Ross Ensign Snapper
Specification
| Manufacturer | : | Ross Ensign |
|---|---|---|
| Produced | : | 1953 |
| Classification | : | Medium Format |
| Body Type | : | Folding Bed |
| Bellows Deployment | : | Self Erecting |
| Construction | : | Die Cast Metal |
| Film Type | : | 620 |
| Film Width | : | 62mm |
| Image Size | : | 2¼ x 3¼ |
| No. of Images | : | 8 |
| Lens Type | : | Meniscus |
| Focus Type | : | Variable |
| Focal Length | : | 105mm |
| Focal Range | : | 2 metres/yards - inf. |
| Aperture Type | : | Multi Hole |
| Apertures | : | f/16(N) & f/22(B) |
| Shutter Type | : | leaf |
| Shutter Speeds | : | B, I*(1/30s) |
| Size Open (w x h x d) | : | 99 x 158 x 125 mm |
| Size Closed (w x h x d) | : | 158 x 99 x 37 mm |
| Weight | : | 602g |
| * Measured on this camera | ||
Art Deco Credentials
Noteworthy: Worth giving special attention
- Produced after the main Art Deco period.
- Curved front with angular ends.
- Chrome used on struts, lens bezel and door catch.
- Other chrome detailing
- Multi-line decorative feature on lens plate
- Name plate with Art Deco lettering
Description
This camera has a cast metal body. It takes 8 (2¼ x 3¼ inch) exposures on 620 film. Most cameras have a grey body but other colours have been seen.
The camera is opened by pressing a button on the top of the camera and pulling the camera stand.
It uses front cell focussing varying from to 2 yards/metres to infinity with markings at 2,4 and infinity. The viewfinder is a simple Galilean tube. It is self-erecting using a chrome strut system.
The shutter mechanism is not coupled to the body. It has a self priming leaf shutter with a single speed of 1/30s. There is a switch to allow bulb action. A threaded hole is provided to attach a shutter release cable.
The aperture size can be changed by a small lever providing an aperture size of f/16 annotated with an 'N'(Normal) and an aperture size of f/22 anotated with a 'B'(Bright).
Flash synchronisation is provided with a PC socket on the lens plate. An accessory shoe is fitted to the top of the camera.
The red window on the back is provided with a cover that can be deployed using a knurled knob.
There is a tripod connector hole for portrait only.
How to Use
This camera takes 620 film which is still available from selected photographic outlets. Although the actual film is the same as 120 film, the spools are different. The 620 spools are slightly shorter and have a smaller diameter. Do not use 120 film in this camera because it may jam and snap. It is possible to cut down a spool of 120 film to fit or to re-spool some 120 film onto 620 spools in a darkroom or changing bag.
Shutter speed is 1/30s.
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.
Remember that the exposure guide in the camera user manual may not be helpful as it is based on the use of old film with a low ISO value.
The tables assume that the sun is at least 30 degrees above the horizon - that's 10am - 5pm on a summer's day in the UK.
As the shutter speed is only 1/30s, it is advisable to try to hold the camera against a wall, another solid object or use a tripod. For quick snapshots, hold it firmly against your face.
Using ISO 100/125 film
| Weather Conditions | Shadow Detail | Aperture | Exposure |
|---|---|---|---|
 SunnySnow/Sand | Dark with sharp edges | f/22(B) | +2 Stops Overexposed Acceptable |
| Sunny | Distinct | f/22(B) | +1 Stops Overexposed Acceptable |
 Slight Overcast | Soft around edges | f/22(B) | Good |
 Overcast | Barely visible | f/16(N) | Good |
 Heavy Overcast | None | f/16(N) | -1 Stop Underexposed Acceptable |
 Open Shade/Sunset | None | f/16(N) | -2 Stop Underexposed Not Acceptable |