CultureAugust 16, 2026

rangefinder

RAYNJ-fyn-der

Definition

A camera equipped with a focusing mechanism that uses two separate views of the subject to help the photographer determine accurate distance and focus.

Etymology

The word is a compound of 'range' (referring to distance) and 'finder' (referring to the device used to locate or aim), emerging in the early 20th century to describe optical instruments used for distance estimation.

In the news

The article describes the Plaubel Makina 67 as a sophisticated folding rangefinder, highlighting how this specific type of camera design contributed to its high-quality professional reputation.

Film photographers are still obsessed with the Plaubel Makina 67 – this medium-format camera is worth far more today than when it was new

Read the full article ↗

Digital Camera World

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