Hello, everyone! Today, I'm sharing a fun little ASMR video featuring my first film camera, the classic Rolleiflex TLR. Also, at the end of the video, I share one of my favorite photographs I shot with this camera in the studio using natural light, so make sure to watch the entire video. The film stock for that photo was Kodak Tri-X 400. I think the most satisfying sound is opening the film wrapper – what about you? To keep things interesting, I captured the sounds on tape—volume up. Enjoy!
A twin-lens reflex (TLR) camera features two vertically stacked lenses: the upper lens is for viewing and focusing, while the lower lens captures the photograph on film. This design offers enhanced accuracy in framing and focusing. I acquired my Rolleiflex roughly 18 months ago without any prior knowledge of film or the camera itself. The camera's design initially attracted me and served as my introduction to film photography.
My particular model was made in 1956, but Rolleiflex cameras were designed and manufactured in Germany from the 1920s until the 1990s. The models created during or after WWII are highly sought-after; however, many surviving units are no longer functional.
In my experience, these cameras produce images with the most character out of all the medium-format cameras I have tried (especially when using natural light). So, it depends on what look you're going for and when to use them.
From a professional perspective, the Rolleiflex TLR is a refined and discreet camera. Its compact design and light weight make it ideal for travel and unobtrusive street photography. Vivian Maier, for example, captured stunning images using this camera. It makes an above-average studio camera, but there are better options available strictly for that purpose. Compared to other medium-format film cameras, the Rolleiflex is relatively small (as demonstrated in the video, where my hands appear large beside it) and features a quiet shutter, allowing photographers to capture candid moments without drawing attention to themselves or intimidating their subjects in the studio. Plus, as you know, there are many times when you can't have a bunch of large gear on set or on location, where sometimes you need to be mobile and have a small footprint. This camera is ideal for situations like those.
These types of film cameras will always hold a special place in my heart since I learned how to shoot film with them. The Rolleiflex TLR has not only deepened my appreciation for the art of photography but also provided me with numerous professional opportunities to capture stunning images with a unique character. Honestly, I wouldn't even be doing photography if it weren't for the chance to shoot film. It is what it is. 😉
❤️🔥🌊🌙
