Braun Imperial 6x6
Specification
| Manufacturer | : | Braun |
|---|---|---|
| Produced | : | 1951 |
| Classification | : | Medium Format |
| Body Type | : | Pseudo Twin-lens Reflex |
| Construction | : | Metal |
| Film Type | : | 120 |
| Film Width | : | 62mm |
| Image Size | : | 2¼ x 2¼ in |
| No. of Images | : | 12 |
| Lens Type | : | Meniscus |
| Focus Type | : | Fixed |
| Focal Length | : | 75mm |
| Focus Range | : | 10ft to inf, |
| Aperture Type | : | Fixed |
| Aperture | : | f/15 |
| Shutter Type | : | Rotary |
| Shutter Speeds | : | I*(1/50 sec) |
| Size (w x h x d) | : | 80 x 115 x 80 mm |
| Weight | : | 350g |
| * measured on this camera | ||
Art Deco Credentials
Noteworthy: Worth giving special attention
- Produced after the main Art Deco period;
- Black and silver Art Deco pattern on front panel;
- Rounded corners from the streamline era;
- Symmetrical Design
Description
The 1951 Imperial 6x6 is basically a steel box with a reasonable sized finder. The camera can be described as a pseudo twin lens reflex camera. It isn't a true TLR because the top lens is just part of the viewfinder and does not aid focussing. It has a fixed aperture and a simple rotary shutter. Film advance is controlled by winder knob and red window. It has not got a tripod mount and is for snapshots only. It's main feature is the unmistakable black and silver Art Deco pattern on the front panel.
How to Use
This camera takes 120 film which is easily available from photographic outlets. Basically it is a snapshot camera for a sunny day.
As the shutter speed is only 1/50s, hold the camera firmly against your body to reduce shake. However, holding it against a wall or other solid object would work as well.
If you don't want to bother with an exposure meter, follow the guide shown. It is based on the 'Sunny 16' rule. Film is so forgiving and will produce acceptable results even when overexposed by 2 or 3 stops or underexposed by 1 stop.
The table assumes that the sun is at least 30 degrees above the horizon - that's 10am - 5pm on a summers day in the UK.
Remember that the exposure guide in the manual may not be helpful as it is based on the use of old film with a low ISO value.
Using ISO 100/125 film - shutter speed 1/50s
| Weather Conditions | Shadow Detail | Aperture | Exposure |
|---|---|---|---|
 SunnySnow/Sand | Dark with sharp edges | f/15 | +2 Stops Overexposed Acceptable |
| Sunny | Distinct | f/15 | +1 Stop Overexposed Acceptable |
 Slight Overcast | Soft around edges | f/15 | Good |
 Overcast | Barely visible | f/15 | -1 Stop Underexposed Acceptable |
 Heavy Overcast | None | f/15 | -2 Stops Underexposed Not Acceptable |
 Open Shade/Sunset | None | f/15 | -3 Stops Underexposed Not Acceptable |
Photographs taken with this Camera
Film - Ilford FP4+. Developed in D76(1+1).
Cardiff, Wales
