Here's all of my film cameras; big, small, old and...well, older. No specific order, which is just the way I use them. So far I have put at least a roll through almost all of them, those in need of some extra TLC will get a go once I get around to fixing them (mostly light seal replacements).
So why do I have so many? Firstly, they are cheap and it's surprising how many you can find at the dump for a few dollars that still function perfectly despite the heavy covering of dust and grime. Secondly, they are the most fascinating piece of machinery I know of. Each and every camera in my collection has approached the problems associated with taking a photograph in a different way; from the multiple approaches to focusing and metering, to film counter operation and winding handle location. Thirdly, of course, is the historical significance; as I sit and clean a newly acquired piece of mechanical art I often wonder where it has been, what is has seen and who owned it. Some have names of previous owners engraved, workshop stickers attached and of course the country of origin stamped on the body. Endless mystery.
So why do I have so many? Firstly, they are cheap and it's surprising how many you can find at the dump for a few dollars that still function perfectly despite the heavy covering of dust and grime. Secondly, they are the most fascinating piece of machinery I know of. Each and every camera in my collection has approached the problems associated with taking a photograph in a different way; from the multiple approaches to focusing and metering, to film counter operation and winding handle location. Thirdly, of course, is the historical significance; as I sit and clean a newly acquired piece of mechanical art I often wonder where it has been, what is has seen and who owned it. Some have names of previous owners engraved, workshop stickers attached and of course the country of origin stamped on the body. Endless mystery.
