In summary, I loved the picture-taking performance of the Epson R-D1 digital rangefinder camera body, but was perturbed by its misaligned rangefinder and frustrated by Epson’s support staff. However, the Epson R-D1 is the only compact digital rangefinder camera body on the market that can utilize my Leica-M and Voigtlander 35 mm interchangeable lenses. I bought it because of my considerable investment in Leica 35mm M lenses and my fondness for the rangefinder design.

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After a couple of days of using the Epson R-D1 with my 50mm and 35mm Leica lenses, I have to say that Epson did an admirable job. I could almost envision this camera with a Leica logo on it (which raises the interesting question of why Epson and not Leica took the time and considerable expensive to build the R-D1). It’s close to my M3 in weight and shape, and it has the same bright rangefinder viewfinder and smooth, quiet action—right down to the winding lever to cock the shutter. When I tripped the shutter, however, the R-D1 was not quite as quiet as my M3. I was somewhat less impressed with the shots from the R-D1, but it might not be the camera’s fault. Shots taken with the 50mm Leica lens (which effectively becomes a 75mm lens in the digital format) were sharp and had good color. Those taken with the 35mm lens looked fogged (I will have to check the lens.)

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In terms of image quality, the R-D1 has plenty of poise, the colours are natural and images with the Biogon lens I used are extremely crisp indeed. The camera’s TTL screen surface direct actual-aperture metering is slightly biased to the underexposure side of things but all my shots, RAWs and all were duly satisfying.

Expensive but unique, the Epson R-D1 is a true enthusiasts must have camera – or an almost perfect professional back up tool for the more spontaneous shooter. Superb.

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Touted as the first digital rangefinder camera, the 6.1-megapixel Epson R-D1 is a solid, compact, wonderfully designed camera with an EM mount for more than 200 L- (via an included adapter) and M-mount Leica-type lenses, as well as the Voigtlander 35-mm f/1.7 lens we used for this review. As a rangefinder camera, the R-D1 lacks an autofocus system. Instead you look through the view finder, which presents a double image. Rotating a collar around the lens back and forth moves the two images farther apart and closer together. The image is in focus when the two images become one.

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Uncomplicated in both appearance and operation, the Epson PhotoPC L-500V offers the ease of point-and-shoot simplicity and the quality of a 5.0-megapixel CCD and 3x optical zoom lens. The camera’s large 2.5-inch LCD monitor is clear and bright, even under bright lighting and is easily the highest-resolution, sharpest-looking LCD I’ve seen on a digital camera to date. Image quality is excellent, with bright yet accurate color, good resolution, and relatively little lens distortion. A ruggedly constructed all-metal case and retracting lens with built-in lens cover make for a pocket-friendly design, an excellent option for users on the go. With four preset scene modes, a limited number of exposure options, and a full Auto exposure mode, the L-500V is a great match for novices or even intermediate photographers who just need a second, “take anywhere” digital camera.

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