Soho 'The Myna'
Specification
| Manufacturer | : | Soho Ltd |
|---|---|---|
| Produced | : | 1929 |
| 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 | : | Meniscus |
| Focal Length | : | 90mm |
| Focus Type | : | Fixed |
| Focal Range | : | 10ft - inf. |
| Aperture Type | : | Fixed |
| Apertures | : | f/11 |
| Shutter Type | : | Rotary |
| Shutter Speeds | : | T, I*(1/50s) |
| 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 | : | 500g |
| * Measured on this camera | ||
Art Deco Credentials
Noteworthy: Worth giving special attention
- Produced during the main Art Deco period.
- Geometric markings on faceplate.
- Art Deco lettering on faceplate.
- Chrome used on decorative struts.
- Chrome winder and table stand.
- Chrome film door 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 with meniscus lens(as shown above); The Myna All Distance with meniscus lens; The Myna All Distance with a duplex lens and the S.K.12. All of them have an all-metal body, painted in crinkle-finish black. The Myna has a simple opening mechanism where, after opening, the lens-plate has to be pulled forward by hand to a focus stop.
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 |