The WIDELUX is an amazing true panoramic camera. It's also expensive and finicky.

Hasselblad's XPAN is gorgeous and costly.

I chose the Mini Top 846 for this presentation. I simply cannot resist optical lenses. The MT 846 has a 28mm lens. A built in lens cover, beautiful lines and striking graphics.

It also has double exposure prevention and a sophisticated device that locks the shutter should you forget to open the lens cover.

While the MT 846 is complicated, its performance justifys the steep learning curve.

The "P" switch moves the watch-like stuff inside the camera and selects "normal" or "panoramic." The "P" stands for "panoramic." There is no "N" setting. I found this a bit confusing at first.

This view shows the pano device set to the "P" (panoramic) option.

The owners manual is written in six languages. Paragraph eight says: "Should you have trouble with your camera, do not attempt to perform repairs yourself !"

Of course not. I'd look for an authorized Mini Top technician.

Canal in Holyoke MA

Curved building in Holyoke - Normal setting

Gate 5 Quabbin Reservoir

Arista 400 film. C41 color film is wonderfully forgiving. The camera shutter speed is around 1/60 second and these photos were taken in gloom and bright sunlight.