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November 2, 2008
I'm trying to learn how to use the Rolleiflex 6006 that I picked up yesterday from layby. It is proving to be a difficult experience and I don't feel very confident with this sophisticated machinery. I have trouble loading the film, charging the battery, using the built-in light meter, and even taking shots. Unbelievable.
In between the above trial and tribulations I stumbled upon this interesting photoblog entitled Paper Cameras run by Amanda Gilligan in Sydney known for her Mocking Bird weblog and Monmartere photoblog. Paper Cameras is a film photography blog, and for the last week or so the focus has been on Polaroid images with interviews with photographers who continue to use this kind of film.
I've only ever used a Polaroid once or twice and I have no desire to try to attempt to acquire the Polaroid back for the Rollei 6006. I understand that the SX-70 (or Time Zero) film had a strong following from artists who used it for image manipulation.
I am surprised by the continued use of Polaroid, since the company has discontinuing production of its instant film, Polaroid no longer manufactures its instant cameras, and it is closing its factories in the United States, Mexico and the Netherlands. So the instant film is no longer being made. End of an era thanks to the shift to digital. People must getting down to their last packs of film in their fridges by now. What to do then?
Is this work showcased on Paper Cameras a mourning for the passing of this iconic medium? Or is nostalgia for an era becoming history?
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What a great new acquisition, congratulations! Composing in square format is so much fun, I also love using these viewfinders. It's a completely different to photographing with a DSLR, you work at a much slower pace thinking about the composition more.
I guess it's got an inbuilt light meter? And it's got batteries that can be recharged?
Keep using it and you'll feel comfortable with it in no time.