Kodak Brownie Reflex
Specification
| Manufacturer | : | Kodak (UK) |
|---|---|---|
| Produced | : | 1946 - 1960 |
| Classification | : | Medium Format |
| Body Type | : | Pseudo Twin Lens Reflex |
| Construction | : | Plastic |
| Film Type | : | 127 |
| Film Width | : | 46mm |
| Image Size | : | 1⅝ x 1⅝ in |
| No. of Images | : | 12 |
| Lens Type | : | Meniscus |
| Focal Length | : | 45mm |
| Focus Type | : | Fixed |
| Focus Range | : | 5ft to inf, |
| Aperture Type | : | Fixed |
| Aperture | : | f/11 |
| Shutter Type | : | Rotary |
| Shutter Speeds | : | B, I(1/50 sec) |
| Size Open (w x h x d) | : | 88 x 145 x 55 mm |
| Size Closed (w x h x d) | : | 88 x 120 x 55 mm |
| Weight | : | 390g |
Art Deco Credentials
Acceptable: Modest and restricted
- Produced after the main Art Deco period;
- Based on a 1940 Art Deco period design;
- Elongated hexagonal shape;
- Bakelite body with metal top and bottom
- Ribbed detailing to top and bottom plate;
- Ribbed detail on viewfinder cover;
- Concentric circles on shutter release.
Description
The Kodak Brownie Reflex non-synchronized camera was manufactured from May 1940 to Aug 1942 in the US. The synchro model was introduced in the US in 1942 but was only manufactured in the UK starting 1946. This popular camera has a 'twin-lens reflex' layout with a large brilliant finder and a folding metal hood. It can be called 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. The winder was on the base because the film moves horizontally. The base is removable for film loading. The flash contacts are below the lens. It has a tripod socket on the base.
How to Use
This camera takes 127 film which is still available from select outlets - search for 'Rera Pan 100-127' which is a black & white film. For those photographers in the UK, try Nick & Trick photographic services. If you want to use a particular type of film which is not available commercially, then you can cut your own 127 film from any 120 film. See my page on 'How to cut 127 film from 120 film'.
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 table assumes that the sun is at least 30 degrees above the horizon - that's 10am - 5pm on a summer's day in the UK.
This camera has an aperture of f/11 and a shutter speed is 1/50s.
As the shutter speed is only 1/50s, it is advisable to use a tripod or to hold the camera against a wall or other solid object. For quick snapshots, hold it firmly against your body.
Using ISO 100/125 film - shutter speed 1/50s
| Weather Conditions | Shadow Detail | Aperture | Exposure |
|---|---|---|---|
 SunnySnow/Sand | Dark with sharp edges | f/11 | +3 Stop Overexposed Acceptable |
| Sunny | Distinct | f/11 | +2 Stop Overexposed Acceptable |
 Slight Overcast | Soft around edges | f/11 | +1 Stop Overexposed Acceptable |
 Overcast | Barely visible | f/11 | Good |
 Heavy Overcast | None | f/11 | -1 Stop Underexposed Acceptable |
 Open Shade/Sunset | None | f/11 | -2 Stop Underexposed Unacceptable |