Cheap or DIY Viewfinders? at DVinfo.net

David Lavender · May 24th, 2010, 01:19 PM

Has anyone tried any of the DIY viewfinders on the Web? This is probably beneath most of the professionals on this message board, but I'm trying to decide if I can justify shelling out ~$200 for a viewfinder. I'm curious how helpful the various viewfinders are. What, specifically, are their benefits vs. a naked LCD? Obviously shooting outside on a sunny day, they're nearly essential. I assume there's some amount of stability gained, as well.

I'd love to have someone sell me on their favorite viewfinder -- particularly if it has a consumer/prosumer price tag.

Thanks!

Bill Pryor · May 24th, 2010, 07:30 PM

I think you nailed it--you need one for shooting outside, and it helps with handheld stability. Also one with some magnification helps with focus. If money's tight, you can get the Hoodman for under $100 and attach it with the little rubber band things; then maybe later on add a more solid attachment method. If you do go that route, get the one with the 3X magnification in the eyepiece. It makes a great difference.

May 24th, 2010, 01:19 PM	#1
David Lavender Regular Crew Join Date: Apr 2010 Location: Nashville, TN Posts: 46	Cheap or DIY Viewfinders? Has anyone tried any of the DIY viewfinders on the Web? This is probably beneath most of the professionals on this message board, but I'm trying to decide if I can justify shelling out ~$200 for a viewfinder. I'm curious how helpful the various viewfinders are. What, specifically, are their benefits vs. a naked LCD? Obviously shooting outside on a sunny day, they're nearly essential. I assume there's some amount of stability gained, as well. I'd love to have someone sell me on their favorite viewfinder -- particularly if it has a consumer/prosumer price tag. Thanks!

May 24th, 2010, 07:30 PM	#2
Bill Pryor Contributor Join Date: Jan 2003 Location: Kansas City, MO Posts: 4,449	I think you nailed it--you need one for shooting outside, and it helps with handheld stability. Also one with some magnification helps with focus. If money's tight, you can get the Hoodman for under $100 and attach it with the little rubber band things; then maybe later on add a more solid attachment method. If you do go that route, get the one with the 3X magnification in the eyepiece. It makes a great difference.