Magic from dull light! Sometimes the basics are OK. A simple camera, tripod (hate them), no filters, no lens shade One roll of film. C'est tous! I love the close ups!
That last shot is stunning, Steve. Beautiful little intimate landscape that the camera, lens, film and, most importantly, the photographer handled wonderfully. Bravo.
Steve, this is magic. I've just started writing a comment under your last video asking about TLR photography on location, but then RUclips notification popped up. Great! Now it's time to watch!
About three years ago I ran into one of these at an auction in a city a few hours from home, it was in mint condition and dirt cheap. Sadly I didn't have that money, I still regret not having been able to buy it. Back then RUclips had only one video featuring the camera, and it was just a "this is how you load it" video. A bunch of videos about it were uploaded during 2019 and mostly 2020, which makes me very glad! This is a beautiful camera, the first TLR I held in my hands even if I didn't end up taking it home with me. I'm currently restoring a YashimaFlex from a very early run, so at least I'm finally able to shoot a TLR! Got it absolutely bricked, now it shoots like a dream. The only bits left are the aesthetic ones, like leatherette and paint. Great video, thanks for sharing!
Sounds like a good shooter you’ve fixed up their Jeff. There’s something appealing about a camera that looks worn out but internally it’s in fine fettle.
Like other people have said, I loved this episode. I enjoyed it so much. If you would make more videos of outings with your tlr/Minolta, I would greatly appreciate it! 😌❤️👍
Hi Steve - isn't the internet occasionally odd? I was out last night with my Autocord Seikosha Rapid, shooting Velvia for the first time - and this morning your video was at the top of my RUclips dash. I have been wanting to thank you. I 've never gotten consistently good results with the Autocord - but due in part to watching you rambles across the landscape, I've changed my approach. I had been relating to the Autocord as a rather bulky 35mm, hand-holding and composing. Now I am using the tripod always, and thinking more like I am shooting a different format, in a different way. Stopping down, using a cable, sampling the scene with my meter. So thank you - my results are improving - I have a long way to go. Everything is a process. Life is long. Peace, John
The internet is everywhere John, even when you are out shooting it knows! Glad you've found a way of making the Autocord work for you, whilst I've had success using it handheld it much prefers a slower approach.
I love TLRs. Love them enough to trim 120 roll flanges to fit in my Kodak Reflex II (620 camera). I've done a few things with it you'd swear a TLR couldn't do -- like macro shots using my dad's glasses as a diopter, held over the viewing lens to focus, then the camera moved just a little, and glasses over the taking lens for the exposure -- and yes, that was hand held; I was too young to know it couldn't work. That was about 1975, wish I still had that negative or even print... That fern shot is excellent; really shows off what you can do with just one focal length and some patience. I agree, there are days when I don't want to deal with my RB67, or one of my 35mm SLRs or my Kiev 4 system -- and a TLR does the job on those days.
Thank you!! I've shot Minoltas since 1972. Principaly 35s. XD 11 and XE 7. Both built on Leica designs. The Rocar x lenses have Carl Zeiss glass. They are the toughest cameras I have ever seen. The only draw back is weight. Your videos are a constant source of joy for me! I wish you a long and productive life!!
The design of the XD-11 and XE-11 cameras was not Leica's. On the contrary, it was from Minolta and those bodies were used for the construction of the R3 and successive R cameras, what Leica contributed was the use of the Capal shutter.
Glad to see you brought out this little beauty. Wonderful images Steve. The ferns on that log was my favourite. I have a Portra 160 film ready to in my twin lens Seagull. If the weather is good tomorrow I may well get out there for some Autumn photography while the going is good. I was in Wiltshire on Saturday shooting with my Nikons along the Kennet and Avon canal. Stay safe and hope to see a new video soon.
That last shot of the tree trunk and ferns was wonderful Steve. Seeing this vlog and especially that image affirms my desire to purchase a Yashica so I can try and shoot some 120 film!
I was often tempted to move into Medium Format but never made the step. Lovely images - I like ferns as images, they often grow in very photogenic shapes, like the one you found. Thanks.
Don’t be nervous! Jump in! I love the fact that it’s only 12 shots on a roll. It really makes you want to take the photo instead of just “spraying and praying” like with 35mm
Wonderful images and scenery. Recently picked up a bronica SQ and am finding that I just love the square format. Still experimenting but it’s really slowing me down and making me realize how hurried I’ve gotten with shooting images since switching over to digital about 15 yrs ago. I’m back to taking my time even with the z6 and am finding myself shooting in the square format with digital too. Love the addition of your choice of music with these images too...
Thank you. Square format cameras make you work in a totally different way with no time wasted deciding on orientation. Slowing down is good, time to think instead of always shooting.
I have an autocord! Lovely little camera, so light for a med. format and the shutter simply purrs. Love square format. Particularly liked the last image you took of the ferns against the silver birch. You seemed to be having an enjoyable morning out. Greatly enjoyed the video as usual, thankyou Steve.
Steve, can you talk a little about tripods and monopods. I find my elderly Slik tripod very heavy these days and do not take it out as regularly as I should. I am thinking of getting a lighter one but whatever I get it must be able to support both my Mamiya C330 and Bronica Etrs.
That was a pleasant surprise for a Tuesday evening. Loved the 1st image Steve, not so much the tree trunk shot if I am honest. The Rowecord reminds me of my friends Rolliflex, cracking camera for sure. DEetail on all imagaes looked great I have to say. Your local has to be Delamere I reckon, where else could a wet woodland look so fine, wish we had something comparable down here. Just wish the restrictions we have in Sth Wales leave us so stranded atm. Atb Al
Thanks Alan. I’m pretty stuck for locations now as I’m banned from Wales and Merseyside. Delamere is actually walkable from my house but it’s very busy as people have few other places they’re allowed to go now 😕
I've recently started my voyage into the world of (D)SLR's, and am now having my first encounter with film as well. I've gotten my hands on two medium format cameras for a very decent price, an Agfa Isolette 2 compact folding camera, and a Welta Reflekta II, a very simple TLR - but hey, it got speeds up to 1/250, a 75mm F/3.5 lens setup, and a large ground glass viewfinder, what more do you need? I'll be taking my first images with them in the coming week, and can't wait for the time to pass quickly enough, simply playing with them, the TLR in particular, has been fun already. I've been greatly enjoying your videos, they have a very pleasing and calm mood to them, and are full of small, interesting tips and opinions :)
I have this same camera. I bought it for $85 a couple years ago. Shot my first roll of film yesterday. Used Kodak TRI-X400 and hand held it. Developed the film last night and wow this little baby is sharp. I plan to use it my alongside my Hasselblad 503 as the lighter weight on the road travel camera. Just grab it take a shot and go leaving the big Hasselblad in the bag for more serious work on a tripod. Kind of my version of a point and shoot. :)
Loved it, seems that the problem with the B setting has been fixed. It also made me feel very guilty. I have a Rolleiflex F3.5 which doesn't get used very often and, four rolls of Kodak Ektar waiting for it in the fridge. You nailed the exposures there so well done. Also, it has been a very strange year. All the difficulties with work and my highly vulnerable wife aside, it seems like yesterday that I visited Formby Beach on March the 21st for our Persian new year. It feels as if an entire year of my life has been lost and I don't have a lot of them left.
It has been fought this year and I’m also feeling tired with the ongoing pressures. I hope you’ll be able to get out safely soon and your wife is keeping well. All the best - Steve.
@@SteveONions Grateful for your kind words. I have done my best under the circumstances. I have put the majority of the photographs that I have taken during the ' lock down ' period on my instagram account ( I only signed up for this reason ) and a few of my favourites from yesteryears going back to 1985 I think. I will publish the address if you wished to have a look and let me know what you thought of them. They are really a mish mash and nothing to write home about.
Nice video Steve. Loved the images. The entire video brought back memories of when I used a Yashica TLR when I first started photography some 40 odd years ago. I shot on the Yashica for several years before I got a 35mm film camera. I always loved the 6x6 aspect ratio and never quite got comfortable with 3 x 2 ratio. Thank you for sharing.
Steve; Excellent short vid ...your exposures were spot on... The focus on a simple normal lens approach is really good. I use my Minoltaflex (earlier than Autocord) and Rolleicord for the same approach; sometimes the extra lenses and weight get i n the way of the pleasure and art. Always enjoy your posts and keep up the fire for these..good luck
I think the square format really suits woodland photos Steve. Holds everything in. I must make more of an effort to get the 330 out. All photos were good, but the end close up gets the nod from me. Cheers Diz
Inspirational as ever Steve. I own a Mamiya C330 which as you know is very flexible. Bought it with my Photography student grant back in 1980, lovely camera, extremely well made and still in beautiful condition. Yes we used Hasselblads at college as well but these where battered workhorses. Yes we lusted after them as they are iconic, but even now they sell for ridiculous amounts of money. I purchased a cheap Kiev 88 for the Blad experience and Carl Zeiss Jena and Russian lenses. But I have a love affair with my Mamiya every time I use it, I time travel back to my youth and remember all the wonderful years spent as a photography student back in in day. Steve You have just put me in a very sentimental mood. I think I will just have to go and have a wee cry for years past. Don't worry I will be Okay, as long as I don't cry all over my focusing screen next time I take my Mamiya out to play. That would create havoc. Keep posting them Steve as it's always good to see what you've been up too, but just be careful as you post some powerful dangerous stuff. Yes it's not just about the photo's Steve, it's also about the pleasure and nostalgia you get from old photographic equipment.
I’m glad you liked it David and it brought back all those happy memories. It’s funny how we can get attached to certain cameras even if they aren’t the latest and greatest. Keep safe and get out with the C330 soon 👍
Autocord surprised me with it's lens. Its resolution and sharpness is unbelievable. I was lucky to get my for £70 off FB marketplace. When I look at prices now...WOW! More expensive than Rollei 😜😆
@@SteveONions I agree. However personally I think asking price of $500 (some Japanese sellers) is a little bit hard to believe. But maybe it's not how much it's worth only how much people are willing to pay?...just like premier league footballers' wages 😉
I really enjoy watching your videos! I'm not so much a landscape photographer, I mostly photograph people. In a wood like this I would have enjoyed walking, but for me it would not have been so easy to see what to photograph. Seeing your pictures I think: "Oh yes, there was a picture here!" you really inspire me to become more interested in landscape photography! 🙂
At least in the US, prices on the Autocord have been relatively high for years. It's optical excellence has been well recognized for decades. I think it may be the most costly TLR mounting a Tessar based lens, excepting the Rolleiflex with a 75mm Tessar. I doubt its prices could be driven any higher by a video.
They have gone up a lot in the past few years. Mine was well priced but needed a full service and I don’t plan on letting it go even if it gets light use. The quality is superb.
@@randallstewart175 Hehe, the comment was some sort of compliment to the quality of the video, mate. But yeah, while I don't really think that a single video can rise that much the price of a model, sure they're more prone to rise than they're to drop. I guess I'll end up getting the cheaper Minoltaflex.
Many of the earlier Autocords suffered this problem because of the brittle alloy used by Minolta for this part. Later models changed to a steel piece to solve the problem. Happily, the age of computer driven 3-D printing comes to the rescue with several sources selling replacement Autocord focus levers, usually for around $15.
My boss at the time bought one of these Minolta tlrs when they first came out. The focus lever and the folding winder knob broke in the first week of professional use. The camera went back and a refund was given. We stuck to the Rolleis after that. When I started my own photography business I bought 2 Yashica Mat Tlrs. One secondhand and one new. In ten years of hard use, both worked perfectly. I still have one from 1957 with the Lumaxar 3.5 75mm lens. For 35mm I have a 1979 Yashica fx-d quartz with a 50mm f2 lens. I prefer this 35mm camera to any other camera. I carry a pair of lr44 spare batteries in the bag, and I'm good to go. If my friend wants to use it, I put it on the AE auto setting.
Those are some beautiful images, particularly the first one. Lush colors without any over-saturation. I hope to get a TLR someday since I have never shot with one. Cheers!
Those were excellent! That first image in particular turned out beautiful! I recently have my Yashicat Mat serviced and, though I do like my Bronica SQ, I haven't had a chance to use it since. Typically if I've got the time, I'll tend to go for large format which makes the 'Mat my walk-about fun camera (that also gives a lovely look to it on BW and color). Really great cameras, TLRs! I feel shameful that I initially thought they were too goofy for my tastes and now that 'Mat is perhaps arguably my favorite camera.
A good set of images, Steve, as usual. I just returned from a few days in Robin Hoods Bay with just a Yashicamat - not a dedicated photo trip but the camera suited the occasion well. There were some compositions that would have benefited from a wide angle lens, but I just had to look for another image instead.
That first image was well worth it Steve. If it wasn't for the fact that there aren't as many around these days, I would always recommend an Autocord as an equivalent to the Yashicamat. Certainly the Rokkor lenses are/were excellent and I'm pretty sure that if you can find one, they will be a lot less expensive than a 124G.
Looking on Ebay, there is not much difference in the prices. Personally I think the Autocord has a better lens and the focussing method is also better.
The uncropped picture of the tree is actually my favorite of the series. Just somehow it balances quite well. Truly and inspiring video as always, really makes me want to go out. Just had covid, so finally am able to go out again soon.
I love my Minolta Autocord. I could walk around all day long with mine taking shots. Mine is missing some knobs/buttons (bought it used on ebay), but it still functions beautifully. My old Minolta Autocord was stolen along with 3 other cameras and a Lloyd Daylight loader, Beseler B&W enlarger and camera bag. What a loss that was. If you could recommend a source for maybe getting my Autocord thoroughly cleaned and repaired, it would be greatly appreciated!
Glad you like your new(er) Autocord Joey, shame about the loss of the old one. I got mine fully serviced by Newton Ellis in Liverpool www.newtonellis.com/
That first shot looked tricky for Velvia. I would have taken at least three shots out of fear - well done capturing it in just two! If I had to guess, you probably got it right with the first shot. Great composition, too, by the way.
I was lucky to get all that in on one frame to be honest and it was only possible thanks to the soft early morning light. Any later and I’d have needed a colour negative film.
Hi Steve, could you make a video on how to prepare yourself to shoot in the rain? I love the atmosphere and texture of a rainy day but am afraid of damaging my camera and getting very cold haha. Saw you mounted your umbrella to your tripod somehow, maybe you could cover how you went about setting that up...
The Autocord I had years ago, used to give me 13 exposures. I did have to remember whether or not when the counter said 12, if it was the first time or the second time.
Update, just finished the roll in the Autocord. Kept a log of each setting for each photo, hope they come out. I metered with my EM1X in manual mode and then set the Autocord to that. I hope it works...
@@SteveONions Hi Steve, I wish someone would do a good review of the Olympus Flex, which I just received. i think i got it figured out, put some Ilford in it and going to see what happens :)
I don't use film camera, I don't go to the forest that often. But man, that composition is a lit, I can imagine if it was shot when a fog coming in, it will be a blast..
Lovely results! While I'm not a slide film shooters I much prefer B&W even for landscape but I do love working with a TLR (Rolleiflex 2.8F in my case) even in landscape settings.
Hello Steve. My apologies for the irrelevance, but I was wondering if you (or any other viewer) could provide me with some information. I am looking for a shutter release cable for my TLR (a Ricohflex Dia), but I just can’t seem to find which type I need. Cheers! Jan.
Hi Steve great video, I have a Yashica 635 can you recommend anyone who services these Liverpool area? works well but dusty viewfinder keep up the videos really good look forward to the new folder . cheers Rob
Hi Robert. Definitely send the Yashica to Newton Ellis on Cheapside, they fixed my Autocord earlier this year and are just finishing a Bronica body for me now.
Absolutely love these videos you are doing, and, am learning so much. Thanks! I do have one question ,that, trying to get a handle on is driving me NUTS. I shoot 95% analog and develop my bw. I really do enjoy that....but, colour, specifically, colour correcting my negs is making me pull my hair. I would love to learn how you do your colour correction.
I’ll admit I’m no expert when it comes to sorting out colour balance in negative scans David. I usually adjust the basic sliders in Lightroom until it looks good and stick with that. I try to get it fairly neutral in the scanning stage (Epson or VueScan) which means messing with each colour channel. There’s probably no right or wrong way although some claim that Silverfast makes a very good job and I may investigate that route in the future.
With you on that first sentence - I love using my 1952 Leica IIIf 'red dial' and 1949 Elmar 50mm f3.5 collapsable. So compact and portable but the tiny view windows would horrify modern shooters. If it's fully mechanical and has no meter and batteries I couldn't be happier. A Fuji GW690 in pristine nick landed at mine today from Japan. Just a light tight box, a fixed (lovely!) 90mm lens and whopping 6x9cm negs, nothing more. Can't wait to take it for a spin. Another great vid Steve.
Great shots of small moments in time (as you said). Your videos are very inspirational and I enjoy watching as I’m limited to forests. One question, do you print the Velvia in the dark room or on an inkjet?
Steve, When you adjust your exposure to allow for reciprocity failure is the amount of adjustment based on your own experience or is there a tabulated value for the film? I remember seeing data sheets packed in the carton - but it was such a long time ago...
Hi David. With some films like Ektar I typically allow a little more exposure, say 50% for up to 10 second shots. Beyond that I double it. For side films I use an app that accurately shows the exact times, critical for Velvia 50. For older B&W films I’ll either guesstimate it (double it, triple it etc) or once again use an app.
Amazing shots, your framing is excellent! btw can you confirm Autocords format of 56.2x56.2 mm? I collect all native medium formats to make customized film holders for Nikon Coolscan 8000+9000. Thanks Steve for your channel.
Dumb question alert! I just purchased the identical model TLR in your video (which I enjoyed). I don’t find how to set the ASA. I have been scouring the internet looking for an answer. Is it a fixed ISO?
Steve, love your videos. I've learned a ton from you since I first found your channel a month ago and am very grateful for your ability to clearly articulate photography's aesthetics and concepts. But I'm curious about one thing that I see a lot in your videos, like this one. How do you get away with such long exposures in daylight? That first photo, for example, is 5 sec at f/16, which seems like a lot of time to me, especially during the day, but the image turned out beautifully. Does the slower shutter speed help with shadow details? I don't have much experience with medium format, so perhaps the slower shutter speed has something to do with the medium format. Anyway, thanks again for all your excellent videos.
I think the issue is with the way video enhances the available light and makes it much brighter than it actually is. Most of my shooting is very early in the morning and light levels are really low. The GoPro makes it look like midday but in reality you need a tripod for every shot.
You manage to find good pictures where others pass by
Magic from dull light! Sometimes the basics are OK. A simple camera, tripod (hate them), no filters, no lens shade One roll of film. C'est tous! I love the close ups!
Thanks Jason, the Autocord should really have another outing soon.
I loved this episode. Please make some more with the TLR!
I agree, I also love my 3 TLRs the most :-)
The uncropped image of the fallen tree, beautiful. Composition of a painter
Loved that last image. The ferns looked like they were caring for the fallen tree.
Nicely put 😊
Love what you’re doing Steve, thanks. It’s nice to see landscape photography using film.
Thank Neil 👍
I will probably never get rid of my venerable Yashica Model A just for this reason. Light weight, excellent glass and always a joy to shoot with.
That last shot is stunning, Steve. Beautiful little intimate landscape that the camera, lens, film and, most importantly, the photographer handled wonderfully. Bravo.
Thank you Christopher 👍
Steve, this is magic. I've just started writing a comment under your last video asking about TLR photography on location, but then RUclips notification popped up. Great! Now it's time to watch!
Your wish is my command 😀
Thanks for the walk and talk Steve. As always an enjoyable experience. Beautiful relic of a bygone age. Just like a diamond.
Cheers from Canada...
Thanks Wayne.
About three years ago I ran into one of these at an auction in a city a few hours from home, it was in mint condition and dirt cheap. Sadly I didn't have that money, I still regret not having been able to buy it. Back then RUclips had only one video featuring the camera, and it was just a "this is how you load it" video. A bunch of videos about it were uploaded during 2019 and mostly 2020, which makes me very glad! This is a beautiful camera, the first TLR I held in my hands even if I didn't end up taking it home with me. I'm currently restoring a YashimaFlex from a very early run, so at least I'm finally able to shoot a TLR! Got it absolutely bricked, now it shoots like a dream. The only bits left are the aesthetic ones, like leatherette and paint.
Great video, thanks for sharing!
Sounds like a good shooter you’ve fixed up their Jeff. There’s something appealing about a camera that looks worn out but internally it’s in fine fettle.
Like other people have said, I loved this episode. I enjoyed it so much. If you would make more videos of outings with your tlr/Minolta, I would greatly appreciate it! 😌❤️👍
Hi Steve - isn't the internet occasionally odd? I was out last night with my Autocord Seikosha Rapid, shooting Velvia for the first time - and this morning your video was at the top of my RUclips dash.
I have been wanting to thank you. I 've never gotten consistently good results with the Autocord - but due in part to watching you rambles across the landscape, I've changed my approach. I had been relating to the Autocord as a rather bulky 35mm, hand-holding and composing. Now I am using the tripod always, and thinking more like I am shooting a different format, in a different way. Stopping down, using a cable, sampling the scene with my meter.
So thank you - my results are improving - I have a long way to go. Everything is a process. Life is long.
Peace, John
The internet is everywhere John, even when you are out shooting it knows! Glad you've found a way of making the Autocord work for you, whilst I've had success using it handheld it much prefers a slower approach.
I love TLRs. Love them enough to trim 120 roll flanges to fit in my Kodak Reflex II (620 camera). I've done a few things with it you'd swear a TLR couldn't do -- like macro shots using my dad's glasses as a diopter, held over the viewing lens to focus, then the camera moved just a little, and glasses over the taking lens for the exposure -- and yes, that was hand held; I was too young to know it couldn't work. That was about 1975, wish I still had that negative or even print...
That fern shot is excellent; really shows off what you can do with just one focal length and some patience. I agree, there are days when I don't want to deal with my RB67, or one of my 35mm SLRs or my Kiev 4 system -- and a TLR does the job on those days.
It’s great when we don’t know what limitations are, we just get on with it and the results are often better than anyone could imagine.
@@SteveONions oh yes. If you don't know it can't be done you can often just do it.
Thank you!! I've shot Minoltas since 1972. Principaly 35s. XD 11 and XE 7. Both built on Leica designs. The Rocar x lenses have Carl Zeiss glass.
They are the toughest cameras I have ever seen. The only draw back is weight. Your videos are a constant source of joy for me! I wish you a long and productive life!!
Thank you David and I hope you continue to enjoy your Minolta’s. All the best, Steve.
The design of the XD-11 and XE-11 cameras was not Leica's. On the contrary, it was from Minolta and those bodies were used for the construction of the R3 and successive R cameras, what Leica contributed was the use of the Capal shutter.
Great vid Steve, you make medium format very tempting
Many thanks Steve for this Video and showing the Photographs. Makes my evening super !!
You are welcome Ruud.
Glad to see you brought out this little beauty. Wonderful images Steve. The ferns on that log was my favourite. I have a Portra 160 film ready to in my twin lens Seagull. If the weather is good tomorrow I may well get out there for some Autumn photography while the going is good. I was in Wiltshire on Saturday shooting with my Nikons along the Kennet and Avon canal. Stay safe and hope to see a new video soon.
Thanks Simon. My Nikon’s got a run out last Saturday but in hindsight I’d rather have taken a 120 camera - that’s going to be covered in the video 🙂
That last shot of the tree trunk and ferns was wonderful Steve. Seeing this vlog and especially that image affirms my desire to purchase a Yashica so I can try and shoot some 120 film!
Hope you get a good one Larry.
I was often tempted to move into Medium Format but never made the step. Lovely images - I like ferns as images, they often grow in very photogenic shapes, like the one you found. Thanks.
If you decided to go with TLR, my advice would be to try it out first if possible. Not everyone gets on with them but they are magic.
Don’t be nervous! Jump in! I love the fact that it’s only 12 shots on a roll. It really makes you want to take the photo instead of just “spraying and praying” like with 35mm
Thanks Keith. I’ve had quite a few TLR’s, they are an acquired taste but very capable with a little practice.
Yes, my favorite camera! Beautiful images too!
fallen tree image: 10/10. one of my favourite channels; keep up the good work Steve.
Thanks Rusty 👍
Lovely Steve. Looked like a nice day out.
Thanks Paul.
Wonderful images and scenery. Recently picked up a bronica SQ and am finding that I just love the square format. Still experimenting but it’s really slowing me down and making me realize how hurried I’ve gotten with shooting images since switching over to digital about 15 yrs ago. I’m back to taking my time even with the z6 and am finding myself shooting in the square format with digital too. Love the addition of your choice of music with these images too...
Thank you. Square format cameras make you work in a totally different way with no time wasted deciding on orientation. Slowing down is good, time to think instead of always shooting.
I have an autocord! Lovely little camera, so light for a med. format and the shutter simply purrs. Love square format. Particularly liked the last image you took of the ferns against the silver birch. You seemed to be having an enjoyable morning out. Greatly enjoyed the video as usual, thankyou Steve.
Thank you 😊
Steve, can you talk a little about tripods and monopods. I find my elderly Slik tripod very heavy these days and do not take it out as regularly as I should. I am thinking of getting a lighter one but whatever I get it must be able to support both my Mamiya C330 and Bronica Etrs.
I just keep tripods as light as possible Graham, the bare minimum to hold the camera steady. I particularly like the Velbon range.
That was a pleasant surprise for a Tuesday evening. Loved the 1st image Steve, not so much the tree trunk shot if I am honest. The Rowecord reminds me of my friends Rolliflex, cracking camera for sure. DEetail on all imagaes looked great I have to say. Your local has to be Delamere I reckon, where else could a wet woodland look so fine, wish we had something comparable down here. Just wish the restrictions we have in Sth Wales leave us so stranded atm. Atb Al
Thanks Alan. I’m pretty stuck for locations now as I’m banned from Wales and Merseyside. Delamere is actually walkable from my house but it’s very busy as people have few other places they’re allowed to go now 😕
I've recently started my voyage into the world of (D)SLR's, and am now having my first encounter with film as well.
I've gotten my hands on two medium format cameras for a very decent price, an Agfa Isolette 2 compact folding camera, and a Welta Reflekta II, a very simple TLR - but hey, it got speeds up to 1/250, a 75mm F/3.5 lens setup, and a large ground glass viewfinder, what more do you need?
I'll be taking my first images with them in the coming week, and can't wait for the time to pass quickly enough, simply playing with them, the TLR in particular, has been fun already.
I've been greatly enjoying your videos, they have a very pleasing and calm mood to them, and are full of small, interesting tips and opinions :)
Good luck with the new cameras Leon, folders and TLR’s are a great way to experience 120 film.
I have this same camera. I bought it for $85 a couple years ago. Shot my first roll of film yesterday. Used Kodak TRI-X400 and hand held it. Developed the film last night and wow this little baby is sharp. I plan to use it my alongside my Hasselblad 503 as the lighter weight on the road travel camera. Just grab it take a shot and go leaving the big Hasselblad in the bag for more serious work on a tripod. Kind of my version of a point and shoot. :)
It is a very good lens indeed Terry, better in the extreme corners than other Tessar designs I have used.
Love the look of these older lenses that have no coatings on them or just a few.
Me too, although this one is sharper than a lot of other Tessar designs it still has that classic look.
@@SteveONions Yes, from the few shots I've seen with the Minolta Autocord, it' seems a step up from the Yashicamat or Rollei Tessar.
Super vlog Steve, difficult compositions to find, simple images captured well; inspiring work and thanks for sharing this
Thanks Andy.
lovely work you understand so well very poetic shots on this episode thank you for you the best.
I was just out today with my Rollieflex in the woods here in Texas! This get's me motivated to get out again soon!
That sounds great. I was looking at a beautiful 2.8f in the local camera shop window yesterday, must resist!
I am reviving my Minolta Autocord that I got for 60 sterling in 2015 seeing your videos. Planning to CLA it due to dust in the viewfinder.
Hope it performs well after its service, they are fine cameras.
Excellent as always, it is time to take my Yashica TLR and go for a walk.
Loved it, seems that the problem with the B setting has been fixed. It also made me feel very guilty. I have a Rolleiflex F3.5 which doesn't get used very often and, four rolls of Kodak Ektar waiting for it in the fridge. You nailed the exposures there so well done. Also, it has been a very strange year. All the difficulties with work and my highly vulnerable wife aside, it seems like yesterday that I visited Formby Beach on March the 21st for our Persian new year. It feels as if an entire year of my life has been lost and I don't have a lot of them left.
It has been fought this year and I’m also feeling tired with the ongoing pressures. I hope you’ll be able to get out safely soon and your wife is keeping well. All the best - Steve.
@@SteveONions Grateful for your kind words. I have done my best under the circumstances. I have put the majority of the photographs that I have taken during the ' lock down ' period on my instagram account ( I only signed up for this reason ) and a few of my favourites from yesteryears going back to 1985 I think. I will publish the address if you wished to have a look and let me know what you thought of them. They are really a mish mash and nothing to write home about.
Nice video Steve. Loved the images. The entire video brought back memories of when I used a Yashica TLR when I first started photography some 40 odd years ago. I shot on the Yashica for several years before I got a 35mm film camera. I always loved the 6x6 aspect ratio and never quite got comfortable with 3 x 2 ratio. Thank you for sharing.
Thanks John. I also struggle with the aspect ratio of 35mm and prefer the likes of 1:1 or 645. If it’s going to be wider I prefer 1:2.
Steve; Excellent short vid ...your exposures were spot on... The focus on a simple normal lens approach is really good. I use my Minoltaflex (earlier than Autocord) and Rolleicord for the same approach; sometimes the extra lenses and weight get i n the way of the pleasure and art. Always enjoy your posts and keep up the fire for these..good luck
Thanks Randy, I recently suffered on a trip thanks to taking too many lenses - that’s for an upcoming video though 😕
Be careful and hopefully we will see the Konica Pearl come out and play!
Simple approach is often more enjoyable!
It is Wayne 🙂
I think the square format really suits woodland photos Steve. Holds everything in. I must make more of an effort to get the 330 out. All photos were good, but the end close up gets the nod from me.
Cheers
Diz
Thanks Diz, I like either 1:1 or 2:1 in the forest, feels more balanced to me than the other aspect ratios.
wonderful. looks like a great little camera for street photography as well.
Inspirational as ever Steve. I own a Mamiya C330 which as you know is very flexible. Bought it with my Photography student grant back in 1980, lovely camera, extremely well made and still in beautiful condition.
Yes we used Hasselblads at college as well but these where battered workhorses. Yes we lusted after them as they are iconic, but even now they sell for ridiculous amounts of money.
I purchased a cheap Kiev 88 for the Blad experience and Carl Zeiss Jena and Russian lenses.
But I have a love affair with my Mamiya every time I use it, I time travel back to my youth and remember all the wonderful years spent as a photography student back in in day.
Steve You have just put me in a very sentimental mood. I think I will just have to go and have a wee cry for years past. Don't worry I will be Okay, as long as I don't cry all over my focusing screen next time I take my Mamiya out to play. That would create havoc.
Keep posting them Steve as it's always good to see what you've been up too, but just be careful as you post some powerful dangerous stuff.
Yes it's not just about the photo's Steve, it's also about the pleasure and nostalgia you get from old photographic equipment.
I’m glad you liked it David and it brought back all those happy memories. It’s funny how we can get attached to certain cameras even if they aren’t the latest and greatest. Keep safe and get out with the C330 soon 👍
@@SteveONions Cheers Steve will do.
Stunning images.
Glad you like them!
Beautiful images and beautiful camera 😍
Autocord surprised me with it's lens. Its resolution and sharpness is unbelievable. I was lucky to get my for £70 off FB marketplace. When I look at prices now...WOW! More expensive than Rollei 😜😆
That is a good deal indeed.
@@SteveONions I agree. However personally I think asking price of $500 (some Japanese sellers) is a little bit hard to believe. But maybe it's not how much it's worth only how much people are willing to pay?...just like premier league footballers' wages 😉
I really enjoy watching your videos! I'm not so much a landscape photographer, I mostly photograph people. In a wood like this I would have enjoyed walking, but for me it would not have been so easy to see what to photograph. Seeing your pictures I think: "Oh yes, there was a picture here!" you really inspire me to become more interested in landscape photography! 🙂
Thank you Luc. I find it helps to have fewer lens choices in woodland, makes it easier to spot what will work.
Just got my first roll back from developing, awesome sharp lens, I really like it.
It is a very sharp lens indeed and easily the match of other tessar variations I’ve used.
I was planning on getting one of this... hope prices won't rise that much after this great video...
At least in the US, prices on the Autocord have been relatively high for years. It's optical excellence has been well recognized for decades. I think it may be the most costly TLR mounting a Tessar based lens, excepting the Rolleiflex with a 75mm Tessar. I doubt its prices could be driven any higher by a video.
Near Mint will take you between $300 and $400 or so on eBay.
Not as insane as the Rolleiflex prices.....
They have gone up a lot in the past few years. Mine was well priced but needed a full service and I don’t plan on letting it go even if it gets light use. The quality is superb.
@@randallstewart175 Hehe, the comment was some sort of compliment to the quality of the video, mate.
But yeah, while I don't really think that a single video can rise that much the price of a model, sure they're more prone to rise than they're to drop.
I guess I'll end up getting the cheaper Minoltaflex.
@@SteveONions I really like your videos, Steve. You and Adrian (aka AOWS) really got me interested in trying the 6x6 size.
Some of your finest 👌
Thanks Phill.
love my Rolleicord IV ... teamed with Ilford Delta 100 I find it much better than digital
A relaxing day out. Unfortunately my Minolta Autocord’s focus slider snapped off but I have the Mamiya C330 tank which is my square format goto.
Many of the earlier Autocords suffered this problem because of the brittle alloy used by Minolta for this part. Later models changed to a steel piece to solve the problem. Happily, the age of computer driven 3-D printing comes to the rescue with several sources selling replacement Autocord focus levers, usually for around $15.
That’s great news, should keep them going for years to come 👍
My boss at the time bought one of these Minolta tlrs when they first came out. The focus lever and the folding winder knob broke in the first week of professional use. The camera went back and a refund was given. We stuck to the Rolleis after that.
When I started my own photography business I bought 2 Yashica Mat Tlrs. One secondhand and one new.
In ten years of hard use, both worked perfectly.
I still have one from 1957 with the Lumaxar 3.5 75mm lens.
For 35mm I have a 1979 Yashica fx-d quartz with a 50mm f2 lens.
I prefer this 35mm camera to any other camera. I carry a pair of lr44 spare batteries in the bag, and I'm good to go.
If my friend wants to use it, I put it on the AE auto setting.
nice work. simplicity is a nice exercise
Those are some beautiful images, particularly the first one. Lush colors without any over-saturation. I hope to get a TLR someday since I have never shot with one. Cheers!
Everyone needs to own a TLR Robert, even if they only get light use they put a smile on your face.
Those were excellent! That first image in particular turned out beautiful! I recently have my Yashicat Mat serviced and, though I do like my Bronica SQ, I haven't had a chance to use it since. Typically if I've got the time, I'll tend to go for large format which makes the 'Mat my walk-about fun camera (that also gives a lovely look to it on BW and color). Really great cameras, TLRs! I feel shameful that I initially thought they were too goofy for my tastes and now that 'Mat is perhaps arguably my favorite camera.
There something about TLR’s Tim, I got my first Mat in 1988 and was astonished at how smooth my darkroom B&W prints looked. Still impressed today.
That processor looks really interesting. I will have to research it. Lovely photos again !
Thanks James.
A good set of images, Steve, as usual. I just returned from a few days in Robin Hoods Bay with just a Yashicamat - not a dedicated photo trip but the camera suited the occasion well. There were some compositions that would have benefited from a wide angle lens, but I just had to look for another image instead.
Exactly Kevin. I ruined a recent trip by trying to cover all angles, literally - should have stuck to the standard lens.
Another interesting video. thank you
Thanks Bobby.
That first image was well worth it Steve. If it wasn't for the fact that there aren't as many around these days, I would always recommend an Autocord as an equivalent to the Yashicamat. Certainly the Rokkor lenses are/were excellent and I'm pretty sure that if you can find one, they will be a lot less expensive than a 124G.
Looking on Ebay, there is not much difference in the prices.
Personally I think the Autocord has a better lens and the focussing method is also better.
I’ve had a few Mat’s and they vary in build quality, later ones a bit weaker. They all had excellent lenses.
Hi
Nice photos love the ferns, i find it hard to photography woods
Bright conditions not good but overcast days seems to be the best
Definitely need that subdued light Alan, I go early in the morning before sun up to keep the contrast down.
Still amazed at your ability to compose, Steve!
Thanks Gene 😊
The uncropped picture of the tree is actually my favorite of the series. Just somehow it balances quite well.
Truly and inspiring video as always, really makes me want to go out. Just had covid, so finally am able to go out again soon.
Thank you and good luck with your recovery 👍
Steve, thank you for the wonderful video. It's just in time for me: I've reanimated my TLR Lbitel 2.
Lovely camera Yury, very popular in the 1980’s.
I love my Minolta Autocord. I could walk around all day long with mine taking shots. Mine is missing some knobs/buttons (bought it used on ebay), but it still functions beautifully. My old Minolta Autocord was stolen along with 3 other cameras and a Lloyd Daylight loader, Beseler B&W enlarger and camera bag. What a loss that was. If you could recommend a source for maybe getting my Autocord thoroughly cleaned and repaired, it would be greatly appreciated!
Glad you like your new(er) Autocord Joey, shame about the loss of the old one. I got mine fully serviced by Newton Ellis in Liverpool www.newtonellis.com/
Thank you, Steve.
That first shot looked tricky for Velvia. I would have taken at least three shots out of fear - well done capturing it in just two! If I had to guess, you probably got it right with the first shot. Great composition, too, by the way.
I was lucky to get all that in on one frame to be honest and it was only possible thanks to the soft early morning light. Any later and I’d have needed a colour negative film.
These are nice. The quality of the images remind me of something in a grade school text book. It’s a nostalgia machine haha.
Thanks Daniel 👍
Hi Steve, could you make a video on how to prepare yourself to shoot in the rain? I love the atmosphere and texture of a rainy day but am afraid of damaging my camera and getting very cold haha. Saw you mounted your umbrella to your tripod somehow, maybe you could cover how you went about setting that up...
I’ve actually got an new tripod umbrella Ben, might be good to explain how it works 👍
Superb as always!
0 dislikes, as it should be! Love these types of videos
😊
The Autocord I had years ago, used to give me 13 exposures.
I did have to remember whether or not when the counter said 12, if it was the first time or the second time.
I’d like that, a bonus frame! It must have been close to the tape that last one.
Update, just finished the roll in the Autocord. Kept a log of each setting for each photo, hope they come out. I metered with my EM1X in manual mode and then set the Autocord to that. I hope it works...
I’m sure they’ll come out just fine 🙂
Just received my Minolta Autocord a month ago, going to run some Ilford Hp5 thru it, did not know howto use sorta, this vid is timely, thanks!
It’ll be fine Randy and HP5+ is perfect for it 👍
@@SteveONions Hi Steve, I wish someone would do a good review of the Olympus Flex, which I just received. i think i got it figured out, put some Ilford in it and going to see what happens :)
@@SteveONions BTW, amazing shots you made :)
My first real camera was a Rollie 3.5 TRS, Still love it for the same reasons that you expressed. Great video, thanks.
Thanks Phillip.
Hi Steve, may I ask, what cable release are you using? Love your compositions!
I’m not really sure what make it is Shay, possibly a cheap Hama.
@@SteveONions Thanks. I've since realized they're pretty much universal.
I don't use film camera, I don't go to the forest that often. But man, that composition is a lit, I can imagine if it was shot when a fog coming in, it will be a blast..
Fog in the forest, my dream conditions 😊
Lovely results! While I'm not a slide film shooters I much prefer B&W even for landscape but I do love working with a TLR (Rolleiflex 2.8F in my case) even in landscape settings.
Nearly all B&W for me too Alex, good to see though that the lenses on some of these oldies really stand up well with modern colour films.
Hello Steve. My apologies for the irrelevance, but I was wondering if you (or any other viewer) could provide me with some information. I am looking for a shutter release cable for my TLR (a Ricohflex Dia), but I just can’t seem to find which type I need. Cheers! Jan.
I’m not sure what sort of cable that requires I’m afraid.
Hi Steve great video, I have a Yashica 635 can you recommend anyone who services these Liverpool area? works well but dusty viewfinder keep up the videos really good look forward to the new folder . cheers Rob
Hi Robert. Definitely send the Yashica to Newton Ellis on Cheapside, they fixed my Autocord earlier this year and are just finishing a Bronica body for me now.
Absolutely love these videos you are doing, and, am learning so much. Thanks! I do have one question ,that, trying to get a handle on is driving me NUTS. I shoot 95% analog and develop my bw. I really do enjoy that....but, colour, specifically, colour correcting my negs is making me pull my hair. I would love to learn how you do your colour correction.
I’ll admit I’m no expert when it comes to sorting out colour balance in negative scans David. I usually adjust the basic sliders in Lightroom until it looks good and stick with that. I try to get it fairly neutral in the scanning stage (Epson or VueScan) which means messing with each colour channel. There’s probably no right or wrong way although some claim that Silverfast makes a very good job and I may investigate that route in the future.
@@SteveONions Thanks. I appreciate such a quick reply, and, your information. Your colour images look magnificent.
Great images really like them.
With you on that first sentence - I love using my 1952 Leica IIIf 'red dial' and 1949 Elmar 50mm f3.5 collapsable. So compact and portable but the tiny view windows would horrify modern shooters. If it's fully mechanical and has no meter and batteries I couldn't be happier. A Fuji GW690 in pristine nick landed at mine today from Japan. Just a light tight box, a fixed (lovely!) 90mm lens and whopping 6x9cm negs, nothing more. Can't wait to take it for a spin.
Another great vid Steve.
Oooh, nice Fuji Steven and there’s nothing like a 6x9 negative. I was enlarging one that size last night in the darkroom and the tonality is lovely.
Great video!!! What scanner do you use for medium format? Thanks
An Epson v700.
Great shots of small moments in time (as you said). Your videos are very inspirational and I enjoy watching as I’m limited to forests. One question, do you print the Velvia in the dark room or on an inkjet?
Thanks Dan. I haven’t done colour darkroom work for 30 years so it’s all digital now. For B&W I prefer the darkroom.
Steve, When you adjust your exposure to allow for reciprocity failure is the amount of adjustment based on your own experience or is there a tabulated value for the film? I remember seeing data sheets packed in the carton - but it was such a long time ago...
Hi David. With some films like Ektar I typically allow a little more exposure, say 50% for up to 10 second shots. Beyond that I double it. For side films I use an app that accurately shows the exact times, critical for Velvia 50. For older B&W films I’ll either guesstimate it (double it, triple it etc) or once again use an app.
Amazing shots, your framing is excellent!
btw can you confirm Autocords format of 56.2x56.2 mm? I collect all native medium formats to make customized film holders for Nikon Coolscan 8000+9000. Thanks Steve for your channel.
Leave it with me, I’ll make an accurate measurement this weekend 👍
@@SteveONions I will not steel your time!
Where did you get E6 chemicals for your Jobo?
I get them from Firstcall Photographic in the UK.
Dumb question alert! I just purchased the identical model TLR in your video (which I enjoyed). I don’t find how to set the ASA. I have been scouring the internet looking for an answer. Is it a fixed ISO?
No metering or ISO on these cameras, everything is manual 😊
Steve, love your videos. I've learned a ton from you since I first found your channel a month ago and am very grateful for your ability to clearly articulate photography's aesthetics and concepts. But I'm curious about one thing that I see a lot in your videos, like this one. How do you get away with such long exposures in daylight? That first photo, for example, is 5 sec at f/16, which seems like a lot of time to me, especially during the day, but the image turned out beautifully. Does the slower shutter speed help with shadow details? I don't have much experience with medium format, so perhaps the slower shutter speed has something to do with the medium format. Anyway, thanks again for all your excellent videos.
I think the issue is with the way video enhances the available light and makes it much brighter than it actually is. Most of my shooting is very early in the morning and light levels are really low. The GoPro makes it look like midday but in reality you need a tripod for every shot.
Good video! But here the lens is not 80 mm (0:34), but 75 mm.
Well spotted 😀
Great video! Quick question, whats the 35mm equivalent focal length of the autocord?
Its around 45mm Soda.
Great video, I am inspired. A small thing, I think the lens is 75 mm?
Correct!
👏🏻 bravo
I prefer the full frame on the shot that you decided to crop!
😊
Wonderful images Steve. I used to have a TRL camera and I always found it so much fun to use.
Thanks Rob.
Не подскажете, какой спусковой тросик используете?
It’s just a cheap Hama one I believe.
@@SteveONions thank you)
Ha, he crops and excellently to boot!
Is it just me or is there a lot of magenta in these shots or is that just Velvia?
moofy old Velvia and long exposure. Bright sunlight / short exposure would give correct colour
It does lean towards magenta and I quite like it. Easily corrected in post if needed 👍
Is "first" still a thing?
'First' was never a thing. 'Best' is better. ;)
@@skelligringphotographyandw7012 indeed :)
1,000th like!!!
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