Re: [OM] "Precious" Equipment

[Robinsnes [Permanent Link]]

I don't know about others, but my cameras a tools. I am more concerned that 
they work properly than look pristine. My Hasselblads shoot anywhere from 
thirty to sixty rolls of 220 per week. They have worked at this rate for the 
last 20 years. Three of my bodies and 5 lenses have been with me for a 
minimum of 15 years. As I have noted, my cameras are well used and receive 
regular trips to the repairman.
The OM's have been sent to Hermanson for care. Prior to John, I had a local 
man who looked at them once a year. The see some professional use, but not on 
the order of the 6x6 cameras. The OM1's have stood up well, two of them have 
been in my possession for close to 30 years. I had an OM2 that was 
stolen...replaced it with an OM1. Automatic things frighten me...they don't 
always do what they should or rather what you expect them to do. I cannot 
afford to not bring home good images for my customers. Relying on a machine 
to know what your brain should understand is a good way to lose clients and 
bring home junk. Autoflash, etc., is the slippery slope to serious problems. 
Besides, manual exposure is much easier and although springs and wires do 
break, they do not develop shorts that cause strange images to appear. My 
flash units are Lumedyne manual units. They are rugged, well built, and 
designed by a man who knew and understood the needs of a working 
photographer. 
I see things about cameras a lot differently than amateurs...I trust this has 
been somewhat helpful in answering your questions. If you need more 
information, turn pro and you will find out in short order all of the answers.
Best wishes,
Roger

Roger Skully
robinsnestphotography.com