I trained as an aeronautical engineer)
Poor Brian the OP seems to have left the building!
Re the Nikon patent, I would buy one. Now, can it be fitted to my Leicaflex SL, Canon EOS3, Contax N1, or 159?
