First, I've thinking of getting a backup DSLR for my 5D, and was considering either EOS450(Xsi) or OM-520.
Considering the lenses that I have, which would be the best choice (could be other than what I mentioned)?
The next advice I need is on a film camera.
Although I'd love to try Large/Medium format, my finance and skill are not up to it.
But, I'd love to try film photography. Considering how low the cost is for film camera, I thought it's good time to buy a nice film camera.
Which one should best fit my lense layout?
I was thinking perhaps Leica R and Canon EOS-3...
BTW, following is my lense layout.
(I've bought them all used... )
Canon 5D
Leica R 28/2.8 ROM
Minolta MC Rokkor 58/1.2 (2 of this)
Volna-9 (on the way)
CZ 35-70/3.4
CZ Planar T* 100/2
Leica APO Macro 100/2.8
Leica APO 180/3.4
Concerning the film camera, there are lots of great old EOS film bodies out there. I've still got an original EOS1 (that was their first "pro" EOS camera) that's got to be reaching 20 years. I've heard that the EOS-3 was among the best cameras Canon ever made but I never needed more than by EOS-1.
Staying with EOS makes moving lenses back and forth very easy.
An EOS-3 would allow you to use all your existing glass. If Leica interests you, the Leica R8/9 WITH the motorgrip are just bloody outstanding (with one caveat). Awesome ergonomics, gorgeous VF, switchology was obviously designed by a photog - MLU in 2 secs flat. Not too heavy, but heavy enough that the mirror movement (unlike my FE2) didn't try and jerk the camera around. Without the grip, holding the body is awkward because of the placement of the shoulder strap lugs. With the grip/drive (there are two - you want the grip unit), you want to carry everywhere. Fits like a bloody glove.
Best damn camera I ever owned handling and manual focus wise.
Caveat - R8s/9s have been known to scratch the first and last couple of negatives on each roll. Instead of a pressure roller, they use this stupid plastic 'ridge' that gets microscopic 'hairs' on it that can scratch the 1st 2-3 exposures. There are remedies to it. I used a Nikon Coolscan 5000 and it removed any scratches in processing that did slip through.
Coolscan 5000 shots (using Nikon's software) of Kodak 160NC shots from the R8 (in my case) with a Leica 90/2.8 Ver II were indistinguishable, in prints, from the same lens on a 30D. R8/R9 combos with drive could be acquired, with chargers, etc for $1000 or less.
Should note - you could also use medium format glass on an R mount Leica as well if you decide to acquire any.
I was just talking to one of my friend whom I haven't seen for about 3 years, and the guy has really gone wild with his gear collection.
Last time I talked to him, he only had 20D.
Now, he's got Canon 5D, Nikon D300, D3, Leica M8, Mamiya 645.
Plus, he's got about 100 different real expensive lenses.
He told me Leica is the best of the bunch.
All this within 3 years...wow!
Is that normal
I admit that I'm an addictive person, but this guy really shocked me.
I'm going to see him tommorow....actually to see his gears...
I'm hoping to get a good deal from him (whether it's a camera or a lens)...
Going back to my OP, I think I'm leaning towards Leica R8 or R9...who knows...I'll probably add digital back to it later on...
You don't say anything about your budget. I would consider the R4-7's as well if you want a carry everywhere camera... persoanlly, I'm on the lookout for a R6/6.2, but I have a perfect little R4 which is still nice for a bargain body (mint from KEH for $179)... so I'm not in a huge rush. The EOS 3 is a great camera, but much of the benefit is the focus system. Unless you think you are going to add that digital back to the R8 or R9 very soon I would forget about it... since it seems Leica is likely to ditch the R-series and Canon will all be better in the long run...
Having shot with a DMR - it does lay down a nice file.. Once you've used an R8/9 VF (the SL2 is apparently even better VF wise), it's tough to go even to a 1 series. Nothing like a camera made for manual focus.
It's a Leica ;> Only 5000 sold, small shop, no economies of scale, Leica name. IF (and it's a big IF) and R10 does come up in September that will take R glass, I would expect to see DMR back prices drop and lens prices rise. IF not, the reverse.
Considering your lenses I would buy an R8/9, great to use and one of the best viewfinders around. If you buy a Canon then get the 1V. I think it's the best film camera ever made. It's better than the R8/9 in many ways but slightly harder to focus manually.
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