I see where most--if not all--director's viewfinders are quite pricey. In scouting a potential shot/angle, can you suggest an affordable (wear-it-around-your-neck) viewfinder other than two index fingers or a piece of cardboard?

It depends what format you are ultimately planning to shoot in. The APS sized sensor found in less-expensive digital still cameras is a close match for 35mm motion picture format (as opposed to 35mm still format). I use a Minolta digital camera with a built-in but manual zoomable lens that has focal length markings on the barrel, which has the added convenience of being able to save pix of course as well as record motion clips for reference.

cavision has a inexpensive mini model for 200 bucks. http://www.bhphotovideo.com/bnh/controller/home?O=Search&A=details&Q=&sku=184212&is=REG&addedTroughType=search

that Cavision one looks good, does anybody know where to get it in Europe?

200 bucks; ouch.

thats probably the cheapest you will find. You shouldn't use prime lenses without it. I use a 35mm adapter with primes and the viewfinder is a must.

Argggg.... I cannot remember his name right now... ASP member for a long time. Was at Cinegear 2 years ago. He recommended a 35mm slide frame without the color positive film strip in it. Said it did the job well.

Well, I decided to buy the Cavision model you suggested; I don't think I can go wrong. Thanks--

dale

Does anybody here know what models are these viewfinders? I want to buy one just like Kaminski's for me, but I don't know where to find it.

http://www.dvinfo.net/conf/members/felipe-tavares-albums-viewfinders-picture270-kaminskis-viewfinder.jpg

http://www.dvinfo.net/conf/members/felipe-tavares-albums-viewfinders-picture271-spielbergs-viewfinder.jpg