Minox IIIs closeup

[Minox]

Seeing that the Minox camera is capable to focus on an incredible 0.20 20 cm, I would say that trying to get Minox-macro photographs is almost a must for any such camera user. True, it’s tricky and one has to use the Minox chain to measure the distance, or have a telemetry system built in his eyes. The first seems more adequate.

Two rules are to be observed here: 1) make sure the chain is not stretched or bent, which is the case with many such accessories, and 2) measure up the distance from your camera lens to the centre of the item you are going to photograph. The chain has to be taut, and hand steady.

This photograph here was taken with a Minox IIIs, loaded with Ilford Pan F50, at 0.20 20cms. It just goes to show what the Minox camera and the COMPLAN lens is capable of.

 

[loccdor]

Wonderful image especially from such a small camera!

 

[guangong]

Keep in mind that these cameras were used for photographing technical documents in the old days. Minox made a copy stand for that purpose.
Minox, very pleasing photo!

 

[xkaes]

The main limitation is the fixed aperture of Minox-type cameras. Not a problem at any distance, but close up, it presents a challenge -- unless the subject is pretty flat. Some Minox-type cameras have an adjustable f-stop which helps, like the Acmel MX, but the focus is fixed -- which doesn't help. The only one that I know of that has an adjustable f-stop AND focusing lens is the Yashica Atoron Electro

 

[Donald Qualls]

I presume you meant 20 cm or 0.20 m -- but yes, close focus is a great feature of the Minox. I have a couple Kiev 16mm cameras (a 30 and a 303) and with their larger frame, even a focus to 50 cm gives pretty nice closeups, including "selfie" images from arm's length. Measure your arm length carefully, and you ought to be able to do the same with a Minox III(s).

 

[xkaes]

Yuh, some 16mm cameras offer some other options. Minolta, Yashica & Mamiya (?) offered close-up lenses and close-up stands (Minolta was 0.25cm -- 10"). They can be used for very close-up work and smaller f-stops & more DOF, but should be used on a tripod -- due to the enlargement factor.

So there is no winner or loser in this competition. Pick your poison.

 

[Minox]

I presume you meant 20 cm or 0.20 m -- but yes, close focus is a great feature of the Minox. I have a couple Kiev 16mm cameras (a 30 and a 303) and with their larger frame, even a focus to 50 cm gives pretty nice closeups, including "selfie" images from arm's length. Measure your arm length carefully, and you ought to be able to do the same with a Minox III(s).

Typo, it should be 20 cms. Thank you !

 

[MattKing]

Typo fixed.

 

[Minox]

Great, thank you !

 

[tjwspm]

Seeing that the Minox camera is capable to focus on an incredible 0.20 20 cm, I would say that trying to get Minox-macro photographs is almost a must for any such camera user. True, it’s tricky and one has to use the Minox chain to measure the distance, or have a telemetry system built in his eyes. The first seems more adequate.

Two rules are to be observed here: 1) make sure the chain is not stretched or bent, which is the case with many such accessories, and 2) measure up the distance from your camera lens to the centre of the item you are going to photograph. The chain has to be taut, and hand steady.

This photograph here was taken with a Minox IIIs, loaded with Ilford Pan F50, at 0.20 20cms. It just goes to show what the Minox camera and the COMPLAN lens is capable of.


View attachment 370363​

Great photo!

 

[tjwspm]

Your photo motivated me to try this subject. The result is not nearly as sharp:

Minox AX, Kodak Ektar 100

 

[Minox]

Good exposure nonetheless!