We have featured a number of Lego cameras here on Geeky Gadget, but this latest Legoflex twin lens build by freelance photographer Carl-Frederic Salicath looks fantastic.
Carl-Frederic decided to build the camera after being inspired by Cary Norton 4 x 5 Lego Camera we featured back in April last year. The camera he chose for his project was a Twin-Lens Reflex (TLR) using 120-film made from Lego bricks.
Understanding Twin-Lens Reflex Cameras
A twin-lens reflex camera uses two identical lenses, one of which it uses for the user viewfinder and the other for exposing the film to capture the photograph. This design allows photographers to compose their shots through one lens while the other lens captures the image on film. The TLR design is known for its simplicity and durability, making it a favorite among vintage camera enthusiasts. Carl-Frederic Salicath explains:
“I marvel at how simple [the Brownie] is”- “A lens (that’s one lens-element, one!) a shutter blade, an aperture (in some cameras a metal plate with two different holes drilled into it) and some rolls to keep the film in place. That is all it took to shoot great pictures.”
The simplicity of the TLR design is part of what makes it so appealing. With fewer moving parts and a straightforward mechanism, these cameras are less prone to mechanical failure and can produce stunningly sharp images. The use of 120-film also contributes to the high-quality results, as this medium format film offers greater detail and resolution compared to standard 35mm film.
The Inspiration and Build Process
Carl-Frederic’s inspiration came from the innovative work of Cary Norton, who built a 4 x 5 Lego camera. Motivated by this creative endeavor, Carl-Frederic set out to create his own version using the TLR format. The process involved meticulous planning and a deep understanding of both Lego construction and camera mechanics.
Building a functional camera from Lego bricks is no small feat. It requires precision and an eye for detail to ensure that all components fit together perfectly and operate smoothly. Carl-Frederic’s Legoflex camera is a testament to his skill and creativity. The camera not only looks impressive but also functions as a fully operational TLR camera.
For more information on the complete build, jump over to Carl-Frederic Salicath website for more images and details of the build.
The Significance of Lego Cameras
Lego cameras like the Legoflex are more than just novelty items; they represent a fusion of art, engineering, and photography. These creations challenge the conventional boundaries of camera design and demonstrate that functional photographic equipment can be built from unconventional materials. They also inspire a sense of nostalgia and playfulness, reminding us of the joy of building and creating with our hands.
Moreover, projects like the Legoflex encourage innovation and experimentation within the photography community. They show that with a bit of creativity and ingenuity, photographers can push the limits of what is possible and explore new ways of capturing images. Whether for educational purposes, artistic expression, or simply for fun, Lego cameras continue to captivate and inspire.
Source: Carl-Frederic Salicath : Digital Trends
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