Having some fun with focus and lights.
TTV Squares
TTV or “Through The Viewfinder” is kind of a neat idea, though the results are sometimes very primitive looking. The idea is that you take a photo (usually digital) through the viewfinder of another, older (usually film) camera. Most folks shoot through TLR (Twin Lens Reflex) cameras, which have a large, waist level viewfinder which one can shoot through it with a standard 50mm lens or even a zoom lens. Others experiment with everything from old range finders to box cameras, and even toy cameras. Some cheaper versions of the waist level TLR cameras can be had for a few dollars on ebay. Since the functionality of the camera really doesn’t matter (you are only using the viewfinder), as long as the view piece is crack, mold, or fog free, the camera can be otherwise broken and still serve it’s purpose for you. Some folks even desire the dusty cracked, or fogged viewfinders for some added grittiness.
I, on the other hand, don’t currently own a TLR or any other camera worthy of this project (yet?), so I actually used some template layers that other folks have made with their TTV cameras and simply worked them into my photos. I cheated, yes, but I had fun at it, and may consider picking up an old Kodak Duaflex sometime soon to give the real-deal a go.
Poor Lil’ Pony
A child’s toy that was just sitting there waiting to be photographed. ;-)
I currently have my N80 SLR loaded with Ektachrome that I will later cross process. The problem is that I want to make those shots count, and have been working through the roll very slowly. I hope to have in done in another week or two, but no promises. It’s amazing to me, how much extra effort has to go into film photography. I shot film for years, but I guess that I never really got it until making the DSLR jump. Don’t get me wrong, I still love film, I would be nowhere without it, as it’s where I learned everything. I just can’t get over how convenient digital has become, it’s no wonder the film companies are dropping like flies.
Holiday Bokeh
I decided to try out a little project that was posted over on Photojojo this past weekend. It took a few tries to get the sizing correct for the cut, but it was overall pretty easy, and fun. The two photos above were done using black construction paper, just as a test, which worked out OK for a first run. I think I will work on a better set and use poster board or vinyl, something that will last a bit longer and be a bit more sturdy.