Leica Q3, Fuji X100 and Ricoh GR IV get retro-style waist-level viewfinder
Camera accessory specialist SmallRig has announced a brand-new waist-level viewfinder that can be slotted into the hot shoe of any camera, allowing users to look down through the viewfinder from above. The viewfinder covers a field of view equivalent to a 28 mm lens, which is said to make it ideal for compact cameras with a fixed 28 mm lens, such as the Ricoh GR IV or the Leica Q3.
However, SmallRig also provides frame lines for 35 mm and 50 mm lenses, allowing it to be used with cameras such as the Fujifilm X100 VI. The viewfinder is primarily intended to deliver a classic shooting experience, like that of analog medium-format or twin-lens reflex cameras such as the Rolleiflex. Unlike with these cameras, however, it is not possible to assess focus with an add-on waist-level viewfinder, so it is best suited for use with autofocus or zone focusing.
The design was clearly inspired by retro cameras, as SmallRig uses a silver body with a black faux leather covering. The viewfinder can be folded down for transport to protect the optics. The viewfinder uses a four-element optical system with a Nano-AR coating for a view with as little distortion as possible. According to SmallRig, the viewfinder weighs 62 grams.
Pricing and availability
The new SmallRig waist-level viewfinder is available now for $58.99 on Amazon or from the manufacturer's online store.
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