The main problem I find with the Hoodloupe is that your eye needs to be exactly centered to get good results. Any offset, and the image smears terribly. I'd love to get an eye cup that helps me center from the get go. Fortunately, once you learn this about the Hoodloupe, it's not hard to recognize the offset problem and to adjust. Then again, it's yet one more thing to divert the operator's attention.

Thanks a lot for the update! Definately a good reference for me to put my $. I have also been deliberating over the redrock micro kit. Do u find the kit a little high up for shooting? I only require 5-8sec shots for rack focusing normally. I simulated a redrock rig and found that my arms will get tired pretty quickly compared to something like the Zacuto sharpshooter rig. I like the solution below but I am thinking of making do without the loupe sometimes.

http://www.redrockmicro.com/cartpics/stephanie_dslr20_0271_lg.jpg

I saw the rig photos from Glenn Elliot and I think he is right about having the handles at a position that is slightly higher than waist instead of chest level. I like to listen to your feedback on the comfort of using the redrock micro shoulder kit without the z finder. Thanks again!

Could you make a comment on this as well?

Hi Sean, I'm finding the Red Rock quite comfortable as I kind of tuck my elbows against my body and that helps support the weight. I did place an order for some extra rods that I could I could experiment with as longer handles (but I think it's good to have your hands higher so they are close to your focus controls, exposure lock and exposure compensation, etc...) The Zacuto looks really solid as well, I don't think you can go wrong with either setup.

The main problem I find with the Hoodloupe is that your eye needs to be exactly centered to get good results. Any offset, and the image smears terribly. I'd love to get an eye cup that helps me center from the get go. Fortunately, once you learn this about the Hoodloupe, it's not hard to recognize the offset problem and to adjust. Then again, it's yet one more thing to divert the operator's attention.

I mounted a eyecup from the Sony PD-170.. it works great..

the part number is 3-087-515-01

I mounted a eyecup from the Sony PD-170.. it works great..

the part number is 3-087-515-01I did a quick search & that would cost me just under $100 including shipping.

While the Z-Finder isn't cheap, to me, being able to comfortably and accurately focus and see the LCD clearly in bright daylight makes it totally worth the cost. For those of you on the fence or not happy with the Hoodman, go for the Z-Finder (V2) when they become available, you will find that it makes having the 5D MKII a much better experience overall.

Dan

Nigel,
I find with the iCuff, I can move it around a little as I press my eye to it (it is a kind of stiffish material) and it makes it easier to get that central position on the Hoodloup. That AND it's comfortable and blocks out the light.

Dan,

i think I'd like to get a ZFinder sometime in the future and enjoy the 5D2 experience more. For now though, I'll have to stick with the Hoodloup and I'll wait to see more reviews from the good people here.

Avey