[LargeFormat] prewar Speed Graphic

[Les Newcomer]

On Wednesday, January 8, 2003, at 05:05 PM, Clive Warren wrote:

> At 13:59 08/01/2003 -0800, Richard Knoppow wrote:
>> The Kalart Focuspot is covered at:
>>  http://graflex.org/speed-graphic/kalart-focuspot.html
>>   The focuspot is an accessory that attaches to the top of
>> the rangefinder. It is removable but can be useful.
>>   I can't comment on the origin being to photograph bomber
>> interiors. It was certainly useful for press photographers.
>> Before the Focuspot Graflex flash guns had a flashlight bulb
>> on the front to illuminate the subject for focusing in
>> darkness. Hugo Meyer offered a similar device for use on
>> their rangefinders.
>
> This rangefinder can be usefully updated to the C21st by using a laser 
> light source in place of the focus spot light bulb holder assembly. When 
> you are stuck in bed it's surprising what an active mind can come up with.
> ...... I modified a Kalart rangefinder with a keyring laser a couple of 
> years ago and it does make an effective focusing aid. The current trend 
> is to ban lasers from all public places so I would imagine that it would 
> be frowned upon as an aid for night portraiture.....
>
> C

...considering that lasers are also used as gun sights, it's probably not 
a good idea to use it for stealt focusing during your "urban safari" photo 
essay either.
les