It is now January 2nd 2025 ("Happy New Year to everyone"). I'm now considered retired and prep'ing for travel to Southeast Asia. I'm going to use this time to create a travel photo-book, which has been a dream of mine. All images will be created through the analogue process. I will be shooting 35mm and medium format 120 film. For the main purpose of being able to print silver gelatin. The confusing choice of which camera to use out of a large collection will be the first issue. I'm going to try and give you my best breakdown of the choice(s) I make, until I depart with camera bag in hand. Let’s begin with, what 35mm system will it be out of the Minolta Dynax 9, Canon Elan 7e, Nikon F4, and Leica R4 or R5?
The Minolta Dynax 9: Strength in Precision
Key Features:
o Fast shutter speeds up to 1/12,000s.
o Autofocus with 9 focus points.
o Bright and large pentaprism viewfinder with 100% coverage.
o Capable of 5.5 fps continuous shooting.
o Advanced metering modes, including spot and multi-segment.
The Dynax 9, introduced in 1998, stands as a warrior of endurance. Its magnesium alloy body is like the tempered armor of a seasoned fighter—weather-sealed, durable, and prepared for battle in the harshest of conditions. The 9-point autofocus system and its precision metering are reminiscent of a martial artist's ability to read the environment, adjusting fluidly to light and shadow.
The Dynax 9 is about mastery over the scene in a moment. With its blazing shutter speed of 1/12000th of a second and robust features like multiple exposures and depth-of-field preview, it’s the tool for the practitioner who combines artistry with technical skill. It is Minolta's swan song in professional film SLRs—a last, powerful strike before the digital era, as if the final kata tought to the student by a grandmaster during the analogue era.
The Canon Elan 7e: Fluid and Adaptable
Key Features:
o Shutter speeds up to 1/4,000s.
o 7-point autofocus system with Eye Control Focus.
o Quiet operation (whisper drive mechanism).
o Multiple exposure modes, including full manual.
o Compatible with Canon EF lenses.
The Canon Elan 7e enters the scene like the nimble, strategic fighter—a mid-level SLR designed for movement and balance. Lightweight and ergonomic, it flows easily in the hands, offering an advanced autofocus system with Canon’s unique Eye-Controlled Focus. This feature, like the intuitive movements of a martial artist, responds to where your gaze and attention lies, blending precision with instinct.
While not as robust as the Dynax 9 or the F4, the Elan 7e excels in adaptability. It’s the younger martial artist with speed and grace, capable of adjusting to varied lighting conditions with its evaluative metering system. Its flash sync and film handling are effortless, like the fluid transitions of a fighter shifting between forms.
The Nikon F4: The Master of All Styles
Key Features:
o Shutter speeds up to 1/8,000s.
o Hybrid autofocus system (manual and AF with screw-drive lenses).
o Fully compatible with Nikon's legendary F-mount lenses, including AI and AIS lenses.
o 100% viewfinder coverage and interchangeable viewfinders.
o Modular design with optional battery grips for higher performance.
The Nikon F4 is the sensei—deeply rooted in tradition yet embracing innovation. With its magnesium alloy body and modular design, it offers the flexibility of interchangeable viewfinders and battery packs, like a martial artist’s ability to adapt to any opponent or terrain. Its compatibility with both manual and autofocus Nikkor lenses mirrors a fighter’s respect for tradition while mastering modern techniques.
The F4’s autofocus and 3D Matrix Metering systems are like the calculated precision of an expert combatant, reading the opponent’s every move. With shutter speeds up to 1/8000th of a second and the ability to shoot at 5.7 frames per second, it delivers power and speed without sacrificing control. It’s the camera of choice for the photographer who moves dynamically, capturing the decisive moment with the agility of a martial artist mid-strike.
Three Styles, One Discipline
Each camera offers a distinct voice in the discipline of fine art photography, much like martial arts schools shaping a fighter’s approach to combat.
Minolta Dynax 9 is the disciplined karateka—precise, strong, and unyielding, excelling in controlled environments where mastery of form is key.
Canon Elan 7e is the fluid aikidoka—light, adaptable, and responsive, thriving in situations that demand flexibility and intuition.
Nikon F4 is the seasoned samurai—versatile, enduring, and steeped in tradition yet ready for modern challenges.
For large silver gelatin prints, the F4 edges ahead, offering a level of modularity and legacy lens options that translate beautifully to the depth and texture demanded by fine art printing. However, the choice ultimately depends on your photographic martial art: are you seeking strength, agility, or mastery? As in all disciplines, the path you choose reflects the artist and warrior within you. However; the F4 is bulky compared to modern cameras, and its autofocus, though advanced for the time, can feel slow by today’s standards. "And I still love it".Each camera offers something unique, and your choice depends on your artistic style, lens access, and the environments in which you work. If you’re combining modern technology with fine art processes, the Nikon F4's flexibility or the Canon Elan 7's access to EF lenses might stand out, while the Dynax 9’s durability and speed are perfect for capturing dramatic scenes in tough conditions.
Comparison for Fine Art Photography
Feature | Minolta Dynax 9 | Canon Elan 7 | Nikon F4 |
Build Quality | Extremely rugged | Lightweight but durable | Extremely rugged |
Lens Compatibility | Limited post-Minolta era | Extensive Canon EF | Extensive Nikon F-mount |
Autofocus System | Advanced for its time | Eye-Control focus novelty | Reliable but dated |
Viewfinder | 100% coverage, bright | 90% coverage, clear | 100% coverage, modular |
Shutter Speed | 1/12,000s | 1/4,000s | 1/8,000s |
Ergonomics | Heavy, professional feel | Compact and lightweight | Heavy, pro-level design |
Ease of Use | Pro-level complexity | Beginner to intermediate | Pro-level complexity |
For fine art black and white photography intended for large silver gelatin prints, the camera of choice in 35mm DSLR is critical because in my oppinion it impacts the tonal quality and sharpness. Among the Minolta Dynax 9, Canon Elan 7, and Nikon F4, the Nikon F4 out of this group emerges as the best option in. Here’s why:
Why the Nikon F4 Stands Out
Lens Compatibility:
The Nikon F4 is compatible with Nikon's legendary F-mount lenses, including manual focus AI/AIS lenses. These older, all-metal lenses offer superb optical performance and character, which are essential for capturing the rich tonal gradations and fine details demanded by large silver gelatin prints.
Example: Nikkor prime lenses like the 50mm f/1.2 AIS or 105mm f/2.5 AIS are renowned for their sharpness, micro-contrast, and pleasing out-of-focus rendering, all vital for producing stunning black and white prints.
Optical Quality for Large Prints:
Large-format silver gelatin prints require negatives that are extremely sharp and tonally rich. Nikon’s glass and the F4’s precision metering (including spot metering for zones) ensure the best possible exposure for black and white film like Kodak Tri-X, Ilford HP5+, or Ilford Delta 100.
Durability for Outdoor Projects:
If you’re photographing landscapes, architecture, or outdoor subjects for fine art, the F4’s rugged, weather-sealed body ensures reliability in challenging environments, making it perfect for capturing nuanced textures and light.
Interchangeable Viewfinders:
The F4 offers modularity with interchangeable viewfinders and focusing screens. This flexibility allows you to adapt to specific artistic techniques, such as waist-level shooting or fine-tuned manual focusing, which is crucial for achieving sharp focus with shallow depth of field.
Manual and Autofocus Flexibility:
The F4 supports both manual and autofocus lenses, which is particularly useful for fine art photographers who often prefer manual focusing for ultimate precision.
How the Other Cameras Compare
Minolta Dynax 9:
While it has excellent build quality and fast shutter speeds, its lens options are more limited compared to Nikon’s F-mount system. Minolta’s glass is capable but less diverse in terms of character lenses suitable for black and white tonal richness.
It’s a great choice if you already own Minolta lenses but lacks the flexibility and heritage of the Nikon F4.
Canon Elan 7:
Canon EF lenses, especially modern ones, are designed with digital photography in mind. While sharp and optically advanced, they lack the analog “character” that older Nikon AI/AIS lenses offer, which is often desirable for silver gelatin prints.
The Elan 7’s lightweight body is less suited to large-scale fine art projects, where precision handling and ruggedness are crucial.
Specific Advantages of the Nikon F4 for Large Prints
Dynamic Range:
Accurate metering systems (spot, center-weighted, and matrix) help you control the exposure for highlights and shadows in black and white film, critical for achieving the full tonal range that large silver gelatin prints demand.
Stability and Handling:
The F4’s heavier build reduces vibration during shooting, ensuring sharper negatives, particularly for tripod-mounted landscapes or long exposures.
Legacy of Nikon Glass:
The availability of high-quality manual lenses with exceptional sharpness and artistic rendering makes the F4 a clear choice for producing negatives with the detail and texture necessary for enlargements.
When I began comparing the Nikon F4 with the Leica R4 and R5 for fine art black and white photography intended for large silver gelatin prints, the differences revolve around lens systems, handling, and design philosophy. Leica's R-series cameras are known for their superb optics and minimalist approach, while the Nikon F4 emphasizes versatility and rugged performance. Here’s my detailed breakdown:
Nikon F4 Overview
Advantages:
Lens Compatibility:
The Nikon F4’s ability to use both manual (AI/AIS) and autofocus (AF) lenses from Nikon’s extensive F-mount system offers unparalleled versatility. Nikon lenses, like the 50mm f/1.2 AIS and 105mm f/2.5, provide exceptional sharpness and tonal gradation, perfect for large silver gelatin prints.
Great for adapting to diverse fine art styles—landscapes, portraits, or architecture.
Modern AF lenses with superior coatings are also usable, expanding creative possibilities.
Rugged Build and Modularity:
The F4 is designed for professionals, featuring weather sealing and modular components, such as interchangeable viewfinders and focus screens. This adaptability is beneficial for creative techniques like low-angle shots or waist-level shooting.
Exposure Precision:
Its advanced metering system (matrix, center-weighted, and spot) ensures accurate exposure control, particularly in high-contrast lighting often found in black and white photography.
Ease of Handling with Modern Features:
Integrated motor drive, autofocus, and ergonomic controls make the F4 more intuitive for photographers transitioning from modern systems or working in fast-paced environments.
Leica R4 and R5 Overview
Leica R4
Release Year: 1980
Build: Compact and durable, with a electrical shutter. However in the R4s version, the shutter will fire in the bulb mode.
Features:
Manual focus only.
Exposure modes include manual, aperture-priority, and shutter-priority.
Smaller, lighter body compared to the Nikon F4.
Leica R5
Release Year: 1986
Build: Similar compact design as the R4 but with more advanced electronics.
Features:
Improved metering (multi-pattern, spot, and center-weighted).
Full manual control and two manual shutter modes (bulb & 1/100sec), plus more refined aperture- and shutter-priority modes.
Still manual focus only, but amazingly bright when paired with legendary Leica R lenses.
Leica R-Series Advantages for Fine Art
Lens Optics:
Leica’s R lenses are world-renowned for their optical performance, micro-contrast, and "3D pop," making them ideal for black and white photography where tonal depth is critical. Examples include:
Leica Summicron-R 50mm f/2: Known for its sharpness and rich tonal rendition.
Leica Elmarit-R 90mm f/2.8: Excellent for portraiture with natural bokeh and high contrast.
Compact and Lightweight Design:
The R4 and R5 are significantly smaller and lighter than the Nikon F4, making them easier to handle for extended shooting sessions or in studio settings.
Minimalist Approach:
Leica’s fully manual focus and straightforward design encourage slower, deliberate shooting, which aligns with the careful, contemplative process often associated with fine art photography.
Build Quality and Reliability:
The R-series cameras are built like precision instruments, offering long-term durability with a tactile shooting experience.
Drawbacks:
The Nikon F4, heavier and bulkier than the Leica R-series cameras.
Autofocus, while advanced for its time, may not be necessary for myself, who prefer manual focusing.
The Leica R system lacks autofocus, which may limit usability for fast-moving subjects.
The lens lineup is smaller and significantly more expensive than Nikon's, which has been a barrier for me and could be for some of you photographers wanting a variety of focal lengths or specialized lenses. But, with a little luck and a watchful eye on the secondhand market, who knows what can be found.
Finaly, the Leica R-series has limited modularity compared to the Nikon F4.
Comparative Analysis for Fine Art Black and White Photography
Feature | Nikon F4 | Leica R4/R5 |
Lens Quality | Exceptional, diverse Nikon glass with sharpness and tonal range. | Legendary Leica optics with micro-contrast and tonal depth. |
Build and Durability | Heavy, rugged, modular, and weather-sealed. | Compact, lightweight, but less rugged. |
Viewfinder | 100% coverage, modular options. | Bright, but fixed; less adaptable. |
Metering | Advanced matrix, center-weighted, and spot metering. | Simple but effective multi-pattern and spot metering. |
Handling and Features | Autofocus, motorized film advance, interchangeable parts. | Fully manual focus; minimalist, slower-paced operation. |
Creative Flexibility | Suitable for all styles; adaptable to various lenses and techniques. | Best for deliberate, slow-paced projects requiring ultimate lens quality. |
System Cost and Accessibility | More affordable and widely available. | High initial cost, with limited lens availability. |
Best Choice for Fine Art Black and White Photography:
Nikon F4:
Best for photographers who value versatility, ruggedness, and access to an extensive range of lenses. It’s ideal for large prints requiring exceptional sharpness and detail, and it accommodates a variety of shooting styles, including fast-paced or experimental work.
Leica R4/R5:
Perfect for those who prioritize the unique character of Leica glass and a deliberate, hands-on shooting experience. The R-series cameras excel in controlled environments, such as studio or carefully planned projects, where the compact design and legendary optics shine.
Conclusion:
If you seek maximum creative flexibility, the Nikon F4 is the better choice due to its modularity, lens compatibility, and rugged design. However, for projects where the artistic nuances of tonal rendering and lens quality are paramount, and if you favor a more contemplative shooting process, the Leica R5 or R4 would be a better option for you, as it is mine. The Leica R5 and R4(backup) will be safely packed for this years travels.
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