I was able to test out a Konica Auto S2 this week for a friend. We sold it to her through our small online camera store, Stills.
The Konica Auto S2 is a pretty rangefinder camera. I get a lot of compliments with the camera both from non-enthusiasts to the professional photographers in our newsroom (I work in a newspaper). The S2 is a Japanese rangefinder made in the 60s. It has a 45mm f/1.8 hexanon lens that gives sharp images. Its viewfinder features an automatic parallax correction.
Although the camera can be used automatic, I used it manually. The original batteries for the S2 is no longer available. However, you can use replacement batteries (silver oxide batteries) to be able to use the light meter. If you follow the Sunny 16 rule, you don't need to use the light meter.
The downsides to the S2 is that it is pretty huge and heavy for a rangefinder camera and is the same size as an SLR. Most rangefinders are smaller and lighter, which are the reasons why they are the faves of many enthusiasts. In spite of its size and weight, it's a pretty sturdy camera, which is great for day-to-day shooting or street photography.
Aside from that, adjusting the shutter speed and the aperture can be a hassle to some. Both dials are located on the lens, including the focusing knob. Most people are annoyed by the fact that turning the focusing knob oftentimes affects the shutter speed and aperture dial. However, I've never encountered this problem since I mostly shoot outdoors and use the same settings here in sunny (and humid) Cebu.
I used the camera for four days around Cebu. I shot mostly on daylight and just on the streets of Cebu and in school (UP Cebu). I have to say that it was pretty heavy for a very petite girl like me, who also carries a whole lot of stuff in the bag. But if you're not bringing a lot of things, this is just alright to bring with you. My only problem with rangefinders is that I find it difficult to focus with the patch.
Overall, I was really glad with how my photos turned out. Most of the shots were sharp and really interesting. I never expected a lot from the camera and the photos just proved how this can be a great addition to one's collection. I also like it as a camera for street photography.
The results of this roll really inspired me to take out the Konica Auto S2 my boyfriend got me last year. I was never able to use it because of its completely faded patch. We're planning to work on this little trick to brighten up the patch and I'll update you how it goes. I was never inclined to rangefinders and I always thought of myself as an SLR and toy camera kind of gal. However, the Konica Auto S2 converted me and now I'm a believer!
note: Centuria DNP 400 film used
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