LCD Vs. Viewfinder

[ktixx]

This poll is strictly for dSLR users.
If it were possible to frame pictures with your dSLR using the LCD, what would you choose - LCD or Viewfinder?
I just want to see if all this talk about manufacturers working on LCD framing is in-vain, what do you think?
Ken

[coldrain]

I would choose both.

[murrays]

This poll is strictly for dSLR users.
If it were possible to frame pictures with your dSLR using the LCD, what would you choose - LCD or Viewfinder?
I just want to see if all this talk about manufacturers working on LCD framing is in-vain, what do you think?
Ken

I used the viewfinder on my Coolpix 990 most of the time unless I was shooting at odd angles. I would occasionally use a tilted LCD if I had it, but I don't miss framing with an LCD at all.

-murray

[ktixx]

...but I don't miss framing with an LCD at all.
I agree entirely. Everytime I take a picture with someone else's camera the first thing I do is put it up to my face, it is a natural reaction. I definitely don't miss the LCD framing of P&S's.
Ken

[Balrog]

I'd like to have a tilt/swivel capable LCD. I'd use the viewfinder most of the time, but the tilt capability is very useful for odd-angle shots. I find Canon's implementation to be the most usable (swivel out to the side, then rotate); it's much nicer than the swivel-down version on the FZ30, or the bizarre top-mounted swivel-up one on the Sony R1...

[ktixx]

I'd like to have a tilt/swivel capable LCD. I'd use the viewfinder most of the time, but the tilt capability is very useful for odd-angle shots. I find Canon's implementation to be the most usable (swivel out to the side, then rotate); it's much nicer than the swivel-down version on the FZ30, or the bizarre top-mounted swivel-up one on the Sony R1...
If you like to use the LCD is for odd angles you could always get the zigview (http://www.zigview.co.uk/).

[coldrain]

If you like to use the LCD is for odd angles you could always get the zigview (http://www.zigview.co.uk/).
Why would you want a weird solution like a zigview when you could have a real LCD on your camera???? The zigview does not deliver stellar performance.

[George Riehm]

I'm thinking the Zigview is primarily for odd angle shooting (ground level and overhead), and not really meant to replace the OVF for normal shooting. It's really not any more weird than using a viewfinder right angle adapter for taking ground level shots.

The last time I checked my camera is not equiped with an articulated or rotating preview LCD. So for current dSLR's it may be a nifty solution. I know that there are times when I miss my CP990, just for this feature.

It doesn't really have to be a stellar performer, just a decent odd-angle framing tool. It beats guessing, or laying on the ground. It would be fun to give it a try.

[coldrain]

I'm thinking the Zigview is primarily for odd angle shooting (ground level and overhead), and not really meant to replace the OVF for normal shooting. It's really not any more weird than using a viewfinder right angle adapter for taking ground level shots.

The last time I checked my camera is not equiped with an articulated or rotating preview LCD. So for current dSLR's it may be a nifty solution. I know that there are times when I miss my CP990, just for this feature.

It doesn't really have to be a stellar performer, just a decent odd-angle framing tool. It beats guessing, or laying on the ground. It would be fun to give it a try.
I didn't say it can not be a handy tool, my point was (and is) that no one can be serious saying they would rather have a zig view thing than the possible use of the camera LCD with preview (especially swivelable like on the Canon S2 IS and A6x0).

[George Riehm]

I didn't say it can not be a handy tool, my point was (and is) that no one can be serious saying they would rather have a zig view thing than the possible use of the camera LCD with preview (especially swivelable like on the Canon S2 IS and A6x0).

Now that you have explained your point it clarifies your previous post. Again the Zigview is a usable "current solution" to a "current need". Calling it weird and saying it doesn't deliver stellar performance may be a little harsh without first using the product.

I don't think anyone mentioned anything about using the Zigview as other than a method to achieve odd-angle shots.

If I could find a Zigveiw I would probably buy one.

Thanks for clarifying your earlier post.

[ktixx]

Why would you want a weird solution like a zigview when you could have a real LCD on your camera???? The zigview does not deliver stellar performance.
I voted for using the viewfinder on a dSLR and I feel even if they came up with a dSLR that you could use the LCD I would probably still use the viewfinder. As of now you can't put an SLR above your head to shoot unless you are taking the picture blind...The zigview was a suggestion for the current. Clearly if there were live view LCD's on dSLR's you wouldn't need a "weird solution like a zigview".

[Norm in Fujino]

This poll is strictly for dSLR users.
If it were possible to frame pictures with your dSLR using the LCD, what would you choose - LCD or Viewfinder?
I just want to see if all this talk about manufacturers working on LCD framing is in-vain, what do you think?
Ken

I'd use both, OFV 90% of the time, EVF 10%. There are occasions when I wish I could get above crowds, but I don't miss the evf otherwise.

[ReF]

although i'd still be using the optical viewfinder most of the time, an articulating lcd with live preview would be nice to have. i've been wanting an angle finder for some time ($180!!!) but unlike an LCD, i wouldn't be able to use the angle finder at all if my eye isn't right up against it.

[jeisner]

i've been wanting an angle finder for some time ($180!!!)

You can get them much cheaper.. I bought one of the Seagull ones below, the quality is great for the price. I know a few other people who bought them too and no problems... Cost me around a third of your quoted price ;-)

http://cgi.ebay.com.au/New-Seagull-Camera-Angle-Finder-for-Canon-Nikon-NR_W0QQitemZ7580110511QQcategoryZ29968QQssPageName ZWD2VQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem

[Rambler358]

If I could find a Zigveiw I would probably buy one.
Here you go:
http://cgi.ebay.com/ZigView-Digital-View-Finder-SLR-Nikon-D100-D70-D70s-D50_W0QQitemZ7582074250QQcategoryZ50508QQssPageNam eZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem

I'd really like to hear of some real user reviews of this. :)

[photosytes]

I would also like both. When I'm just using my fuji S5000 I usually use the LCD to frame the picture, but with the 20D I want to be able to avoid hand shake. However, there are times I would love to be able to frame the shot with the 20D. For example, as Norm said, shots above crowds, or right on the ground or even shots using a tripod.

[George Riehm]

Here you go:
http://cgi.ebay.com/ZigView-Digital-View-Finder-SLR-Nikon-D100-D70-D70s-D50_W0QQitemZ7582074250QQcategoryZ50508QQssPageNam eZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem

I'd really like to hear of some real user reviews of this. :)

Thanks Rambler. I was looking more toward a local camera store, to give it a try in-person, but I may take a chance on this after I pay for the Sigma 24-70 f/2.8. Priorities.;) and budgets...:(

[George Riehm]

Here you go:
http://cgi.ebay.com/ZigView-Digital-View-Finder-SLR-Nikon-D100-D70-D70s-D50_W0QQitemZ7582074250QQcategoryZ50508QQssPageNam eZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem

I'd really like to hear of some real user reviews of this. :)

Here is a review. At $200 maybe I'll wait... then again I have run into situations where I needed one of these.

Like I said lens first.

[Rambler358]

Here is a review.
Did you forget the review link? :confused:

[George Riehm]

Did you forget the review link? :confused:

Doh!

http://www.kickstartnews.com/reviews/hardware/zigview_digital_angle_viewfinder.html

[beachluvr]

Ok WOW!

I was curious about some of the chatter I've heard about DSLRs not having "live" view and was just about to create a poll when I checked and voila somebody already did. Thanks! I am impressed that 95% of you voted for viewfinder.

Having used SLRs for so long the idea of a live view is not something I've thought about. For me I think it would get in the way of my creative process. Ok, I love it on my point-and-shoots and I just bought a DSLR for everyday things like trips, family, hobbies, etc. and I'm finding myself looking at that LCD on the back expecting it to show me what I'm pointing the camera at :rolleyes: but I see the SLR's viewfinder system as a definite advantage over simpler cameras.

Having said "simpler" I just realized with the new lower DSLR pricing from Pentax and Nikon that a DSLR with lens actually costs less than several models of point-and-shoots!!!!!!! When I was at CES (admittedly drawing a little more techie crowd) I actually saw more people at the show with DSLRs than point-and-shoots. No wonder Nikon is shooting for 40% share of that market.