Resources for Art Deco Cameras

Simple Guide to the Successful use of a Vintage Camera

It is not always fully appreciated that vintage cameras are capable of producing stunning images if a few simple rules are followed. I am referring in particular to cameras made before 1950 but the guide can also help with using later models. Follow the simple rules below and be amazed at the quality of the images.
Simple Guide to Success.

What could Possibly Go Wrong!

I have documented the traps that I have fallen into using vitage cameras, so that you can avoid them. Some seem blatently obvious, others are obtuse.
What could possibly go wrong?

Bakelite and its use in Cameras

Bakelite, the first synthetic plastic - description, properties, use in cameras, testing.
Bakelite and its use in Cameras

Sunny 16 Rule and Exposure Calculators

Don't let complex metering issues get in the way of enjoying your vintage cameras. The 'Sunny 16’ rule is a method of estimating correct daylight exposures without a light meter. Simply use the exposure calculators to enjoy your vintage camera without stress.
Sunny 16 Calculators

Depth of Field and Hyperfocal Distance

Depth-of-field is how much of a photograph is in acceptable sharp focus from in front of the focus point to behind it. Hyperfocal distance is the distance at which you should focus to produce the greatest depth of field. Use this calculator to get the best image quality.
Depth of Field Calculator

Snapshot Performance of a Vintage Camera

Many vintage cameras have fixed or limited speed and aperture settings. This may put you off using them. However, using my calculator, you can see how well your camera will perform on a summer's day.
Snapshot Performance of a Vintage Camera

'Time' mode Calculator for Vintage Cameras

Use the calculator to find the estimated time required for an exposure under different lighting conditions. The calculator will take into account the ISO of the film, the f number of the aperture and the type of film being used.
'Time' mode calculator for Vintage Cameras

Finding Focal Length.

Many vintage cameras do not document the focal length. However, the focal length will be needed to:- Calculate the f number of the aperture; Use a depth of field calculator or Calculate angle of view of the camera.
Finding Focal Length of a Vintage Camera

Finding the f-stop of an Aperture

Many vintage cameras do not document the aperture sizes. However, if you want to use them successfully with modern film, you will need to know the f-stop.
Finding the f-stop

Shutter Speed Measurement

It is sometimes difficult to find the documented shutter speed of a particular vintage camera. The actual shutter speed can be wildly different than a quoted value.
Measurement of Shutter Speed

Angle of View

Angle of view (AOV) describes the angular extent of a given scene that is imaged by a camera. The field of view is the width of the field at a particular distance(d).
Angle of View

Check and Adjust Focus

Checking the focus of a vintage rollfilm camera. If the camera has front lens focussing, then there is a straight forward procedure to adjust the focus.
Check and Adjust Focus

Convert a camera designed for 116 film to take 120 film

116 Film is no longer available except as expired film. Convert your precious 116 camera to bring it back to life again.
Conversion of 116 film camera to take 120

Convert a camera designed for 616 film to take 120 film

616 Film is no longer available except as expired film. Convert your precious 616 camera to bring it back to life again.
Conversion of 616 film camera to take 120

Loading Cameras that use Karat or Rapid cassettes

The Karat and Rapid cassettes are no longer produced. It is possible to load a Rapid cassette with 35mm film in a dark room or changing bag.
Loading Cameras that use Karat or Rapid cassettes