Soho Myna All Distance
Specification
| Manufacturer | : | Soho Ltd |
|---|---|---|
| Produced | : | 1932 |
| Classification | : | Medium Format |
| Body Type | : | Folding bed |
| Bellows Deployment | : | Sliding Rail |
| Construction | : | Metal |
| Film Type | : | 120 |
| Film Width | : | 62mm |
| Image Size | : | 2¼ x 3¼ |
| No. of Images | : | 8 |
| Lens Type | : | Doublet |
| Focal Length | : | 90mm |
| Focus Type | : | Fixed |
| Focal Range | : | 4ft - inf. |
| Aperture Type | : | Fixed |
| Apertures | : | f/11 |
| Shutter Type | : | Rotary |
| Shutter Speeds | : | T, I*(1/40s) |
| Size Open (w x h x d) | : | 90 x 170 x 122 mm |
| Size Closed (w x h x d) | : | 90 x 170 x 32 mm |
| Weight | : | 515g |
| * Measured on this camera | ||
Art Deco Credentials
Noteworthy: Worth giving special attention
- Produced during the main Art Deco period.
- Curved markings on faceplate.
- Art Deco lettering on faceplate.
- Chrome used on decorative struts.
- Chrome winder and table stand.
- Chrome film door latch.
- Lined pattern on focus adjust latch.
Description
The Soho Myna was a 120 film folding camera made in England by Soho Ltd. from around 1929. There are four variations: The Myna; The Myna All Distance with meniscus lens; The Myna All Distance with a duplex lens(as shown above) and the S.K.12. All of them have an all-metal body, painted in crinkle-finish black. The All Distance has a simple opening mechanism where, after opening, the lens-plate has to be pulled forward by hand to one of two focus stops. One focus stop is labelled 'FAR' and the other 'NEAR'.
How to Use
This camera takes 120 film which is widely available.
The aperture is set at about f/11. The measured speed on this camera was 1/40s. As the shutter speed is only 1/40s, 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 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 1/40s
| Weather Conditions | Shadow Detail | Aperture | Exposure |
|---|---|---|---|
 SunnySnow/Sand | Dark with sharp edges | f/11 | +3 Stops Overexposed Acceptable |
| Sunny | Distinct | f/11 | +2 Stops Overexposed Acceptable |
 Slight Overcast | Soft around edges | f/11 | +1 Stops Overexposed Acceptable |
 Overcast | Barely visible | f/11 | Good |
 Heavy Overcast | None | f/11 | -1 Stops Underexposed Acceptable |
 Open Shade/Sunset | None | f/11 | -2 Stops Underexposed Not Acceptable |