October 2023
This month we look at what happened at our last photowalk, how to double expose your film and we take a walk down memory lane with the Pentax MX.
On the 1st of October 2023, our Single Quarters film walk took place. We all met up at Joes Beerhouse at 17:00 and waiting for the light to get good before we headed out.
This was the second film walk our club has done and I would say it was a resounding success. The golden afternoon light streamed in through the smoke filled stalls of Single Quarters in Katatura. This Sunday afternoon was filled with the Kasi vibe. Friendly stalls owners, meat cutters and Kapana chefs invigorated the fiery atmosphere.
We look forward to our next photowalk oppertunity and to everyone who can join us next time!
- Tim Brunauer
Some of the key shots captured on October’s photowalk at Single Quarters.
Images were captured digitally by Sebastian Braune on his Fujifilm X-T30.
Creating Double Exposures on Film.
Are you bored with conventional film photography and want to spice up your images with some abstract effects? If so, you might be interested in experimenting with some double exposures. This month, I will be sharing a few simple steps on how to do so.
Double exposure is a photographic technique that allows photographers to create unique and mesmerizing images by overlaying two or more exposures onto a single frame of film. While this technique has become much less common with the advent of digital cameras, it still holds a special place in the hearts of many film photography enthusiasts.
To achieve a double exposure on a film camera, you will need a camera that allows manual control over shutter speed and aperture, as well as the ability to advance the film manually (such as the Pentax MX, K1000, Nikon 35Ti etc.). Additionally, you will need a roll of film and a subject or scene that you wish to photograph. Here's how you can accomplish it:
Choose a camera that supports multiple exposures:
Not all film cameras have the capability to shoot double exposures. Look for cameras that have a multiple exposure feature or the ability to disengage the film advance mechanism to allow for multiple exposures on a single frame.
Plan your shots carefully:
Double exposure requires careful planning and visualisation. Think about the subjects or scenes you want to combine and how they might work together. Consider the contrast, textures, and colours of the subjects, as well as the relationship you want to create between them.
Meter for both exposures separately:
Before shooting, meter for the first subject or scene using the camera's built-in light meter or a handheld light meter. Take note of the aperture and shutter speed settings. For the second exposure, repeat the process to ensure proper exposure for both subjects.
Shoot the first exposure:
Compose your first shot and focus accordingly. Take the photo, making sure not to advance the film. Some cameras may offer a "multiple exposure" lever or button to prevent advancing the film automatically. Alternatively, you can hold the rewind release button while winding the film advance lever to prevent the film from advancing.
Shoot the second exposure:
Without advancing the film, recompose and refocus for the second shot. Pay attention to aligning the elements of the second exposure with those of the first. Press the shutter button to capture the second exposure.
Advance the film:
After completing the double exposure, advance the film manually to the next frame using the film advance lever. Remember not to wind the film too far, as you may accidentally skip a frame or overlap exposures.
Repeat if desired:
You can repeat the process of shooting double exposures on subsequent frames of film until you finish the roll. Experiment with different combinations of subjects and scenes to create striking and imaginative photographs.
Double exposure offers a creative outlet to blend various elements within a single photograph. It provides a unique opportunity to tell stories, evoke emotions, or simply showcase artistic expression. With film cameras, the process may seem more challenging, but it also adds to the excitement and unpredictability of the outcome.
So, whether you're a film photography enthusiast or simply looking to explore new ways of capturing images, give double exposure a try. With some planning, experimentation, and a touch of creativity, you'll be amazed at the stunning results you can achieve by overlapping multiple exposures onto a single frame of film.
- Cobus Lowe
Unveiling the Timeless Brilliance of the Pentax MX Film Camera
Oh, where to begin.
Starting my journey in film and getting into the retro side of photography, the Pentax MX was my first mechanical camera, and it's left quite an impression. One thing that I really had to get used to was how sensitive the shutter release button is on this camera. Coming from a Canon D90 and new digital camera bodies, this one felt like a hair-trigger. I just had to get this camera as soon as I set my eyes on it. It’s aesthetics are just breathtaking. The film advance lever just made it feel like I’m ready for anything and made me want to snap some shots right away.
In a world dominated by digital technology, where convenience and instant gratification are highly valued, it is easy to overlook the timeless brilliance of analog photography. This is a camera that exemplifies the beauty and craftsmanship of film photography. Introduced in 1976, this compact single-lens reflex (SLR) camera quickly gained a reputation for its outstanding build quality, exceptional performance, and stunning image quality. Even today, despite its vintage origins, the Pentax MX continues to captivate the user with its ability to evoke a sense of nostalgia and produce striking images that stand the test of time.
Lastly, the enduring brilliance of the Pentax MX lies in its ability to create images with a distinctive aesthetic quality. The grain structure, dynamic range, and tonal richness of film photography are simply unmatched by their digital counterparts. The inherent limitations of film, such as its finite number of exposures and the absence of instant results, can actually be seen as strengths that challenge photographers to refine their craft and make each shot count. The resulting images possess a unique character that digital replication cannot fully imitate, making the photographic journey all the more captivating.
I found that the Pentax MX to be a timeless symbol of film photography's enduring brilliance. As I started to explore the seemingly infinite possibilities of digital technology. I feel it is important to honour the artistry and craftsmanship that have shaped the foundations of photography. The MX's exceptional build quality, precise viewfinder, lens versatility, deliberate shooting process, and unparalleled image quality all contribute to its position as an icon of analog photography.
By embracing the Pentax MX, I did not only capture moments in time but also experienced the magic of film photography. The meter on mine has unfortunately stopped working, but it doesn't really bother me. I just use a handheld meter or meter by eye. Otherwise, I can't say I have any complaints, and still go forward with enjoying every moment I get to use this camera.
The Pentax MX was designed for photographers who seeking for precision and reliability. Built with a sturdy metal body and a compact size, this camera is a testament to Pentax's commitment to creating a durable and portable device. Its all-metal construction not only gives it a distinct retro aesthetic but also ensures that it can withstand the thoroughness of frequent use. With a weight of just 460 grams, it gave me the perfect balance between portability and stability, making it a versatile tool for all of my on the go shots.
Beyond its robust build, the Pentax MX boasts a range of features that contribute to its timeless brilliance. The standout aspect I found is the exceptional viewfinder, which offers a bright and clear image, allowed me to compose my shots with precision. The MX's viewfinder showcases a large, high-eyepoint design, which accommodates eyeglass wearers and ensures comfortable shooting for extended periods. This feature, combined with a microprism focusing screen, makes it effortless to achieve accurate focus and capture sharp, detailed images.
The Pentax MX's versatility is further showcased by its extensive range of interchangeable lenses. Compatible with a vast array of Pentax K-mount lenses, photographers have the freedom to explore various focal lengths and perspectives, enabling them to fully express their creative vision. Whether capturing sweeping landscapes with a wide-angle lens or isolating a subject with a telephoto, the MX empowers photographers with an abundance of choices, allowing them to compose images tailored to their unique style.
- Cobus Lowe
