Z-Finder with GH2???

G

Gene Sung

Veteran
Does anyone use Z-Finders with the GH2?

I know on the Canons, without a monitor, the Z-Finder is really nice for any type of rack focusing, hand held focusing or just critical focusing in general.

But since the GH2 is a different beast, does it even need the Z-Finder? Since the EVF on the GH2 is more advanced, could that be used in a similar way as the Z-Finder where the image is continually magnified 2x for better focusing?

Thanks
 
gene_can_sing said:
Does anyone use Z-Finders with the GH2?

I know on the Canons, without a monitor, the Z-Finder is really nice for any type of rack focusing, hand held focusing or just critical focusing in general.

But since the GH2 is a different beast, does it even need the Z-Finder? Since the EVF on the GH2 is more advanced, could that be used in a similar way as the Z-Finder where the image is continually magnified 2x for better focusing?

Thanks
Click to expand...

I believe the only loupe that currently works with the size of the GH2's LCD is the LCDVF 16/9. The Hoodman Cinema Kit Pro with the new Hoodboost Adapter also works, I think.
 
I think you'll have better success just using the cameras viewfinder. It's pretty excellent, it's not just more advanced than the Canon viewfinder but it's an actual viewfinder which the canons don't have at all. On canon cameras the viewfinder sees through the lens with a mirror which moves when you snap a picture. In video mode the mirror blocks the viewfinder completely and the only option is the LCD.
 
Hi, my GH2 is on back order... so forgive my overly excited questions.. lol..

When your using the EVF, what is the technique for popping in and checking focus? Can this be done WHILE recording?
 
Why would you want to buy an expensive Z-Finder or even a cheap LCDVF knock-off that is just going to enlarge the pixels on the LCD screen? The EVF of the GH2 is higher resolution & unlike on the Canon DSLRs can be used while recording. I am not usually a fan of viewfinders but even I find the GH2 EVF excellent.
 
gene_can_sing said:
...since the GH2 is a different beast, does it even need the Z-Finder? Since the EVF on the GH2 is more advanced, could that be used in a similar way as the Z-Finder where the image is continually magnified 2x for better focusing?
Click to expand...

Gene,

As others have said, you don't need an expensive LCD viewfinder with the GH2. The image magnification in manual focus assist mode works great. It goes back to normal magnification while shooting, but I have not found that to be a problem.

What is a problem in bright sunlight is the lack of a commercially available eycup for the GH1/2 EVF. Some folks are pursuing DIY solutions (and there are several threads on that), but I am not a DIY kind of guy.

So when it's bright outside, I use a Hoodman HD300 ($20.28 from Amazon [ignore the Amazon pic -- this is how it really looks on the camera]), but it forces me to use the GH as a "palmcorder" -- which, unfortunately, makes for shaky camerawork in these unskilled hands.

I do have high hopes for this soft, $48 Raider l-cuff eyepiece cup from B&H.

And for those who really want an LCD viewfinder, but don't want to lose the functionality of the flip-out LCD, there's the upcoming Loupe EX for the GH1/2 from Varavon (price not yet announced).

Hope this is helpful.

Bill
 
Last edited:
I have tried the carry speed 3:2 LCDVF style and it works fine.
I have also tried the LETUS HAWK 3:2 and it doesn't quite fit between its own plate and they eye piece. If I really wanted it to work, I think I could force it on there...

That said, the EVF is higher resolution. The LCD on the GH2 is NOT good enough (at least to my old eye) for critical focus. THE EVF is. Im waiting for an improved eyecup. Might have to hack this one myself if that one guy doesn't get em done soon.

Iv mounted it up on the shoulder rig and the EVF works fine if the rig is configured correctly.


FWIW: I have both a T2i and GH2 and the carry speed 3:2 can work on either.
 
do you happen to have a picture of the LCDVF on the GH2?

does the 2.2x zoom help with the focus on the LCD on the GH2?
 
Z finder

Z finder

Stumbled upon these pics while searching for the same info.
http://www.flickr.com/photos/53551708@N07/5447635876/in/set-72157625928544189/ Not sure what he is using above the gorilla plate.
I agree with what others have said about the EVF being really good, however for me having already invested in the Z-finder for my GH1 I plan on using it on my GH2 and Redrock rig. I really like the comfort of using it and the third point of contact with my rig in the eye-spy config.
Yesterday while working on the rig I discovered that using a Redrock long lens support adapter, that I could turn the yoke upside down and put just enough tension against the diopter wheel it to hold it firmly into the camera. This was just temporary and held it fairly firm (even though you could slide it sideways if you forced it.) Still experimenting, but will probably buy a Z finder mounting frame and adapt it to the rig.
 
If I were you I'd just drop a bit more cash and get a small monitor. I bought one of those SONY CLM-V55 monitors for $400 and it's worked pretty well. With the HDMI output on the GH2 it would be worth the extra cash I think.

I had a Z-finder that I used on my 7-D for a long while, but in the end the monitor is just alot easier to use. I hated having to have an offset shoulder mount for handheld, plus the shots are much more stable with the camera right on my shoulder and the monitor mounted on an arm.
 
EWS said:
Stumbled upon these pics while searching for the same info.
http://www.flickr.com/photos/53551708@N07/5447635876/in/set-72157625928544189/ Not sure what he is using above the gorilla plate.
I agree with what others have said about the EVF being really good, however for me having already invested in the Z-finder for my GH1 I plan on using it on my GH2 and Redrock rig. I really like the comfort of using it and the third point of contact with my rig in the eye-spy config.
Yesterday while working on the rig I discovered that using a Redrock long lens support adapter, that I could turn the yoke upside down and put just enough tension against the diopter wheel it to hold it firmly into the camera. This was just temporary and held it fairly firm (even though you could slide it sideways if you forced it.) Still experimenting, but will probably buy a Z finder mounting frame and adapt it to the rig.
Click to expand...


Found out that the adapter is a Novoflex MiniConnect Profiset Quick Release Adapter ----$200!!
 
Last edited:
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top