March 2020 photo walk – Canon P rangefinder.
The shout went out! Well less shout, more social media posts. A free to all film photo walk would set out from Soperfect Images every first Sunday of the month from March onward at 12 noon. I got there early to help Russell get ready, by that I mean gopher – coffee, tea, milk and biscuits. Folks started to gather, a relief TBH as the weather had been shocking and the forecast was sketchy. 12 bodies in total, not bad at all! I needed a camera, a Canon P rangefinder had just returned from servicing with a lovely little f1.4 on the front. I ran off 18 frames from the bulk roll of HP5+. The Canon P was introduced in 1959 so let’s reckon on early 60s, a nicely sized rangefinder camera, weighty but comfortable. No frills, no meter, but super build quality!
Off we went, an even split of girls and boys with a rough plan leading out of Plymouth Barbican then up and over the Hoe, dropping down into Millbay and finally tracking back along the seafront to the Barbican. All started well, everyone introducing themselves and getting into the swing. My first frame was an attempt at a reservoir dogs shot of the group walking toward me, this was a bad idea, fast walking backwards with a strange focus system was always going to end fuzzy, and it did! After that I kept it simple just following the guys.
As we dropped into Millbay we spotted the ferry docking so we hurried to the end of the pier just in time for a downpour. We, some! got off some shots but cowards as we are, a speedy retreat was beaten to the Waterfront pub. Cheesy chips, coffees and beers were welcome with plenty of chat, a really nice bunch of people, a little coy to start but everyone seemed to enjoy it. I must thank all for braving a cold and windy day. The Canon P was a joy, having handled it before servicing I can say a cracking job was done. The calibrated rangefinder was spot on marred only by its user, I found the multi framing lines in the viewer a little confusing at times, the shutter sang a sweet tune while the focus ring and advance were smooth and positive in the fingers. I truly enjoyed using it. Looks good too! Hopefully we will see everyone in April plus more. A hearty pat on the back goes to Russell for organising, well done all.
To view or purchase the Canon P click here
