Notes from January 2008

Seattle visit to service tech

I made a trip to Seattle recently to have a few lenses looked at by Charlie. After projection and collimation, we discovered my Cooke 9-50 was having front and back focus issues. The back focus shim was replaced and back focus corrected, but front focus he would have to address with more time at the bench. So, I'm waiting to hear back from Charlie hoping the damage is not too great. During the visit, I also compared several Angenieux HEC zooms Charlie had on hand, a 10-150 T2.2 and the 9.5-57 T1.8. Both were in good condition, though the 9.5-57 was in slightly better condition. After comparing these lenses to my 12-120 T2.1, I decided to stick with my lens for now. As much as I am eager to shoot with the 9.5-57 and get an extra stop of light to my eyepiece for focusing, I think the 12-120 may perform better and it's nice to have the range from 60-120. Before leaving the shop I purchased a few accessories, including a much needed 12V battery.

January 26, 2008  –  permalink

B/W neg back from Cinelab

Cinelab did a fine job processing and work printing the footage shot with Mark. They agreed to make the WP on their panel printer (which is set-up for wetgate) for no additional charge. What a rarity in an era of hidden costs and little charges at most every other lab. I'm very happy about what I have recently shot... the car work is smooth and the dusk-for-night turned out exceptionally well. I may in the end, opt for a gas station shot Pam and I did the night after working with Mark, as the sky was more dramatic and the composition more interesting.

January 03, 2008  –  permalink