Lomography is back with the announcement of its latest, well, back. The LomoGraflok 4×5 Instant Back is the world’s first Instant Back for 4×5 cameras designed for Fujifilm Instax Wide film.
Developed in collaboration with large format photography professionals as a substitute for the peel-apart Polaroid film discontinued back in 2016, the LomoGraflok 4×5 Instant Back works with all Graflok-equipped 4×5 cameras and uses a light-tightened film ejection unit to push out the Instax Wide film shots after capture.
Below are a few sample photos, shared by Lomography:
The device is constructed of plastic, is powered by four ‘AA’ batteries (LR6) and features an automated frame counter so you know how many shots are left. It measures in at 181mm (7.13”) tall, 120mm (4.72”) wide and 50mm (1.97”) deep, and weighs roughly 500g (1.1lbs).
Below is a guide on how to use the LomoGraflok 4×5 Instant Back:
The LomoGraflok is currently available to pre-order on the Lomography website for $ 134 (MSRP will be $ 149 once launched). The first units are expected to ship in April 2021.
The post How Using Instant Cameras Can Improve Your Photography appeared first on Digital Photography School. It was authored by Megan Kennedy.
There is something magical about instant cameras. Depress the shutter button and a little image is ejected, slowly developing before your eyes. More than just a novelty, instant cameras have practical and artistic applications. Here’s how using instant cameras can help improve your photography overall.
What are instant cameras?
First things first. What exactly is an instant camera? Generally, the term instant camera describes a camera that uses self-developing film to deliver a photographic image within minutes of pressing the shutter button.
The first commercially viable instant camera system was introduced in 1947 by the founder of Polaroid, Edwin Land.
A year later, Land’s Model 95 Land Camera and the corresponding film went on sale in a department store in Boston. The cameras, which dramatically altered the accessibility and creative possibilities of photography, sold out in mere minutes.
Land and Polaroid continued to develop instant camera systems. Originally delivering a sepia-toned image, instant film graduated to black and white and then to color in 1963.
However, up until 1972, using instant cameras was much less straight forward than the process we know today. Exposed Polaroid film required a photographer to peel back a negative sheet after 60 seconds to reveal the instant image. This often left chemical residue on the user’s hands.
Some earlier processes also required users to coat the developed film with a mixture of stabilizing chemicals.
The arrival of the Polaroid SX-70 in 1972 marked a turning point in instant camera technology. The SX-70 ejected film with no negative sheet or chemical residue, shaping the trajectory of instant camera models thereafter and realizing Land’s dream of a fully instant camera system.
Instant cameras may have been largely superseded by digital technology today. Still, the distinctive aesthetic and physicality of the instant camera process have seen a resurgence in recent years. Companies like Polaroid, Fujifilm, and Leica all offering up modern incarnations of the instant camera and corresponding film.
A new approach
There are many ways using instant cameras can improve on a photographer’s process. Perhaps the most obvious impact of modern instant photography is the practical knowledge that a less-than-mainstream photographic medium affords.
Since their invention, instant cameras have presented an intriguing alternative to standard photographic practice.
Andy Warhol made famous use of the instant camera, as did Luigi Ghirri – a pioneer of color photography. By using both a familiar yet unique photographic technique, these photographers (and many more) pushed the boundaries of what was understood to be the accepted approach to photographic image-making.
Most modern photography is created and distributed digitally. But stepping away from the norm to negotiate the ins and outs of an instant camera presents new perspectives and challenges – broadening artistic experience and opening up creative opportunities.
The benefits of new photographic experiences are not exclusive to instant cameras. However, the process, inherent associations, and distinctive aesthetics of instant camera photography can contribute greatly to the many layers of visual language a photographer draws upon in the field.
Getting it right in-camera
They’re nifty, but keeping an instant camera stocked with film can be pricey. This means that getting the most out of each frame is a priority. Even though price can be a downside to using instant cameras, maximizing the success of each shot encourages a more effective photographic practice overall.
Getting an image right in-camera makes the most of the technology at hand, refining photographic skill sets and saving time. By measuring an exposure against a limited amount of instant film frames, instant cameras slow the photographic process, inviting the photographer to carefully and deliberately consider creative and technical aspects before depressing the shutter button.
While instant camera photography often departs from the technical standards of digital and film photography, this ‘slow’ approach to photography inevitably translates to other facets of a photographer’s practice, honing visual awareness and sharpening technical skill.
Pre-Visualisation
An early proponent of instant camera technology, Ansel Adams maintained that pre-visualization was a critical component of strong image-making. As we’ve touched on, instant camera film isn’t cheap, but pre-visualization is a valuable way to minimize dud shots.
Pre-visualization involves mentally untangling the many components that go into executing an effective photograph before the photograph is made. By pre-visualizing, a photographer can take executable steps towards achieving an appealing image in-camera, often with greater efficiency and success.
The risk of wasting expensive film makes the need for pre-visualization particularly pronounced in instant camera photography. The more consideration that is put into an image pre-exposure, the greater the chances of a successful instant photograph.
Also, the immediate effectiveness of combining pre-visualization techniques with instant camera photography generates positive momentum. This then feeds better habits across all forms of photographic practice.
The reset button
Instant photography was designed with fun in mind, so it’s no surprise that the simple, idiosyncratic cameras provide a well-deserved distraction from the effects of creative fatigue.
Paired back in design, instant cameras tend to have less in-built settings than their digital counterparts. This simplicity can encourage creativity in composition and subject selection over technical perfection.
In addition, the unique aesthetic of instant photography is viewed as the marker of a distinct and quirky artistic process. This means that some mistakes that would ruin a digital image are embraced in an instant camera photograph.
This loosening of technical constraints means that instant cameras can serve as an effective refresher for photographers looking to recharge creative batteries.
Conclusion
Using instant cameras isn’t just fun, it can inform and improve your image-making overall. With a unique aesthetic, limited film and paired-down design, instant cameras are an engaging alternative to the photographic mainstream.
Do you shoot with instant cameras? Share your thoughts and images with us in the comments below.
The post How Using Instant Cameras Can Improve Your Photography appeared first on Digital Photography School. It was authored by Megan Kennedy.
A new Kickstarter campaign is seeking funds for NONS SL42, the first instant camera to feature an interchangeable M42 lens mount and support for Instax Mini instant film. The camera can be used with ‘hundreds of classic M42 lenses,’ according to the team behind the project, which explains that pairing an M42 lens with Instax film results in a round image frame.
NONS SL42 is an SLR camera that took more than a year to develop, according to the campaign. In addition to Instax instant film support, the SL42 features an adjustable aperture, manual focus, a hot shoe, shutter speed control and support for multiple exposures. The device is powered by two AA batteries.
The Kickstarter campaign is offering the NONS SL42 instant camera for pledges of at least $ 1,550 HK / $ 200 USD. Backers also have other pledge options, such as the camera bundled with film for around $ 219, bundled with a lens for around $ 232 and bundled with film and a lens for around $ 258. Shipping to backers is expected to start in August 2020, assuming the campaign is successful.
Disclaimer: Remember to do your research with any crowdfunding project. DPReview does its best to share only the projects that look legitimate and come from reliable creators, but as with any crowdfunded campaign, there’s always the risk of the product or service never coming to fruition.
PBS affiliate WGBH recently took viewers into The Polaroid Project, a new exhibition at the MIT Museum. Described as ‘being at the intersection of art and technology,’ Polaroid revolutionized photography with the launch of its first instant camera in 1947.
The exhibit showcases notable Polaroid photography from past decades, as well as a number of Polaroid instant cameras and instant film packs. Curator Willian Ewing in talking about the technology told WGBH correspondent Jared Bowen:
It was a very small thing you could hold in the hand, but you had to participate in the making of the picture. The thing whirred and clicked. The picture came out and developed slowly. And that was described as magic.
The Polaroid Project Part I will be live until February 23 followed by Part II from March 9 to June 21.
Fujifilm has launched the Instax Mini Link, its latest photo printer designed to turn digital photos into analog Instax prints.
The handheld device works hand-in-hand with Fujifilm’s new Instax Mini Link app to share and print images wirelessly. Fujifilm says the device can transfer prints in ‘about 12 seconds’ and can print up to 100 Instax prints per charge.
The Instax Mini Link has special printing modes including called ‘Video Print’ and ‘Party Print.’ ‘Video Print’ lets you scrub through a video to capture a still to print with the devices, while ‘Party Print’ allows up to five different smartphones to pair together to create a collage of images in a single print. An additional ‘Surprise Mode’ within the ‘Party Print’ option will randomly scramble the images, ensuring the final print remains a mystery until it’s revealed.
Basic edits can be made to photos within the Instax Mini Link app and a collection of border options are available to for further customization. Fujifilm’s X Series and GFX System cameras can also be paired with the Instax Mini Link via the Fujifilm Camera Remote app—because who doesn’t want an instant print from a $ 4,499 51.4-megapixel camera body?
The Instax Mini Link printer will be available in blue, pink and white versions and is expected to retail for $ 99.95 when it becomes available to purchase on October 4, 2019. For more information, check out the Instax Mini Link website.
Polaroid Originals has introduced the Polaroid Lab, a new instant printer that will turn your digital smartphone photos into instant prints.
The Polaroid Lab appears to be a rebranded version of Impossible Project’s Instant Lab released back in 2013, but offers a few new features and brings a retro-inspired design.
Like the Instant Lab, the Polaroid Lab uses your smartphone’s screen as a projector of sorts to capture the image on an instant photo. The process requires you to download the Polaroid Originals app on your Android or iOS smartphone. Once downloaded, images can be selected and edited before prepping them for their analog conversion.
Three lenses and multiple mirrors inside the Polaroid Lab take the image on the screen and focus them on any Polaroid i-Type film. When the red button on the base of the Polaroid Lab is pressed, the image is transferred to the instant film and ejected from the device.
The Polaroid Lab features an internal battery that’s rechargeable via Micro USB. Polaroid Originals says it supports iOS devices running iOS 11 or newer going back to the iPhone 6S and Android devices running Android 7 or newer for the current devices from major manufacturers.
The Polaroid Lab will retail for $ 129.99 / EUR €129,99 / GBP £119 when it ships. Polaroid Originals says the Polaroid Lab is ‘coming soon’ but fails to provide specifics beyond that. For more information, visit the Polaroid Originals’ website and sign up to receive more information on the Polaroid Lab as it’s released.
Fujifilm’s next Instax mini model has a 5MP sensor, saves images to a memory card and allows users to record a ten-second audio clip that can be played when the printed picture is viewed. The Instax mini LiPlay, Fujifilm’s smallest and lightest Instax to date, produces the usual credit card sized prints but can print a QR code in the corner that links to the audio that was recorded to go along with the picture.
The idea is that users can record a message to a friend with whom they will share the picture taken with the camera. The friend scans the QR code using Fujifilm’s Instax mini LiPlay app and the audio clip plays through the phone. The audio could be a spoken message or the sounds from the place the picture was taken – Fujifilm suggests the sound of the sea to accompany pictures from the beach.
The camera uses a 5MP sensor and allows users to review images before deciding to print them or not. Images can also be saved to internal memory or to a removable MicroSD card, and images taken with other devices can be printed on the camera via a smartphone with a Bluetooth connection. The camera’s lens has an angle of view to match a 28mm lens on a full frame system and has a maximum aperture of F2. The lens has an AF system and shutter speeds run from ¼ – 1/8000sec, while the auto ISO feature moves between ISO 100 and 1600.
The Instax mini LiPlay will come in three colors and textures, and will begin shipping immediately depending on your region. It will cost $ 159.99/£149.99. For more information see the Fujifilm website.
Press release:
Hybrid instant camera “Instax mini LiPlay”
New-generation instax with sound-recording capability!
Capture memories in an instax print with audio message
Mini-format film “CONFETTI” and square-format film “Star-illumination” with metallic frame also available to add a touch of flamboyance to your pictures
FUJIFILM Corporation (President: Kenji Sukeno) has announced that it will release a hybrid instant camera “instax mini LiPlay” (hereinafter “LiPlay”), which supports credit-card-size film, on or after June 14, 2019 on a market-by-market basis. The model is a new addition to the lineup of “instax” instant cameras, which allows you to enjoy photo prints on the spot. The camera’s main unit is the smallest and most lightweight in the history of the instax series for outstanding portability. Yet, at the same time, the camera is packed with new features such as the “Sound” function* to convey a voice message or other audio data in the form of a QR code** included in a photo print, and the “Direct Print” function*1 to print images in your smartphone on instax film — broadening the scope of situations the camera can be enjoyed.
Fujifilm has also announced new metallic instax mini film “CONFETTI” and instax square film “Star-illumination,” available in two designs, adding a touch of creativity to your photos.
Overview of the instax series
The “instax” series of instant cameras, launched in 1998, is affectionately called “Cheki” in Japan, where it has enjoyed wide popularity for over 20 years. Today, it is sold in over 100 countries around the world, including Europe, Americas and Asia Pacific, with the cumulative number of shipments topping 45 million worldwide. It has been particularly loved by the digital-native generation in their teens and young adults who have embraced it as a communication tool, saying “It is fun to share those precious moments in life in the form of photo prints. When I hand photo prints to my friends, it gives me a real sense of connection with them.”
Overview of the new product, “instax mini LiPlay”
The new “LiPlay,” is a hybrid instant camera that allows you to review photos captured on the device via the LCD monitor on the back of the camera and choose images you want to print. The camera’s “Sound” function is capable of recording up to ten seconds of audio. The function converts the audio data into a QR code and adds it to a photo to be printed out together. The audio can be replayed*** by scanning the printed QR code with a smartphone*4. This allows you to give a photo together with your description about the pictured scene. The camera also features the “Direct Print” function, which transfers a photo taken with your smartphone to the LiPlay for printing. You can print your favorite picture in your smartphone easily on instax film and share it with your friends. To make it easy to take a group photo, the camera also offers the “Remote Shooting” function so that you can use a smartphone operation to release the shutter while standing away from the camera itself.
The camera body boasts a streamlined and stylish design. Its compact and lightweight form factor makes it easy to carry. Buttons and dials for basic operations such as shutter release and “Sound” function are laid out for advanced operability. Extra attention has been paid to perfect the camera’s texture. The camera comes in three colors, each of which has different surface processing, such as embossed or smooth finish.
Fujifilm will continue to broaden the world of the “instax” instant photo system for on-the-spot photo printing.
* * The free “instax mini LiPlay” app must be downloaded and installed on your smartphone to use the Sound and Direct Print functions. * ** QR Code is a registered trademark of Denso Wave Inc. * *** Recorded audio data is stored for one year from the time it is uploaded to the server together with its linked photo image via a special smartphone app. * *4 Smartphones with the QR Code scanning capability are required to read the QR code.
1. Product Name
(1) Hybrid instant camera “instax mini LiPlay”
(2) Mini-format film “CONFETTI”
(3) Square-format film “Star-illumination”
2. Release Date
On or after June 14, 2019, on a market-by-market basis
3. Price
Open price
4. Main features
(1) “instax mini LiPlay” 1. Smallest and most lightweight hybrid instant camera in the history of the instax series The LiPlay is a highly-portable hybrid instant camera that incorporates digital technology. Featuring a 2.7-inch LCD monitor at the rear, the camera allows you to shoot photos while checking the monitor and choose pictures to print. The camera also offers brightness adjustment capability based on exposure compensation as well as six filters for processing photos, e.g. in sepia tone or in monochrome, to create a different impression.
2. New “Sound” function The camera’s audio-recording capability means you can record up to 10 seconds of sound. The function converts sound data into a QR code and prints it on your photo. Scan the QR code with a smartphonoe’s QR Code reader and replay the audio message. Printing a photo with a recorded message allows you to convey your sentiments to the person receiving the photo, making the scene more memorable. Alternatively, photograph a beach and attach the sound of waves, for example, to create a print that reminds you of the photographed situation, so that your memory of the precious moment stays vivid.
3. “Direct Print” function to use the camera as a smartphone printer Images stored in a smartphone can be transferred to the camera via Bluetooth*5 for printing. You can enlarge or rotate images before transferring them. 4. “Remote Shooting” function for taking pictures while standing away from the camera This function allows you to release the shutter with a smartphone operation while standing away from the camera. Remotely-taken images can be also printed on the spot. This function is particularly useful for a group photo or when you want to achieve a dynamic effect by taking photos from high or low angles. 5. Wide variety of design frames on offer The camera comes pre-installed with ten design frames, which can be selected during or after taking a picture so that they are incorporated into the image for printing. Download the “instax mini LiPlay” smartphone app (free) to enjoy 20 additional design frames, bringing the total number of design frames available to 30.
6. Stylish camera body design The streamlined shape of the camera body is complemented with a different surface finish for each of the three color variations in a design approach that even pays close attention to your tactile sense. The Stone White version has a rough, stone-like surface achieved with a special spray coating. The Elegant Black version features an eye-catching embossed finish on the camera surface, while the Blush Gold version dazzles with a smooth lustrous finish. Metallic parts are used for the lens ring, etc. for a premium look.
(2) New instax film 1. Mini-format film “CONFETTI”
Compatible with all “instax mini” series models that support the mini format
Colorful metallic frame that adds a touch of flamboyance to your photo
10 prints per pack
2. Square-format film “Star-illumination”
Compatible with all “instax SQUARE” series models that support the square format
Elegant design of the night sky scattered with colorful stars to make your photo look stylish
10 prints per pack
* *5 Bluetooth® work mark and logo are registered trademarks of Bluetooth SIG, Inc. FUJIFILM Corporation uses these marks based on a license agreement.
Looking to get in on the instant camera fun? We tried every model and think the Fujifilm Instax Mini 70 strikes the right balance between price and features – the Instax Wide 300 is our choice if you crave a larger format.
Nikon US has announced its seasonal ‘Capture the Savings’ sales event and with it comes a number of impressive instant savings across its mirrorless, DSLR and Coolpix cameras, as well as Nikkor lenses.
The event, which starts Sunday, April 28, is limited to products sold in the United States by Nikon Authorized Dealers, including but not limited to Adorama and B&H. If multiple products are required for the instant savings, Nikon notes that the items must be bought at the same time and appear on the same receipt for the savings to apply.
The full list of deals can be found on Nikon USA’s website, but we’ve rounded up a few of our favorites below, with the links to the products on Adorama and B&H:
Coolpix
Coolpix P900 Camera (Adorama, B&H) — $ 100 Instant Savings (April 28, 2019 through June 1st, 2019)
Coolpix W300 Camera (Adorama, B&H) — $ 90 Instant Savings (May 12, 2019 through May 18, 2019)
DSLRs
Nikon D850 Body Only (Adorama, B&H) — $ 300 Instant Savings (April 28, 2019 through June 1, 2019)
Nikon D750 Body Only (Adorama, B&H) — $ 400 Instant Savings (April 28, 2019 through June 1, 2019)
Nikon D750 24-120 VR Kit (Adorama, B&H) — $ 1,000 Instant Savings (April 28, 2019 through June 1, 2019)
Nikon D7500 Body Only (Adorama, B&H) — $ 200 Instant Savings (April 28, 2019 through June 1, 2019)
Nikon D7500 16-80 VR Kit (Adorama, B&H) — $ 670 Instant Savings (April 28, 2019 through June 1, 2019)
Nikon Z-series
Nikon Z6 Body Only (Adorama, B&H) — $ 200 Instant Savings (April 28, 2019 through June 1, 2019)
Nikon Z6 24-70 Kit (Adorama, B&H) — $ 200 Instant Savings (April 28, 2019 through June 1, 2019)
Nikon Z6 Filmmaker’s Kit (Adorama, B&H) — $ 200 Instant Savings (April 28, 2019 through June 1, 2019)
Nikon Z7 Body Only (Adorama, B&H) — $ 600 Instant Savings (April 28, 2019 through June 1, 2019)
Nikon Z7 24-70 Kit (Adorama, B&H) — $ 600 Instant Savings (April 28, 2019 through June 1, 2019)
Nikkor Lenses
24-70mm f/2.8E ED VR (Adorama, B&H) — $ 500 Instant Savings (April 28, 2019 through June 1, 2019)
70-200mm f/2.8E FL ED VR (Adorama, B&H) — $ 650 Instant Savings (April 28, 2019 through June 1, 2019)
105mm f/1.4E ED (Adorama, B&H) — $ 300 Instant Savings (April 28, 2019 through June 1, 2019)
85mm f/1.4G (Adorama, B&H) — $ 150 Instant Savings (April 28, 2019 through June 1, 2019)
58mm f/1.4G (Adorama, B&H) — $ 150 Instant Savings (April 28, 2019 through June 1, 2019)
35mm f/1.4G (Adorama, B&H) — $ 150 Instant Savings (April 28, 2019 through June 1, 2019)
28mm f/1.4E ED (Adorama, B&H) — $ 200 Instant Savings (April 28, 2019 through June 1, 2019)
The various prices are determined by the Authorized Nikon Dealers at the time of sale. Nikon also notes that all prices and specifications of these deals are subject to change without notice, and Nikon is not responsible for printing or typographical errors with pricing information.
Canon Europe has unveiled its new Zoemini S and Zoemini C, follow-up products to the original Zoemini portable printer launched last year.
The two new camera models feature an integrated printer that supports Zink adhesive-backed photo paper, enabling users to directly capture and print their images as small stickers. The Zoemini S is the flagship model, offering mobile app support and select other features the Zoemini C lacks. Although it’s Canon Europe that made the announcement it was Canon Deutschland that uploaded an introduction video to YouTube. There’s no audio, but the overlaid text is in German.
The Canon Zoemini S features an 8MP camera and a microSD card slot for directly capturing and storing images. The camera itself is quite basic, featuring a front-facing mirror, ring light, Bluetooth connectivity, and an integrated Zink printer.
The Zoemini S model supports Canon’s Mini Print App for Android and iOS, which receives images from the camera over Bluetooth. Device owners can use the app to apply image filters, create collages, and print 2 x 3in / 5 x 7.6cm photos, as well as remotely triggering the camera’s shutter and setting a timer.
The Zoemini S will be offered in Pearl White, Matte Black, and Rose Gold color options starting on April 25.
Joining the Zoemini S is the Zoemini C, which features a 5MP instead of 8MP sensor alongside a microSD card slot and integrated Zink printer. The Zoemini C model likewise features a front-facing selfie mirror, but does not feature a ring light or support the Canon Mini Print App.
The Zoemini C will be offered in Bumblebee Yellow, Bubble Gum Pink, Mint Green, and Seaside Blue colors starting April 25.
Both camera models will be shipped with 10 sheets of Zink adhesive-backed photo paper and as of publishing there is no pricing information available.
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