The Old Smoothie - A Great Rangefinder Camera

Voigtlander Vitomatic IIa - Tim Irving

For the past couple of weeks my camera of choice has been a Voigtlander Vitomatic IIa, from the early 1960's. I've said it here before but I'll reiterate it for you now, I do like a good standard lens on a camera.The Voigtlander lens plus the ergonomics of the camera are lovely, I'm smitten.

This camera comes with everything I need. A beautiful viewfinder with coupled rangefinder, a fifty one year old light meter that works perfectly, and a Color Skopar lens.

The build quality of this camera is second to none. Every control is smooth and precise, it's a joy. Although not sold as a professional model, this camera  was aimed at the affluent tourist, very classy with a rich feel to it, definately a luxury camera.

Of course it's the glass that I'm interested in and the Skopar is up there with the best. As always, there's a sample below, I'll the the photograph speak for itself.

Voigtlander Vitomatic IIa, Kodak Ektar 100 - Tim Irving

Painting the Seaside

Seaside View - Tim Irving

I spent today at the seaside, painting and taking photographs. I have loved every seaside resort I've ever visited. I wonder if I moved to the coast, any coast, if I would be happier, or if the novelty might wear off.

Agfa Isoly

Photo by Melissa Mohd Nor

Another customer pops up with some great images. I hope this trend continues, I love seeing photographs taken with my ex cameras. This photograph was taken by Melissa Mohd Nor with an Agafa Isoly, like the one below. I love the photograph above, I wish I'd taken it. Melissa contributes to Cool Girls Shoot Film blog. An excellent blog devoted to analogue photography, I recommend it.

Agfa Isoly

Bunting Bicycle

Bike Decoration - Tim Irving

Balda Baldina and a Happy Customer

Balda Baldina - Tim Irving

I usually lose track of cameras once I've shipped them. I often wonder if they're being used to take photos or used as a nice piece of interior design, either way I'm happy.

I sent the camera above to Australia a few weeks ago. It's a 1954 Baldina. I like this cameras a lot. It has a coupled rangefinder and a very fine Baldinar collapsible lens. It's beautifully crafted from chrome plated brass and boasts many unique design features. The buyer has very good taste.

I was delighted when Aleks (the buyer), from Australia sent me a few photos taken with the Baldina. I think the one below is stunning. Look at the light on the hair and arm. It benefits from aerial perspective, cool blue receding background with warm foreground colours. Thank you Aleks for sending it to me, I'll sleep soundly knowing the Baldina is in expert hands.

Photo by Aleksandar Trofin

British Holidays

Bank Holiday Walk - Tim Irving

I've been walking for miles this past week, hence the lack of blog posts. I promised myself that I would write ten paragraphs a week, but the May holidays have tripped me up. If we take this paragraph into account, I owe you nine paragraphs to be completed by next week. I promise.