Inexpensive intro to medium format, aka the failure of the Pocket Kodak.

Paul Howell · Jan 8, 2013

Dont overlook the Mamyia Press of Konica Rapid, pro level gear, excellent lens, just a littile heavy.

jmccl@yahoo.com · Jan 8, 2013

powasky said:
I just got my first roll developed from my Pocket Kodak, and unfortunately, none of the shots came out. The camera was a pain the butt to use anyway, so I'm looking to get something new to shoot with. I'd like to spend less than $250, have anything but 645 negs, would like a usable viewfinder and a tripod mount. I've been on certo6's site, but the amount of choices there are overwhelming. Perhaps you guys could give me a few options to explore. I would prefer something compact, which is why I'm considering a folding bellows camera.

Just out of curiosity, what is the model of the "pain in the butt Kodak"?

benjiboy · Jan 9, 2013

If you search this forum there is a plethora of questions the same as yours without covering the same ground yet again.

mark · Jan 9, 2013

Well, I have been very pleased with my K88. I have been lucky I guess because I have only had one poor lens, the rest are very sharp except the 150 wide open when it gives portraits a pleasing soft look.

Plus the communist insignia on the lenses make them look pretty cool. They are a crap shoot though so buy from a reputable place.

I appreciate the fact that no one suggested the Holga or Diana to the OP.

Slixtiesix · Jan 9, 2013

A Rolleicord Vb might be within your price range.

powasky · Jan 9, 2013

jmccl@yahoo.com said:
Just out of curiosity, what is the model of the "pain in the butt Kodak"?

No1 Pocket Kodak Series II.

Thanks for the suggestions, guys. I decided against the C33 due to weight, and am going to check out the Autocord before the weekend. I'll report back with my results.

powasky · Jan 11, 2013

Picked up the Autocord with a "Chiyoko" case, Rollei gelb mittel filter, and a Perrin 705 bag all for $100. Seems to be 100% functional but I'm sending it off to Karl on Monday for a CLA.

flyinfiddlesticks · Feb 3, 2013

Ran myself up a fever trying to select TLRs but they always seemed to be priced outta range, and settled instead onto an RB67 instead. (more value for money, i think). Although, of course there are the weight and other considerations. And a kilometre and a half walk with the RB was enough to run up a good sweat!

StoneNYC · Feb 3, 2013

I have a few similar pocket folders, but you said "didn't come out" I skimmed the thread and didn't see anyone asking what that means, was it all black or all clear? If it was all black, you probably have leaky bellows and I would try wrapping it in duvateyn cloth (spelling?) first.

Secondly saw you mention the RB67, but the newer RZ67 pro II (NON "D" version) with Pro II backs don't have any seals to worry about and the whole system can be gotten fairly cheap.

Anyway just suggesting before you go crazy mentioning what you got or showing pictures of the film so we have a better idea of the issues. Did the edges still have markings? Etc.

Just my thoughts.

~Stone

The Important Ones - Mamiya: 7 II, RZ67 Pro II / Canon: 1V, AE-1 / Kodak: No 1 Pocket Autographic, No 1A Pocket Autographic

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Inexpensive intro to medium format, aka the failure of the Pocket Kodak.

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