Ensign Pocket E-20
Specification
| Manufacturer | : | Houghton-Butcher |
|---|---|---|
| Produced | : | 1930 |
| Classification | : | Medium Format |
| Body Type | : | Folding Bed |
| Bellows Deployment | : | Self Erecting |
| Construction | : | Metal |
| Film Type | : | 120 |
| Film Width | : | 62mm |
| Image Size | : | 2¼ x 3¼ |
| No. of Images | : | 8 |
| Lens Type | : | Meniscus |
| Focal Length | : | 100mm |
| Focus Type | : | Moving lens barrel |
| Focal Range | : | 3¼ft - inf. |
| Aperture Type | : | Fixed |
| Apertures | : | f/13 |
| Shutter Type | : | Everset leaf |
| Shutter Speeds | : | T, B, I*(1/90s) |
| Size Open (w x h x d) | : | 85 x 170 x 126 mm |
| Size Closed (w x h x d) | : | 85 x 170 x 23 mm |
| Weight | : | 525g |
| * Measured on this camera | ||
Art Deco Credentials
Acceptable: Modest and restricted
- Produced during the main Art Deco period.
- Geometric pattern on shutter plate.
- Chrome used on struts.
- Fine chevron pattern on covering
- Chrome table stand
- Chrome winder knob
- Chrome film door latch.
Description
The Ensign Pocket E-20 is a self-erecting folding camera. Shutter speeds are limited to "timed" and "instant" but on this camera the timed setting acts like bulb. The shutter speed measured on this camera was 1/90 sec. The camera has a meniscus lens and the aperture is fixed at about f/13. This camera has a crude focus control whereby the lens barrel is pulled out of its housing to bring the focus nearer for groups and portraits but there is no focus scale. It is made of metal with a the fine chevron patterned leatherette covering. The Ensign logo is embossed on the film door back.
Film advance is via a film advance knob and is indicated by a red window. It is not coupled to the shutter allowing double exposure. The shutter release button is mounted above the lens barrel. There is a neat little viewfinder on the lens housing that can swivel for portrait or landscape images.
How to Use
This camera takes 120 film which is widely available.
The aperture is fixed at f/13. The measured speed on this camera was 1/90s. As the shutter speed is only 1/90s, it is advisable to use a tripod to get clear shake free images. However, holding it against a wall or other solid object would work as well. For quick snapshots, hold it firmly against your body.
The table shows how this camera will perform using ISO 100/125 film. It is based on the 'Sunny 16' rule. Modern film is so forgiving and will produce acceptable results even when overexposed by 2 or 3 stops or underexposed by 1 stop.
The tables assume that the sun is at least 30 degrees above the horizon - that's 10am - 5pm on a summers day (May-August) 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 1/90s
| Weather Conditions | Shadow Detail | Aperture | Exposure |
|---|---|---|---|
 SunnySnow/Sand | Dark with sharp edges | f/13 | +1½ Stops Overexposed Acceptable |
| Sunny | Distinct | f/13 | +½ Stop Overexposed Acceptable |
 Slight Overcast | Soft around edges | f/13 | -½ Stop Underexposed Acceptable |
 Overcast | Barely visible | f/13 | -1½ Stop Underexposed Not Acceptable |
 Heavy Overcast | None | f/13 | -2½ Stops Underexposed Not Acceptable |
 Open Shade/Sunset | None | f/13 | -3½ Stops Underexposed Not Acceptable |