Just Tailor it to Your Needs
Sometimes one needs to be reminded that the obvious may not be that obvious to all. Dave Gallagher, owner of Capture Integration and a valued Cambo partner, loves the RPM-GFX system. He emphasised the need to clarify its use better. And more in particular the use with Rodenstock’s HR-Digaron 105 Macro. We took that to heart: This kit deserves some more love.
The Cambo RPM-GFX system is built around a helical focusing mount for use on the Fujifilm GFX. The front side accepts various lens plates and extension tubes. Cambo offer adapters for #0, #1, m39 and V-Groove lenses and extension tubes of 25 and 50mm. Since the helical itself has 25mm of travel, this enables any magnification required.
The HR-Digaron 105 Macro really is what its designation suggests: A dedicated macro lens. Not recommendable for infinity. It shines in the 1:4 – 4:1 range.
It performs exceptionally well in the aformentioned magnification range. Unfortunately the documentation that comes with the lens is a bit sparse. Rodenstock has a manual online. But there are a few things to know before getting started. The lens comes with a tiny allen key. In the box its aperture and floating element – more about that later – are locked. Loosen both before use.
Most modern lenses have a floating element. It won’t bother you; the thing moves with the helical when focusing. However, the Rodenstock’s floating element is set manually to the desired magnification ration. Here it’s at 1:1.
It does make a huge difference. Some photographers report disappointing results with this lens and often the culprit is found here.
In order to focus properly at the needed magnification we may have to add one or more extension tubes. These WHF-7 (25mm) and WHF-9 (50mm) are stackable.
*This needs to be added to the Fuji’s Flange-Focal distance and the helical at its maximum extension.
To scan 35mm film with the aforementioned set-up you’d need 75 or 100mm of extension to meet the highest FADGI and Metamorfoze levels. 75mm would actually suffice and leaves some space to include a test target in the frame. 100mm is needed to fill the Fuji’s sensor completely.
The RPM-GFX leaflet and Cambo Repro brochure